Foreign National Committee (FNC)
The University of Pennsylvania has altogether around 800 postdocs working in various schools. Approximately 70% are foreign nationals. Since the issues, requirements and experiences relevant to foreign postdocs are significantly different from those who are US citizens or permanent residents; this committee is actively involved in promoting activities that will enhance training, relocation and social resources available to Foreign National postdocs. The main goal of this committee is to create a general awareness especially for the postdocs coming to US for the first time.
Some of the major activities of the FNC are:
- Organizing seminars on topics that are critical to foreign nationals
Annual Tax seminar informs all postdocs about issues regarding filing of taxes in the US. The talk is given by a tax professional from the University.
- Tax Information for year 2007
- Bi-annual Visa seminar is conducted by a professional immigration lawyer who explain all the details and latest developments regarding H1, J1 and other visas as well as requirements for Green Card.
- We would like to help postdocs adjust to life in the US and at the University
- We provide mentorship in the form of the "buddy trainer system"
- Postdocs can mail anyone in the council for any information or assistance
- We want postdocs to interact and establish networking amongst themselves
- We would like you to enjoy American holidays, sports and other social events
- Look for announcements about upcoming events where you can meet people and share your experiences
- Look for announcements about upcoming events where you can meet people and share your experiences
MINI-ORIENTATION FOR POST-DOCS
The Foreign National Committee organizes mini-orientations for postdocs on last Thursdays of every month. All postdocs are welcome to attend our mini-orientations, give inputs and share their experiences as postdocs at UPenn.
Apart from our activities we also welcome your input and encourage you to contact us at:
pcouncil@mail.med.upenn.edu
with any suggestions on how to improve the scientific and social life of foreign postdocs at the University of Pennsylvania.
Arindam Basu, Ph.D.
Chair, Foreign National Committee
Contact Information:
139 Rosenthal Building
School of Veterinary Medicine
215-898-6394