GEO Weekly Bulletin - 9/15/25


Coffee & Culture Recap: Italy
Thanks to all who joined us for last week’s Coffee & Culture, which had the theme of Italy! It was wonderful to have so many people making connections over some snacks and learn a bit about Italy!
Coffee & Culture this week: International Emmy Awards
This week’s theme for Coffee & Culture will be the International Emmy Awards! Meet more internationally interested people and bring your friends to play some themed games and have snacks! Join us at 12 pm on September 18th, in the International Hall.
Upcoming IEEC Event: Game Night
Meet new international or local students while playing board games at the upcoming IEEC Game Night on Thursday, September 18th at 5:30 pm at the International Hall!
Deadlines
Japanese Speech Competition Registration Deadline: October 1
Sonoma State University is honored to partner with the Komaru-Koutsu Foundation to host a Japanese Language Speech Contest. This contest provides a unique platform for participants to showcase their language skills while fostering a deeper connection between the Japanese language and local Sonoma County communities. SSU looks forward to welcoming participants, supporters, and attendees for this celebration of language and learning. Speeches must be on the topic of transportation as a tool for global engagement.
Gilman Scholarship Deadline: October 3
The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, administered by the U.S. Department of State, supports students with limited financial means to study or intern abroad, enhancing skills crucial for national security and economic prosperity. It is a competitive, merit-based scholarship available to Pell Grant recipients or those who will receive a Pell Grant during their term of study abroad.
University of Canberra Application Due: October 5
The University of Canberra (UC), a dynamic and modern institution in Australia's vibrant capital, offers exchange students a unique blend of academic excellence, practical learning, and strong industry connections across diverse fields, all within a supportive, student-friendly environment rich in cultural attractions, real-world opportunities, and a thriving campus life. With over 70 social, cultural, sporting, and academic clubs and societies at UC, ranging from music and cosplay to rugby and environmental science, there’s something for everyone, and if not, UC Life will help you start your own.
EM Normandie Application Due: October 5
Through our Direct Exchange program with EM Normandie, a great choice for business majors and minors, students can choose to study in one of five exciting locations, Caen, Le Havre, Paris, Oxford (one semester only), or Dublin (one semester only) and experience a multicultural environment with over 5,000 students from 50+ nationalities, 9 languages taught, and nearly 70 visiting professors, while selecting a study track aligned with their academic needs, exploring innovative campuses across Europe, and even taking a French language course to enhance their international experience.
USAC Highlight: Scholarship Deadline Oct. 1
Apply for USAC Scholarships for the Spring Terms by: October 1

USAC proudly awards over $1.25 million annually in scholarships and discounts, most ranging from $1,000 to $2,500, making study abroad more accessible than ever. With affordable programs, detailed budget tools, and multiple funding opportunities, studying abroad is not only possible, but often more affordable than you think.
SSU Event of the Week: Goatlandia

Join AS at Goatlandia, September 19, 2025, 8:15 am – 12:30 pm (meet at the flagpoles) an organization that rescues farm animals who are in desperate need and provides them a safe, loving home through sanctuary or adoption. Volunteers can expect to interact with the resident goats and assist with cleaning their living spaces. To participate, please register online by 12:00 pm on Thursday, September 18, 2025 (spots are limited) (AS Site)