You're going to have an incredible adventure!
Welcome to the Pacific Northwest!
— Issue #1 of 5, Fall 2023—
"I told him... that Seattle was -- and I continue to believe is -- the center of the universe. I told him he would have a wonderful life here, that it was a place attracting fabulous, talented people."
- Nicholas J. Hanauer in amazon.com: Getting Big Fast
Hello from Seattle!
Hello and welcome to the Pacific Northwest! My name is Era Schrepfer, and I am the Executive Director at FIUTS (Foundation for International Understanding Through Students)! Our community is looking forward to welcoming you, and I hope this email series will help you as you prepare for your time as a college student in the Seattle area. FIUTS is a non-profit organization with the mission to advance international understanding in the Pacific Northwest through cross-cultural experiences, leadership, and community connections. FIUTS works with students from around the world to spark curiosity, exploration, and cultural exchange.
In this message, we'll explore arts and entertainment resources in the region and share some key ways to get connected to the community.
No matter where you will study, FIUTS programs can help you to find new friends, learn your way around, build your network, and make the most out of your time here. I wish you the best of luck as you journey to our home - we look forward to meeting you in person soon!
Era Schrepfer, Executive Director, FIUTS
Apply today for a short-term homestay!
Interested in staying with a local family for your first week in the Seattle area? FIUTS hosts are volunteers who open their homes and lives to new students! Students pay only a small application fee to take part in the program. Note: Homestay applications are due one month before arrival.
Have questions about homestay? Reach out to Jason Evans, FIUTS Community Programs Specialist.
Arts and Entertainment in the Puget Sound
Music, Theater, and Dance
Seattle is known for its varied and innovative music scene. Many famous bands, from Pearl Jam to Death Cab for Cutie, originated in Seattle. You'll find concerts, both large and small, going on in different neighborhoods nearly every night of the week. Seattle also offers regular theater, plays, dance, performance, and much more!
Visual Arts
The Seattle Art Museum, Museum of Flight, and Museum of Pop Culture are a few of Seattle's most notable museums. There are also many small art galleries. One of the best ways to discover local art in Seattle is to participate in one of the many Art Walks. On the FIRST THURSDAY of every month, many local museums and galleries offer free admission - and student discounts are often available - just ask!
Sports
Seattle has a variety of sports teams including football, baseball, women's basketball, and men's and women's soccer. Most sports events offer discount tickets for students. Check here for a list of local sports teams.
Outdoor Recreation
Many residents come to Seattle for its close proximity to mountains and water. Located between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, you can find just about any outdoor activity. Favorite activities include hiking, sailing, biking, skiing, and camping.
Want to explore the parks, trails, and waterfront in the Seattle area? FIUTS offers many opportunities to enjoy the vast number of outdoor recreational locations with other students Seattle has to offer. Check out our activities calendar here to sign up for one!
Neighborhood Markets
In addition to the famous Pike Place Market, many Seattle neighborhoods host seasonal and year-round outdoor markets. These can be great places to meet up with friends and celebrate local flavors and community. The University District Farmers Market is Seattle's oldest and largest "farmers-only" neighborhood market, open every Saturday. There are different market days in different parts of the city every week during the spring and summer!
Events and Festivals
There are large events and festivals happening nearly every week in Seattle. Two of the most famous annual Seattle festivals are the Northwest Folklife Festival in late May and Bumbershoot Music Festival in early September, but there are many more! Check out a city events calendar here.
Discover Seattle with FIUTS!
Whether you enjoy shopping, going to museums, listening to live music, or hiking in the mountains, you'll find a variety of fun things to do in Seattle - and adventures are always more fun with friends! FIUTS events, activities, outreach, and leadership programs are designed to help you make the most of your time here in Seattle.
FIUTS offers more than 100 events and programs each year to help students explore our region and build friendships with others. Visit the FIUTS Events & Activities Calendar to see what's coming up.
If you don't already receive it, the FIUTS Weekly E-news highlights upcoming events and programs around the Puget Sound.
Get Connected!
Want to connect to the region and and start networking with other international students on Seattle-area campuses? Here are a few great ways to become a part of this community:
On Instagram:
Check out Visit Seattle, Seattle, WA, and Seattle Sites for local events and beautiful photos!
Into sports? Follow our local sports teams! Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Storm, Seattle Mariners, Seattle Kraken, and Seattle Sounders FC.
And don't forget to follow FIUTS on Instagram!
On Facebook:
Need a place to live? If you're a UW student on any campus, the UW Off-Campus Housing group is really helpful!
Follow the FIUTS Page or join the FIUTS International Students group for updates on FIUTS programs.
On LinkedIn:
The LinkedSeattle group shares information about local news and programs.
The FIUTS page and FIUTS group are good places to watch for networking events and announcements.
Immigration Tip of the Week
For international students planning to move to Seattle, it is important to understand that on a student visa, you must follow U.S. federal laws, even when they are different from state laws. For example, while marijuana is legal in Washington State, it is illegal for anyone on a student visa to use, possess, or distribute marijuana.
Violating this law can have serious consequences, including jeopardizing your student status and potential long-term visa and legal ramifications. Be sure that you are aware of the rules for student visa holders and pay attention to local and federal laws!
Have a question? Email us at info@fiuts.org!
Visit FIUTS
909 NE 43rd Street, Suite 210, Seattle, WA 98105
info@fiuts.org | www.fiuts.org | +1-206-437-8056