Global Gopher Experiences

Be a part of the Global Gopher Experience series to start your UMN journey off in the best way possible!

During our series with Global Gopher Experiences, you will learn how to succeed academically at the University of Minnesota and how to prepare for a career after graduation. Most of all, we hope to welcome you to the University of Minnesota and the international community.

Meet the Global Gopher Leaders Watch Recordings of Past Sessions

Why should you join us? Students say Global Gopher Experiences was where they met their best friends and started their adventure at the U! This is a special opportunity for new international students to prepare for classes, make new friends, and discover all of the amazing services the University offers with advice from international student leaders. 

How can you join us? Join our webinars and in-person events during the semester and even during summer/winter breaks! Keep an eye out for these events by reading the ISSS weekly newsletter, by checking our website, and by following our social media accounts: @isssumn on Instagram and Facebook.

NOTE: All Global Gopher Experiences are optional, and they are separate from (and do not replace) any of your orientation requirements including Welcome Week or Freshman/Transfer Orientation. All new international students are encouraged (but not required) to participate in Global Gopher Experiences. 

The Global Gopher Experiences (GGE) schedule for 2026-2027 includes exciting workshops and events just for new international students!  Make new friends and learn about the resources available at the University of Minnesota during these virtual, hybrid, and in-person events.

You will receive welcome emails bimonthly from April/May - August (for Fall admitted students) and December - January (for Spring admitted students) for any updates.

For our July-August period, all webinars will occur every 2 weeks with opportunities to learn about resources and connect with peers.