VIP Global Lounge

ISP's VIP Global Lounge is a monthly affinity space for international students. What does VIP stand for? Very Important Person! Or, Very International People! It can mean whatever suits you. VIP Global Lounge features conversations, food, laughter, and activities that bring us together in celebration of this special community.

Collage Expression: Exploring Emotions and Creative Problem-Solving Through Visual Art
Friday, Jan 24 | 4:30 – 6:30 PM | CSS 2nd Floor Common Area
By letting your intuition guide you, you will discover how layering images, colors, and textures can help you unlock fresh perspectives, find innovative solutions, and spark inspiration. This workshop is about discovery – of your creativity, your feelings, your ideas, and the stories only you can tell. Learn tools for creative problem-solving that you can apply beyond the workshop to spark inspiration and fresh perspectives in other areas of your life. Create a meaningful collage that reflects your emotions and innovative ideas. Special Guest Lecturer: Scarlit Bloome, Associate Professor, ArtCenter College of Design.

Drumming for Connection: Interactive Djembe Workshop
Wednesday, Feb 19 | 12 - 1 PM | CSS 2nd Floor Common Area
Join Grammy-winning artist Danny Petersen for an energizing and stress-relieving interactive drumming session designed especially for Caltech international students. Whether you're navigating the challenges of being away from home, tackling academic pressures, or just seeking a fun way to unwind and build community, this workshop is for you! Relax and de-stress through the power of rhythmic drumming while building meaningful connections with fellow international students in a supportive environment! No musical experience required! This hands-on session will have you tapping, drumming, and grooving in no time!

Unlock the Power of Communication: Theater Workshop for Non-Actors
March | Date TBD | 4:30 – 6:30 PM | CSS 2nd Floor Common Area
In this fun, interactive session led by Brian Brophy, Director of Caltech Theater Arts (TACIT), we will learn basic theatrical techniques that anyone can use to improve communication, such as physicality, voice control, and presence. The goal is to help us feel more confident and expressive in our interactions. With a special focus on scientists and engineers, we will learn how to convey complex ideas in an engaging and understandable way, using storytelling techniques. Just bring your curiosity and discover the power within you!

ISP Team Impact Award Celebration
Thursday, Dec 5 | 1 – 3 PM | CSS Lobby
ISP received the great honor of the 2024 Team Impact Award, given by Caltech Human Resources who received numerous nominations from students and alumni. We were absolutely thrilled to receive this award, because we know it comes from you – the people whom we (Daniel and Laura) have served for more than 14 years together at Caltech. This celebration includes yummy treats and special gifts for all international students who stop by the party on this day. We thank you for your support of the work we do, but most importantly, we thank you for your friendship and for the positivity you bring to our lives both personally and professionally.

Post-Election Breakfast
Wednesday, Nov 6 | 8:45 – 10:00 AM | CSS 2nd Floor Common Area
At ISP, we vote for you! We will be ready to listen to your questions and concerns around U.S. elections. Whatever the results of the election, let's come together to connect, talk, eat, and honor you – the incredible international student community at Caltech. Serving pumpkin pancakes and more!

Pumpkin Decorating
Wednesday, Oct 23 | 12 – 1 PM | CSS 2nd Floor Common Area
Get in the Halloween spirit by painting and decorating pumpkins. Pumpkins and supplies provided, and you get to take your creations home!