Council of International Students and Organizations (COISO)

COISO COISO

University of Miami international students founded the Council of International Students and Organizations (COISO) in 1967 with the intent:

  • To promote and defend the interests of all international students and organizations
  • To integrate international students with campus life and the community where possible
  • To provide cultural and social activities for all students
  • To name and nominate official representatives of this council to all University of Miami committees as requested
  • To assist all international students and organizations on campus that so request it, in coordinating and harmonizing their campus activities
  • To help interested international groups to organize and become registered as approved organizations at the University of Miami
  • To provide services and information to the University and the student body
  • To refrain from sponsoring any political ideas or activates emanating from outside campus issues

As you prepare for a spectacular college experience at the U, know that COISO is here to help. COISO strives to foster an environment rich with opportunities for growth and success for international students. We recommend that you read the International Student Welcome Guide before beginning your journey at the University of Miami. It also contains important contact information.

All University of Miami international students are automatically members of COISO. By participating in COISO meetings and events, you will get to know international students from over 110 countries and ensure that COISO provides the type of services and activities that meet your needs and interests as an international student at UM. For additional information and for dates of upcoming COISO meetings/events, please email coiso@miami.edu.

Visit us at the COISO Office!

COISO
University of Miami
Donna E. Shalala Student Center (SC)
1330 Miller Drive, Suite 210B
Coral Gables, FL 33124-6921
Phone: 305-284-3548 
Email: coiso@miami.edu
Website: https://www.umcoiso.com/
Facebook group: facebook.com/UMCOISO 

COISO Leadership

Executive Board 2021-2022:

President 
Diya Dharmendran
dxd780@miami.edu

Vice President of External Affairs 
Mirna Dickinson
mjd260@miami.edu 

Vice President of Internal Affairs 
Saloni Radadia
shr54@miami.edu

Secretary 
Amanda Molin
fxf252@miami.edu 

Treasurer 
Vjera Radovic
vxr368@miami.edu

Advisors:

Associate Director, ISSS
Claudia Anderson
claudiama93@miami.edu

Assistant Director, ISSS
Alexandra González
axg5905@miami.edu 

 

Annual COISO Programs

Daytrips to Disney and Universal: A one-day trip in the fall and spring semesters for all international students to these famous Florida sites. These trips have been taking place the last four years so international students can experience fun Florida attractions. 

International Dance Competition: A new event as of 2008, international students and international organizations participate in this fun event and enjoy friendly competition. This event takes place in the fall semester on the Coral Gables campus at University Center Rock. 

International Week: COISO's oldest and most famous tradition, this week-long fun and educational celebration provides international students and international organizations with an opportunity to share their culture with the University of Miami community, celebrating one region of the world one day at a time. International Week culminates with a banquet and an awards ceremony. This event takes place in the spring semester on the Coral Gables campus at the University Center Patio.

International Student Mentorship Program for Freshmen: If you would like to connect with a current UM student or have general questions, you may request to be matched with an international student mentor. The International Student Mentorship (ISM) program, sponsored by the Council of International Students and Organizations (COISO), is an opportunity for you to connect with a currently enrolled UM student throughout your first year at UM. Your mentor can answer your questions or direct you to the appropriate campus or community resource where your concerns will be addressed. He or she can also help you get involved on campus by sharing knowledge of events, activities, and student organizations. Please note that participation in this program is voluntary. If you are interested, please complete the International Student Mentorship Application to be matched with a mentor.  

International Organizations: For a complete list of international and cultural organizations, their contact information, and events, connect to Engage.