ISPY Programs

Smiling group of scholars

See the group details below and get in touch with their leaders via email or through their Facebook group to get involved! 

Babies @ Yale

Mondays, 2:30-3:30pm, OISS, 421 Temple Street

This playgroup is an ideal opportunity for little ones to begin socializing and learning about group play. This is also a great meeting place for parents and caregivers looking for opportunities to practice speaking English, and for everyone to share experiences, tips and ideas. As the International Center does not offer a child-proof setting, Babies @ Yale is recommended for babies that will be content playing together behind the glass partition (up to approximately one year). Please bring your own toys and books to enjoy during the meetings. If you are interested in joining the group please join the Babies @ Yale Facebook group, or find them on Whatsapp at Babies @ Yale!

Chinese Conversation Group

Fridays, 2:30-3:30pm, OISS, 421 Temple Street

The Chinese Conversation Group provides a relaxing environment that offers opportunities for conversing in Mandarin Chinese. People of all skill levels are welcome, including beginners, experts, native speakers, and everyone in-between. Please join us! You can improve your Chinese and learn more about China and Chinese culture by discussing a variety of topics. Please contact yaleoisschinesegroup@gmail.com or on Wechat with ID: Yale OISS Chinese Conversation!
 
 

Cooking Group at Yale: Discover, Cook, Connect

Thursdays, 2:30-4:30pm, December 12
OISS, 421 Temple Street
Whatsapp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IjZSf2Y6ngXIsnzqkjw62F

Join our new Cooking Group at Yale to learn and try new recipes together over two hours of good conversation and cooking! Please join our Whatsapp Group for more information. 
 
 

Feminist Film & Literature Review

Wednesdays, 2:30-4:30pm, OISS, 421 Temple Street
October 16 & 30, November 6 & 20, December 4
Whatsapp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/H7uaCNouhynI1F3w4YhbWH

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single woman in possession of her own mind must be in want of some solid feminist discussions – that’s the famous first line of Pride and Prejudice right?!
 
Marriage may have led us to Yale, but our minds have come too! If you are looking for a way to engage yours in fun and intriguing discussion, this is the ISPY group for you! We (Lucia and Mia, for our friendly faces see below) have formed a Feminist Film and Literature Review. This is going to be a space to discuss various aspects of femininity and womanhood both in the modern era and historically - for example, notions about men and women’s roles in society, agency, and dynamic diversity. These conversations are for the whole ISPY community, not just ‘girls’!! The material will rotate from books or short pieces of writing to films, while the sessions will rotate around cafés in New Haven to cozy corners at OISS. We are having watch-parties at OISS prior to the discussion. Bring your own snacks!
 

ISPY Chinese Painting & Calligraphy

Thursdays, 10am-12pm, OISS, 421 Temple Street
October 24, November 7 & 21, December 5 & 12
Whatsapp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HRCcvZWbeJ22PUkm1B6zvE

Join this group to learn the art of Chinese Painting and Calligraphy. All levels are welcome, including brand new beginners, and supplies will be provided. Please join us!

ISPY Gentle Stretching

Wednesdays and Thursdays, 6-7:30pm, OISS, 421 Temple Street
December 4 & 12
Whatsapp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DyjA5SH3ogmCJrsND8T3y9

Welcome to “ISPY Gentle Stretching”, a 60-minute class for beginners who want to improve flexibility and unwind. Together, we’ll explore gentle exercises that will help you to connect with your body and release tension. Come join us for a refreshing experience! Please bring your own mat or blanket for the practice. 
 

Job Hunters

Meets twice a semester, join mailing list for details

Are you looking for a job? (Or will you be looking for one in the future?) Join our group and learn from others about creating effective resumes in the American way and writing superb cover letters, networking like a pro, nailing job interviews, and in general just to get support through the (sometimes stressful) process of job hunting. You don't have to go through it alone! For more information, please join our mailing list. 

Mindfulness Practice Group

Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 PM - OISS, 421 Temple Street

Looking for a mid-week breather? Every Wednesday evening, we come together to explore the world of mindfulness in a relaxed yet focused setting. Ideal for both newcomers and those familiar with mindfulness, our group delves into simple, effective techniques such as Mindful Breathing and Body Scanning. Our sessions are about unwinding, learning, and enjoying the journey towards mindfulness. It's a space where you can ease your stress, find a moment of peace, and connect with like-minded individuals. Join us to add a touch of tranquility to your week. Stay updated through our WhatsApp group. Embrace a more balanced and energetic life with us!

Spanish Conversation Group

Mondays, 11am-12pm
Fridays, 2:30-3:30pm
OISS, 421 Temple Street
Whatsapp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JOhsZMzyDQ4LjxPb3eusfs

Our Spanish Conversation Group is back! This group is open to native or intermediate speakers who are looking to come together for an hour once or twice a week to socialize in Spanish. Please join us for an hour of good conversation and help us to reinvigorate this group! 
 
 

Tea & Coffee Soulmates Club

Fridays, 11am-12pm, OISS, 421 Temple Street
November 8 & 22, December 6
Whatsapp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IUu5lIt4K2W9X0b9p8akJo

We invite you to join our new Tea & Coffee Soulmates club which is here to provide an environment where international students and scholars with family members can relax, communicate, and enjoy tasting tea and coffee. Coffee or tea will be provided, depending on the week. 
 

The App Lab

Wednesdays, 9:30am-11am, OISS, 421 Temple Street
October 16 & 23
Whatsapp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FJOmEqaz5EsJeVoxwCMZaO

Looking for a supportive space to work on your graduate school applications? Join us at the App Lab! Whether you're applying to graduate programs or other similar opportunities, this group is here to make the process  less lonely. Once a week till the deadlines we will co-work in the OISSs space, share resources, offer feedback, and review each other’s materials! Together, we’ll navigate the application journey with confidence and mutual support.
 

Toddlers at Yale

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:00am - 12:00pm - around New Haven (see Facebook group for details)

Meet fellow parents, bring your toddlers, and bond over shared experiences as international families in New Haven! This is best for toddlers ages 1-4. Please join the Toddlers at Yale Facebook group to get updated information.