Welcome to your new University Campus in the United States of America
During your University studies in the USA you can be sure of the following:
- A great opportunity to study on a modern campus
- Dedicated staff and experienced academic tutors providing you with all you need
- Care and welfare to ensure you feel happy and comfortable during your stay
- The excitement of meeting new friends and learning about life on an American University campus
Arriving in the US:
- You should aim to arrive at the University in time to be ready to start the international orientation program at your selected institution.
- Remember to bring your University acceptance letter, I-20 and F-1 visa with you on the plane.
- Be clear about where you are going and what you intend to study; you may be asked by an immigration officer what you intend to do in the US.
- You will be met by your taxi transfer as you come through the arrivals lounge at the airport. They will hold a sign with your name on.
- The taxi will take you to the University campus.
- If you arrive at the airport and no one has met you, call this emergency telephone number: +1-877-394-6404
Arriving on your new campus:
- If you arrive earlier than the arrival date specified by the University, you will be responsible for arranging your own accommodation, at your own expense, until your University accommodation becomes available.
- Airport transfers will still be available for early arrivals.
- If you arrive on campus within regular office hours please report to the International Student Advisor or Office.
- If you arrive after regular office hours please report to the campus safety office and they will help you find your accommodation.
Settling in to your accommodation:
In your room you will find the following:
- Bed
- Mattress
- Desk
- Chair
- Cupboard
- Internet connection (wireless or Ethernet)
- Telehone connection
- Television connection
Once in your room, complete your room inventory, sign it and give it to your Residential Advisors (RA) - a student who will help you settle in. If you have not met your RA, try to find out who they are. They will not only help you with finding out about the local facilities, but also provide ‘getting to know you’ events and social activities. Make sure you also introduce yourself to the International Student Advisor and ensure you have been officially checked in.
Orientation program:
Orientation programs usually take place during the week before the start of classes. You will meet other students and learn about life on campus at the University. You will be provided with key information relating to the following areas:
- Familiarizing yourself with the campus
- Getting to know staff and fellow students
- How to use the various facilities on campus
- Setting up your meal plan and registration
- Class and academic timetable information
- Opening a bank account
- Identification cards
Living on campus:
Opening a Bank Account
If you are coming to the US for at least a full academic year, it is recommended that you open a bank account. There are a variety of different banks in the USA and most campuses have an ATM on or near campus. Choose a bank that is easily accessible for you. Before opening an account, check whether money can be transferred into it from outside of the US. To open a US bank account you will need a letter from the International Student Advisor confirming that you are a full time student, as well as your passport. DO NOT carry large amounts of cash or keep large amounts of cash in your accommodation.
University Health Center
The University Health Centers offers general medical care. Students living on campus can register with the Health Center and then see the doctor or nurse by making an appointment. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the requirements and process before you schedule an appointment with a doctor. All go-study.com students have separate personal insurance coverage.
Living in the US:
Social Attitudes
Life in the US will almost certainly be different from what you are used to. It is difficult to say what is the ‘American’ way of life as attitude and outlooks vary considerably according to where you are in the country. The United States is a very cosmopolitan country with residents from many countries and ethnic backgrounds. When you first arrive you may notice differences in the way people behave compared to your own country. As you become accustomed to living here you may find yourself adapting to all sorts of things such as: offering, accepting and refusing hospitality; expressing your opinion; and looking after yourself, which means anything from running your own bank account to cooking your own food and washing your own clothes.
Homesickness
To start with everything is new, exciting and different, but as time goes by you may start to wish that things were the way they were back home. Don’t despair as this stage will pass –and much more quickly if you talk to someone about how you are feeling.
Drinking
Alcohol is available to anyone aged over 21. It is against the law for anyone under the age of 21 to consume alcohol regardless of the laws in your home country. This is strictly enforced on all University campuses. Remember you are in a new country and expected to abide by its laws.
Smoking
Many people do smoke, but smoking is banned in all public places in the US. This includes buses, trains and subways. If you smoke in these places, you have to pay a fine. Some non-smokers find smoke unpleasant and uncomfortable. If you are eating or drinking with friends – especially at someone else’s house – it is polite to ask before you light your cigarette.
Specialist and International Foods
There are many shops and restaurants in the US which sell specialist foods. You may also find that the larger supermarkets stock some of the products that you require. Please ask your International Student Advisor to help you may locate these specialist stores.
Resources
The following key information provides you with contact details to help you before, during and after your arrival in the US:
- Student Visa Information
- Travel Directory (links to many other websites about traveling to the US)
- Public Transport and General Directions
- Driving directions
- Weather forecasts
- Places to stay
Flights and Travel Arrangements:
