Welcome to your new University Campus in the United States of America.

During your studies here you can be sure of the following:

• A great opportunity to study on a beautiful 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

The following key information provides you with contact details to help you before, during and after your arrival in the US.

If you would like to learn more about life in the University area, or get more information about the United States, the following websites may be useful.

• 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

• http://www.expedia.com/
• http://www.orbitz.com/
• http://www.travelocity.com/

1. You should aim to arrive at the University in time to be ready to start the international orientation program at your selected institution.

2. Remember to bring your University acceptance letter, I-20 and F-1 visa along with you on the plane.

3. Please be clear that you understand where you are going and what you intend to study. You may be asked by an immigration officer as to what you intend doing in the US.

4. 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.

5. The taxi will then take you to the University campus.

6. If you arrive at the airport and no one has met you, please ring this emergency telephone number:
+1-877-394-6404

Arriving on your new Campus:

1. 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.

2. Arrival airport transfers will still be available for early arrivals.

3. If you arrive on campus within regular office hours please report to the International Student Advisor or Office.

4. If you arrive after regular office hours please report to the campus safety office and they will assist you with finding your dorm.

1. In your room you will find the following:

• Bed
• Mattress
• Desk
• Chair
• Cupboard
• Internet connection (wireless or Ethernet)
• Phone Jack
• Television connection

2. Once in your room, complete your room inventory, sign it and give it to your RA.

3. If you have not met your Residential Advisor then try to find out who they are. The Residential Advisors are students who are there to help you settle. They will not only help you with finding out about the local facilities, but also provide ‘getting to know you’ events and social activities.

4. Make sure you introduce yourself to your International Student Advisor and ensure you have been officially checked in.

Orientation programs usually start 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 go about using the various facilities on campus
• Setting up your meal plan and registration
• Class and academic timetable information
• Opening a bank account
• Identification cards

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 to choose from and most campuses have an ATM on or near campus. Rather 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 for the bank 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 a separate personal insurance coverage, called StudyCare.

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 back home. This is strictly enforced on all University campuses. Remember you are in a new country and expected to abide by their laws.

Smoking
Many people in the US smoke. 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 consult your International Student Advisor to determine where you may locate these specialist stores.