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USA |
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| Studying & Living - USA |
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| Part-time work : An International student going to USA can work 20hrs a week on-campus during semester and full-time during holidays. Part time jobs on campus are easy to get with prior planning and you can earn around $650 a month. If you work full time during your holidays you can earn around $2000 a month. |
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| Living Expenses The approximate monthly living expenses are about $500, which includes accommodation as well as other daily expenses. However, the expenses are different for different people depending on the lifestyles and the location and this is just a rough idea. About $500 per month is a good estimation. Most people can survive with $400-$450 a month. The key here is to share apartments/houses so that you save on the utilities, fixed charge portion of phone and to some extent on groceries. |
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| Accommodation Moving into a dormitory setting is relatively simple: utilities such as electricity and telephone connections will most likely be ready to use. Arranging the details of off-campus accommodations is a bit more complicated. If your rent does not include utilities, you will need to request that the companies turn on the electricity and telephone service when you arrive. The landlord can provide you with the appropriate contact information |
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Money Matters As with any country, it is not advisable to carry large amounts of cash around with you. There are other options such as credit cards, travelers' checks or bank cards (debit card) which are all valid forms with which to pay for things in the USA .
Traveler's checks are one of the safest and easiest ways to transport money, because you may have them replaced if they get lost or stolen. If you choose to carry traveler's checks with you from your home country to the States, be sure they are denominated in U.S. funds. Most businesses -- except taxi drivers and public transportation personnel -- will accept U.S.-denominated traveler's checks during regular business hours, typically between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. It is wise to bring about $100 or more with you in U.S. cash, so you will be able to manage upon your arrival in the States |
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Safety Like most issues, safety in the United States is difficult to define because the United States covers such a large territory. In general, though, the U.S. is a safe place to live. It is still a good idea to educate yourself and take steps to reduce the potential for problems. By doing so, you will also feel more confident and comfortable.
Familiarize yourself with well-lit paths and sidewalks on campus. The school's security office may offer an escort service, where designated people walk with you from one place to another on campus, particularly at night.
At "home" (an apartment, private residence or dormitory room), keep your doors locked, and your large windows closed. Get to know your neighbors, so you can "watch out" for each other |
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American Culture Great American Independence ...
As you may know, one of the hallmarks of U.S. culture is independence.
In order to make friends, you must take the initiative to meet people. Because of the American value of independence, Americans will not always be looking out for you, or making sure that you are getting acquainted with other people. They assume you are taking care of yourself all right. If you don't ask for help, Americans will assume you don't need anything. So remember -- ask for help when you need it!
In some cultures, it's polite to refuse two or three times if someone offers something to you. But in the U.S. , it is polite to answer "Yes, please" if you want what's being offered. Many interesting situations have come up when a non-U.S. student who was hungry or thirsty refused the offer of food or drink, thinking this was polite behavior. But when no second or third offer was made, there was no chance to say yes.
Contrary to the stereotype of independence and individuality, most Americans are conformists and gain their identity by belonging to groups. You may notice that many students join groups in order to get acquainted but also in order to satisfy a need to belong. You may be surprised at how many students look alike on your campus, with similar hair styles and clothes.
Americans are sometimes difficult to figure out, so keep an open mind and get to know them as individuals. You'll be glad you did!
One of your first introductions to social life on a U.S. campus will most likely be "The International Student Orientation Program," traditionally coordinated by the Admissions Office or the Office of International Programs. Orientation varies greatly from school to school, though the objectives are similar: to introduce the new non-U.S. students to each other, and to prepare you for campus life. Many times, topics include immigration, academic advisors, computer and library resources, telephone services, public safety, medical services, banking options and department store shuttles so students can purchase items they need. During orientation, students often learn of upcoming activities such as trips to local points of attraction.
U.S. College and university campuses abound with activities designed to foster friendships. Many schools designate a " Student Activities Center " where you may learn of different options, such as student government, the newspaper staff, outdoors club, chorus, dance, and a number of athletic teams. Explore which ones may suit you best! |
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