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Orientation programs for new students are offered
at virtually every college and university throughout the United
States. The program itself may take on many forms and cover
different topics, but the purpose is the same: to ease your
transition to a new place. Sometimes there will be a campus
or department orientation program and a separate program especially
designed for international students, scheduled so as not to
be in conflict with each other. At some schools these programs
may be mandatory, but whether mandatory or optional, they
are important and valuable opportunities for you, even if
this is not your first visit to the United States. Frequently,
orientation programs provide information that won't be as
easily obtained later on.
Some campus-based orientation programs may require that you
pay a fee. In general, the fee covers the costs of program
materials, refreshments, staff support, and other expenses.
You may be asked to pay the fee ahead of time or find it included
as part of your total student bill.
You may have the opportunity to participate in an orientation
program about U.S. colleges and universities while you are
still in your home country. If such a program is available
to you, by all means participate. These programs frequently
have specific relevance for students from your country. Campus-based
orientation programs, even when not mandatory, provide the
best possible introduction to your U.S. institution and can
help relieve much of the anxiety you may have about being
in a new place.
Some of the things you might do at a typical campus or department
orientation program include:
- meet other students to establish friendships and reduce
possible loneliness or anxiety;
- learn your school's expectations for your intellectual
and personal growth;
- become familiar with your new school and the local community;
- move into your on-campus or off-campus residence;
- speak with professors and academic advisers regarding
course placement and selection;
- obtain training in the use of the campus library and computer
services, including electronic mail;
- register for courses.
At an orientation program for international students, you
might:
- meet other students from your own country and from around
the world;
- receive information about important U.S. Immigration regulations
with which you must comply;
- obtain a U.S. Social Security Number (needed for U.S.
bank accounts and for employment, including on-campus employment);
- have your passport and visa documents copied; have your
visa documents signed;
- learn about the U.S. system of higher education and how
to be successful in that system;
- obtain advice on personal safety, health and accident
insurance, and wellness;
- take a guided tour of the local area and open a bank account;
- sit for an English proficiency examination;
- learn about U.S. culture and social and personal relationships
in the United States;
- receive information on services and programs provided
by the school for international students.
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