International Student Pre-Arrival Guide

Colorado CollegeFall 2013

Colorado CollegeOffice of Minority and International Students 14 East Cache la Poudre Street

Colorado Springs, CO. 80903-3298

+ 1 (719) 389-6897http://www.coloradocollege.edu/lifeatcc/activities/diversity/

FALL 2013 EditionRev. May 27, 2013

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Welcome to Colorado College;Colorado Springs, CO!

Dear International Student,

We look forward to welcoming you to the Colorado College (CC) community! At CC, we value your presence on-campus and recognize that your experiences and perspectives contribute to the learning both in and out of the classroom and in the Colorado Springs community. Many resources await you at CC: intellectual, cultural and social. What you gain from this experience is only limited by your own motivation.

The CC International Student Pre-Arrival Guide provides you with information which will help you prepare for your experience as an international student at Colorado College. Adjusting to Colorado College – both academically and socially – can be a difficult experience for any new student. Please read the handbook carefully and be sure to let us know if you have any questions.

Our office serves as a resource center for all international students.  For new students, we hold an extensive orientation prior to the start of classes.  We also organize a host family program for students interested in getting to know a local family.  Throughout the year, there are many other activities in which you may participate, including an international education week, holiday socials, excursions in and outside of Colorado Springs, and more.  We have an office in the Worner Student Center and are available to answer your questions on anything from immigration regulations to life in the United States and at Colorado College.

We wish you a safe journey to Colorado and look forward to meeting you this fall!

Sincerely,

Roger L. SmithDirector, PDSO/DSO Office of Minority and International Students Roger.Smith@ColoradoCollege.edu Office: + 1 (719) 389-6897

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Table of Contents

CHECK LIST..................................................................................................6

IMMIGRATION AND VISA INFORMATION..........................................7APPLYING FOR A STUDENT VISA ......................................................................7PREPARING FOR THE CONSULATE INTERVIEW ...................................................7QUESTIONS ASKED TO VERIFY YOUR INTENT AS A LEGITIMATE STUDENT: .............8VERIFYING YOUR FINANCES ...........................................................................8ENTERING THE UNITED STATES AND GOING THROUGH CUSTOMS ......................8**VISA REMINDERS ........................................................................................8YOUR I-94 ....................................................................................................9STUDENT AND EXCHANGE VISITOR INFORMATION SYSTEM .................................9WHAT SEVIS INFORMATION WILL COLORADO COLLEGE COLLECT? ....................9WHAT ARE YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES UNDER SEVIS? ........................................10

IMMIGRATION REGULATIONS:..........................................................11GENERAL INFORMATION ...............................................................................11INFORMATION FOR COLORADO COLLEGE F-1 VISA STUDENTS .........................11LENGTH OF STAY IN THE U.S. ......................................................................12PASSPORT VALIDITY .....................................................................................12INFORMATIONAL REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................12LEAVING AND RE-ENTERING THE UNITED STATES ...........................................13SCHOOL TRANSFERS AND CHANGES OF LEVEL AT COLORADO COLLEGE ............13EMPLOYMENT ON-CAMPUS ...........................................................................13EMPLOYMENT OFF-CAMPUS DUE TO ECONOMIC HARDSHIP .............................13PRACTICAL TRAINING ...................................................................................14

TRAVEL PLANS....................................................................................15GETTING TO COLORADO SPRINGS ..................................................................15

PREPARING TO LEAVE HOME............................................................16WHAT TO BRING OR NOT TO BRING? .............................................................16

HEALTH INSURANCE..........................................................................18

FINANCES............................................................................................18CHECKING ACCOUNT ...................................................................................19SAVINGS ACCOUNT ......................................................................................20

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DEBIT CARD ................................................................................................20MANAGING YOUR MONEY .............................................................................20CREDIT CARD ..............................................................................................20PAYING FOR YOUR TUITION AND FEES ...........................................................21BUDGETING FOR EXPENSES AT COLORADO COLLEGE ......................................21

NEW STUDENT MAILINGS..................................................................23

WORKING IN THE UNITED STATES...................................................24SOCIAL SECURITY CARDS .............................................................................24

ACADEMIC LIFE...................................................................................25THE BLOCK PLAN ........................................................................................25ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS ............................................................................25A TYPOLOGY OF CLASSES .............................................................................25ASSIGNMENTS .............................................................................................26TESTS .........................................................................................................26STRATEGIES FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS ...........................................................27THE FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE .......................................................................27FACULTY ADVISORS .....................................................................................27A LESSON IN ACADEMIC TERMINOLOGY .........................................................28

CULTURAL ADJUSTMENT...................................................................29EMERGING DIFFERENCES .............................................................................29COPING WITH CULTURE SHOCK ....................................................................29WILL I LOSE MY OWN CULTURE? .................................................................30

HOST FAMILIES...................................................................................31RESPONSIBILITIES OF FAMILIES AND STUDENTS .............................................31

LIVING WITH A ROOMMATE..............................................................31

LIVING IN COLORADO SPRINGS........................................................32GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT COLORADO AND COLORADO SPRINGS ..............32LOCAL TRANSPORTATION ..............................................................................33DRIVING IN THE UNITED STATES ...................................................................33SHOPPING ...................................................................................................33

STUDENT SERVICES...........................................................................34BOETTCHER HEALTH CENTER .......................................................................34CAMPUS BOOKSTORE ...................................................................................34CAMPUS SECURITY ......................................................................................34CAREER CENTER ..........................................................................................34COLKET STUDENT LEARNING CENTER ...........................................................34COMPUTER FACILITIES .................................................................................35EL POMAR SPORTS CENTER ..........................................................................35BON APPETIT ...............................................................................................35

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OFFICE OF MINORITY AND INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ................................35SHOVE CHAPEL COUNCIL .............................................................................35TUTT LIBRARY .............................................................................................35

OPPORTUNITIES FOR INVOLVEMENT ..............................................................35STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS ............................................................................36

IMPORTANT DATES............................................................................37

SMALL BUT IMPORTANT MATTERS..................................................38METRIC CONVERSION TABLES .......................................................................38TEMPERATURE .............................................................................................38CLOTHING AND SHOE SIZES .........................................................................39TIPPING ......................................................................................................39

Bibliography.................................................................................................40

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Check List

Before your arrival at Colorado College, you should have:

_____ Read the Colorado College “International Student Pre-Arrival Guide.”

_____ Read CC Bound (“Colorado College Bound”) - a web-based portal of pre-arrival information and submitted applicable forms. (Access information will be sent to you via e-mail over the

summer).

_____ If interested, submitted travel and host family information forms by appropriate deadlines.

_____ Received Form I-20 issued by Colorado College.

_____ Paid the I-901 SEVIS Fee in preparation for your visa appointment.

_____ Visited the U.S. Embassy /Consulate in your country and, with your Form-I-20, applied for and obtained an F-1 Student Visa.

_____ Checked your F-1 Visa for correct status, multiple entries (M) and valid for at least 1 year.

_____ Arranged to have adequate funds in US$ with you.

_____ Planned a banking strategy: Will you want a checking or savings account (or both) while at Colorado College? (More information about banking will be available during International Student Orientation).

_____ Packed clothing appropriate for Colorado’s climate; prescriptions and other essentials.

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Immigration and Visa Information

Applying for a Student Visa Applying for a visa can be very time consuming; thus it’s important to apply as soon as possible. However, you may not apply for a student visa more than 120-days in advance of your program start date (as noted on item #5 of your I-20) at Colorado College (CC). (Information on the visa application process is available at: http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1268.html).

Once you confirm your intent to attend Colorado College, you will receive a Form I-20. This is the form required by the U. S. government to apply for F-1 student status. You will need to take this form to the U.S. consulate or embassy in your country to apply for an F-1 student visa. In addition, you should bring your passport, your letter of acceptance from Colorado College, and verification of finances with you in case the consular officer asks for proof of your intent and ability to study in the United States. If you have received a scholarship or other financial assistance from Colorado College, bring the letter of financial support sent to you by the College. You should also be prepared to provide proof of your English-language proficiency, if requested.

You will also need to complete two forms, the DS-156 and DS-158 ( if a male between the ages of 16 and 45, DS-157 Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application may be required as well), and pay a visa fee (at most consulate offices, DS-160 will be used in place of DS-156, 158 and 157). These forms are available at: http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/frvi_forms.html. In addition, you will be

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required to pay a fee to cover the costs of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (described later in this chapter). You may wish to visit http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901/ for additional information. If approved, you should receive a visa stamp in your passport within a few hours or days. The stamp will note the dates for which it is valid, the number of entries to the United States that are allowed, and the name of Colorado College.

You are allowed to enter the United States as a student up to a maximum of 30-days in advance of your program start date (as noted on item #5 of your I-20) at Colorado College.

Preparing for the Consulate Interview Advance preparation for your visa interview with a US consulate officer will help you overcome some of the nervousness/anxiety surrounding this process. In general, the consulate officer wants to confirm three things: 1) you have a legitimate reason to study in the United States, 2) you have the financial ability to pay for your education and support yourself while in the U.S., and 3) you intend to return to your home country upon completion of your studies. You should be prepared to answer the following types of questions:

Questions asked to verify your intent as a legitimate student: Why do you want to study in the U.S.? Why do you want to study at Colorado College? How did you learn about Colorado College? Where is Colorado College? How will your studies help you when you return to your home country? What are the job opportunities in your country for your field of study?

Pay close attention to these last two questions. For example: if you want to major in Art History, be prepared to answer questions about the potential job opportunities for students with Art History degrees in your home country. If there are not jobs in this field available, the consulate officer may doubt your intent to return home.

Verifying your finances:Typically you will be asked to show proof of your ability to pay for your studies in the United States. Be prepared to show a copy of your Colorado College “Certification of Finances” form accompanied by bank statements and letters of support from each sponsor (all financial documents must be dated within the last 6 months). If your family has bank accounts in the United States, you should be prepared to demonstrate that you still have ties to your home country. Sometimes consulate officers will view U.S.-based bank accounts as a demonstration that you do not intend to return home. Also, if you receive a scholarship from CC, don't forget to bring a copy of your original scholarship letter with you. (See financial statements below for more information).

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Questions asked to determine your intent to return home after your studies:

Do you have family in your home country? … What do they do? What do you intend to do once you complete your studies? What types of jobs will be available for you once you return home?

Finally, if you are denied a visa, ask for the reason for the denial in writing. Then, contact the Office of Minority and International Students (OMIS) with this information. Sometimes it is a simple matter that can be remedied in a second visit. If you do not get the reason for denial in writing, it is very difficult (if not impossible) for us to advise you.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Evidence of financial support should be submitted in the form of a notarized *letter of support from your family and/or financial sponsor and a **statement from their bank.

*The letter of support (sponsorship letter) must attest the following: The relationship of the sponsor to the student   Level of support (monetary amount expressed in U.S. Dollars)

available for their educational expenses Clearly state the funds intended use: e.g. room and board, books,

health insurance, personal expenses/travel etc. All documents must be in English All documents must be notarized If you have more than one financial sponsor, a bank statement

and letter of support is required from each sponsor

**The bank statement must: Be printed on bank letterhead Indicate the name of the account holder and account number Indicate an exact available monetary amount expressed in U.S.

Dollars  Be dated within the last 6-months Be notarized and signed by a bank official Be written in English

Supporting documentation is required for each person or party who will be contributing to the cost of your educational studies at CC. All documents must be officially translated into English and the monetary amounts expressed in U.S. Dollars. Please keep a copy of all financial sponsorship documents as you will need them for your F-1 student visa interview and for entry into the U.S. at a port of entry.

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Other sources of funding such as scholarships, loans, and grants must be documented by a letter in English from the funding organization and specify the:

Amount of funding Dates of the funding period And state its intended use: room and board, books, health insurance,

personal expenses/travel etc.

EXAMPLES OF UNACCEPTABLE DOCUMENTATION ·        Funds from anticipated employment ·        Line of credit from banks ·        Insurance policies or pension funds ·        Real estate or other fixed assets/investments (stocks) ·        Income tax forms/pay stubs, employment/salary letters etc.

Entering the United States and Going Through Customs When you arrive in the U.S. you will first have to pass through Immigration and Customs at your port of entry. You should be prepared to present your passport with visa stamp, evidence of financial support and Form I-20 to the immigration officer. Make sure you have all this information in your carry-on luggage so that it is easily accessible. You will also present a Form I-94, a small white card that you will have been given on the plane. Once the immigration officer has inspected all these documents, you will be admitted to the United States in F-1 student status.

**Visa Reminders Please read the section “Immigration Regulations” in this guide thoroughly. We would like to add the following reminders:

If you are arriving from outside the United States: Please carry all documents used for obtaining your entry visa with you (Form I-20, passport and visa, financial verification information etc.), as you will need to present those same documents to the United States Immigration inspector at the port of entry.

As an F-1 student, you must report to the school whose I-20 you use to enter the United States. Do not enter the United States on an I-20 from Colorado College if you have changed your mind about attending our institution. Likewise, do not enter the United States on an I-20 from another school if you wish to attend Colorado College.

Caution: Citizens of certain countries are permitted to enter the United States as tourists without an entry visa or immigration documents. Know though that you are not allowed to enroll at Colorado College if you do not

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enter the U.S. in student status (F-1). You must therefore obtain the proper documents and student visa before coming to the United States.

Your I-94 The I-94 card is another important immigration document. Essentially, the I-94 is your arrival and departure card and proof that you have entered the U.S. in student status. The number that is found in the upper left hand corner of your I-94 is your Admission Number. As a general rule, non-U.S. citizens who are also non-U.S. permanent residents departing the United States are required to surrender (typically to the airline or ship representative) their Form I-94 when leaving the United States, so that their departure can be properly recorded by the CBP (Customs and Boarder Protection) Officers. When departing the United States for Canada or Mexico (only), for a trip of less than 30 days, it is not required to surrender the I-94. Please keep your I-94 card in a safe place with your other immigration documents (typically, the port of entry officer will staple this into your passport). If you lose this card, you must pay a fee to replace it.

Update: I-94 Process -- As of April 30th, 2013: (USCIS Makes Accommodation in the Benefit Adjudication Process as CBP Implements Form I-94 Automation)Customs & Border Protection ("CBP") began implementing the automated version of the Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record at air and seaports of entry on April 30, 2013. CBP will roll out the automated Form I-94 at air and seaports of entry over a four week period from April 30, 2013 through May 21, 2013. Nonimmigrants entering the United States at air and seaports of entry will not be provided with a paper Form I-94. Instead, the nonimmigrant will need to access their electronic Form I-94 record by visiting www.cbp.gov\I94. CBP has indicated that it will be providing nonimmigrants affected by Form I-94 automation with instructions on how to look up their electronic record on the CBP's website.

Nonimmigrants may need their Form I-94 when requesting certain benefits from the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) and when requesting for public benefits from other governmental agencies, including Social Security Number (SSN) from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and/or a driver's license from a state Department of Motor Vehicles. However, the USCIS has indicated that it will be making an accommodation in its adjudication process in order to not disrupt the adjudication of benefits requests. USCIS has stated that it has begun updating certain forms requesting applicant and petitioners to enter admission numbers from their Form I-94 and/or their: 1. Passport information, including passport number, country of issuance and expiration date; and 2. Travel document information, including travel document information, country of issuance and expiration date. USCIS has stated that in addition to accepting

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the electronic Form I-94 from the CBP's website, it will also accept photocopies of passport pages that contain the individual's biographical information, visa and admission stamp. The USCIS stated that this alternative will allow applicants and petitioners more ways to provide proof of lawful entry into the United States and to establish eligibility for certain immigration benefits.

Note: If you are issued a Form I-515 by the immigration inspector at your point of entry to United States, please notify our office immediately upon your arrival to Colorado Springs. This form indicates that you were missing some paperwork upon your entry and it gives you approximately 30-days to submit the missing paperwork to the U.S. immigration service. Student and Exchange Visitor Information System In an effort to seek more efficient ways of managing information on international students, the U.S. government has recently developed a program called the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). This is an internet-based system that allows schools to exchange information with the U.S. government about international students throughout their academic careers in the U.S.

What SEVIS information will Colorado College collect?

We are required to collect the following information:

Your name, date of birth, country of birth and citizenship, source and amount of financial resources and program start and end dates.

Your arrival and enrollment at CC or failure to enroll.

A change in your legal name or address.

Graduation prior to the end date listed on your I-20.

Academic or disciplinary actions taken due to criminal conviction.

Registration of less than a full course of study (less than 3 blocks per semester) without prior authorization.

Termination date and reason.

Failure to complete the academic program. What are your responsibilities under SEVIS?

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Remain a full-time student. You must be enrolled for at least 3 blocks each semester (12-credits). Note: Graduate students are required to be enrolled in the legal minimum of 9-credits per semester.

Notify our office if you plan to drop a class. If for some reason you are not able to take 3 or more blocks in a semester, you must get approval from our office to drop your classes BEFORE you drop them. If you don’t, you will fall out of status.

Update your address. If you move, even from one room to another, you must notify the Registrar and our office within 10 days.

Inform our office if you will not graduate in time. Program extensions must be approved PRIOR to the end date listed on your I-20.

Consult with our office BEFORE accepting employment if you are interested in working off campus.

Alert our office if you plan to transfer. We will need to complete an immigration transfer BEFORE the new school will be permitted to issue you a new I-20.

Consequences for non-immigrants who do not follow U.S. immigration rules may be severe. Therefore, it is very important that you enter the U.S. with the proper visa and documentation, and that you remain in legal status throughout your stay at Colorado College. When in doubt, ask!

Immigration Regulations: General Information Because of the United States regulations which affect the college and its students, all prospective Colorado College students who are not citizens or legal permanent residents of the United States must show evidence of United States legal status that is appropriate for enrollment at Colorado College.

There are over fifty different non-immigrant statuses. One of these is F-1 student status. This guide will explain the main requirements for F-1 students whose status is based on federal documentation from Colorado College. Each prospective student with a non-immigrant status different from Colorado College’s F-1 status, should confirm with the Office of Minority Student Life how their status affects their studies. These students must show

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evidence of the different status to determine the appropriateness of that legal status for enrollment.

A federal law called The Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (abbreviated as IIRIRA) imposes much more severe restrictions on persons who do not maintain their legal status in the United States: students who stay in the United States longer than their authorizations to be here may be restricted from returning to the United States. Persons who are “unlawfully present” or who “overstay” for 180 days or more may be barred from returning to the United States for three years. Those who are unlawfully present or overstay for a year or more may be barred from returning to the United States for ten years.

Information for Colorado College F-1 Visa Students Students with F-1 visa status based on documentation from Colorado College should read the following information carefully; they are responsible for understanding it. More complete information is available at the Office of Minority and International Students. The United States regulations and the following information may change from time to time.

Full Time Status for Legal PurposesEach semester you are required by law to take an amount of studies considered full-time. For undergraduate students at Colorado College, this means taking at least 12-credit hours per semester (3-blocks). For graduate students this means taking at least 9-credit hours per semester or else full-time academic activities, which result in full-time Continuous Enrollment status. For more information on "Continuous Enrollment" please contact the Office of Minority and International Students. *Audited courses do not count toward your full-time status.

There are five possible exceptions to these usual “full-time” meanings. If you plan to complete less than the 12-credits (undergraduate), 9-credits (graduate) or full-time Continuous Enrollment, first contact the International Student Specialist in the Office of Minority and International Students to learn whether or not any of the five exceptions is appropriate in your situation. If not: becoming a part-time student will result in you losing your F-1 status and its benefits.

Length of Stay in the U.S. You are authorized to continue in the United States for a period of time called Duration of Status (D/S). Of course, you need to fulfill all of the F-1 status requirements in order to keep your F-1 authorization for D/S, but there are also specific time limits for each person’s D/S.

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First, you must complete your authorized course of study by the date indicated in item #5 of the Form I-20 that you received for your initial attendance in the Colorado College program. This means you must complete all of your requirements for your degree level of study by that I-20 completion date.

If you need more time to complete that degree because of valid academic reasons, you can receive more time by applying for an extension of stay. You must do so at the Office of Minority and International Students before your I-20 completion date. This is extremely important. If you apply too late for your extension of stay, you will lose your F-1 status and all of its benefits and may need to apply to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for a reinstatement to F-1 status.

Second, your D/S date may be extended also when you receive authorization for practical training upon completion of your studies at that level, or when you receive authorization for continuation of your studies into a different degree level, or when you complete the F-1 transfer procedure to another school.

Finally, when you have completed all of your authorized studies and practical training, you are authorized sixty more days to prepare for departure from the United States. The sixty days concludes your D/S time. Unless you make some other legal arrangements, you are not authorized to continue in the United States beyond that D/S date. The Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (1996; IIRIRA) restrictions can apply to anyone who stays in this country later than the authorized time.

Students who stay in the United States for 180 days longer than their authorizations may be barred from returning to the United States for three years. Students who stay in the United States for one year longer than their authorizations may be barred from returning to the United States for ten years.

Passport Validity You are required by United States regulations to keep your passport valid at all times, and in some cases it must be valid for at least six months into the future (we recommend having a valid passport at least 6-mo. into the future as a minimum). The procedures for renewing a passport vary from country to country, and procedures for each country can change from time to time. For correct information, contact your country’s Embassy or Consulate in the United States. Some countries may have agreements with the United States which assure that their passports will be considered valid for return to that country for six months beyond their expiration dates. You need to plan in advance to renew your passport when necessary.

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Informational Requirements The federal regulations require Colorado College to keep certain records about you. We collect most of this information during the regular admission and enrollment process. In addition, you must be sure that the Office of Minority and International Students always has correct records for your address (on and off-campus), telephone number, major field and level of study, expected date of completion, and legal status in the United States. You must report your local address and phone number within ten days of moving to the Registrar and Office of Minority and International Students. Please notify this office promptly also if you change your name, nationality, or other basic data.

Leaving and Re-entering the United States If you are planning to depart from the United States temporarily, you should contact the Office of Minority and International Students at least two weeks in advance of your departure in order to receive the appropriate advice and documents, such as a new Form I-20 or endorsement of your I-20 for re-entry into the United States. Note: When you re-enter you must present a current and properly endorsed (signatures on pages 1 and 3) I-20, a valid F-1 visa and your passport. For more information on required signatures, please contact Roger L. Smith, International Student Specialist at: + 1 (719) 389-6897.

School Transfers and changes of level at Colorado College The legal procedure to transfer from one school to another (or from one level of study to another within Colorado College, i.e. undergraduate to graduate) is convenient for a student who has maintained F-1 status. If you are transferring to Colorado College to begin this semester, bring the following four items to the Office of Minority and International Students after you begin classes, but (no later than fifteen days after you begin classes). This 15-day requirement is very important. You can lose your F-1 status by waiting more than 15-days, and eventually you become subject to the IIRIRA restrictions. You need to bring your Passport, I-94 and most recent I-20 from your previous institution (if applicable), and your new I-20. A new Colorado College I-20 will then be issued to you. If you are a continuing Colorado College student but are beginning a new level of study this semester, you need to bring your passport, I-94, and I-20 to the Office of Minority and International Students. A new Colorado College I-20 will be issued to you. You must do this within the same fifteen day period in order to maintain your status. If you plan to transfer from Colorado College to another school, please contact the Office of Minority and International Students for further advice.

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Employment On-Campus On-campus jobs are paid from Colorado College’s funds and occur on Colorado College’s property. When school is in session, F-1 student on-campus employment is limited to 20-hours per week (part-time) and it must be concurrent with full-time studies. During school vacations, F-1 student on-campus employment is limited to 40-hours per week (full-time). In the process of arranging for an on-campus job you may need to visit the Office of Minority and International Students for confirmation of your eligibility to be employed. (Also, keep in mind that on-campus employment during vacations may or may not be available.)

Employment Off-Campus due to Economic Hardship In some unusual situations a student can apply to the federal government for permission to work off-campus because of severe economic hardship. These applications are based on a student’s economic necessity, which has occurred because of unforeseeable financial difficulties. A student needs to complete two semesters of study before receiving authorization for this kind of employment. In addition to proving unforeseen economic hardship, the student must prove that s/he is unable to meet the financial need by on-campus employment. Off-campus employment for economic hardship can be authorized for one year at a time. Students who encounter severe unforeseeable financial hardship should contact the Office of Minority and International Students. When school is in session, employment based on economic hardship is limited to 20-hours per week (part-time) and must be concurrent with full-time studies. During school vacations, employment based on economic hardship is limited to 40-hours per week (full-time). The authorization requires continual good academic standing, valid F-1 status, and approval from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (U.S.C.I.S.).

Practical Training Practical training authorization allows you to accept part-time or full-time employment that is directly related to your major area of study and equivalent with your level of education. As an undergraduate student, you need to be enrolled for at least nine months (two semesters) before you can qualify for such authorization.

There are two general categories of practical training. (Curricular Practical Training (or C.P.T.) allows for employment that is an integral part of the curriculum you have chosen to complete your degree. Authorization for curricular practical training is based on such employment being an integral part of the student’s established curriculum, such as the clinical phase of a health science program. (Students must receive academic program approval, employer approval and authorization from the Office of Minority and International Students before beginning employment.) Curricular practical training authorization is not limited in duration, but a

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student who receives 12 months or more of curricular practical training authorization (on a full-time basis) may not be eligible for optional practical training.

The second category is called “Optional Practical Training” (or O.P.T.), which usually takes place upon completion of the course of study. You may be eligible for up to 12 months of practical training per degree level. Note: The 12-month limit on OPT can be extended by 17 months, for certain STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) degree holders ONLY. You do not need a specific job offer in order to apply for the initial 12-months of optional practical training authorization; however, you must submit your application for Optional Practical Training no later than 60-days after the program end date. However, we recommend applying 4-months before the end date of your current program (please see Office of Minority and International Students for further clarification).

To begin your application for any practical training authorization, visit the Office of Minority and International Students for detailed instructions and forms. In general, you should receive optional practical training advice from the Office of Minority and International Students four months (120-days) before you want your authorization to begin. After you complete the procedures with the Office of Minority and International Students, you will need to send your application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processing office in Nebraska for its decision. The USCIS office may take three or more months to reply. You need to receive your practical training authorization in writing from the USCIS before you can begin the employment, so you need to plan ahead to receive your authorization on time. (More information about employment is included in the “Working in the United States” Section.)

Under normal circumstances, a student who has (1) an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for post-completion OPT or receipt notice (Form I-797), (2) a job or job offer and (3) a valid passport (at least 6-months into the future) and visa should not experience difficulty reentering the US. If either of these three conditions is missing, then the student is assuming risk. Should you wish to leave the U.S. temporarily and return, after you have received authorization for optional practical training, you must obtain proper signatures and have an endorsed I-20 for re-entry into the U.S. Please contact Roger Smith in the Office of Minority and International Students for more information.

Good Planning

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Please remember to make plans in advance for your legal and other arrangements. Plan to contact your own government early for arrangements such as passport renewal, currency exchange authorization, or military deferment, because these sometimes require more time than expected. United States government procedures and Colorado College procedures also take time, so plan ahead for the certification letters, confirmation forms, training applications, and other assistance you may need/want.

If you have questions about immigration come speak to a Designated School Official. You cannot rely on getting accurate information elsewhere.

Travel PlansPlease plan to arrive to Colorado Springs on Tuesday or Wednesday, August 20th or the 21st.  We will arrange for your pick-up at the Colorado Springs airport or bus station.  The International Student Orientation (ISO) will begin on Thursday, August 22nd and will be immediately followed by a mandatory orientation for all new Colorado College Students (Saturday, August 24th to Sunday, September 1st). Classes begin at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, September 2nd, 2013.  A complete calendar for the academic year is located at: http://www.coloradocollege.edu/academics/curriculum/calendar/calendar-2013-14.dot.

Getting to Colorado SpringsBy Plane to Colorado Springs:  If you will be flying to Colorado, we recommend that you fly directly into Colorado Springs.  A Colorado College representative will meet you at the Colorado Springs airport.  For your general information, the Yellow Cab Company operates a taxi service from the airport.  It costs about $35 one way (not including tip) to Colorado College.  The phone number for the Yellow Cab Company is (719) 777-7777.By Plane to Denver:  If you will be arriving in Denver and cannot take a flight to Colorado Springs, you may take a bus (coach) for the approximately 110-kilometer ride from Denver to Colorado Springs. This can be difficult if you have a lot of luggage, so we strongly encourage you to fly into Colorado Springs.

By Bus from Denver:  If you decide to take the bus (coach) from downtown Denver to downtown Colorado Springs, you will need to take a taxi (about $40) or public bus (RTD…about $10) from the Denver International Airport to the downtown Denver Greyhound/TNM&O Bus Station (about a half hour ride).  The bus ride from Denver to Colorado Springs takes approximately two hours and the cost is $17.00 one way

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(depending on time of day).  Visit http://www.greyhound.com for departure times and more information.

http://www.rtd-denver.com/  (The Regional Transportation District; Bus Services from Denver International Airport to downtown Denver)

Note: Shipping itemsIf you would like to ship items to campus prior to your arrival, you may do so by sending them to the address below.  It is VERY IMPORTANT that you write "HOLD FOR INCOMING STUDENT" very clearly on all your boxes so our mailroom knows what to do with them.  Send them to:  YOUR NAMEc/o Colorado College Central Services 902 N. Cascade Ave. Colorado Springs, CO 80946; USA

Preparing to Leave Home

What to Bring or Not to Bring? Two of the biggest concerns for any college student are what to bring and what not to bring. When packing, please consider the following recommendations of past students:

For Your Room:Bring anything that will make your new room your home for the next year... music from home, a small CD player, posters, and pictures of family and friends. The college provides a free linen service for international students that includes sheets, blankets and towels. You are allowed to use this service until you can buy your own linens, (or for the entire year if you desire).

Cultural Items From Your Country:Having some items from home can help to “break the ice” by providing you with something to share and talk about with your host family, your roommate, and your new friends. Posters, colorful calendars, books, slides, videos, clothes, country flag, pictures and maps are all things to think about bringing. There will also be opportunities for you to share information about your culture and country with the CC community and with other schools and organizations in Colorado Springs.

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Clothing:As on most campuses in the United States, anything goes when it comes to clothing! Students at CC are very casual and wear everything from old, torn jeans to nice slacks and skirts. The clothes of choice for most students are jeans and a T-shirt. Popular shoes include sandals, boots, running shoes, and hiking shoes.

Be aware that Colorado weather varies greatly from summer to winter. You should pack shorts for nice weather, and heavy sweaters for the colder months. You will need lighter clothing for the first couple of months, and a warm coat, hat, scarf, and gloves for winter. If you do not have clothes for winter, there are several places in Colorado Springs where you can buy them for reasonable prices. If you like outdoor or sporting events, don’t forget to bring clothing appropriate for these activities. We also recommend bringing a sleeping bag, if you have one. There is a pool on campus, so you’ll want to bring a swimsuit, too.

Preparing for Colorado Weather: At 6,400 feet above sea level, the Colorado sunshine is very strong. Although Colorado receives over 280 days of sunshine every year, the weather is constantly changing and you should be prepared for whatever the day will bring. One way that Coloradans have learned to deal with the ever changing temperatures is to wear different layers of clothing. Layering your clothing will keep you warmer in the winter by trapping air against your body, while allowing you to regulate your temperature by either adding or removing a layer of clothing if you get too hot or cold.

Food and MealsFood is different in the United States, and although there are many international dishes and numerous restaurants available, it may take a short adjustment period to get used to our food. Typical meals in the dining hall include spaghetti or other pastas, hamburgers, salads, vegetable stir-fry, sandwiches, pizza, burritos and other Southwestern food. There are plenty of vegetarian and limited vegan options at every meal. People in the U.S. tend to eat a light breakfast and lunch and then save their largest meal for dinner. Dinner is eaten earlier than in many other countries, usually between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m.

If you want to cook traditional dishes from home, you may want to bring some supplies from with you (e.g., spices, etc.). Although there are some ethnic grocery stores in Colorado Springs, it can be difficult to obtain some traditional items. You will quickly learn that most Colorado College students love to try food from various countries. So... we suggest and hope that you’ll bring recipes!!!

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A note on computers: Colorado College provides the use of computer equipment free of charge. Computers are available all over campus including Tutt Library, Barnes Science Center, the Worner Center, and in large residence halls. If you already own a laptop, you will probably want to bring it with you -- but make sure it is insured against damage and theft! If you wish to purchase a computer you may want to wait until you arrive on campus. Lots of additional information about computing at Colorado College may be found in at http://helpdesk.coloradocollege.edu/index.php/student-computing/cc-bound-information-management/.

Health InsuranceHealth insurance is mandatory for all students!

You may use your own insurance from home, providing proof of such insurance when you arrive on campus, OR you may purchase the Colorado College insurance policy when you go through Registration during Orientation Week. The insurance for one year costs $2,610 (approx. $1,027 for fall 2013 only and $1,435 for spring 2014 only).

Should you decide to use your insurance from home, you need to be prepared to present proof of your coverage at Registration. Please have your policy translated into English if it is written in another language. If your insurance policy does not meet the minimum standards for coverage set by the College, you will be required to purchase the College’s insurance policy.

It is important that you complete the Health Forms that are e-mailed to you during the spring/ summer, including the Measles Certificate, Medical History, and Physical Form. You will not be allowed to complete the registration process during Orientation Week unless your health history form has been completed and returned to Boettcher Health Center, or handed in during Registration. If necessary, you may have a complete physical exam by a doctor in Colorado Springs, but this will probably be more expensive than doing it at home before you come to the U.S. If you have not had a second dose of the measles vaccine, you will be required to receive the vaccination at Registration.

FinancesMoney and Banking

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Before you leave home, check with your local bank to learn more about your country’s regulations regarding the transfer of funds overseas. Some countries do not allow for large sums of money to be wired abroad, whereas other countries have no limits. The following figures can give you an estimate of how much your year at Colorado College will be:

ACADEMIC YEAR 2012-2013 (9-month academic year; USD) Tuition: 43,812 - (annual increase anticipated)Student Activity Fee: 410 - (subject to change)Housing: 5,826 - (room with roommate during 9-month

academic year in a large residence hall)Average food plan: 4,486 - (based on meal plan C) Health Insurance: 2,465 - (estimated annual cost)Books and Supplies 1,244 - (varies by course and major)Allowance:Miscellaneous: *1,622 - (meals during holiday breaks, miscellaneous, personal etc.)

I-20 Cost of attendance: USD 60,010

*This figure can range from $1,000 to $2,500 depending on your personal spending habits.

We suggest that you bring a small amount of "start up" money with you ($100 - 150 U.S. dollars) to help make your trip easier. If you have an automatic teller machine (ATM) card, find out before you leave home if you can use it in the U.S. With an international ATM bank card, your parents/sponsor can deposit money into your account at home and you can withdraw the funds at ATM machines throughout Colorado and the United States. If you don’t have a card that can be used overseas, check with your bank before you leave to see if it is possible to get a card that can be used in the U.S. The "Plus" and "Cirrus" networks are found widely throughout Colorado and the United States. In addition, ATM machines accept Visa and MasterCard.

You may want to consider opening a bank account once you arrive in Colorado Springs. There are many different types of accounts in the United States and it can be confusing to know which type of account to open. More information on banking will be covered in the International Student Orientation, but if you wish to look into opening an account before you arrive, these are a few banks located close to campus:

Wells Fargo90 S. Cascade Ave719-636-1361

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http://www.wellsfargo.com

Chase Bank402 N. Tejon Street719-227-6355http://www.chase.com

U S Bank6 South Tejon St.719-630-4200http://www.usbank.com

Checking Account Opening up a checking account is very easy in the US. A checking account allows you to deposit money, and write checks against your account to pay for services and purchases you have made.

Typically, you must provide a local address (your residence hall address), your Social Security Number (SSN – some banks don’t require this: Wells Fargo), your passport, and the money you wish to deposit. Banks will usually require a minimum of $US100 to open a checking account ($US50 for savings). When you open a checking account, you can choose to receive a checkbook. There is usually a fee charged for checks. Checks typically have your name, address, and account number printed on it. Your checkbook will also contain a financial ledger, which is used to maintain a record of your transactions. Depending on the bank and the type of account you have selected, you may be charged a service fee for having a checking account. In many instances, this fee may be avoided by maintaining a specified minimum amount of money in your account(s).

To help you “balance” your checking account, your bank will mail to you a printed statement of your account activity for the previous month (in many cases, this is now done on-line and via e-mail services). Be sure to compare this monthly statement with your check ledger for discrepancies. If there is a question regarding your account, notify your bank immediately.

While a checking account offers you a convenient and easy method to make payment for goods and services, its use does require a degree of responsibility on your part. In particular, you must be careful to avoid “bouncing” a check. A “bounced” check is one that you have written for more money than you have available in your account. Most banks and many businesses will assess a high service fee for a bounced check, which may result in a negative credit rating for you. Remember that it is illegal to deliberately bounce a check in the US. Most local (Colorado) retailers and service providers will accept your personal check drawn on a US bank

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located in Colorado, as long as you can show appropriate identification (passport, student identification card, driver’s license).

Savings Account Opening a savings account with your bank is another way to keep your money safe yet accessible. Savings accounts are typically used when you have money that is not needed for short-term expenses. Unlike most checking accounts, savings accounts earn interest on the balance in the account. If you brought money for the entire academic year or for your entire academic program, you should be sure that your money earns interest! You can withdraw money from an ordinary savings account, but you cannot do so by writing a check.

Many students open a savings account and a checking account at the same bank so that they can transfer money from the interest-bearing savings account into their checking account, as they need it.

Debit Card A debit card, also known as a checking card, allows you to withdraw or deposit money to your bank account using an Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) and to make purchases at stores that accept the card. Some debit cards carry a credit-card logo (such as MasterCard or Visa), and can be used in place of a check or credit card. Debit cards are not credit cards; they can be used only to the extent that you have funds in the account to which they are linked. In other words, debit cards are as convenient as credit cards but do not allow you to spend more than you have.

Managing Your Money Managing your finances is one of the most important and challenging aspects of a successful and enjoyable academic experience. Dealing with a new currency and cost of living are the beginning of the challenge.

The basic unit of currency in the US is the Dollar ($). All paper money is colored green and is similar in size. The most widely used denominations include the $1, $5, $10, $20, and $50 bill. Coins come in a variety of sizes and denominations including the one-cent coin (a penny), five-cent coin (a nickel), ten-cent coin (a dime), and a twenty-five cent coin (a quarter).

Credit Card Credit cards will allow you to make purchases even when you have no money immediately available. Banks and other financial institutions, department stores, and gasoline companies all issue credit cards that can be used to buy goods. You are billed every month and are required to pay at least a portion of your balance each month. If you do not pay the entire amount due, interest (or a “finance charge”) accrues on the unpaid balance. The interest rate can be quite high, particularly if you have not yet

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established your “credit worthiness”. For more information, please contact Roger L. Smith, Director, Office of Minority and International Students to discuss "Credit Card Smarts".

Paying for Your Tuition and Fees You should receive an invoice for the amount you owe over the summer (or fall if you’re a winter start).  These invoices will be mailed at the end of July (or mid December for winter starts), and often take a few weeks or more to reach students who live outside the US. Do not be alarmed if you do not receive your invoice in the mail before your departure to Colorado Springs…you can settle things with the Business Office (Student Accounts) upon your arrival. Your invoice will contain the charges (if applicable) for one semester at Colorado College.

There are two payment options:

Option #1: You can pay the full amount when you arrive. SPRING SEMESTER BALANCES WILL BE DUE AROUND MID JANUARY 2013.

Option #2:  If you don’t want to pay the full amount at once, you can sign up with “SallieMae TuitionPay” if you need to make monthly installments on your semester balance. 

For payment plan information…go to http://www.coloradocollege.edu/offices/studentaccounts/ ; click on “Tuition “Payment Plan” – from there you can find information about payment plan options and contact information for the Student Accounts Office to address any questions or concerns you may have about the payment plan: StudentAccounts@coloradocollege.edu. 

THERE ARE SEVERAL PAYMENT METHODS:Method #1 (preferred method for most international students): You can wire the monies to Colorado College.  The College’s bank, routing and account numbers are listed below.   

Wells Fargo Bank90 S. Cascade Ave.Colorado Springs, CO 80903WFBIUS6S (International SWIFT #)Routing #: 121000248 Account #: 5058058099** Very important**: Write your full name (CC Student : First Last) and CC Student ID# in the “Other” line.  

Method #2: Students can call into a toll-free number (for calls made from

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U.S. and Canada only) to pay by credit card (there will be a per transaction convenience fee of approximately 2.75%) - Visa will not be accepted…Master Card, Discover and American Express only: http://www.coloradocollege.edu/offices/studentaccounts/index.dot, click on “Make a Payment”.     

Method #3: For those of you who have a U.S. based checking or savings account…Online ACH (Automated Clearing House - checking or savings account) payments are available at no charge, via the "Make a Payment" tab as outlined above.  You will need to provide your account number and routing number to complete a payment transaction. However, funds must be drawn from a U.S. based bank account.

Method #4: You may pay with a personal check drawn from a U.S. Bank or USD traveler’s check or money order…you will have time during the orientation to open a bank account, if you choose.

If you have any questions regarding your bill or making a payment, please contact the Student Accounts Office at: StudentAccounts@ColoradoCollege.edu  or + 1 (719) 389-6698.

Budgeting For Expenses at Colorado College

Many students find it difficult to manage their personal finances during college, and this can be especially challenging for international students unfamiliar with the cost of living in the United States. As a result, we’ve developed the following figures to help you estimate how much money you will need for one year at Colorado College.

Total Personal Expenses: $175-$275/month

Textbooks & Materials (per block)Textbooks only $90 - $150Notebooks $2.25Pen/pencil $.50 - $3Lab equipment $10 - $30Art supplies $35- $80Calculator $8 - $90

Entertainment and FoodMovies off campus$8 -$12Movies on campusfree - $1Nice Restaurant $10 - $30"Fast Food" $4 - $10Ski Area Lift Ticket $45 - $120/day

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CC concerts free - $30Ice skating free - $1Bus Ride $1 - $2

Personal ItemsSoap $2.50Shampoo $3.50 Deodorant $3.50Toothpaste $3.00 Shaving Cream $3.50Sanitary Napkins/ $4.50Tampons

New Student MailingsIn June, you will receive/you received information in the mail with your CC ID No., e-mail and login and password information with instructions of how to access CC Bound (an electronic binder of information that will assist you in preparing for your arrival on campus in the fall/spring). Please read everything carefully and return all forms to the specified email address by the due dates. Information will include:

Information on how to select and register for classes.

Medical history, physical exam & immunization forms (Note: Please have your medical records officially translated into English.)

Student health insurance information

Housing information and form

Details on the meal plan and bookstore

Account information

Financial registration dates, times, locations

We strongly recommend that you also make photocopies of any important papers you send to Colorado College during the summer in case they are lost in the mail.

Your CC Mailing Address You will receive your complete mailing address (including mail box number) after you arrive on campus. If you wish to send packages to your self before you arrive, write on the package “Hold for Arrival” and mail to:

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YOUR NAMEc/o Colorado College Central Services902 N. Cascade Ave.Colorado Springs, CO  80946; USA

Working in the United StatesAll employment must be authorized by the Office of Minority and International Students. If you have any questions about the type of work you are allowed to perform as an international student, please contact Roger L. Smith, Director before accepting any job. He can be reached at: roger.smith@coloradocollege.edu or + 1 (719) 389-6802. The U.S. government has different regulations governing work depending on the type of visa you are issued.

Here’s a quick overview of the regulations governing the work of international students:

Students in F-1 student status are allowed to work on campus with the permission of the Director. Priority in hiring is given to students who receive financial assistance from the College. If you are interested in working on campus, you should contact the Financial Aid Office once you arrive on campus. The Financial Aid Office keeps a list of jobs that are available on campus. In general, new international students may not apply for work until after the first block of classes. Students may work a maximum of 20-hours per week while school is in session and fulltime during winter and spring breaks, and the summer vacation period.

Only in certain circumstances are students in F-1 status allowed to work off campus. These circumstances include work that qualifies as Curricular Practical Training (internships that are an integral part of your studies at CC), or Optional Practical Training (work that is directly related to your academic field). In either case, students may only work off campus after being in the United States in F-1 status for at least nine months. Detailed information on working off campus is available at our office.

Social Security Cards If you intend to work while you are in the United States, you will need to apply for a Social Security Card. When you apply for a Social Security Card, you will be assigned a Social Security number which is used for tax purposes. As an international student, your Social Security Card will probably be stamped with the words, “Not Valid for Employment.” Don’t worry - this only means that you must provide additional documentation to your employer to prove that you are authorized to work.

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You can get an application for a Social Security Card from our office but you must apply in person for a Social Security Card. You will need to have secured a job offer before applying for your card. When you apply for your Social Security Card, you will need your passport, I-20, your I-94, a letter from your campus employment supervisor and a letter from Karen Klein, Primary Designated School Official. It takes around 3 to 5 weeks for you to receive your card in the mail.

Academic LifeThe Block Plan The Block Plan was invented at Colorado College in 1970 and has remained a distinguishing feature of the college ever since. Only one other college in the U.S. has a similar academic system. The Block Plan divides the academic year into eight 3 1/2 week segments or “blocks.” Students take and Faculty teach one block at a time. (Each block is equivalent to four hours of credit under a semester system.) In between each block, students have four days off to relax and prepare for their next class.

Academic Expectations Typically, classes are held every day of the week, Monday through Friday. Most classes begin at 9:00 a.m. and end around 12:00 p.m. Students enrolled in science courses will often return in the afternoon for laboratory work. Occasionally, classes will meet at night or on a weekend in order for students to attend a lecture, view a movie, prepare a presentation, etc..

Because so much material is covered during each class session, it is very important to attend your class every day. On the first day of class, most professors will give students a syllabus. This will include a list of required reading, the date of the final exam, and deadlines for papers or other requirements. You should follow this syllabus carefully.

A Typology of Classes Lectures are the primary form of instruction at CC; however, many of our courses are discussion based. Regardless of whether attendance is or is not recorded, you are expected to attend classes. Material covered in a lecture class may be closely related to the reading assignments or may be completely new material. Doing the reading before attending class is a sure way to improve your comprehension of the lecture. You might wish to record lectures on tape, especially if you are having trouble following spoken English in your first few weeks of school.

Class participation is encouraged. Most classes at the college are limited to 25 students. One reason classes are small is to allow for class discussion. At CC, there is a belief that students learn a great deal from

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their peers and from having to communicate their ideas in class. Professors encourage students to ask questions, express their own opinions, and to use critical reasoning to defend their points of view. Silence may be seen as a lack of preparation or a lack of interest, and class participation may even be a part of your grade. Speaking up in class may be difficult at first, but with time and practice you’ll grow more comfortable with it!

Ask if you don’t understand. If you have any questions about an assignment or an idea discussed in class, you should speak with your professor. Most professors hold office hours in the afternoon and students are encouraged to meet with them at this time. Don’t be shy about doing this – professors expect to discuss issues of an academic nature with their students outside of class, and there is no shame associated with not understanding something, even if it has already been presented in a lecture.

In independent studies you may study a topic under the direction of a professor but without any classroom instruction. Such arrangements are usually reserved for advanced undergraduates (juniors or seniors). They generally involve a great deal of reading and allow you to focus on a topic of particular interest to you.

Seminar courses usually enroll fewer students. They often cover specialized topics and involve discussions and presentations by the students under the supervision of the professor.

Internships are practical work or training experiences that allow students to apply in a work situation what they have learned in class. Colorado College offers academic credit for internships only if such experience is required as part of your degree program and within the stipulations of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Assignments The typical undergraduate course at Colorado College involves lectures each week, reading assignments, tests, a mid-term examination, and a final examination, as well as one or more research papers or projects and class discussions. Science courses may also involve an additional lab. Keeping up with the work is important!

If you find yourself falling behind or feeling terribly pressured about your assignments, discuss your problem with the professor or your academic advisor. The Learning Commons, located in the Tutt Library, has tutors and writing assistants available to help you as well. Their assistance is free of charge.

An important distinction exists between group work and individual work. In general, papers, homework assignments, and tests should be done

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individually, and evidence (or suspicion) of collaboration can result in a failing grade for the work or expulsion from the class or institution. Studying with others is a good idea, but before you collaborate with others on homework, papers, or tests, make sure the professor has specifically authorized such collaboration.

Tests Examinations come with a variety of names at Colorado College: quiz, test, writing exercise, mid-term, final etc. Examinations may call for specific, short replies or for longer responses in the form of essays. Often examinations are a combination of both forms. So-called objective questions have only one right answer. Types include true-false, “fill in the blanks”, multiple choice and matching.

The classroom culture may be more informal than you’re used to. Many professors may seem very relaxed in their behaviors with students. Professors may eat or drink in the classroom, dress casually, ask to be called by their first names, and joke with students. Some professors may even invite their students into their homes. This behavior is not viewed negatively. Although you may have a more informal relationship with your professor, you are still expected to be respectful of the student-professor relationship – submitting course work on time, coming prepared for class, adhering to deadlines, etc.

Strategies for Academic Success Do as much of the required course reading as you can, but don’t panic

if you can’t get through it all, especially at first. Over time, you will become skilled at identifying what’s most important to read carefully and what you can skim or skip.

Follow up right away if you don’t understand something. If you fall behind on the block plan, it can be especially difficult to catch up.

Use the Writing Center. The Writing Center is located in the Learning Commons in Tutt Library and provides free, individual tutoring sessions to assist students at any stage of the writing process, from brainstorming ideas and organizing your thoughts, to reviewing a final draft. Even the most gifted writers can benefit from their services.

The First Year Experience If you are a first-year, degree-seeking student, you will have the opportunity to participate in a program called the “First Year Experience,” or FYE. This program is designed to help orient all new students to life in college and to quickly prepare you for the intense pace of the block plan. The FYE promotes critical examination and active discussion in class, and will help you develop the skills needed to succeed at CC. All first-year students will

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select an FYE course, lasting two blocks, before arriving in August (CC Bound).

Faculty Advisors All students will be assigned a faculty advisor. Your advisor is meant to serve as a general resource and an educational mentor to you. You will meet with your advisor when you first arrive, and should continue to see your advisor at least three times a semester. Your advisor is there to provide academic support and advice, to assist you with selecting classes, and to help if you are having academic difficulties. Please keep in mind that your advisor is usually very busy and will most likely not come to you to ask how you are doing. It is important for you to take the initiative to visit your advisor and to help him or her get to know you better.

Your academic advisor will be a valuable resource for you throughout your college years. Ultimately, though, the responsibility for satisfying graduation requirements rests with you. Therefore, you will want to consult your course catalog carefully in planning class schedules.

A Lesson in Academic Terminology 1. Academic Advisor : A faculty member assigned to each student to help and

assist in forming the student’s academic plans.2. Add or drop a course : add - to enter a course in which you had not originally

enrolled; drop - to withdraw from a course in which you were enrolled. Use add/drop cards.

3. B.A. : Bachelor of Arts Degree4. MAT : Master of Arts in Teaching Degree 5. Credit hour : Courses are assigned credit hour values. Most courses at

Colorado College are 4 credit hours. Under the CC block plan, in which the academic year is divided into eight 3 ½ week segments or blocks, Students take and Faculty teach one block at a time. (Each block is equivalent to four hours of credit under a semester system.)

6. Elective courses : These are courses, which count as credit towards your degree. However, these courses may be outside of your department. They are usually not required for the major. You choose courses of interest to you.

7. Final : This is the last examination of the block. There is one day set aside at the end of each block for a long exam, typically up to three hours. Not all professors choose to give a final exam. Some may assign a research paper or a take-home examination instead.

8. Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) : Your performance is evaluated with grades of A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, D+, D and No Credit (G Track) or the optional system S (Satisfactory), CR (work equivalent to a D+ or D) or NC (No Credit); (P Track). S = A through C-; CR = D+ or D; NC = No Credit. The grades A-NC are given a numerical value (A = 4; A- = 3.7; B+ = 3.3; B = 3.0; B- = 2.7; C+ = 2.3; C = 2.0; C- = 1.7; D+ = 1.3; D = 1.0; and NC = 0.0). Your grade point average is computed by taking the grade you receive for a course and

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multiplying its numerical value by the number of credit hours for the course. Then total and divide. Example: (4 semester hours = 1 unit)

Eng 385 4 hours x A (4 points) = 16

His 287 4 hours x A- (3.7 points) = 14.80Rel 130 4 hours x C+ (2.3 points) =

9.20Bio 202 4 hours x B (3 points) = 12Totals: 16 hours 52

pointsNow divide the total points by the total hours. 52 points divided by 16 hours equals a 3.25 G.P.A. for the semester.

9. Major : a student’s primary field of study.10. Mid-Term : This is a major examination given in many classes in the middle

of the block. 11. Minor : a student’s secondary field of study (if the student chooses to have

one)12. R.A .: Resident Assistant. Person responsible for the students at your

residence hall floor.13. Required courses : These are courses that all students seeking the same

degree must take.14. Research paper : This is a major paper, five to twenty-five pages in length.

In order to write this paper, a student is expected to select a topic, somewhat narrow in scope, and perform library research.

15. Semester : Terms at Colorado College are semesters. A semester is approximately 15 weeks long. The academic year consists of the Fall and Spring semesters. Each semester consists of four 3 ½ week segments or blocks.

16. Unit : The unit represents the academic work of a single block of three-and-one-half weeks. There are eight blocks in the academic year, and under normal circumstances a student can earn eight units of credit per year and 32 units in four years.

17. Syllabus : A syllabus outlines the course’s objectives and the material to be covered. It lists due dates for assignments, text books to be purchased, and the professor’s name, office location and office hours. Keep the course syllabus for the duration of the course.

Cultural Adjustment

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(Adapted from NAFSA’s International Student Handbook – A Guide to University Study in the USA, Washington D.C.: NAFSA: Association of

International Educators.)

Being immersed in a different culture is a wonderful opportunity for growth! You will learn how to improve communication cross-culturally and become more appreciative of other cultures as well as your own. Living abroad is a fun and very rewarding experience. As you learn, you might make mistakes. Our advice for now: don’t worry, relax, keep your humor and be informed of the adjustment process.

Emerging Differences As you become more involved in activities and gradually get to know the people around you, differences might become increasingly apparent to you. Over time, these differences may seem more irritating than interesting or quaint. Small incidents and difficulties may make you anxious and concerned about how best to carry on with academic and social life. As these differences emerge, they can be troubling and sometimes shocking. This emotional state is called “culture shock.” Culture shock does not happen all at once. It is a feeling that grows little by little as you interact with other students, faculty, and people in the community.

Coping with Culture Shock Students are sometimes unaware of the fact that they are experiencing culture shock. There are ways to deal with this period of culture shock. Learning about culture shock before you arrive in the USA will help ease this experience. The most effective way to combat culture shock is to step back from a given event that has bothered you, assess it, and search for an appropriate explanation and response.

Below, are strategies you can use to ease the adjustment process:

Settle into your living space as much as possible. Put up pictures of your family, listen to music you enjoy, and try to get settled as quickly as possible.

Get involved. Join a student organization, play a sport, perform community service, or anything else you enjoy doing. These activities will help you make friends and take your mind off your homesickness.

Establish a routine. Try to keep regular eating and sleeping habits, and to do at least one activity you look forward to on a regular basis at the same time each week.

Be physically active. This can improve your mental and physical health. Many CC students find that participation in outdoor activities –

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hiking, biking, jogging, mountain climbing – can be an especially good way to get exercise, relieve stress and enjoy the beauty of Colorado.

Talk to other international students. While international students who’ve been here some time may seem very happy and well-adjusted, it probably wasn’t easy for them in the beginning, either. Ask them what they did that helped the most.

Although it can be disconcerting and a little scary, the “shock” gradually eases as you begin to understand the new culture. It is useful to realize that often the reactions and perceptions of others toward you - and you toward them - are not personal evaluations but are based on a clash of cultural values. The more skilled you become in recognizing how and when cultural values and behaviors are likely to come in conflict, the easier it becomes to make adjustments that can help you avoid serious difficulties.

Culture shock is felt differently by different people; however, many international students experience it in the following stages:

Euphoria – The first few hours, days or weeks abroad are often characterized by feelings of excitement and elation. Everything seems new and interesting. You can’t believe you’re finally here!

Irritability and Hostility – Once the initial “honeymoon” phase subsides, differences between your own culture and the U.S. begin to seem more pronounced, and a sense of alienation can set in. Everything seems so different and there are so many challenges to cope with. This stage is often characterized by feelings of frustration, insecurity, withdrawal and depression.

Gradual Adjustment – With time, you’ll begin to orient yourself to a different set of cultural practices and feel increasingly comfortable and confident in your new surroundings. Your sense of humor, which may have been lying dormant for a while, will reemerge.

Reentry or Reverse Culture Shock – Upon returning home, you will be faced with integrating your life in the U.S. with your life at home. You may feel disoriented, out of place or changed by your experience in a way that makes relating to family and friends difficult.

(Sources: Glimpse Abroad Guide to Culture Shock; Yale University Office of International Students and Scholars)

Will I Lose My Own Culture? Sometimes students worry about “losing their culture” if they become too adapted to the host culture. Don’t worry: it is virtually impossible to lose the

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culture in which you were raised. In fact, learning about the new culture often increases your appreciation for and understanding of your own culture. Don’t resist the opportunity to become bicultural, able to function competently in two cultural environments.

Host Families

Our office organizes a host family program (“Friends of CC”/FOCC) for students who are interested in getting to know a local family.

Responsibilities of Families and Students FOCC officially lasts for your first year at CC, but many students remain close to their families throughout their four years at the College. We hope that you and your host family will form a friendship that will last long after you leave CC.

Although you will be living on campus, your host family will invite you to do things with them throughout the year. Your family may ask you to stay with them during holiday vacations; however, please know that they are not required to provide housing for you during vacation periods. You and your host family may go on outings together, they may take you shopping, or you may make a traditional meal for them from your country. You and your hosts will decide what kind of relationship is comfortable. If you find that you and your host family are not compatible, you should not feel obligated to continue the relationship. We would be happy to find another family who better meets your interests and needs.

A note on smoking: One thing to think about before you arrive in Colorado Springs is that many Americans do not appreciate smoking in their homes. If you are a smoker, ask your host family if smoking is allowed in their home, and go outside to smoke if it is not. Also, all public places in Colorado are now considered “smoke-free.” Be aware of this and be prepared to smoke in designated areas or outside if necessary.

Living with a Roommate

During the first three years at CC, all students are required to live in one of the College’s residence halls. It is likely that you will share your room with a roommate. You will receive information about choosing a residence hall from the Office of Residential Life. You will also receive a questionnaire about

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your interests, living habits (such as how clean you keep your room and when you go to bed). This questionnaire will be used to match you with a roommate, so you should answer the questions as honestly as possible so that you can be matched with someone with whom you can live comfortably.

Living with a roommate can be a real challenge at times, especially if you’re not used to sharing a room with someone. A good idea is to sit down and discuss your habits before any problems arise. Here are some questions to discuss:

How do you feel about overnight guests?

Do you mind music when you are studying in the room?

When do you usually go to sleep? Are you an early riser in the morning? If one person goes to bed/gets up earlier than the other what courtesies should be followed not to disturb the sleeping person?

If you purchase items for the room (i.e. small refrigerator, carpet), how will you determine who keeps the item if one person moves out?

How do you feel about sharing food in the room? Will snack-food in the room be shared or will each person have his/her own food?

How do you feel about alcohol?

Are there any particular habits the other person should be aware of?

Living in Colorado Springs

General Information about Colorado and Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a metropolitan area located at the base of Pikes Peak, the Rocky Mountain Range, and the red sandstone rock formations known as the Garden of the Gods. Its economy is based on tourism, agriculture, military installations and technology businesses. Recreational opportunities are endless in Colorado, and Americans travel from all over the country to enjoy the state’s national parks. During the orientation, we will discuss places to visit throughout Colorado Springs and Colorado.

Many people think that Colorado offers ideal weather conditions. The mountains provide protection from severe cold in the winter and the altitude (about 6,400 feet above sea level) provides protection from the intense

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summer heat. The weather is often sunny, but can change unpredictably...sometimes there are several types of weather in one day!

Living in such an arid climate at a high altitude takes time to get used to. You may find that you become short of breath doing everyday activities like climbing stairs. During the first week or two, you may feel slightly dizzy at times or complain of headaches. These symptoms may be a sign of altitude sickness and should pass. However, if these symptoms become severe, it is important that you go to the Boettcher Health Center on campus.

It is very easy to become dehydrated in Colorado’s arid climate. Therefore, it is important that you drink a lot of water -- even if you do not feel thirsty. Drinking water can help to offset some of the symptoms of altitude sickness. Other effects of the arid climate are dry lips and skin and difficulty wearing contact lenses. All of these symptoms can be remedied through the use of lip balm, moisturizing body lotion, and eye drops for contact lenses. Some students even complain of nosebleeds during the dry winter months. If you find that you are particularly bothered by the dry climate, having a humidifier in your dorm room can help to alleviate some of the problems. Boettcher Health Center can also give you advice on ways to stay hydrated if you’re having recurring problems. Local Transportation Unfortunately, public transportation in Colorado Springs is not as convenient as most students would like. There is a city bus that stops in front of the Worner Center and although transfers can be time consuming, with a bus schedule and a little planning, you should be able to get just about anywhere in the city. If you’re someone who prefers a faster, more spontaneous approach to travel, biking, walking, or catching rides with a friend may be a more acceptable alternative. Fortunately, Colorado College is located within walking distance of the downtown area and there is also a free shuttle that makes frequent trips to and from campus. Taxis are also available, but can be expensive if you are traveling alone.

Driving in the United States As an international student, you must have either an international driver's license or a U.S. driver’s license to drive in the State of Colorado. A license from your home country is not acceptable. If you would like to get a Colorado driver’s license, you will need to pass both a written test and a driving test before being issued a license (some exceptions apply). *In the U.S. we drive on the right side of the road; when crossing streets, it’s EXTREMELY important to look both ways!

To get a Colorado driver’s license you must go to the Department of Motor Vehicles. You will need your passport, I-20 and I-94 verification. You will also need to furnish your own car (or that of a trusting friend) for the driving

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test. Before taking your driver’s license test, you should study the free booklet about driving laws in Colorado and in the United States. The booklet contains all of the information needed to pass the written part of the test. It is available from the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Shopping

There are several stores within biking/walking distance from Colorado College where you can purchase most of your supplies.

Safeway (Groceries) Bon Shopping Center2210 N. Wahsatch

King Soopers (Groceries)1750 W. Uintah

Also within easy walking distance from the campus is the downtown shopping area. There are several specialty shops in this area such as music stores, bookstores, and clothing stores. The stores are fun to browse through and great for gifts, but some are quite expensive and most don’t stock the “basics” that you’ll need upon arriving at CC.

If you are able to find a ride, the following stores are great for buying almost anything that you will need at reasonable prices while settling into your dorm room.

Target335 N. Academy Blvd. or 1630 East Cheyenne Mountain Blvd.

Wal-Mart3201 E. Platte Ave. or 8th Street

Colorado Springs also has two shopping malls where you can find large department stores and smaller clothing and shoe stores. We will take at least one trip to Wal-Mart during the International Student Orientation (ISO).

Student ServicesThere are many people at Colorado College dedicated to providing services to students. The following list will provide you with an overview of just a few of the offices that strive to meet students’ needs.

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Boettcher Health Center Boettcher Health Center provides a walk-in clinic and overnight infirmary with full-time nursing staff and a part-time physician. There is also a Counseling Center that has counselors who provide short-term therapy and consultation in study skills, cultural issues, stress management, eating disorders, substance abuse, relationships, as well as other medical or emotional concerns students may have.

Campus Bookstore The Campus Bookstore (located in the basement of the Worner Center) sells all materials for Colorado College courses, including books, lab materials, and art supplies. The bookstore also stocks a selection of greeting cards and personal items.

Campus Security Colorado College has its own security officers. These individuals are not police officers, but are responsible for patrolling the campus, responding to emergencies, and helping to ensure the safety of the campus community as a whole. Their office is located on campus and can be reached at any time during the day or the night.

Career Center The Career Center (located on the second floor of the Worner Center) assists students in career planning throughout their four years at Colorado College. Services include regular workshops on subjects such as choosing a major, interviewing, writing a resume, and conducting a job search. The Career Center can be of great service to international students looking for internships.

Colket Student Learning Center The Learning Commons (located in Tutt Library) offers academic support to all students. It includes a Writing Center, where students can work through the writing process and improve the expression of their ideas. There is also a Quantitative Reasoning Center, which helps students strengthen quantitative reasoning skills they need to succeed in entry-level classes in math and science.

Computer Facilities Student computer labs can be found in the Worner Center, Tutt Library, Barnes Science Center, Palmer Hall, as well as Loomis, Mathias, and Slocum dorms. Students may use these computers for almost any of their needs, including word processing, data management, and internet connections. More specialized computer facilities can be found in some academic buildings, such as the humanities and languages computer lab in Armstrong Hall.

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El Pomar Sports Center Exercise and sports programs are centered in the El Pomar Sports Center. This building has facilities for all indoor sports, as well as a weight room, and laboratories for exercise physiology and biomechanics. Other sports facilities on campus include the Washburn, Autrey, and Stewart playing fields, Schlessman Pool, and Honnen Ice Rink.

Bon Appetit (Bon Appetit is the food service provider for Colorado College) At the time of Registration, all on-campus students select their preference in meal plans. The options will be carefully explained during the International Student Orientation.

Office of Minority and International Students The Office of Minority and International Students (located on the second floor of the Worner Center) provides support and services for ethnic and minority students, international students and various minority student groups on campus.

Shove Chapel Council The Shove Chapel Council provides opportunities for students of all religious beliefs (or no religious beliefs) to come together for discussion and programs on moral, ethical and religious issues. In addition, the College Chaplain seeks to support students in their own religious traditions.

Tutt Library Tutt Library is available to all students, faculty, and staff. An on-line computer catalog system enables easy, fast research. A special library tour and information session will be provided for international students during the International Student Orientation.

Opportunities for Involvement

AthleticsSports are considered an integral part of the liberal arts education at Colorado College, but participation is optional. There are two different options for formalized participation in athletics at Colorado College:

Intercollegiate Sports: Men compete in football, ice hockey, basketball, baseball, track and field, soccer, lacrosse, golf, tennis, swimming, skiing and cross-country. Women compete in basketball, cross-country, soccer, softball, skiing, swimming, tennis, track and field, and volleyball. Club sports for men include rugby, ice hockey, squash, ultimate Frisbee and cycling. Women’s club sports are ice hockey, field hockey, squash, cycling, ultimate Frisbee and lacrosse.

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Intramural Sports: Flag football, hockey, volleyball, basketball, slow-pitch softball, broom-ball, tennis and soccer. Wings or groups of friends usually form their own teams. It’s great fun for all!

Community Service (Volunteer Work)The Center for Service and Learning (located on the second floor of Worner Center) assists all members of the College community in finding meaningful volunteer work in Colorado Springs. Some social issues that are addressed include hunger and homelessness, literacy, care of the elderly, child companionship, the environment and human rights. The Center organizes volunteer work trips in the U.S. and Mexico for spring break and the four-day Priddy Experience program during New Student Orientation.

College CommitteesStudents are encouraged to get involved in one or more of the numerous policy-making committees that play important roles in governing the college.

Campus ActivitiesStudents may serve on the committees or simply take part in the numerous activities planned by the following groups: the Arts & Crafts Center, the Dance Workshop, Livesounds committee, the Outdoor Recreation Center, and the Theatre Workshop.

Student Organizations

The best way to keep busy and satisfied outside of class is to join one or more student groups. Once you get involved in the CC community, your schedule will be filled with activities and lots of new friends. Here are just a few of the many student organizations to give you an idea of the wide range of opportunities that exist on campus:

Amnesty International Asian-American Student Union (AASU) Black Student Union (BSU) Chamber Chorus Chaverim (Jewish Student Association) Colorado College Student Government Association (CCSGA)—Student

Government Cutler Publications (including a newspaper, yearbook, and literary

magazine) ENACT (Students for Environmental Action) Fraternities & Sororities KASA (Korean American Student Association) MOSAIC— Multicultural Organization of Students: An International

Community

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NASU (Native American Student Union) EQUAL (Meetings open to the LGBTQIAPP and those questioning their

sexual identity or gender) THE QUEER COMMUNITY COALITION (Queer CC/QCC) SOMOS (Latino/a Student Association) SASA (Students for the Awareness of South Asia)

**STUDENTS DO NOT HAVE TO IDENTIFY WITH A PARTICULAR IDENTITY/ CULTURAL BACKGROUND TO BE A MEMBER OF ANY GROUPS THAT FOCUS ON QUEER, ETHNIC, OR MINORITY/UNDERPREPRESENTED ISSUES; THESE GROUPS ARE OPEN TO ANYONE WITH GENUINE INTEREST. ONE EXCEPTION IS EQUAL, FOR REASONS OF CONFIDENTIALITY.

Important Dates

First Semester 2013 Second Semester 2014

August 22 – 24 January 6 – 16International Student Orientation Optional Half-Block

August 24 – September 1 January 10New Student Week International Student Orientation

September 2 January 11 – 18Classes begin Winter Start Orientation

November 28 – December 1 January 20Thanksgiving Break Classes begin

December 20 (noon) – January 19 March 13 (noon) – 23Winter break. Residence Halls closed Spring Break. Residence Halls closed

May 14Classes end.

May 15 Residence Halls close at

noon

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Important!  Winter Break and Spring Break are the two times during the academic year when residence halls close and all students not residing in the Western Ridge apartments, Interfaith and Synergy Houses, or 1010 North Weber must leave campus.  If finances allow, this is a good time to travel or visit friends who live outside Colorado Springs.  If you wish to remain in town, you must make arrangements for a place to live BEFORE the break.  *For international students who wish to stay on campus over breaks and summer holidays, special arrangements in conjunction with the Residential Life and Housing Department and the Office of Minority and International Students must be made in advance. Break housing applications will be sent to you during the first weeks of each semester (summer housing applications are sent out late spring).

Small but Important Matters (Adapted from International Student Guide to the United States of America. Pennsylvania: Spindle Publishing

Company. 1996-7)

Metric Conversion Tables Linear1 inch = 2.54 centimeters1 foot (12 inches) = 30.48 centimeters1 yard (3 feet) = 0.91 meters1 mile (5,280 feet) = 1.61 kilometers

1 centimeter = .39 inches1 meter = 39.37 inches (1.1 yards)1 kilometer = .62 or 5/8 mile

Weight1 ounce = 28.35 grams1 pound = 0.45 kilograms

1 gram = 0.035 ounces1 kilogram = 2.2 pounds

Volume1 quart (2 pints) dry = 1.10 liter1 quart liquid = 0.95 liter

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1 gallon (4 quarts) dry = 4.40 liter1 gallon liquid = 3.80 liter

1 liter = .91 quarts dry1.06 quarts liquid

Temperature Fahrenheit Centigrade (Celsius)100 37.890 32.280 26.7 Boiling points: 212 F or 100 C70 21.1 Freezing point: 32 F or 0 C60 15.6 Formulas: Into C = (F-32) / 1.850 10 Into F = (Celsius x 1.8) +32 40 4.4 32 00 -17.8

Clothing and Shoe Sizes

Women’s ClothingJapanese 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21American 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22British 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44Continental 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50

Men’s Suits, Overcoats and SweatersJapanese S M L LLAmerican 34 36 38 40 42 44 46British 34 36 38 40 42 44 46Continental 44 46 48 50 52 54 56

Collar Sizes, Men’s ShirtsJapanese 36 37 38 39 40 41 42American 14 14.5 15 15.5 16 16.5 17British 14 14.5 15 15.5 16 16.5 17Continental 36 37 38 39 40 41 42

Women’s ShoesJapanese 23 23.5 24 24.5 25 25.5 26American 6 6.5 7 7.5 8 8.5 9British 4.5 5 5.5 6 6.5 7 7.5Continental 36 37 38 38 38 39 40

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Men’s ShoesJapanese 24.5 26 27.5 28 29American 5.5 6.5 7.5 8.5 9.5 10.5 11.5British 5 6 7 8 9 10 11Continental 39 40 41 42 43 44 45

Tipping Tips are supposedly a reward for good service. However, they are calculated as part of the total salary for some people, such as waiters and waitresses. You are really free to tip whatever you like, but 20% is the usual amount given.

Restaurants: Unlike many other countries, U.S. restaurants do not include tips in the price. You are expected to leave about 20% of your bill as a tip for the waiter or waitress. Leave the tip by your plate when you leave the restaurant. It is not necessary to tip in self-service places such as McDonald’s or a cafeteria.

Taxis: The taxi driver expects about 15% of your fare as a tip in addition to the amount shown on the taxi meter. You should add more to your tip if the driver carries heavy luggage for you or performs other services.

Other Occasions: At the airport, a porter expects $ .50 for each bag s/he carries ($ 1 if the luggage is large).

Bibliography

American Ways: A Guide for Foreigners in the United States. Gary Althen. Intercultural Press. 1988.

An International Guide to Chicago, K. Bove edt. New York: Institute of International Education. 1997.

Carroll College / Columbia College of Nursing – Student Handbook 2002-03. Carroll College. 2002.

International Student Guide to the United States of America. Pennsylvania: Spindle Publishing Company. 1996-7.

Learning Across Cultures. edt. G. Althen. Nafsa Association of International Educators. 1994.

Malaysian-American Commission on Educational Exchange (MACEE)

NAFSA’s International Student Handbook - A guide to university study in the USA. Washington D.C.: NAFSA: Association of International Educators. 1996.

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