into oregon state university pre-departure guide 2011-2012

Pre-Departure Guide 2011-12

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Pre-Departure Guide 2011-2012 In case of emergency, call INTO Oregon State University at +1-541-224-2964.

Meet the INTO Oregon StateUniversity Team

Amy McGowanCenter Director

Bob GlimourDirector of Academic Programs

Valerie RosenburgDirector of Student Experience and Inter-national Admissions

Jonathan RhodesAdmissions & Academic Support Manager

Glenda CurryAcademic Support Assistant

Michael WitbeckExecutive Coordinator

Erich WhitePathway ProgramsCoordinator

Erich CutlerAcademic English Program Coordinator

Elena SappGeneral English Coordinator, Russian Language Advisor

Nathan WarrenFinance Manager

Ryoko MisnerFinance Assistant, Japanese Language Advisor

Jessie Song YuAccounting Assistant, Chinese Language Advisor

Julianna BetjemannStudent Services Manager

Nikki HinshawStudent Care & Conduct Coordinator

Robert HinderliterStudent Services Assistant

Thet Mar WinHousing Coordinator

Ismail WarsameInternational Student Advisor, Arabic Language Advisor

Sydney PurdyLearning Center Manager & Testing Coordinator

Lindy Osborne Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Warren LawlessLead Reception

Welcome

Dear Students,

Welcome to INTO Oregon State University! We are eagerly awaiting your arrival on campus. This guide is designed to help you prepare for your departure. It contains helpful information about securing your visa; your application for health insurance and housing; what to bring with you and what to buy after you arrive; and details about your arrival at the Portland International Airport and transportation to the OSU campus.

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR ARRIVAL DETAILS IMMEDIATELYat: uhds.oregonstate.edu/into/arrival.

There is always someone available to answer your questions or help you with any needs you may have at INTO OSU. We have a friendly and helpful team dedicated to your success and happiness, and we look forward to meeting you!

See you soon,The INTO Oregon State University Team

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ContentsWelcome 2

Meet the INTO OSU Team 3

Before You Leave 4

Visa and Immigration Information 5

Immunization Requirements and Health

Insurance 6

Immunization Documentation Form 8

Arrival and Transportation 10

Housing and Dining 11

What to Bring 14

Money 15

After You Arrive 16

Safety Guide 18

Orientation Program 19

Student Services 20

Important Phone Numbers

and Websites 21

Maps 22


Acquiring an F-1 Student Visa

You must have a valid passport in order to obtain a visa for the United States. Before visiting the U.S. Consulate for your visa, please read carefully the instructions on the Certificate of Eligibility (I-20) issued to you for your studies at INTO OSU. Students with an I-20 will apply for an F-1 student visa.

There is complete information on obtaining a student visa on the U.S. Department of State’s Travel website: travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1268.html. Useful links include: “When Do I Need to Apply for my Student Visa?” “Required Documentation” “Entering the U.S.—Port of Entry” • You should contact your closest U.S. Embassy or

Consulate to find out about the procedures for applying for an F-1 student visa.

The SEVIS I-901 Fee

The U.S. Government requires that international students and scholars pay a $200 SEVIS I-901 fee when applying for an F-1 visa. The fee must be paid prior to the visa interview at the U.S. Consulate. This fee is in addition to the visa application fee. • A brief description and instructions about how to

submit the SEVIS I-901 fee payment can be found at: oregonstate.edu/international/atosu/students/new#SEVISFee.

• More comprehensive information can also be found by visiting the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement website: ice.gov/sevis/i901/index.htm.

• At the time of your visa interview, you will need to provide documents certifying the amounts and sources of financial support for your studies.

• Please keep copies of these documents to present to the U.S. Immigration official at the Port of Entry.

How Do I Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee?

1. Go to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System: SEVIS I-901 Fee website: fmjfee.com/i901fee/. Read and follow the instructions carefully. Make sure to complete the SEVIS Form I-901 and pay the fee at least three business days before applying for your visa interview to allow time for processing.

2. Your SEVIS ID number can be found above the bar code on the top right-hand side of your your I-20 form. If you are applying for an F-1 visa, you will also need the OSU School Code: POO214F00002000.

3. Please pay the $200 SEVIS I-901 fee with either a credit or debit card.

4. PRINT YOUR RECEIPT.5. Your SEVIS I-901 fee receipt is required for

your visa interview. Bring it with you to the embassy or consulate.

6. Bring your SEVIS I-901 fee receipt, I-20, and passport containing your visa, on the airplane. You must show it at the Port of Entry.

Please note that continuing students transferring from another U.S. institution and dependents applying for an F-2 or J-2 visa do not need to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. If you need more information, visit ice.gov/sevis/i901/faq.htm to view frequently asked questions about the SEVIS Form I-901 and the SEVIS I-901 fee.

If you have any questions about this process or any other visa related matters, please email International Student Advising Services (ISAS) at:[email protected].

Checklist Please make sure you have completed everything on this checklist before you leave home.

1. SUBMIT a passport photo at uhds.oregonstate.edu/into/arrival/photo.

2. SUBMIT your flight arrival details at uhds.oregonstate.edu/into/arrival/information.

3. Get your measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine if you have not done so already. Have your doctor sign your Immunization Documentation Form. (See pg. 8)

4. SUBMIT YOUR International Student Health Information and Immunization Documentation Form—SIGNED BY YOUR DOCTOR—TO STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES AT LEAST TWO WEEKS BEFORE YOUR TERM START DATE. (See pg.6-9) Fax: 1+ 541-737-9665, [email protected]. Please bring a copy of these documents with you to the U.S.

5. Undergraduate and Graduate Pathway students – You are required to provide official documents prior to registration for classes as follows:

• OfficialTranscriptcopiesincludingfinalcertificateand/ordegreecertificateinasealedenvelope issueddirectlybytheinstitutionattendedand/orgovernmenteducationalministry(Ministryof Education) in both English and the original language.* • OfficialTOEFLscoresubmittedonlineviaETSdirectlytoOSU(OSUCollegecode4586) • OfficialIELTSscores • OfficialresultsfromotheracceptedEnglishlanguagetests

Please send these documents to: OSU Office of International Admissions 1701 SW Western Blvd. Corvallis, OR. 97331 U.S.A

Or bring them with you when you come to the U.S. You will not be able to register for classes without these documents.

*Please note: for undergraduate students, submitting these documents in a sealed envelope is not required, but is preferred.

6. Print this Pre-Departure Guide and bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.

7. Confirmthatyourpassport is valid for at least six months after the date you enter the U.S.

8. Apply for and receive your F-1 Student Visa.

9. You MUST bring ALL of these ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS with you to the airport. You will be required to show them at the Port of Entry, or they will be necessary for INTO OSU registration, medical services or other services after you arrive. • Validpassport with F-1 Student Visa • I-20 • SEVISI-901feereceipt • INTOOregonStateUniversityOffer Letter • INTOOregonStateUniversityConfirmation Letter • Financial documents showing funds to support your study in the U.S.

10. Bring enough cash in U.S. dollars to cover expenses for your first few days, about $200.

11. Bring a copy of ALL prescriptions for medicines, eyeglasses, and contact lenses with you to the U.S. The prescriptions should be written in ENGLISH.

Visa and Immigration Information

Before You Leave

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Immunization Requirements and Health Insurance

Waiving Health Insurance

If you have health insurance from your home country and would like to waive the mandatory OSU International Student Health Plan, you must show that your alternate insurance provides equal or greater coverage than the OSU International Student Health Plan.

To see if your alternate insurance will be acceptable, please download and carefully review the “International Insurance Waiver Requirements”, at: studenthealth.oregonstate.edu/internationalplan PLEASE NOTE: Most travel insurance policies

purchased in your home country will not meet the

waiver requirements. To avoid unnecessary

expense, please carefully review all waiver

requirements in Section 4 of the Waiver

Requirements Form.

If your plan meets ALL the waiver requirements and you would like to apply for the waiver, please download and complete the “International Waiver Form”, at: studenthealth.oregonstate.edu/internationalplan

You must submit this form, along with a complete copy of your insurance policy in English, with coverage amounts listed in U.S. Dollars, at least two weeks before your course start date by mail, fax, or email to:OSU Student Health Insurance110 Plageman BuildingOregon State UniversityCorvallis, OR 97331Fax: 1+ [email protected]

Please bring a copy of these materials with you to the U.S.

If your alternate health insurance coverage meets the waiver requirements, your student account will be credited the amount of the insurance fee.

If your alternate health insurance coverage does not meet the waiver requirements, you will remain enrolled in and billed for the OSU International Student Health Plan.

Prescriptions

Bring a copy of ALL prescriptions for medicines, eyeglasses, and contact lenses with you to the U.S. The prescriptions should be written in English.

For more information on Health Insurance, Immunization Requirements, or other health and medical questions, please visit:studenthealth.oregonstate.edu/.

All international students attending OSU must provide proof of two (2) doses of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) (either combined in the MMR vaccine, or given as individual doses) before starting classes.

You must complete the Immunization Documentation Form (pg. 8-9).• You and your doctor will need to complete the

Immunization Documentation Form. It must be signed by your doctor.

• Please bring a copy of these forms with you to the U.S.

• If you do not bring or submit documentation of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR), you will need to receive the two-shot series of this immunization upon arrival. The cost is approximately $70 per shot, but is often covered by insurance.

In addition to the Immunization Documentation form, you will need to submit the “Health History Form.” Please visit: studenthealth.oregonstate.edu/international-students to download this form. The website contains helpful information, links to required forms, translations of Student Health Services (SHS) information, and details about various policies and services at SHS.

Please complete these two forms, and submit them by mail, fax, or email to:Immunization Coordinator201 Plageman BuildingOregon State UniversityCorvallis, OR 97331 Fax: 1+ [email protected]

THE DEADLINE TO SUMBIT THESE FORMS IS TWO WEEKS BEFORE YOUR COURSE START DATE.

Health Insurance

Oregon State University requires international students be covered by health insurance which meets the U.S. Government visa requirements, State of Oregon requirements, and Oregon State University requirements. For this reason, the OSU International Student Health Plan is automatically added to the invoice of all* INTO OSU students.

(*Sponsored students, please note: If your sponsor’s health insurance coverage is known to meet the waiver requirements, you will not be charged.)

Dependent Coverage

Health insurance coverage for dependent spouses and family members traveling with an INTO OSU student is available at an additional cost. • If dependent family members are not INTO OSU

students, they cannot use Student Health Services on campus but they can see other doctors in the Corvallis area. Dependent family members who are also INTO or OSU students can use Student Health Services.

• If you would like to enroll your family members for dependent coverage, please visit the Student Health Center after you have arrived to complete and submit enrollment forms by the end of the 3rd week of the term.

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Immunization Documentation Form

2 doses of Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccination are REQUIRED by Oregon law and OSU.

A photocopy of immunization records or a clinic stamp/provider signature MUST be included.

OTHER IMMUNIZATION HISTORY: Accurate immunization history is vital for effective care and treatment. Please provide as much immunization information as possible!

Polio Date series completed (final dose given) _____/_____/_____

Hepatitis A Dose1_____/_____/_____ Dose2_____/_____/_____

Hepatitis B Dose1_____/_____/_____ Dose2_____/_____/_____ Dose3_____/_____/_____

Twinrix (Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B combined)Dose1_____/_____/_____ Dose2_____/_____/_____

Varicella (Chicken Pox)Dose1_____/_____/_____ Dose2_____/_____/_____ ORdateofdisease_____/_____/_____

Tetanus-Diphtheria (Td)Date childhood series completed:_____/_____/_____ most recent booster_____/_____/_____

Tetanus Diphtheria Pertussis (Tdap) Dose1_____/_____/_____

Meningococcal Dose1_____/_____/_____

HPV Dose1_____/_____/_____ Dose2_____/_____/_____ Dose3_____/_____/_____

Exemptions:

I was born before January 1, 1957 (automatic exemption from MMR requirement, though a completed health form is still required).

Medical or religious waiver requested: you must come to Student Health Services to sign a waiver with a SHS clinician in order to receive a waiver.

Dates of vaccinations:

MMR: (measles, mumps and rubella combined) 2 doses required

Dose1_____/_____/_____Dose2_____/_____/_____

I have attached copies of my immunization records reflecting the dates above.

-OR- My health care provider has signed below, officiating the dates above.

_______________________________________________ ____________Official health care provider signature Date

Lab tests (titers) may be substituted as proof of immunity in lieu of vaccinations.

COPIES OF LAB WORK MUST BE ATTACHED

I have attached a copy of my titer results.

Immunization Coordinator201 Plageman BuildingOregon State University

Corvallis, OR 97331 U.S.A.

Fax: 1+ 541-737-9665E-mail: [email protected]

Submit these forms by mail, fax, or email to:

Proof of MMR - please select one of the following three options

A)

B)

-OR-

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Arrival and Transportation

We would like to make your arrival in Oregon and transition to the OSU campus in Corvallis as smooth as possible. Please upload a passport photo as soon as possible, so that we can have your OSU student ID card ready, atuhds.oregonstate.edu/into/arrival/picture.Please upload your arrival flight information as soon as it is available atuhds.oregonstate.edu/into/arrival/information.

This information is required from all students. You may indicate on these forms if you would like an on-campus housing reservation and/or to be picked up at the airport. Submitting this information ahead of time will ensure that all arrangements are made for you in advance. Housing requests cannot be guaranteed without a reservation.

Arriving By Air

All students are expected to arrive via air at Portland International Airport (PDX) in Portland, Oregon.

INTO OSU Airport Shuttle & Greeting Service $100.00

Our airport shuttle is the fastest, safest, easiest way to reach the university from the airport. It is available 24 hours a day. Charges will be billed to your student account. Additionally, the greeting service is offered

during the timeframe listed below. You will be personally greeted by one of our staff members wearing bright orange OSU apparel, and they will escort you from the security checkpoint to our INTO OSU shuttle. • For Academic English and Pathways students,

the personal greeting service is offered on the two days before your course start date, between 8:00am and 9:00pm.

• For General English students, the personal greeting service is offered one day before your course start date, between 8:00am and 6:00pm.

• Outside these times additional charges may apply. • You cannot utilize airport transportation if you do

not make a reservation in advance.

PLEASE NOTE: On-campus housing accommodations in the residence halls will not be available until the weekend before the program start date. The specific move-in date for your program will be sent to you upon acceptance to INTO OSU. If you arrive before your on-campus housing is ready, you will need to stay in a local hotel. Please see “Temporary Housing in Corvallis” in the Housing section of this document (pg. 12-13).

Portland International Airport (PDX)

Information about Portland International Airport, including maps, can be found online at:www.flypdx.com.

Housing and Dining

On-Campus Accommodations

If you selected “university residence” on your application for accommodations, you will be placed in one of OSU’s 14 residence halls. The most common layout is for two students to share a bedroom, and bathrooms are shared between 4 or more students. This arrangement is very popular in the United States. Every effort will be made to pair students with an American roommate or a roommate from a country other than their own. Please note, however, than no guarantees can be made about nationality of roommates.

At Oregon State, a residence hall is a community. While convenience is often the number one reason for living on campus, the residence halls provide opportunities for you to meet people from around the U.S. and the world, develop new friendships, enjoy dining with friends and become involved with the on-campus community.

Residence hall living also offers resources and a support structure beyond the classroom. There are live-in support staff in each hall, including a Resident Assistant (RA) on every floor or wing and a Resident Director (RD) in every building.

OSU Residence Halls include:

•Sharedbedrooms,andlimitedsinglebedrooms

•Sharedbathroom

•High-speedinternetconnection(requiredEthernetcablenotprovided)

•Activetelephoneline(telephonenotprovided)

•Cabletelevisionconnection(televisionnotprovided)

•Free,on-sitelaundryfacility

•Convenientlocationoncampus

•ResidentAssistant(RA)andResidentDirector(RD)networkof24-hoursupport

•Diningfacilitieswithavarietyoffoodoptions

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Housing and Dining continued

Meal Plans

When you reserved your accommodations, you also selected the INTO meal plan. The cost of your meal plan will be loaded onto your OSU ID card, which then acts as a debit card. Meals are served in one of OSU’s three primary dining centers. Bring your OSU ID card with you to the dining center and use it to pay each time you dine. This payment method will also work at the many other food locations around campus. For information about dining services, including hours of operation, please visit:oregonstate.edu/uhds/dining/.

Additionally, the residence halls have a shared kitchen, which allows you to cook what you want from time to time, just for yourself, or to share with a group of friends.

If you would like to stay in a residence hall and have not yet signed up for housing, or for any other questions about on-campus accommodation, please contact the INTO OSU Housing Coordinator [email protected].

For those living in the residence halls, your room will generally be available the weekend before your program starts. The specific move-in date for your program will be sent to you upon acceptance to INTO OSU. If you arrive before the assigned move-in date for your program, you will need to make temporary arrangements to stay in a hotel until you can move into the residence hall.

Temporary Housing in Corvallis

Corvallis has several hotels within 8 kilometers (5 miles) of the Oregon State University campus. You can contact the hotel by phone or on the internet and make a reservation using a credit card. When you make a reservation, ask about possible weekly discounts and tell them you are an OSU student.

Off-Campus Housing

If you want to rent an apartment or house, you should arrive at least one week early. Apartments, houses, and rooms for rent are all advertised in the local newspaper, the Corvallis Gazette-Times, which you can find online at: gazettetimes.com/admarket/rentals.

The OSU student-run newspaper, The Daily Barometer, publishes a “Corvallis Area Renter’s Guide,” which you may access online at barometer.orst.edu. This guide (in the left sidebar towards the bottom) contains information on all the major rental property managers and all apartment complexes in Corvallis. Printed copies are also available after you arrive.

More housing information is available on the International Programs page of the OSU website: oregonstate.edu/international/atosu/resources/housing.

If you plan to live off campus, bring enough money to cover the cost of making all the necessary arrangements. This could include first and last months’ rent, security deposit, utility deposits for gas, electric and telephone, and the first month’s utility bills. There may also be expenses for household items (furniture, kitchen appliances, etc.). These deposits and rent can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $1,800 or more.

Temporary housing options

Hilton Garden Inn (ClosesttoOSU)2500 SW Western BoulevardTel: 541-752-5000Fax: 541-752-5001http://hiltongardeninn1.hilton.com

Towne House (ClosesttoOSU)350 SW 4th StreetTel: 541-753-4496Fax: 541-753-7287http://townehouse.mfbiz.com

Rodeway Inn Willamette River345 NW 2nd StreetTel: 541-752-9601Fax: 541-752-0042http://www.rodewayinn.com/hotel-corvallis-oregon-OR046?promo=gglocal

Super 8407 NW 2nd StreetTel: 541-758-8088Fax: 541-758-8267http://www.super8.com

Days Inn1113 NW 9th StreetTel: 541-754-7474Fax: 541-754-2437http://www.daysinn.com/DaysInn/control/home

Holiday Inn Express781 NE 2nd StreetTel: 541-752-0800Fax: 541-752-0060http://www.hiexpress.com

Best Western Grand Manor Inn925 NW Garfield AvenueTel: 541-758-8571Fax: 541-758- 0834http://www.bestwesternoregon.com/hotels/best-western-grand-manor-inn-corvallis/

Salbasgeon Suites1730 NW 9th StreetTel: 541-753-4320Fax: 541-754-0535http://www.salbasgeon.com

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What to Bring Money

Weather

Summer and fall in Oregon are generally sunny and warm. It can get hot during the day (75-95F/24-32C) but cools down in the evening (50-60F/10-15C). Winter and spring bring lots of rain, and occasionally snow. Temperatures range between 50F/10C and 30F/-1C.

It is VERY important to have a good raincoat and an umbrella. You can purchase these items after you arrive.

Dress

Most students at Oregon State University dress very casually. There is no official dress code. There are many wonderful opportunities for international students to share their culture on campus during festivals and special events such as: fashion shows, international dinners, cultural exhibits, and talent shows. Please consider bringing your national dress, or other clothes associated with a hobby or sport you enjoy in your home country. (For example: martial arts attire, costume for national dances, soccer uniform or other sports team uniform, clothing worn for formal or religious ceremonies, etc.) You may also wish to bring items of cultural interest, such as photos, books, souvenirs, recorded music, and musical instruments. INTO OSU produces an International Fair each year as part of International Education Week in November, so please bring something to share!

Food

There are opportunities to cook for friends in the residence halls and for special events on campus. Many spices and food items from other countries can be found in Corvallis, but be sure to bring recipes with you.

Driving

If you would like to drive a car while you are living in the U.S.:• You must bring your driver’s license from your

home country. • Please also obtain an International Driving

Permit from your home country. • You should carry both of these documents with

you when you are driving in the U.S.

If you would like to drive regularly while living in the U.S. you will need to obtain a U.S. Driver’s License. To do this, you will need to contact the Corvallis Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which you can learn more about online at: oregon.gov/ODOT/DMV/offices/corvallis.shtml.

For more information on buying a car and driving, please visit the International Programs page of the OSU website:oregonstate.edu/international/atosu/resources/transportation/cars.

Transferring Money

Some countries have strict rules about transferring money to the United States. • Be sure that you have made the necessary

arrangements with your government and familiarized yourself with your bank’s procedures for transferring funds.

• It is a good idea to transfer enough money to cover expenses for one term, in addition to tuition paid. You should have access to at least $500, and up to $1,000, or more.

Cash

You should not carry large sums of cash with you. However, plan to carry some smaller bills and change with you when you first arrive in the U.S. for food, phone calls, and other inexpensive purchases. If you need cash you can use a Plus, Cirrus, Interlink, or Star Network bank card to make a cash withdrawal. ATMs are located in the airport, on the OSU campus, and around Corvallis.

Bank Accounts

When you arrive in Corvallis, you will need to open checking and/or savings account(s) with a bank. INTO OSU will give you information about local banks. You usually need two pieces of picture identification (passport and student ID card), your local mailing address, and money to open an account.

More information is available on the International Programs page of the OSU website:oregonstate.edu/international/atosu/resources/banking.

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After you Arrive

INTO OSU is on Facebook! Simply visit facebook.com and search for INTO Oregon State University. You can also find lots of helpful information on the OSU Facebook page for international students. Visit facebook.com and search for New2OSU-International.

INTO OSU is on YouTube! Simply visit youtube.com/user/INTOoregonstate. You can also learn more about Oregon State University at youtube.com/oregonstate.

International Welcome Center

There is a Welcome Center on campus for international students. It is located in the Memorial Union (MU) building, just off of the Main Lounge on the concourse level. The International Resource Center (IRC) will be specially staffed by current international OSU students during the week before classes begin to welcome new international students. Stop by to receive help and information about housing, banking, living in Corvallis, and much more.

Campus Life and Corvallis Life

For more information on life in Corvallis, please visit the following resources:oregonstate.edu/international/atosu/resources/corvallis

oregonstate.edu/international/atosu/resources/guidebook

This site has great listings for “Places to Eat” and “Things to Do.”visitcorvallis.com/

Appliances

For appliances, phones, and other electrical items like computers or laptops, please be advised that electrical outlets in the U.S. are 110-volts AC, which may be different from your home country. Most appliances (like rice cookers or electric teapots) are not allowed in residence hall bedrooms. There are, however, communal kitchens in the residence halls where these items may be kept and used. We recommend purchasing necessary appliances and electronics after you arrive.

Visit Us on Facebook and YouTube

Textbooks

After you arrive, you will need to buy textbooks for your classes at INTO OSU. You will find out what textbooks you must buy after you have registered for classes. The OSU Bookstore will have every textbook you need. The cost of textbooks can be high, but previously-used textbooks are often available in the Bookstore at lower prices. Here is what you can expect to pay for textbooks while taking classes at INTO OSU:• General English students: Approximately $150 -

$170 per three sessions (one academic term)• Academic English students: Approximately

$150 - $200 per academic term• Pathways students: Approximately $200 - $450

per academic term

Cell Phones

All rooms in the residences halls have an active phone line that includes free local calling. If you would like to use the phone line in your room, you will need to purchase a phone. Phones are very inexpensive, from $5. If you would like to have a cell phone while living in the U.S., Corvallis hosts all four major providers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint).

There are two major options in the U.S. cell phone industry: long-term contract and pre-paid, or pay-as-you-go, phones. For a monthly service plan, cell phone companies require a new customer to sign a 2-year service agreement. Penalty charges apply if you cancel your contract before the 2-year period has expired. You can choose from a wide variety of calling plans, costing from around $30-$100 per month. If you do not want to sign a 2-year contract, you have a choice of pre-paid or pay-as-you-go plans. You will receive a handout with more information about buying a cell phone and all the cell phone stores in Corvallis after you arrive.

Computers

If you would like to use the internet from your room in the residence hall, you will need your own computer and an Ethernet cable. There is ample access to computer labs on campus, including a 24-hour lab, and the INTO OSU Learning Center computer lab. All internet access is free. Many locations on the OSU campus have wireless internet access available, including the Memorial Union (student union building) and the library, for students who would like to use WiFi from their laptops on campus.

Bed Linens

If you will be living in a residence hall, you will receive a bed linen pack when you check in. These items are given to you and do not need to be returned when you leave. The pack includes:

Your bed linen pack

Bed sheets (1 flat, 1 fitted)

Pillowcase and pillow

2 Towels

2 blankets Mattress pad Washcloth

You will also have the opportunity to purchase additional bedding, blankets, towels, and other necessities after you arrive.

It is best to postpone these purchases until you arrive in Corvallis. These items can be bought conveniently and are relatively inexpensive.

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Orientation ProgramSafety Guide

Your First Day and Orientation

Please report to Reception in the International Living-Learning Center, on the OSU Campus, by 8:15am on the first day of your program. DO NOT BE LATE. Check-in and scheduled events begin at 8:30am. You will receive a detailed Orientation schedule upon arrival on campus. The detailed schedule will provide locations and further information. Orientation week includes academic and student life orientations, testing, advising, registration, student health check-in, campus tour, tour of downtown Corvallis, welcome party, and more. The events during Orientation Week contain important information that will help you be successful both academically and personally during your time in the U.S.

ALL ORIENTATION WEEK EVENTS ARE MANDATORY. ALL STUDENTS MUST ATTEND.

Testing and Registration

New students will take English placement tests to determine their appropriate course level. After all admissions documents have been verified and full payment of tuition has been made, students will be able to register for their classes. Students cannot register for classes until tuition payments have been made in full.

Late Testing and Registration Fee

PLEASE NOTE: Students who arrive late or are unable to test or register according to their scheduled time will be subject to a Late Testing & Registration Fee of $250. This fee will be charged to your student account, and you will not be able to register for your classes until all balances have been paid.

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

MORNING 8.30-9.00 WELCOMETO INTO OSU, NEW STUDENTChECk-IN

gETyOURIDCaRD• Bring your passport

with you.• You will need to show

your id card at advising and registration.

9.00-11.00MANDATORY ORIENTATION SESSION: ALL NEW STUDENTS MUST ATTEND

ALL DAYCLaSSESBE ON TIME TO CLASS

THINGS TO DO BEFORE

CLASS BEGINS:• Get your OSU ID card• Activate your ONID OSU

email address• Buy your textbooks. (Be

sure to take a copy of your class schedule to the bookstore with you.)


9.00-10.30aCaDEMICENgLIShPROGRAM ORIENTATION, TESTINgaNDWELCOMEWEEkOVERVIEW

9.00-12.00ADMISSIONS AND FINaNCEDOCUMENTChECk-IN• Bring your financial and

academic documents.• Bring your I-20 and

passport with you.

11.00-12.30STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES:hEaLThHISTORY FORMS AND MMR• Bring health form and

documents from your doctor.

10.30-12.00ONIDEMaILaCTIVaTION

LUNCh

AFTERNOON 1.00-17.00LEVELPLaCEMENTTESTING

1.00-16.00ADVISING AND REGISTRATION

13.30-15.00DOWNTOWN CORVaLLISTOUR



EVENING WELCOME PARTY!• Free bowling and pizza!• Meet other new and

returning students.

Sample Orientation Schedule

Corvallis Safety Information

Corvallis and Oregon State University are, for the most part, very safe and welcoming places. However, it is important to be aware of possible threats and take steps to help ensure the safety of your property and yourself. By far the most common crime in Corvallis is theft. Follow these steps to prevent thieves from taking advantage of your unprotected property:• Lock up your bicycle whenever you leave it

unattended. Securely lock your bike through the frame and both wheels. Don’t buy an expensive bike, as it will be more attractive to thieves.

• Do not leave items unattended in the library. Even textbooks may be stolen, as thieves hope to sell the books for cash.

• Always keep your OSU ID card on you and safe, as a thief could use the money attached to the card to make purchases on campus.

• Always lock the door to your house, apartment, or dorm room when you leave. It is also a good idea to lock your windows.

• Always lock your car when you are not using it. Don’t leave valuable items in your car.

• Don’t keep a lot of cash on you or in your apartment or dorm room. Keep it in the bank until you need it.

Campus Safety Tips

At night, use well-lit and well-traveled routes. Avoid dark, vacant areas. • Travel with a friend or in a group.• Saferide is a free service for all OSU students that

provides transportation to, from, or around campus for anyone who does not feel comfortable walking around at night. Call ahead to schedule a ride.

• Blue Light Emergency Phones are placed around campus for quick communication with Campus Security.

• Campus Security can provide additional services such as personal escorts, vehicle jump-starts, and building access assistance.

• Report any suspicious activity to Campus Security immediately.

Medical Services in Corvallis

If you need medical attention from a doctor please use these resources:1. OSU Plageman Student Health Center

Located on campus (PSHC on campus map)Provides general services to students onlyPhone: 541-737-2721Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00am-6:00pm,Saturday 10:00am-3:00pm, Sunday CLOSEDAfter-hours Urgent Medical Advice Hotline for students: 1-800-607-5501541-737-9355—this number is a recorded message listing services and phone numbers 24 hours a day

2. Good Samaritan HospitalProvides general and emergency care to everyoneLocation: 3600 NW Samaritan DrivePhone: Information 541-757-5111, Emergency 541-757-5021Hours: Emergency services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week

3. Corvallis ClinicProvides general care to everyoneLocation: 3680 NW Samaritan DrivePhone: 541-754-1150Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00am-5:00pm

4. Samaritan Urgent Care Center5234 SW Philomath Blvd. (in Sunset Plaza next to Safeway), Phone: 541-768-4970Hours: Weekdays from 8:00am-9:00pm Saturdays from 9:00am-6:00pm Sundays from 10:00am-6:00pm

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Student Services at INTO OSU helps every international student feel welcomed, involved, and connected. We provide support for students’ daily lives, plan many unique and exciting trips, and offer numerous opportunities to meet and talk to native English speakers. In short, we strive to help all of our students get the absolute most from their experience in Oregon. Here is a list of programs and activities offered or promoted by Student Services at INTO OSU:

Trips

Trips around the Northwest show INTO OSU students all the beauty and excitement our part of the country has to offer.

Activities

English conversation programs and on-campus events help students feel like a part of the OSU and Corvallis community.

Conversation Opportunities:

• One-on-one and small group mentoring for Pathways students

• One-on-one and small group conversation partners for Academic English students

• Small group conversation tables for General English students

Activities for Students

• Day, weekend, and break trips around the Northwest

• Free OSU sporting events• Free bowling & pizza parties• Concerts and cultural events• Intramural sports• Welcome and Farewell Parties• Week-night gatherings with OSU students• Trips to see professional sporting events• OSU student clubs and organizations to join

Student Services

INTO Oregon State University Information

Please make sure that you put these numbers in your phone:

INTO OSU Front Office 541-737-2464The INTO OSU Front Office is open Monday through Friday, 7:30am until 5:00pm.

INTO OSU Emergency Phone 541-224-2964Outside of the Front Office business hours, the Emergency Phone number can be used for urgent matters.

INTO OSU website: intohigher.com/oregonstate

INTO OSU email: [email protected]

Oregon State University Information

Oregon State University Information: 541-737-1000 oregonstate.edu/

Oregon State University Campus Police (non-emergency) 541-737-3010

Oregon State University Campus Police (emergency) 541-737-7000

Important Phone Numbers and Websites

Oregon State University Student Health Center 541-737-2721 Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

studenthealth.oregonstate.edu/international-students Find information here about required immunizations, health insurance, getting medical treatment on campus, and an overview of Student Health Services at OSU.

oregonstate.edu/international/atosu/resources This website provides helpful information about OSU and Corvallis, Adjusting to Life in the U.S., Cultural Organizations at OSU, Housing, Money & Banking, News You Can Use, OSU Life Guidebook, Special Registration (NSEERS), Coming to OSU with Spouses and Families, Transportation, Buying and Owning a Car, Travel Outside the U.S., U.S. Taxes, Visa Delays & Security Clearance, and What to Bring to the United States.

On Facebook

Search: INTO Oregon State UniversitySearch: New2OSU-International

Corvallis

visitcorvallis.com/ This is Corvallis’ tourism website. You can learn a lot about our town, things to do, places to eat, and local events here.

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Maps

INTO OSU Center

• International Living-Learning Center (ILLC)

• Arnold Dining Center (Arnd)

• Memorial Union (MU)

• Valley Library (VLib)

• Kerr Administration Building (KAd)

• Plageman Student Health Center (PSHC)

• Dixon Recreation Center (DxRC)

• Reser Stadium (Resr)

• LaSells Stewart Center (LSC)

• Milne Computing Center (MCC)

Residence Halls

• West (West)

• Cauthorn (Cau)

• Buxton (Bux)

• Hawley (Haw)

• Poling (Pol)

• Sackett (Sack)

• Finley (Finl)

• Halsell (Hal)

• Bloss (Blss)

ILLC

International Living-Learning Center

Important OSU Locations

INTO Oregon State UniversityOregon State University1701 SW Western Blvd Corvallis, OR 97331 USA

T: +1 541 737 2464F: +1 541 737 4220 E: [email protected]

intohigher.com/oregonstate

Want to find out more?If you would like to find out more about any of our courses or services, please visit our website. You can also contact us via email or phone, or visit one of our educational agents in your home country.