INTO University of South Florida Pre-Departure Guide 2011-2012

YOUR BEST ROUTE TO UNIVERSITY SUCCESS

Pre-Departure Guide 2011- 2012

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Pre-Departure Guide - Summer 2011 In case of emergency call INTO University of South Florida on +1-813-905-4686 (M-T, 07:30 - 18:00 F, 07:30 - 17:00) or +1-813-362-3457

Meet the INTO USF TeamWelcome

Welcome!

We are so glad you have selected INTO USF to develop your English skills, start your college career as an undergraduate student, or continue your college education in graduate school.

This pre-departure guide contains important information on immigration, immunization requirements and how to prepare for your arrival. It also provides helpful information about things like finances, life in Tampa, student activities, getting to our center, and who to contact for help.

Our experienced staff and faculty will be here to help you any time, and we will do everything we can to make your time here a productive, enjoyable and successful learning and academic experience. We wish you a safe flight and we look forward to meeting you!

See you in Tampa!

The INTO USF Team

ContentsWelcome 2Meet the INTO USF Team 3 Before You Leave Home 4Visa and Immigration Information 5Immigration and Arriving in Tampa 6On-Campus Housing 8On-Campus Dining 9Temporary and Off-Campus Housing 10Living in Tampa 11

In case of emergency call INTO University of South Florida on +1-813-905-4686 (M-T, 07:30 - 18:00 F, 07:30 - 17:00) or +1-813-362-3457

Glen BesterfieldCenter Director

Kate Wolfe-QuinteroDirector of AcademicPrograms

Sean GilmoreAssistant Center Director

Welcome

Pre-departure Guide 2011-2012 In case of emergency call INTO University of South Florida on +1-813-905-4686 (M-T, 07:30 - 18:00 F, 07:30 - 17:00) or +1-813-362-3457

Meet the INTO USF Team

Transportation 12Orientation 13Student Services 14Important Phone Numbers 16Money and Banking 17Immunization and Health Insurance 18Immunization Documentation Form 20Maps of USF Campus and Tampa Bay 22

Kris AppelDirector of Finance & Business Operations

Michelle Bell Assistant Director of English Language Programs

Tor NielsenAcademic English Coordinator

Laura MurphyGeneral EnglishCoordinator

Sarah KayMarketing & CommunicationsCoordinator

Jenny SchultzAssistant Pathway Director

Lynn Hameline Pathway Coordinator

Karolina GoldbergPathway Coordinator

Alnicia Williams Student Support Specialist - Housing and Arrivals

Regina GeorgeImmigration Specialist

Nicole La BawStudent SupportAssistant - Front Desk

Romel PanchoStudent Support Coordinator - Student Experience & Engagement

Shuhua Kriesel Student Services Manager

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Pre-departure Guide 2011-2012

Before You Leave Home

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The SEVIS I-901 Fee

The U.S. Government requires that international students 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. Embassy or Consulate. This fee is in addition to the visa application fee.

Paying your SEVIS I-901 Fee:

1. Go to the Student and Exchange Visitor Program SEVIS I-901 fee processing website: https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/

2. 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.

3. Use the SEVIS ID number from your I-20 form to complete the SEVIS Form I-901. This number is above the bar code on the top right-hand side of your form. For an F-1 visa, you will also need the INTO USF School Code:

4. Pay the $200 SEVIS I-901 fee with a credit or debit card. If you do not have a credit or debit card, visit http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901/faq4.htm#_Toc81222044

5. Print and save your SEVIS I-901 fee receipt. You must bring it with you to your visa interview at the embassy or consulate.

Applying for an F-1 Student Visa

To obtain a visa for the US, you must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of return home. Before visiting the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for your visa, please read the instructions on the Certificate of Eligibility (I-20) issued to you for your studies at INTO USF. You will use your I-20 to apply for an F-1 visa. For more information, contact your closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate and visit the U.S. Department of State’s Travel website: http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1268.html

Visa Interview: Required Documents

At the time of your visa interview, you will need to provide original documents confirming the amounts and sources of financial support for your studies. Documents you need to bring include:

• I-20• INTO USF Offer Letter and Admission Letter• A receipt for the visa processing fee for each

applicant• Original financial documents (such as bank

statements, account statements, tax documents) that show you have enough money to cover tuition and living expenses during your time in the US

• Proof of your relationship to your spouse and children (if they are joining you).

• Copy of I-901 fee payment receipt

**Please keep copies of these documents to present to the US Immigration official at the Port of Entry (the first US airport you enter).

You can find additional information by visiting the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement website: http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901/index.htm

Remember...

It may take a few weeks or more to get an appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You should wait and make your travel arrangements after you have obtained your visa.

Please let INTO USF know as soon as you have your visa. If your visa is denied, the consular officer will tell you the reason for this and should give you something in writing. You can try again to get a visa if you have additional evidence to support your case.

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Visa and Immigration Information

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In case of emergency call INTO University of South Florida on +1-813-905-4686 (M-T, 07:30 - 18:00 F, 07:30 - 17:00) or +1-813-362-3457

1. I have sent my arrival information (flight number, airline name, arrival time) to [email protected].

2. After getting my measles, mumps and rubella vaccinations (and meningitis if living on campus) I have completed the Immunization Form at the end of this guide, have had my doctor sign it, and am bringing it with me to the US.

3. I have completed my Immunization Documentation Form, have had my doctor sign it, and have sent it to [email protected] at least two weeks before I am scheduled to arrive.

4. I have packed the following academic documents (if entering a Pathway Program after Academic English or General English)• Original sealed transcripts, in native language and also translated to English• Original TOEFL/IELTS score(s)• Letters of recommendation (if applicable)

5. In my hand luggage (to take with me on the plane), I have packed the following original documents:• Valid passport with F-1 Student Visa• I-20• SEVIS I-901 fee receipt• INTO University of South Florida Offer Letter and Admission Letter• Copies of financial documents (bank statements, account statements, or tax documents

that show you have enough funds to support your study in the US)• Health insurance card (if not signing up for the INTO USF Student Health Insurance Plan)

6. I have sent original financial documents (bank statements, account statements, or tax documents that show you have enough funds to support your study in the US) to:

INTO University of South Florida4202 East Fowler Avenue, FAO100Tampa, Florida 33620

7. I am bringing enough cash in US dollars to cover initial expenses (about $400).

8. I have packed copies of all my prescriptions (in English) for medicine, eyeglasses and contact lenses.

9. After reading this Pre-Departure Guide carefully, I have printed it and put it in my hand luggage.

Checklist

Please read this list carefully and check (√) the box beside each task once you have completed it.

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Airport Pickup

If you have paid for airport pickup, it is strongly recommended that you arrive between 06:00 and 21:00. When your plane has landed at Tampa International Airport (TPA), please follow these steps:

1. Upon exiting the plane, take the airport transfer shuttle to the main terminal.

2. After exiting the airport transfer shuttle, an INTO USF Leader will be waiting for you near the escalators to baggage claim. He or she will be wearing a green INTO USF t-shirt and will be carrying a big green sign that says INTO USF.

3. The INTO USF Leader will direct you to one of two baggage claim areas: red or blue.

4. Go to the baggage claim area to collect your baggage.

5. The INTO USF Leader will direct you to your driver, and your driver will take you to your destination.

If you did not book your airport pickup in advance, call or text the INTO USF Arrival Number at +1-813-361-7163 so that INTO USF can make arrangements for you while you wait at the airport.

Problems or Delays

If your flight is delayed, you cannot find an INTO USF Leader, or if you encounter any problems during your travels, please:

• Donotpanic• CallortexttheINTOUSFArrivalNumberat

+1-813-361-7163• Waitinthebaggageclaimarea

If the INTO USF Arrival Number is busy or there is no answer, please call the INTO USF Emergency Phone Number at +1-813-362-3457.

Immigration and Arriving in Tampa


Immigration Information

When you arrive in the United States, you need to present the following to the Immigration Officer at the Port of Entry:

• Passport with new visa inside • I-20 • I-94 Card (a small white card you will be given to

fill out on the plane) • Customs form

Students will be given a WHITE arrival card (I-94) on the airplane that needs to be completed for the Port of Entry process. Information on the I-94 should be written clearly and should match the information on your passport. Before you leave home, check that all your documents are for an F-1 visa and not other visas.

Do not enter the US on any other visa type! You must enter as a F-1 in order to study at INTO USF.

If you have any questions about this process or any other visa-related matters, please e-mail [email protected].

Customs Information

Once you have seen the Immigration Officer, you will go and collect your checked baggage. You will need to take these with you to the Customs Officer and hand him or her your customs form that was just stamped by the Immigration Officer. Once you have done this, there will be a place to drop off your bags again for arrival in Tampa.

Program Start Dates

Start dates (listed below) will depend on your program. You must arrive in Tampa one to four days before your program start date and arrive at the INTO USF Center by 09:00 on your program start date.

Undergraduate and Graduate Pathways• Fall 2011: August 18, 2011• Spring 2012: January 5, 2012

Academic English and Study Abroad with English• Fall 2011: August 29, 2011• Spring 2012: January 17, 2012

General English and Campus Year Abroad • On the Monday of your program start date.

For specific arrival dates for these programs, or if you plan to arrive outside of these dates, please e-mail [email protected]. If you arrive before our arrival dates, you must make arrangements for temporary housing, such as staying in a local hotel. Please note that on-campus residential housing is not available before our arrival dates. Please see page 10 of this guide for on-campus move-in hours and temporary housing information.

If you will not be able to arrive on your start date, please contact INTO to defer your admission to a later session.

Arrival Information

We would like to make your arrival in Tampa, Florida and your transition to INTO USF and the USF Tampa campus as comfortable as possible. Please make sure that you send the following arrival information to [email protected] at least 72 hours prior to your departure.

Student Name: LAST NAME, First NameFlight Information (including connecting flights):

1. Flight # Arrival Date/Time2. Flight # Arrival Date/Time3. Flight # Arrival Date/Time

You must notify [email protected] with any flight changes.

Hotel Arrangements

It is not possible to check into on-campus residential housing after 21:00. INTO USF recommends that students arriving after 21:00 hours make arrangements for temporary housing at the Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel, which is conveniently located inside the Tampa International Airport on Transfer Level 3.

If you have made hotel arrangements:1. Please wait at baggage claim. An INTO USF

Leader will meet you and accompany you to the Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel, where you will spend the night.

2. At 10:00 in the morning of the next day, you will go down to the main entrance of the hotel (by the valet parking) and the driver will pick you up from here.

Making your Hotel Reservation

If you choose to stay in a hotel before moving into your chosen housing, you are responsible for making your own hotel reservation at the Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel. You will need a credit card to make and pay for this. To make a reservation, go to http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpaap-tampa-airport-marriott/. There is a hotel rate for INTO USF students but this rate is only good during INTO USF arrival dates. Please bring a copy of your reservation with you to the Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel. Be sure to send your hotel reservation/confirmation to [email protected].

For students living off-campusStudents living off-campus may not be able to move into their apartments on the same day they arrive. You must contact your apartment manager to find out when you will be able to move in. If you need help finding off-campus housing, please visit the INTO USF office. If you arrive on either Saturday or Sunday, you must stay in temporary housing until the following Monday. Please see page 10 of this guide for temporary housing information.

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpaap-tampa-airport-marriott/



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Housing

If you’ve already signed up for housing If you selected “University Residence” on your application for accommodations, you will be placed in university apartments, premium style suites, or traditional style suites. From any of these three locations, the INTO USF Center can be easily reached by taking the USF Shuttle Bus, called the “Bull Runner”. Please see page 12 of this guide for more information about transportation.

If you haven’t yet signed up for housingIf 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 Student Support at [email protected] note that in addition to the Residence Hall and Dining fees, you will be charged a fee of $80 for a bed linen pack. Please see page 9 of this guide for more information.

USF Residence Halls include:

• Shared bedrooms or single bedrooms• Shared bathroom• Wireless internet and high-speed internet

connection (required ethernet cable not provided)• Cable television on every floor in common area

On-Campus Housing and Dining

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.

You will also have the opportunity to purchase additional bedding, blankets, towels and other necessities after you arrive. It is best to wait to buy these things until you arrive in Tampa. These items can be bought conveniently and are relatively inexpensive.

Appliances

For appliances, phones, and other electrical items like computers or laptops, please be advised that electrical outlets in the US 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, shared kitchens in the residence halls where these items may be kept and used. We recommend purchasing necessary appliances and electronics after you arrive.

• Bed sheets (one flat, one fitted)• Pillow and pillowcase• Heavy blanket (comforter)• Towel• Washcloth• Hand towel

Your bed linen pack will include:


On-Campus Housing


On-Campus Housing


On-Campus Housing and Dining

Dining

When you reserved your accommodations, you also selected one of the meal plans. The money for your selected meal plan will be placed onto your USF ID card, which you can use like a debit card. Meals are served in one of USF’s three primary dining centers. Bring your USF ID card with you to the dining center and use it to pay each time you eat. There are also many other food choices around campus. To see a map of all the dining locations on campus, visit http://www.campusdish.com/en-US/CSS/UnivSouthFlorida/LocationsMenus/.

Remember...

Some 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.

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Checking-In at Your Residence Hall

Please have your passport available when you check in at your residence hall so that INTO USF can make sure that you get the correct room.

Remember...On-campus housing accommodations in the residence halls will not be available until the weekend before the program start date. INTO USF will send you the specific move-in date for your program before you arrive. If you arrive before your on-campus housing is ready, you will need to stay in a local hotel. Please see page 10 of this guide for more information about temporary housing.

• On-site laundry facility• Convenient location on campus• Resident Assistant (RA) -- trained staff

person to help you adjust to residence hall and USF life

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Temporary Housing in Tampa

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. Please note that on-campus move-in hours are 06:00 to 21:00, seven days a week. Tampa has numerous hotels within a few miles of USF’s Tampa 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 discounts and tell them you are an INTO USF student.

Options for Temporary Housing

INTO USF preferred hotels (see below) have a reservations page for INTO USF students and will be able to offer you excellent rates.

Off-Campus Housing

If you want to rent an apartment or house, you should arrive several days early and budget to stay in a hotel for a few days, until you are able to move-in. All of the apartments listed are on the bus route providing easy access to USF and are typically less than two miles from campus. More housing information is available at http://sra.usf.edu/och/home.

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. These deposits and rent can cost up to $2,000 or more.

If you need help finding off-campus housing, please visit the INTO USF office, or e-mail [email protected].

Suggested Options for Off-Campus Housing

Tampa Weather

Tampa is located on the West coast of Florida. Summer months can be very bright and hot with highs in the low 90s °F (around 32 °C), lows in the mid-70s °F (around 24 °C). Fall tends to be warm with calm breezes. Spring in the Tampa area brings rain. The weather is usually mild and dry, with highs in the 70s (around 25 °C) and lows in the 50s (around 13 °C). During the winter months Tampa experiences some cold fronts. Most often, winter highs are near 70 °F (21 °C).

It is important to drink lots of water and wear sun screen during the warmer months and have a warm jacket and umbrella during the cold and rainy months.

What to Wear

Most students at the USF dress very casually. There is no official dress code. Students usually wear jeans and sweatshirts or other comfortable clothes. In warm

weather, students wear shorts and t-shirts. In the winter, sweaters, jackets and other warm clothes are necessary. However, you may need more formal clothing for special occasions. It is good to have at least one nice outfit. For men, a sports coat or suit jacket and tie is fine, and a suit or nice dress is appropriate for women.

You may also want to consider bringing items of cultural interest, such as photos, books, souvenirs, recorded music, and musical instruments. INTO USF hosts an International Festival each year, so please bring something to share!

Food

There are many opportunities to cook for friends in the residence halls and for special events on campus. Be sure to bring recipes with you from home. Do not bring any food with you, however, because many spices and food items from other countries can be found in Tampa.

Living in TampaTemporary Housing and Off-Campus Housing In case of emergency call INTO University of South Florida on

+1-813-905-4686 (M-T, 07:30 - 18:00 F, 07:30 - 17:00) or +1-813-362-3457 Temporary Housing and Off-Campus Housing


Living in Tampa

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USF Embassy Suites3705 Spectrum Boulevard

Tampa, Florida 33612 USA

+1-813-977-7066

Preferred Hotels

http://embassysuites1.hilton.

com/en_US/es/hotel/TPAFRES-

Embassy-Suites-Tampa-USF-

Near-Busch-Gardens-Florida/

accomodations.do

Tampa Airport Marriott Hotel4200 George J. Bean Parkway


+1-813-879-5151

Residence Inn Tampa 13420 North Telecom Parkway


+1-813-972-4400

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/

travel/tpaap-tampa-airport-

marriott/

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/

travel/tpari-residence-inn-tampa-

north-i-75-fletcher/

Website

Monticellowww.monticellousf.com+1-813-910-3433

On 50www.on50tampa.com+1-813-984-6650

Sterling 42nd Streetwww.sterlinghousing.com+1-813-673-8304

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Public Transportation

You may use public transportation to get around the Tampa Bay area. The Bull Runner, which is the USF shuttle bus, runs throughout campus, to some nearby off-campus housing, and to the University Mall. This service is free with your USF ID card.

For a map of the Bull Runner route, please visit http://usfweb2.usf.edu/parking_services/maps/Bull_Runner_map.pdf.

Other methods of transportation include calling taxicabs (which can pick you up from almost any location, 24 hours a day), renting a car, and taking the HARTline (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit), which can be used to explore other parts of Tampa. The HARTline bus is available to INTO USF students for free by showing your USF ID card.

Driving

If you would like to drive a car while you are living in the US:

• 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 US.

If you would like to drive regularly while living in the US, you will need to obtain a US Driver’s License. To do this, you will need to contact the Hillsborough County Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can learn more about the Hillsborough County DMV athttp://www.dmvflorida.org/hillsborough.shtml.

Taxis

Yellow Cab of Tampa+1-813-253-0121www.yellowcaboftampa.com ABC Taxi+1-813-872-8294 United Cab Company+1-813-253-2424 United Taxi (taxis, vans and limousines)+1-866-804-0508www.unitedtaxi.net Checker Cab of Tampa+1-813-229-1888www.checkercaboftampa.com

Transportation Orientation

Orientation at the INTO USF Center

Once you arrive at the INTO University of South Florida Center, you will be welcomed by our experienced student support team. You will receive a schedule with the activities of our Orientation including information about:

TestingUpon arrival, your English level will be assessed so we can ensure you are placed in the right program. If you are enrolled in an Undergraduate Pathway program, you will also be assessed on your mathematics level to ensure you are in the right math class for your degree.

Course Registration

INTO USF will register you in the correct courses within the first few days of your arrival. If you have not paid your full tuition and accommodation fees, as well as provided proof of insurance and immunization, you will need to pay the outstanding amount and provide these documents before you are able to register. You will not be able to register until you have taken the necessary English (and Math) testing.

Textbooks

After you arrive, you will need to buy textbooks for your classes at INTO USF. You will find out what textbooks you must buy after you have registered for classes. The USF 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 USF. Do not buy your textbooks online as they often take too long to arrive.•General English students: Approximately

$150 - $170 per academic term (three sessions).•Academic English students: Approximately

$150 - $200 per academic term.•Pathways students: Approximately $500 - $700

per academic term.

Transportation


Orientation

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• Registration and Payment

• USF and its facilities and services

• INTO USF and USF social activities

• Student Welcome Social

• Testing

• Academic programs

• Immunization

• Health Insurance

Orientation is mandatory and your attendance at these sessions is required. Please arrive at the INTO USF Center located in the FAO building no later than 09:00 on your scheduled orientation start date below.

Pathway Students•Thursday August 18, 2011 — 09:00•Thursday January 5, 2012 — 09:00

Academic English and Study Abroad with English Students•Monday, August 29, 2011 — 09:00•Monday, January 17, 2012 — 09:00

General English and Campus Year Abroad Students (Monthly)•Monday of each start date — 09:00

Remember to bring the following documents:• I-20• Dependent documents (if applicable)• I-94 Card• Passport with valid F-1 visa• Original transcripts (in native language AND

translated to English) in a sealed envelope• Original TOEFL/IELTS score

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Student Services and Activities


On the USF Campus

Computers and Wireless Access On-Campus

The INTO USF Center has a computer lab reserved just for our students, and there are many other locations throughout the USF campus where you can access computers. All internet access is free and can be used wirelessly throughout the campus.

To connect to USF’s wireless network, you must: • Have a wireless card in your personal computer • Have a valid USF e-mail and NetID account.

(This will be given to you during your orientation. If you encounter problems once you have been set up with a USF e-mail account, please contact the Information Technology Help Desk at +1-813-974-1222.)

Campus Life

Established in 1956, USF is a dynamic teaching and research university. More than 47,000 students are registered in undergraduate, Master’s, Ph.D. and professional degree programs. As an INTO USF student, you will have access to all USF’s facilities, including the library, computer labs, campus recreation center, tutoring centers, health clinic, bookstore, dormitories, dining area and sporting events. For a map of the USF campus, please see page 22 of this guide.

You can learn more about campus life at USF by visiting these websites:http://www.usf.edu/Campus-Life/index.asphttp://involvement.usf.edu/orgs.htmhttp://www.sg.usf.edu

With INTO USF

INTO USF Activities

INTO USF has many activities to keep you occupied and having fun. We have something fun to do every weekend! Activities are a great way for you to make new friends, see Florida, and practice your English. INTO USF offers a wide range of activities throughout the year and you will certainly find activities that you will enjoy. INTO USF wants to make your experience here the best you can possibly have, so get involved outside of class and we guarantee you will have a fantastic time!

Sample INTO USF activities include:• Visits to theme parks like Busch Gardens,

Disney World, and Universal Studios. • Visits to local attractions like Lowry Park Zoo,

Florida Aquarium, MOSI, and the Dali Museum.• Shopping trips to high-end fashion malls,

outlet malls, convenience stores, and stores like Walmart.

• Sporting events like football, soccer, basketball, and baseball games.

• Other fun activities such as beach trips, riverfront barbecues, conversation socials, canoe or kayaking trips, and attending concerts and festivals.

• USF and student organization events• INTO USF Center nights (movies, games and

celebrations)• Much, much more!

Make sure you visit the INTO USF Center to learn more about upcoming events.

Student Services


Conversation Partners

The Conversation Partners program is designed to give INTO USF students the opportunity to meet with native English speakers multiple times each week to practice speaking and listening skills. In this program, you will speak about a variety of different topics every week, from cultural traditions to world news. By the end of the semester, you will feel more comfortable conversing in English and you will have many more friends at the University of South Florida.

Academic Advisors

INTO USF academic advisors are your key resource for questions about your classes, attendance or academic performance. You can talk to our advisors about any concerns you have related to adapting to learning in a university environment.

Tutors

INTO USF students have access to academic tutors who are available every day to provide extra support for classroom learning. Our tutors are earning advanced degrees in that major. These tutors will work with you to understand the course content and help you develop study strategies for your courses. Our English tutors are professionals in the field of ESL and can help you with any language learning needs you have. This may include getting extra help with grammar, pronunciation, reading, or writing. For students preparing for graduate school entrance exams, we provide professional GRE/GMAT tutoring to assist students with achieving the exam score they need.

Student Servicescontinued

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Wellness

INTO USF believes that to excel in your studies, you must maintain a high level of personal health. Because of this, INTO USF is committed to finding the necessary resources for you to maintain a balanced lifestyle. One of the many resources you will have access to is the Student Health Services clinic, located on campus. Whether you have health care needs, are looking for student employment, or are looking for places to practice spiritual customs, INTO USF has your whole well-being in mind.

Cultural and Language Ambassadors

INTO USF’s Cultural and Language Ambassadors help students learn how to understand their classmates or roommates, communicate with teachers, and navigate daily life. Before you arrive at INTO USF, you can contact these individuals with questions. After your arrival, the Ambassadors can help you overcome transitional language problems and culture shock as you transition to US university life.

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Important Phone Numbers

Important Phone Numbers

The INTO USF office number from 07:30 to 18:00, Monday to Friday, is +1-813-905-(INTO) 4686.The INTO USF emergency number for use outside of office hours is +1-813-362-3457.

Please use the emergency number to contact our staff if necessary during your travel to Tampa International Airport. Someone will always be available to help you. After you arrive, this number is for emergencies only. During orientation you will be told what to do in other circumstances, such as if you lose your keys.

INTO USF Center contact information:T: + 1-813-905-INTO (4686)F: + 1-813-905-XNTO (9686)E: [email protected]

How to get to the INTO USF Center

Then INTO USF Center is located on the first floor of the Faculty Office (FAO) Building. If arriving by car, taxi or shuttle, ask them to follow these directions:

• Go in main entrance of USF from Fowler Ave.• Take a right onto Alumni Drive (first traffic light).• Then take a left onto Maple Drive (next traffic light).• Go over two speed bumps and take a left into

the Social Sciences building parking lot.• The Faculty Office building is in front of you

slightly to the left.

The address of the INTO USF Center is:INTO University of South Florida4202 East Fowler Avenue, FAO100,Tampa, Florida 33620

Money and Banking

Money in the US

Currency and Cash

The currency in the United States is the US Dollar (US $). It is divided into one hundred cents (100 cents). Bills are issued in $100, $50, $20, $10, $5, and $1. Coins are called a quarter (25 cents), a dime (10 cents), a nickel (5 cents), and a penny (1 cent).

It is not a good idea to carry large amounts of money with you every day. But it is a good idea to bring about $400 with you when you come to the US in case you need money for food, transportation, phone calls, etc.

Credit Cards

In the US, the most common credit cards are VISA, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. It is not easy for international students to obtain credit cards in the U.S. It is best to apply for a credit card in your home country.

Currency Exchange

Before leaving your country, exchange your local currency into US dollars. You can also do this once you arrive at Tampa International Airport. Visit Travelex Currency Exchange, which is located on Level 3 near the Armstrong (Blue) elevators and is open every day from 07:00 - 20:00.

Bank Accounts

Once you arrive at the INTO USF Center, you will be able to meet with banking representatives that will help you open a bank account. It is a good idea to open a checking account in the US since checking accounts make it easy to deposit foreign checks and pay your bills.

Bank of America

INTO USF uses the Bank of America as our banking partner. Remember that your tuition fees for your study program must be paid four weeks prior to the start of all programs.

INTO University of South Florida’s bank account details are:Bank name: Bank of AmericaAddress: 9385 N 56th St., Temple Terrace, FL 33617-5533Account name: INTO USF, INCAccount number: 229030921901Domestic wire (Routing number): 026009593 SWIFT code: BOFAUS3N

USF Credit Union

The USF Credit Union offers checking and savings accounts, loans and credit cards. They are located on campus at: USF Tampa - Main Office 13302 USF Palm Dr. Tampa, FL 33612

There is also a USF Marshall Student Center Branch located at MSC 1400.

For more information on the services the USF Credit Union offers, call +1-813-569-2000 or visit https://creditunion.usf.edu.

Important Phone Numbers and Information


Money and Banking

Emergencies

If you need the Police, Fire, or Ambulance services in an emergency, the telephone number in the United States is 911.

Websites

INTO University of South Florida Home Pagewww.intohigher.com/usf

University of South Florida Home Pagewww.usf.edu

INTO USF’s Social Activities Pagehttps://sites.google.com/site/intousfactivities/

contact-us

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www.facebook.com/intousf

Social Media

Skype

Skype is a free computer program that allows you to use your computer like a phone and place international calls to other Skype users for free. Depending on your computer, web cameras are also supported. Please go to http://www.skype.com for more information and to download for free.

www.twitter.com/into_usf

www.youtube.com/user/intotv

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Immunization Requirements and Medical Records

As a student at INTO University of South Florida you must show proof that you have certain immunizations before you can take classes. The required immunizations at USF are: Two Measles and one Rubella are required for EVERYONE born after December 31,1956. • The first Measles must have been given on or after

1/1/68 and on or after the first birthday. The second Measles immunization must have been given 28 days apart or more after the first Measles AND one dose of Rubella is required for entry into USF given at age 12 months or later and in 1969 or later OR

• Two MMR doses: The first MMR must have been given on or after 1/1/68 and on or after the first birthday. The second MMR immunization must have been given 28 days or more after the first MMR OR

• Titers Positive IgG blood test for Measles (Rubeola), German measles (Rubella) antibodies may be submitted instead of proof of (2) Measles and (1) Rubella. Copies of the actual lab results showing the positive IgG titers must be provided to the Immunization Compliance Office before the student will be able to register for classes.

Meningitis vaccination is required of all students who will live on the USF campus. No student will be assigned a USF residence hall room until proof of Meningitis vaccination is received by USF Student Health Service. Hepatitis B is an optional vaccination. You may provide the date of vaccination if you have been vaccinated or check the declination box. In addition, vaccine records must be officially translated and have the doctor’s stamp with his or her name, contact

information, signature and the date. Please note that only an official shot record will be accepted. Birth certificates are not considered official shot records and will not be accepted by USF Student Health Services. If you do not bring or submit documentation of two Measles and one Rubella vaccine or two MMR, you will need to receive the two MMR or have your blood drawn for immunity within 48 hours of arriving on campus. The cost for the MMR is $55 per shot and the Meningitis shot is $108. You must complete the Medical History Form available at http://www.shs.usf.edu/immunization/immunization-forms.aspx. Submit this form no later than two weeks before the start of classes to:

Fax: + 1-813-974-9686E-mail: [email protected]

**Please bring a copy of these forms with you to the US.

Prescriptions

Bring a copy of all prescriptions for medicines, eyeglasses, and contact lenses with you to the US. The prescriptions should be written in English. For more information on Health Insurance, Immunization Requirements, or other health and medical questions, visit http://www.shs.usf.edu.

On-Campus Pharmacy

The on-campus pharmacy is located on the first floor of the Marshall Student Center and can fill prescriptions sent in from other pharmacies. Please note that the on-campus pharmacy only accepts major credit cards and does not accept cash. It is open Monday through Friday, 09:00 to 17:00. It is closed on weekends and any time USF is closed. You can contact the pharmacy by phone at +1-813-974-2071, by e-mail at [email protected] or by visiting http://www.shs.usf.edu/pharmacy.aspx.

Health and Health Insurance

Health Insurance

The University of South Florida requires that international students be covered by health insurance which meets the US Government visa, State of Florida, and University of South Florida requirements. For this reason, the INTO USF Student Health Insurance Plan is automatically added to the invoice of all INTO USF students. If you have your own health insurance, and it is approved by the compliance office at least four weeks prior to your start date, the charge for the INTO USF Student Health Insurance Plan will be removed from your account. Your health insurance policy must begin before you travel to the US.

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

Waiving Health Insurance

If you have health insurance from your home country and would like to remove the mandatory INTO USF Student Health Insurance Plan, you must show that your insurance provides equal or greater coverage than required by the State of Florida. To see if your alternate insurance will be acceptable, please download and carefully review the International Student Health Insurance Compliance Form at: http://www.shs.usf.edu/insurance/insurance-forms.aspx.

You must submit this form, along with a complete copy of your insurance policy in English, with coverage amounts listed in US dollars by mail, fax, or e-mail to:

Fax: +1-813-974-9686 E-mail: [email protected]

**Please bring a copy of these documents with you to the US.

If your alternative policy is approved, your student account will be updated and the INTO USF Student Health Insurance Plan will be removed. Your alternative policy must be approved at least four weeks before your program start date or you will be billed for at least one term of the INTO USF Student Health Insurance Plan.

If your alternate health insurance coverage does NOT meet the waiver requirements, you will remain enrolled in and billed for the INTO USF Student Health Insurance Plan.

Please note that most travel insurance policies purchased in your home country will not meet the waiver requirements.

Dependent Coverage

Health insurance coverage for dependent spouses and family members traveling with an INTO USF student is available at an additional cost.

If dependent family members are not INTO USF or USF students, they cannot use Student Health Services on campus but they can see other doctors in the Tampa area. Dependent family members who are also INTO USF or USF students can use Student Health Services.

If you would like to enroll your family members for dependant coverage, please visit the INTO USF office after you have arrived to complete and submit enrollment forms by the fifth day of the term.

Immunization and Health Insurance


Immunization and Health Insurancecontinued

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Immunization Documentation Form


Immunization Documentation Form continued

Required Vaccinations

As a student at INTO USF, you must show proof that you have certain immunizations before you can take classes. Students are required to show proof of one of the three options below AS WELL AS proof of meningitis vaccination. OFFICIAL DOCUMENTATION (OR COPIES OF ACTUAL LAB RESULTS FOR OPTION 3) MUST BE ATTACHED.

OPTION 1: Measles - 2 doses required

Dose 1: _____ / _____ / _____ Dose 2: _____ / _____ / _____

Rubella - 1 dose required

Dose 1: _____ / _____ / _____

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

Dose 1: _____ / _____ / _____ Dose 2: _____ / _____ / _____

OPTION 3: Lab tests (tilters) may be substituted as proof of immunity in lieu of vaccinations.

I have attached a copy of my titer results.

OR

Please provide the address and signature/stamp of your health care provider.

(*Note: This is only required here if you have not provided photocopies.)

ADDRESS SIGNATURE / STAMP

_____________________________________ _______________________________________

_____________________________________

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 Dose 1 _____ /_____ /_____ Dose 2 _____ /_____ /_____

Hepatitis B Dose 1 _____ /_____ /_____ Dose 2 _____ /_____ /_____ Dose 3 _____ /_____ /_____

Twinrix (Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B combined) Dose 1 _____ /_____ /_____ Dose 2 _____ /_____ /_____

Varicella (Chicken Pox) Dose 1 _____ /_____ /_____ Dose 2 _____ /_____ /_____ OR date of disease_____ /_____ /_____

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

Tetanus Diphtheria Pertussis (Tdap) Dose 1 _____ /_____ /_____

Meningococcal Dose 1 _____ /_____ /_____

HPV Dose 1 _____ /_____ /_____ Dose 2 _____ /_____ /_____ Dose 3 _____ /_____ /_____

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.

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STUDENTS LIVING ON CAMPUS

Meningitis vaccination is required of ALL students who will live on the USF campus. Dose 1: _____ / _____ / _____

I have attached proof of my meningitis vaccination.

OR

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Map of USF Tampa Campus Map of Tampa Bay

About Tampa Bay

Tampa is a beautiful city located on Florida’s west coast. Living here you can enjoy the excitement of city life as well as the beauty of Florida’s natural habitat. We enjoy a perfect climate of mild winters and warm summers. Tampa is a diverse city with friendly residents who are used to welcoming people from all over the world. While living in Tampa, you will enjoy:• A relaxed lifestyle, warm climate, and ethnic

diversity.• An average annual temperature of 82° F (28° C),

making Tampa a great place for you to live and study.

• An average of 240 days of sunshine per year.• Many recreational opportunities including Busch

Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, historic Ybor City, and many interesting museums.

• Many sporting events and international restaurants, as well as fantastic shopping.

• Close proximity to Orlando and its world-famous theme parks, including Disney World.

• Close proximity to the breathtaking beaches of Clearwater, Sarasota and St. Petersburg.

You can learn more about living in Tampa by visitinghttp://www.visittampabay.com.

Map of USF Campus


Map of Tampa Bay

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1. INTO USF Center and Classrooms (FAO)2. INTO USF Classrooms (BSN)3. Juniper-Poplar Residence Hall

4. Magnolia Apartments5. Andros Complex

Key

INTO University of South FloridaUniversity of South Florida4202 East Fowler Avenue, FAO100Tampa, Florida 33620 USA

T: (813) 905-INTO (4686)F: (813) 905-XNTO (9686) E: [email protected]

www.intohigher.com/usf

www.usf.edu

Want to find out more?If you would like to find out more about any of our programs 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.

Date post:	28-Nov-2014
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INTO University of South Florida Pre-Departure Guide 2011-2012

Education