Arriving in the United States
As you prepare for your trip to the United States, you will likely have feelings of excitement and anxiety along with many questions and concerns. We understand and are here to help answer your questions and to ensure you feel confident and well-equipped for your journey to the U.S.
You'll find a number of resources online with details about life in Lincoln and relocating, checklists for what to do when you arrive on campus, and what to plan for when starting graduate school in a country other than your own.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln's International Affairs office is a great resource and provides immigration, personal, and cross-cultural advising and information for new international students.
- Their Welcome Page offers recommendations and suggestions about immediate concerns such as arriving in Lincoln, initial expenses, and health care.
- Their Hello Handbook contains many pages of advice on housing, transportation, money management, culture, immigration rules, personal safety, and much more.
Some of the most important information from those materials is summarized below. Welcome events and orientations scheduled the week before classes begin also aid in the transition to a new culture.
Cultural Differences
Many people who relocate to a new country experience culture shock. While this is considered a normal process of adjustment, you can minimize the effect by understanding what it is and learning about the differences you'll experience by relocating to a new country. Consider these questions:
- What is culture shock?
- How is the education system different?
- What should I know about American academic traditions before I arrive?
- What social customs will impact my daily life?
- What organizations and services will be helpful during my transition?
- How can I become familiar with campus and Lincoln before arriving?
Transportation and Licensure
Students often use Lincoln's city bus system for their transportation needs. Many students also choose to walk, bike, or purchase an automobile.
To drive a car, you will need a valid driver's license. A Nebraska driver's license can be obtained through the Department of Motor Vehicles. Licensing fees can range from $4.75 to $23.75.
All cars also must be registered with the County Clerk's Office. When registering your car, bring your car's title, proof of auto insurance, and sales tax receipt. Learn more about securing auto insurance. If necessary, seek advice from Student Legal Services.
Living Arrangements
Find a place to live on campus or off, cell phone providers, local banks, and more in our relocation resources.
Most international graduate students choose to live off-campus and often rent an apartment. If you decide living off-campus is the best option for you, be sure to understand rental agreements and their implications before making any major decisions.
If you have questions about your responsibilities as a tenant, consult the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
Renting a single-family apartment, duplex, condominium, town home, or house in Lincoln requires an application fee of $10-$30, a security deposit of no more than one month's rent, and the first month's rent in advance.
Once you have your housing, it's time to make it a home. There are many ways to go about furnishing your new living area.
- Try local stores in Lincoln. Negotiating prices for new merchandise in retail stores is not generally done, but furniture stores are an exception. Stores that sell fine furniture and high-end accessories expect to negotiate prices, while discount stores such as Wal-Mart and Target usually don't negotiate.
- Another economical option is garage sales. Negotiating prices is expected and acceptable at garage sales, as long as you keep the tone friendly and subdued. Sales are held on most weekends from April to September. Many are advertised in the classified section of the Lincoln Journal Star newspaper.
- Thrift shops, or second-hand stores, sell a variety of used merchandise. They can be excellent sources of low-priced home furnishings and are conveniently located all over the city.
Transitioning to the United States
As an international student, the little differences might be the things that impact you the most.
Students inevitably comment about the weather. Lincoln has an average of 230 days of sun each year, but winters are intense. Awareness of current weather conditions and basic winter weather tips can help you prepare for winter situations.
While Lincoln is a very safe community, no university or city is immune from crime. Practicing personal safety will help you remain safe and out of troublesome situations.
Also, tax regulations can cause headaches and consequences for your visa status so it is important to understand what you need to do to fulfill fiscal requirements.
