Culture Shock
It is common for people living far away from home to experience culture shock, but this doesn't have to spoil the experience. If you find yourself feeling homesick, call a friend at home or go to your school's international student office to speak with an advisor. Culture shock is a normal part of living in a new environment; do not be alarmed.
Housing Options
Depending on the college, you may have several housing options, including:
- Dormitories (also called residence halls) enable you to live close to your classroom buildings.
- Apartments are off-campus options that allow you more freedom and independence. Many universities also offer on-campus apartments for graduate students or students with families.
- Fraternities and sororities are social clubs that often have houses where male or female members live.
- Special-interest housing is offered for students with similar interests.
- Homestay living arrangements allow international students to live in the home of an American family.
Social Security Numbers
A Social Security number (SSN) is a nine-digit identification number assigned by the U.S. government. Citizens have unique Social Security numbers, which they provide to employers for tax purposes. If you are temporarily visiting the United States and do not plan to work off campus, you do not need an SSN.
If you desire to work off campus, however, you may need an SSN. The first step in determining whether you'll need an SSN is to establish your visa classification. According to the Social Security Administration, visa holders classified as F-1, J-1, Q-1, Q-2, and M-1 who perform work tied to their studies or closely connected to the purpose of their visit are not subject to Social Security tax and do not need an SSN.
Your visa classification will be provided by the Department of Homeland Security. You can use your classification status to determine the circumstances under which you're required to have a Social Security number.
F-1 foreign student
J-1 exchange visitor
M-1 vocational student
Q-1 admitted to the United States to participate in a cultural exchange program
Q-2 visitor under the Irish Peace Process Cultural Training Program Act
Alcohol Regulations
The age at which U.S. residents may legally consume alcohol is 21. Underage drinking is a crime, and punishment can include fines, suspension of driver's license, court-ordered community service, and incarceration. To show proof of legal drinking age, most people present a driver's license. If you do not have a driver's license, you can present an identification card, which is available from the local license office.
