Getting the Answers
Now that you've decided to study in the United States, you're probably wondering what you can do to plan for your journey abroad. The nearest U.S. educational advising center should be able to provide you with predeparture materials and may organize predeparture orientation programs for students from your country. You can find a list of educational advising centers online at EducationUSA.
Classroom Etiquette
You may observe behavior in U.S. classrooms that would be considered inappropriate in your country. Many students sit in class with their feet on the chair or desk in front of them. Some may have laptop computers in class. These behaviors are completely normal and acceptable. Students may also interrupt lectures to ask questions or to disagree with what the professor is saying. American professors are usually pleased when a student has a question or comment.
Open Door Policy
Professors who teach at U.S. universities have an open door policy when it comes to providing students with extra help. If you have a question about an assignment, you can set up a time to meet with your course instructor during his or her office hours. A teacher's office hours are generally listed on the course syllabus you receive on the first day of class.
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
