Top 10 Things Every International Student Should Know When Studying In The Boston

Author: Katie S.  

Make your life of studying abroad more easily. 

1. Do your research before picking classes

Before you choose the classes, ask your advisor to see which courses work best to complete your major/minor. However, as an international student studying in Boston, don't graduate early or even on time. Picking some fun, unrelated and innovative course will extend your graduation date and give you additional time on your visa.

2. Double check your residential life about your housing and living

Most Boston universities, international students need to find the housing by yourself. There are three steps to make sure you find the right place, if not it will have the great impact in the future. First, check the monthly payment, lease, and the housing situation. If you find something wrong after you sign the lease, it may involve the legal issues. Second, knowing life function, such as the grocery, convenience store, and public transportation. Last but not the least, building connection with your roommates because students are likely to share the housing with 2 or more people. Make sure you have right to express the opinion if your roommates offend your rules.

3. Always carry your ID (with photo)

In the U.S., the legal drinking age is 21. Especially in the urban city, most restaurants are strict about enforcing the law. DO NOT use any fake ID to disrupt the law. Stick to parties outside the dorms and clubs that are 18+. If you have a party that someone under 18, you will also get the punishment.

4. Get set up

As soon as you get to the Boston, find the housing, and meet the new friends. Get set up your Boston life quickly that help you get into the Boston life. For example, open a bank account, get a cell phone plan, purchase a computer, etc. Setting up these networks is painful but tackling those things as soon as possible will help you to get into the life track. If you have America working and travel experiences that your social security card can make doing all of these things easier.

• Bank: The most student chooses Bank of America - cash reward to be their first credit card.
• Mobile plan: T-Mobile / AT & T/ Version are commonly use in Boston area.

5. Don’t pay full price for anything

Using the discount website to search your desire with cheaper price, no matter online or in-store purchase. You can save as much money as you can when your check several discount websites.

6. Get your driver’s license

Having a driver’s license is key in Boston, even if you don’t have a car. Check out the MA RMV website of applying for the license. Don’t forget America is driving on the right side, for some people from the countries drive on the left side need to practice more times.

7.Meet as many people as you can

Don’t waste your time on the virtual community when you are in the most diverse country. Spending your time to go out and joining the social meetings, the parties, or school activities can help you to know more people. When you build up your network, you will generate the belonging and willing to open your mind.

8. Acquire several internships to generate the network

Boston is the top 3 urban cities in the U.S. Don’t miss any chance to get the intern or job to broaden your horizon. Preparing your resume and gaining invaluable work experience can strengthen your capability. Most universities provide the resume assisting program to help you build up the professional resume Whether you plan on looking for a job in the U.S. or returning to your country, having some solid U.S. work experience will be your biggest advantage after college.

9. Celebrate the Bostonian’s holidays

In New England, a high portion people are immigrants so that they are used to celebrate the cultural holiday, such as St. Patrick. Even if you never heard it before, just join it. You will know how American style is celebrating their holiday. Don’t forget to try some traditional food as well.

10. Prepare for ANY holiday well in advance

American holidays are like the Spring Festival in Asia. There will not have any store open during the holiday period, even the grocery. Therefore, if you want to celebrate any holiday, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, you should prepare in advance to get cheaper price.