This web site provides you with more detailed information regarding the International Student Orientation (ISO), which begins on Sunday, August 21. ISO is required for all incoming students who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents/immigrants. It is designed to educate you about various U.S. government regulations, become familiar with the local community, and meet and socialize with other international students. ISO allows international students some time to recover from jet lag and gives them insight into adjusting to life in the United States. Many international students have said that ISO helped make their transition to Bryn Mawr a smooth one.
ARRIVAL/REGISTRATION : Please be sure to carry the sheet More Arrival Information with your passport, U.S. immigration document, and evidence of financial resources with you in your carry-on luggage.
ACCOMMODATIONS : The Student Life Office is sending you the information about your room assignment. You will not be able to move into your permanent room before August 21. If your travel schedule requires that you come into Philadelphia prior to that, we suggest that you reserve a room at the Radnor Hotel (rates: $180, phone: 1-800-537-3000). Be sure to tell the hotel that you are a Bryn Mawr student when making the reservation. It is the closest hotel to campus.
FAMILIES/GUESTS : The International Student Orientation is planned specifically for international students. To facilitate a smooth transcition to Bryn Mawr, friends and family members are not permitted to spend the night in the dorm with you during the orientation period.
DRESS : Philadelphia weather is typically hot and humid during this time of the year. In general dress is very informal (T-shirts, shorts, jeans, etc.) and we encourage you to be as comfortable as you can. Since activities are spread around campus, an umbrella or raincoat may come in handy. Also some buildings are air-conditioned and you may need a sweater.
EMERGENCY CONTACT : If an emergency arises while you are traveling in the United States, you can contact the Office of International Programs at 610-526-7530 Monday through Friday, between 9 AM and 5 PM. For emergencies outside our regular hours of operation, you can reach the College's Public Safety Office at 610-526-7911. Enclosed with your I-20 or DS-2019 is a green card with the emergency contact information and please keep one on you while you travel.
INSURANCE : The booklet International Student Accident and Sickness Insurance Plan 2011-2012 provides you with a brief description of important features of this insurance plan. As an international student, you will be automatically enrolled in this plan. If you obtain your own health insurance that offers better or comparable coverage, you may request a waiver by completing the online Enrollment/Waiver Form.
The coverage for the International Student Accident and Sickness Insurance Plan begins at 12:01 AM on August 15, 2011. However, it does not cover expenses incurred while you are at your home country or country of regular domicile. You and your family might consider purchasing additional insurance for travel, personal liability, property loss, etc.
INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP PROJECT : There are members of the Bryn Mawr community, including alumnae, faculty, and staff, who are interested in meeting international students and helping you adjust to life in the United States. You will find out more information about this program and how to sign up during the International Student Orientation.
Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We wish you safe and pleasant travels as you begin what promises to be an exciting year at Bryn Mawr!