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One soul many bodies
New Students
THINGS TO NOTE
TRAVEL
CLOTHING Tampa is in the southern part of the U.S. and can get very hot in the summer. Summer highs are in the high 90 F (32 C) and the humid climate calls for light clothing, preferably cotton. Shorts, T-shirts, and jeans are the most commonly found attire on campus during the summer but you will need a sweater or jacket for the chilly winter months. Lows in the winter can get down to 40 F (4 C) and does call for warmer clothing. You are also advised to come prepared for the rain, for the rainy season which follows the summer, when it rains practically everyday. Also remember that Florida is prone to hurricanes!
ARTICLES FOR THE HOME Ensure you have a good pressure cooker to cook dal, rice, and vegetables. There are a number of Indian grocery stores here, so getting your monthly supplies of Indian masalas, rice and dal should not be of concern.
SETTLING DOWN IN TAMPA It is advisable for every student to come here at least 2 weeks in advance of the first day of classes. International Student orientation is usually a week ahead of the first day of classes, coming a week before Orientation ensures that the new students have ample time to settle into new apartments and find new roommates. The rent for 2 bedroom apartment range from 650-700 $. Usually, one month rent is to be paid in advance., these apartments are usually shared by 3-4 students to bring down living expenses. You will have to spend your money on food, groceries, and utilities. This should put your average monthly expenses including the rent to at least $350.
TUITIONS AND TUITION WAIVERS The tuition is listed on your I-20 form but it may not reflect the exact amount. The tuition for each semester is subject to change without prior notification. In order to better assess the approximate fee you'll be paying, take a look at the USF's tuition and payment FAQ page. Tuition waivers are available to International students, and are awarded to those who have an Assistantship of some sort (Teaching, Research, or Graduate). Some on campus positions referred to as Graduate Assistant Jobs classify for a tuition waiver, not all of them.
MEDICAL ADVICE It is advised that you complete all immunization requirements (these are listed in the book accompanying your I-20) while in India, as medical care in the United States is very expensive. The immunization requirements of the University might cost the student as much as $80-100. All students are also required to take health insurance on campus. The cost of this insurance is mentioned in your I-20. If you have any dental or eye problems it is advised that it is taken care of in India, as the costs here are more. Do not forget your second pair of spectacles and any specific medicines that you might require.
THINGS TO BE DONE UPON ARRIVAL
1. Federal Credit Union Bank - to deposit dd, bankers cheque, etc. Once again congratulations on your
admission here, we look forward to seeing you in the Sunshine State!
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