International Student Resources

Welcome to the CCR Program! We’re glad that you’re here and hope that you won’t hesitate to reach out to the DGS or current international students in our program with any questions that you have.

Getting Here:

The SU Center for International Services can help you with issues related to your immigration status and employment as well as any cultural, social, and academic concerns. There are many resources linked on their page and you can find information on the documents that will be required after your admission on their Pre-Arrival page. 

Getting Situated

When to Arrive

It’s a good idea to plan to arrive by early August in order to move into your housing, get set up, and get to know the area before the semester starts. There is typically a full week of orientation before the first day of classes, so getting to know your space and making it comfortable before then will help ease anxiety and give you a place to relax after a long day of orientation or classes.

Housing

Current CCR international students often have on-the-ground information on which landlords are best to work with and which apartments are within walking distance of campus. They may also know of potential sublets.

Furniture

Some apartments come furnished; others do not. If you are in need of furniture, please reach out to the DGS or to current students. We can’t guarantee that some will be available, but we can certainly ask around and see what folks have to share.

Getting Around

Some of our students have cars and others get around on foot or by public transport. Many apartments are within walking distance. Some students walk in all weathers, but you should be aware that our winters can be quite cold and snowy. The university maintains a Shuttle Service that will take you to any part of campus. Our local Centro bus system also works closely with the university to provide several routes within the city (scroll all way down for Centro info). With your SUID, you’ll have free service within the free-fare zone and a $1 charge for rides outside the free-fare zone. The area also has Uber and Lyft but these options can be expensive, especially on game days and times the university is hosting other major events.

If you plan to drive while with us, the International Center maintains a page on the requirements for driving in the US.  

Cell Phone Access

Before setting up an individual cell phone plan, you may want to reach out to current CCR international students for advice on accessing group plans, information on particular carriers that may make the most sense for you, or other options.

Finding Community

While we hope that you will find a strong community here in the CCR program, you may also want to be in touch with other folks on campus who are from your home country or region. There are many non-academic student organizations that may help you find other students who share your interests, identities, or nationality.

Working in the Department

Receiving your first paycheck

After you’ve submitted your banking information to payroll, your first paycheck will be cut as a paper check and sent to the department’s main office HBC 239. The following paychecks will be directly deposited into the bank account you have on record. 

Receiving Travel Funding

The WSRC department is typically able to offer $700-$800 per year in travel funding. To access it, you’ll need to complete the travel request form before making your purchases and submit receipts for travel expenses in order to be reimbursed after your return. However, this reimbursement may be taxed depending on rules related to your home country. You also have the alternative option to consult with Mollie Koch before making any travel arrangements since the department may be able to make the purchases on your behalf – a method current international students prefer. Mollie will also work with you to complete the required travel form.