Pre-Departure Orientation

Fulbright Foreign Student Program Pre-Departure Orientation

Introduction to the Fulbright Program The Fulbright Program is designed to foster mutual understanding through educational and cultural exchange. As a Fulbright grantee, you will join a group of more than 8,000 Fulbrighters from over 160 countries each. AMIDEAST administers the Fulbright grant on behalf of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the United States Department of State. We must try to expand the boundaries of human wisdom, empathy and perception, and there is no way of doing that except through education.” - Senator J. William Fulbright

Understanding Your Grant Terms of Appointment = your grant contract The information presented to you verbally is meant to be a general overview of the Fulbright grant. Your individual grant terms may vary; you must carefully read through your Terms of Appointment to understand your benefits and responsibilities. Please refer to your Fulbright Handbook Online at: www.amideast.org/fulbright (Select “Grantee Resources” link. Password required. Ask AMIDEAST staff.)

Fulbright Terms of Appointment Cover page – outlines individual grant details including: university placement, funding, benefits start date, maximum funding date, financial provisions and any special provisions General Terms of Award – outlines and details: key definitions, financial provisions, travel benefits, healthcare coverage, grantee obligations, allowances, US tax obligations, academic enrollment & standards, reporting requirements, two-year home residency requirement, etc.

Financial Details Required Tuition & Mandatory Fees (covered by grant) Monthly Maintenance Allowance (MMA) is calculated to provide basic living costs for one person based on the local cost of living Book Allowance ($500/semester & $250/summer) Equipment Allowance ($500, one time) Conference Allowance (up to $500, one time) Thesis Allowance (up to $300, if applicable) International travel from/to home country at the beginning & end of program Fly America Act & Open Skies regulations apply Health Coverage - Accident & Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE)

Maintaining J-1 Status Report the following information to AMIDEAST: • Report residential address, phone and email within 3 daysof arriving in the U.S. • Within first week on campus, report any change in personal info: residential address, mailing address , phone #, email • Report plans to travel outside the U.S., or if you will be absent from your university for more than two days • Report (within 10 days) academic plans for summer term Other requirements: • Maintain a full-time load of credits at your university • Remain in good academic standing • For more on J-1 Visa regulations please visit: http://j1visa.state.gov/participants

When you arrive… • Call or email us your residential address, even if temporary, phone number and email address as soon as you arrive so we can validate you in the Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) • Let us know your mailing address so we can mail your first stipend check • Open a bank account at a bank convenient to your university; fill out Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) • Complete & send all Arrival Forms to us by stated deadline

Reporting to AMIDEAST You must provide updated contact info to your AMIDEAST advisor. When are your required reports due to AMIDEAST? • Academic Program Outline: beginning of your academic program • Academic Progress Report: beginning of each subsequent academic term • Summer Plans Report : in April of each year • Unofficial university transcript or grade report: the conclusion of each academic term • Official final university transcript: upon completion of your academic program AMIDEAST reserves the right to withhold your MMA if you do not submit these required forms on time.

Reporting to AMIDEAST Additionally, prior approval from AMIDEAST, the U.S. Department of State, and the Commission is necessary for: * On-campus employment * Academic Training, including required internships (paid or unpaid) * Travel outside of the U.S. * Your DS-2019 form will need to be signed for travel authorization *Travel for more than 29 days results in a deduction of your MMA * Taking a reduced course load * Registering for any online courses Consult the Fulbright Student Handbook & website for more details!

University Program • Maintain full-time status and good academic standing • Check your email for instructions & opportunities from AMIDEAST • Meet with your academic advisor & international student advisor • Be active in student clubs, university activities & community events! • Follow the academic code requirements of your university.

University Housing Where to Find Housing Information * University housing office – the website or actual office * Local town or school newspaper * Bulletin boards around your campus * Classmates or current Fulbrighters * Online resources like www.craigslist.com Types of Housing * Apartment/studio * Group House * Townhouse * Room to rent in a house * Graduate student, international student, and family housing

Location * Near grocery store * Laundry facilities * Public transportation Neighborhood * Other students in the neighborhood * Safe, low crime, parking Utilities * Utilities included? * Wi-Fi or internet access? Costs * Price of rent * Amount of security deposit * Date (and frequency) rent is due Lease * Length of lease * Penalties for breaking lease * Option to sublet * Understand all terms before signing! Housing Advice

Watch out for Housing Scams Be smart and vigilant! Warning signs of a housing scam: • Lower than average cost • Owner is "travelling” and needs you to wire money. Owner unable to communicate. • Cheap rent due to owner “moving” or “getting a divorce” • Grammar/spelling errors in the ad and e-mails • Asks you to wire money via Western Union, Moneygram, or Prepaid Visa card • Asks for multiple deposits/wires • Asks you to send money before signing a lease • Ad description does not match the listing (Example: an apartment described as a house) • Rental is listed as “for sale” by another seller – scammers use pictures/information from legitimate ads

Watch out for Housing Scams Protect yourself • Do not pay a deposit before visiting the property • Small application fees (less than $100) are normal • Do not pay a deposit until you sign a lease • Do not send multiple deposits • Google the owner’s e-mail contact information • Stay vigilant for the signs listed above • Contact AMIDEAST if you have any concerns Additional Resources: • https://www.craigslist.org/about/scams • https://support.trulia.com/hc/en-us/articles/206731187-Rental-Listing-Scams-Read-Before-You-Search • http://dc.urbanturf.com/articles/blog/this_is_a_craigslist_rental_scam/2338

Health Coverage Accident & Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE); administered by Seven Corners This health benefit is very basic and covers only the expenses incurred by an unexpected illness or injury that requires immediate, and relatively short-term treatment. You are responsible for paying all co-pays: * $25 co-pay for any office visit * $75 co-pay for emergency room, hospitalizations and urgent care * $15 co-pay for all brand name drugs with a generic equivalent * Pre-certification is required for certain treatments, otherwise a $300 penalty fee will apply • Print and keep your ASPE card with you at all times • Your AMIDEAST PO will remind you to wave your university’s insurance, if possible. Visit: http://usdos.sevencorners.com for complete details of ASPE’s coverage

Health Coverage If you have any CHRONIC, PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS that will require on-going treatment, you need to obtain additional health insurance that will pay for U.S.-based treatment of that condition. Examples of pre-existing conditions for which treatment (especially maintenance or preventative treatment) will not be covered: * dental and vision issues (including glasses and contacts) * diabetes (ASPE will cover all necessary medications, but not routine visits) * asthma or other allergies * migraine headaches, etc. Visit: http://usdos.sevencorners.com for complete details of ASPE’s coverage

Dependent Health Coverage Before departure to the U.S.: • Review medical coverage information and purchase additional insurance/coverage for yourself and any accompanying dependents. • Bring medical and dental records for you and dependents, including certificates of vaccinations and immunizations As part of the requirements to remain in J-1 status: • The ASPE health benefits are only for you and do not include dependents with you in the U.S. • You are responsible for any costs related to dependents, including costs not paid by the health coverage obtained. Medical costs can quickly accrue when health coverage is not provided! • Academic Training: You must maintain accident and sickness coverage for all J-2 dependents throughout the AT period. If your employer provides health insurance to you and your dependents, but the policy does not fulfill J-1 visa requirements, you must purchase coverage for your dependents.

Health & Well-being Take care of yourself! Physically, Emotionally, & Mentally • Make use of campus resources including: wellness centers, counseling centers, academic success center, etc. • Alert your AMIDEAST PO if you feel that your emotional state is affecting your studies. “Just take advantage of this life changing experience and do not give up or break when things get overwhelming, because they can.” – Fulbright Alum “Be social! Even if you think you are shy (I always thought I am one!), but Just try to break the ice and connect with people in your school, building, and other places, so that you create a good circle of people that you can enjoy your journey with.” -- Fulbright Alum

Personal Safety • University orientation will review campus and community safety • Police & security staff on campus and in town/city • Dial 911in an emergency • Sign up for campus text alert system In the event of an emergency, follow any local response guidance. Once you are safe, contact your Fulbright advisor as soon as possible to update us on your status.

Understanding Title IX of The Education Amendments Act of 1972 Title IXis a federal law that states: "No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance." • How does this apply to a Fulbright Student? • Your U.S. academic institution is committed to providing an environment free of discrimination on the basis of sex (gender), including sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, sexual assault, relationship (dating and domestic) violence, and stalking. • Your U.S. academic institution can provide resources and reporting options to students to address concerns related to sexual harassment and sexual violence prohibited by Title IX. • Look up your university Title IX office and coordinator for more specific non-discrimination policies on your campus.

Abiding by U.S. Law While on your Fulbright grant, you are responsible for following Federal, State, and Local U.S. laws. Your ability to maintain your grant and J-1 status depends on following the law. • If you have an encounter or arrest with U.S. Law Enforcement: • Do not resist an arrest. Remain confident in your answers but always be polite and respectful of police officers. • Remain truthful in your answers. Be brief and concise and do not offer unnecessary or elaborate information about yourself. • Please take the time before your arrival to the U.S. to familiarize yourself with your Miranda rights. If arrested, you may request representation by an attorney. Immediately contact your AMIDEAST program officer and your academic advisor if you are stopped and issued a summons or if you are arrested.

Social Security card The Social Security Number (SSN) is a personal identification number used in the United States. Needed for: • Employment in the U.S., with approval from AMIDEAST and the U.S. Department of State. • Earning any income (other than your grant) • File federal or state tax returns NOTE: If you are not eligible to obtain a Social Security Number, you will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). An ITIN is a nine digit tax processing number issued by the IRS. More information on obtaining an SSN and an ITN will be provided by your AMIDEAST Program Officer upon arrival to the U.S.

U.S. Taxes All grantees are required to complete and submit a tax return to the U.S. Government each year. • AMIDEAST pays your Federal taxes for your Fulbright Scholarship in advance. You are responsible for paying any taxes related to your employment. • AMIDEAST uses a web-based tax software called “Windstar” to collect student data and provide tax forms to students. You will be required to enter your information into the Windstar system at the start of your program. • You must provide a Social Security Number (SSN) at the start of your program or apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) through AMIDEAST. • AMIDEAST advisors are not tax professionals and cannot offer tax advice • You are also responsible for filing & paying any necessary state taxes.

On-campus Employment • ON campus: must be related to field (i.e. an assistantship, teaching assistant, or research assistant) • Must be approved in advance by AMIDEAST and the U.S. Department of State • 20 hour limit per week during the academic term • Allowed to earn up to $500 above your MMA; any amount over is deducted from your MMA See Handbook for details!

Academic Training (AT) • OFF Campus: to gain practical experience in your field of study • May be eligible for up 18 months of AT (max. of 12 months after program) • Can be full-time in the summer or after graduation • Requests for post-program AT must be submitted to AMIDEAST 4-6 weeks before completion of program, and approved by the U.S. Department of State. See Handbook for details!

The American Classroom Academic Integrity / Honesty • Remember that all universities have an honor code to which you must adhere to. • Plagiarism • Plagiarism is using the ideas or phrases of someone without giving credit. • Plagiarism is an extremelyserious offense and is grounds for dismissal from your university and the Fulbright program. • Be sure to understand proper citation for your field of study and university.

The American Classroom In class • It is important that you participate in class discussions and activities. Professors can lower your grade if you do not participate or if you miss classes. Also, arrive on time! • Remember to always be respectful of others’ opinions in class. Testing • Tests are conducted in a variety of formats - essay, multiple choice, true or false, etc. Office Hours • During office hours, you may ask the professor questions about the course or reading material, and even discuss ideas for a paper. “The educational system is drastically different… the most surprising thing is the non-hierarchical relationship between students and professors. The connection is informal and students can call the professors by their first names and they can go to restaurants, stadiums and coffee shops with them.” -– Fulbright alum

Gender Norms in the United States Gender norms are the generally accepted roles for women and men in society. Current Gender Norms: • Gender norms are changing within families; for example some men stay at home and take care of the children. Single parent families are also common. • Approximately 60% of enrollees at U.S. universities are women, with a rising number of women working outside the home. • Women are increasingly leaders in their places of work, including corporate, government, and non-profit sectors. • Women and men may have more traditional societal roles in rural areas of the United States than in cities. Expectations in the United States: • It is considered rude to stare at strangers, especially members of the opposite gender. • Women and men who haven’t met before usually greet one another with a handshake and direct eye contact, which may be initiated by either the male or the female. Americans typically do not greet by kissing on the cheek(s), although hugs are sometimes exchanged between close friends. • Hand holding is typically limited to children or couples involved in romantic relationships.

LGBTQ inclusion on U.S. Campuses • U.S. universities and colleges tend to be a welcoming and accepting space for students and faculty of all sexual orientations and gender identities, including students who identify with the LGBTQ community. • Universities often have LGBTQ Student Services Centers and/or an Office of Diversity and Inclusion that serve this population by hosting events around LGBTQ issues, providing resources, and offering a safe space for students and faculty to discuss their identity. • Smaller universities may not have an office dedicated to LGBTQ issues, but instead may offer similar student-run organizations. • Important: Discrimination or harassment of LGBTQ students is viewed negatively at most U.S. universities, and could result in expulsion from the University. • Visit your university’s website for more information on LGBTQ inclusion events on your campus.

Campus Activities • International Student Office events • Student organizations • Graduate Student Association • Department/Field of Study organizations • Faith-Based organizations • Campus Fulbright Associations “My main advice is getting in touch with the local people in the host university from the beginning. We are not here in the U.S. to spend all of our time hanging around with international students. The most important social activity is to get to know the people and culture of the United States and benefit from their knowledge in life while introducing them to our own culture and people.” -- Fulbright alum

Community Involvement As a Fulbrighter you are an ambassador for your country, get involved in your community! • Community volunteer groups • University “Days of Service”: 9/11, MLK, Jr. Day, Earth Day • International Education Week: in November “Traveling outside of your country and region is an essential experience that you need to immerse yourself in--to understand yourself better. Education, outside of the ordinary, is a very valuable experience you will only appreciate once you're out there; and it is an exciting adventure you will never regret!” -Fulbright alum

Culture Shock Symptoms of Culture Shock… • Homesickness • Boredom • Fatigue • Illness • Unexplainable crying • Over eating • Stereotyping Americans • Loss of ability to work effectively

Dealing with Culture Shock Listen to your body – Take care and be patient with yourself. Get plenty of sleep and eat your vegetables! Learn about the U.S. – Try to understand why things are done in a certain way. This will help put American life into perspective. Make American friends – Meet students who have lived overseas through the university’s study abroad office. Americans who have lived abroad will have gone through culture shock as well. Reach Out - Remember that your Fulbright colleagues and other international friends are likely experiencing similar culture shock. Reach out to them through email, Facebook, Skype, etc. “Engage and interact with the people from different cultures and environments. Do not isolate yourself, you would be surprised how easier it will make it to adapt when you are more active with the people around you. It is a life time experience, make the best out of it.” -- Fulbright alum

Fulbright Activities • Pre-Academic programs (IIE): 2-6 week programs focused on different topics • Gateway Programs (IIE): 3-4 day seminars • Both programs are conducted at locations all across the U.S. • Meet Fulbrighters from around the world! • Family members are not invited to these programs.

Fulbright Activities • Enrichment Seminars (IIE) • Available during first year of study • Please apply! * Re-Entry Workshop (AMIDEAST) “Try to do things that you never thought you could do. It is much easier to overcome some fear you have towards things when you move to a different place and live on your own, your way of thinking can adjust in a positive way if you let yourself open to a new experience. I never thought I could do sky diving, but guess what - I did it!” – Fulbright alum

Advice from Fulbright Alumni "Fulbright doesn’t only provide you with great networking and cultural exchange opportunities, but it also provides you with opportunities to enrich your knowledge, skills and make great lifelong friendships, so grab every chance you have and get to know all the Fulbrighters on your campus…” -- Fulbright alum “Every new day brings you the opportunity to make a new friend. Make friends irrespective of your cultural, religious, social and economic differences. Get to know the bus driver, the head of your department, the cashier, and the neighbor.” -- Fulbright alum

Advice from Fulbright Alumni “Get immersed in the local culture and get exposed to creative and innovative scenes and areas around town. Visit public libraries, historical sites, museums, and keep up with local events. Remind yourself of the honor and opportunity granted by the Fulbright Scholarship, appreciate everything and everyone.” -- Fulbright alumnus “They should seek every given opportunity, be open minded and flexible, go and reach Americans and share their thoughts, culture, religion and ideas. They need also to endure the first days of the programme because they will face a dramatic shift. “ “You will change a lot.... Don't be afraid of that change just embrace it.” -Alum

Resources * The Fulbright Handbook and AMIDEAST website: www.amideast.org/fulbright * Your Fulbright Program Officer & Program Assistant at AMIDEAST * International Student Advisors at your university * Librarians at your university library * Campus offices for volunteering * Academic/program advisor * Professors “Never hesitate to ask for help from your colleagues and professors in case you face any problem. Americans are super helpful.” -Fulbright alum

Questions?

Pre-Departure Orientation