Student Accommodation at UMass Lowell


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Preparing for your Navitas program

SUMMER 2015

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Navitas at UMass Lowell

Table of Contents: Letter from Executive Director………………………………………………………………………. 3 About Lowell/UMass Lowell……………………………………………………………………….…..4 On-campus Accommodations……………………………………………………………………….…5 Orientation Information………………………………………………………………………………...7 Immigration Information…………………………………………………………………………….…8 Traveling to the United States………………………………………………………………………..9 Adjusting to life at UMass Lowell…………………………………………………………………..10 Monetary Information………………………………………………………………………………….11 Packing List………………………………………………………………………………………………..12 Frequently Asked Questions…………………………………………………………………………14 Airport pick up form………………………………………………………………………………….…15 Health forms………………………………………………………………………………………………16 Student Accommodation at UMass Lowell………………………………………………………26 Spring Housing Registration ……………………………………….………………………….……30 Checklist………………………………………………………………………………………………….…31

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Dear Incoming Navitas Student, Congratulations on your admission to Navitas at UMass Lowell. You have chosen to attend a premiere university in the United States which is nationally recognized for its research and academic programs. I am sure that you will be delighted with your decision to earn your degree here. At Navitas at UMass Lowell, you will be taught by some of the best college professors in the United States. You will be located on a dynamic campus along the Merrimack River, with access to all the recreation and social opportunities available on campus, throughout the historic city of Lowell, and across New England. The caring staff at Navitas at UMass Lowell is aware of the mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety that you must be experiencing now, and will experience as you settle in here. Our staff will provide you with a warm welcome and will continue to support you in your adjustment to life in both an American University and in magnificent Lowell. Please stay in touch with us over the next few weeks. We will be sending you information to make your arrival and stay as easy and pleasurable as possible. Please do not hesitate to ask us any questions that you might have. When you get your VISA, feel free to make your travel arrangements. If you require an airport pick up, please contact our admissions office with the details so that we can arrange for someone to meet you and bring you to campus. Once again, congratulations and welcome to our Navitas family. We are so pleased that you are joining us here at Navitas UMass Lowell and really look forward to meeting you soon. Sincerely,

Ellen J. O’Brien, Ed.D. Executive Director Navitas at UMass Lowell

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Studying and learning with Navitas at UMass Lowell At Navitas at UMass Lowell we understand that the transition to university-level study can be difficult. To assist you in developing the study skills necessary to successfully complete your program, Navitas and UMass Lowell offer a variety of support services. In your Navitas Program, you will take a full-time schedule, typically five courses per semester and any required laboratories. All Navitas instructors will have office hours where they can meet with you and address any concerns you have about your progress in the course. The small class size and specialized instruction will help you improve your skills. Meetings with academic advisors will happen throughout the semester as well. Student Involvement The university has over 100 clubs and organizations. Groups such as the Biology Club, Math Club, Society of Environmental Scientists, Indian Student Association, Association of Students of African Origin, International Student Organization, Cambodian American Student Association, Christian Student Fellowship, Latin American Student Association, Middle Eastern Student Association, Vietnamese Student Association, and French Club to name a few. Or join their Ballroom Dancing Club and partake in their annual Dancing with the UML Stars competition. Starting an Undergraduate or Graduate Club is an easy process. If there is currently no club or organization that matches your interest, you may consider organizing a new one. All about the City of Lowell State: Massachusetts Population: 105,167 Area: 14.54 Square Miles Currency: United States Dollar Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time Electricity: 120V Languages: English Religions: Over 40 religious groups including Catholic, Protestant (Baptist, Methodist, Episcopal), Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Greek Orthodox, and more. Climate: Lowell has a wonderfully diverse climate with warm summers, cold winters and a mild spring and fall. The unpredictable weather which can change very quickly is often a topic of polite conversation. The average low temperature is around 24°F (-4°C) and highest is around 85°F (29°C) over the year.

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Things to do: Boating, hiking, skiing, ice hockey, golf, soccer, biking, white water rafting, whale watching, live music concerts, Lowell Spinners Baseball games, visiting art galleries, and eight free festivals a year. Attractions in the surrounding area: Boston’s historic Freedom Trail, Fenway Park (home to the Boston Red Sox), the White Mountains, beaches, ski resorts, and Cape Cod. On-campus accommodations UMass Lowell guarantees you on-campus housing as a Navitas at UMass Lowell student. As a Navitas student your housing is coordinated for you. Please do not book any accommodation on your own. All Undergraduate students are required to stay on campus during their first year. In addition to a higher degree of academic success, students who live on campus tend to have a greater connection to the university, are more involved with the community, and take greater advantage of the services and extra-curricular activities available. There are also the special friendships and bonds you will make by living in on-campus housing. Residences All of the residence halls offer amenities and features that will help you stay focused on academics. The residence halls are only a short walk from the classroom buildings, dining halls, Tsongas Center, LeLacheur Baseball Park, Campus Recreation Center, the University Library and more. Each room includes a bed, dresser, desk, chair, and wardrobe. Rooms are wired for high-speed internet access, standard cable television, and for local and on campus calling; however, you must purchase your own phone and television. Many of the residence halls have common TV rooms, common laundry facilities and vending machine areas. Fox Hall has common kitchens that you may use if you would like to prepare your own meals. Academic Facilities Students who live on campus have the opportunity to spend more time in the academic rooms, computer rooms, libraries and the Centers for Learning and Academic Support Services (CLASS). Campus Dining Campus dining at UMass Lowell is varied and distinctive. There are eight locations to choose from, including 3 dining halls and 2 restaurants, which offer everything from made to order dinners, salad bars, grill, deli and fast food options. The meal plan will cover meals each day for the entire week of the semester. Between semesters, special arrangements will be made.

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Students under the age of 18 Enrolled students under the age of 18 are allowed to live on campus. All students under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign the housing contract as well as the health form allowing medical treatment for students. Shuttle bus The university shuttle bus will transport you around campus seven days a week. Any activity the university has to offer is only a quick shuttle trip away. Most buildings can be accessed by walking. Airport pickup We provide transportation from Boston Logan International Airport to UMass Lowell residence halls. To request pick up upon arrival to Boston Logan International Airport, please fill out the form online through the link given at the back of this packet send it to [email protected] at least one week before arrival.

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Orientation and Arrival to the United States Before the start of the semester, Navitas and UMass Lowell offer an orientation program to help you prepare for the semester. At orientation you will learn all you need to know about life at UMass Lowell. You will tour the campus, meet the staff of the International Students and Scholars office, set up a U.S. bank account and prepare to start the semester. Move-in and Check-in day: May 17th, 2015* Orientation will begin morning of: May 18th, 2015 If the weather conditions are severe, the University will be closed. In this case, the Check-in day will be moved to the following day. Please make sure to arrange accommodation for the night appropriately. If you would like to arrive in Lowell prior to the start of orientation, you will need to make arrangements for where to stay prior to moving into the residency. The Inn and Conference Center at UMass Lowell offers special discounts for UMass Lowell international students like you. In order to make a reservation, please visit https://booking.ihotelier.com/istay/istay.jsp?HotelID=73933. You will need to pay for your stay by credit card up on arrival. If you plan on traveling within the United States before the start of classes plan on arriving into the U.S. early and arriving in Lowell on time for orientation.

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Applying for your F-1 Student Visa It is necessary for non-U.S. citizens to have visas to enter the United States. To study in your Navitas at UMass Lowell program, you will need to apply for an F-1 visa. Visa applications are made at U. S. consulates or consular sections of U.S. embassies closest to an individual's place of residence. To apply for a visa you must have:        

A valid passport OR acceptable travel document Proof that you are the person identified by the passport Required photographs (please follow the embassy or consulates guidelines for these photos) Funds for any required fees Proof of prior education (transcript, diploma, etc.) A form I-20 (for F-1 visa) or DS-2019 (for J-1 visa) issued by UMass Lowell Proof of admission to that institution (letter of acceptance) Proof that you have sufficient funds to study (bank statements or bank letter)

You should be prepared to demonstrate that you have close ties to your home country and, as you are applying for a non-immigrant visa, that you have full intention of returning home after you complete your studies.

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Traveling to the United States Legal Documents to have in your possession: You may be asked to present all the following at the Port of Entry, so have them easily accessible in your carry-on along with your Airline Tickets:    

Passport Visa Document (Form I-20) - If the U.S. Embassy returned your visa document in a sealed envelope only to be opened by a U.S. Official at the U.S. Port of Entry, please honor this. UMass Lowell Admissions letter The Original Financial Documentation that you provided to U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

At the Port of Entry, the officer will return Form I-20 to you back. The Official at the Port of Entry will write “F-1” and “D/S” according to your visa type. Make sure they do this correctly before walking away. If they did not, politely ask them to do so. Also refer to the Port of Entry information sent to you by the UMass Lowell International Students and Scholars Office. Sometimes Customs and Border Protection agents may not appear friendly. Do not be nervous, calmly present the documents that the agents requests and answer any questions they ask you.

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Adjusting to your life at UMass Lowell Cultural Adjustment When you start your program at Navitas at UMass Lowell, it will be necessary to make a cultural adjustment. It is normal to miss your friends, your family and your home. The Navitas and UMass Lowell community will be here to help you adjust. Here are some ways you can help yourself culturally adjust to studying here. 

Be aware that you may experience some sadness or home sickness when you are studying with Navitas at UMass Lowell.



Have a tolerance for ambiguity and for differences. Remain open minded, flexible and adaptable. Try to suspend judgment until you have looked for the logical reasons behind differences. Be objective and perceptive.



Stay busy. Get involved with activities on the UMass Lowell campus. You may find that you can continue with the same sports or hobbies you did in your home country.



Find an American to be a “cultural informant” who will help you gain proper perspective. Be curious and ask questions about your new surroundings and the American customs. People will enjoy responding to your interest in understanding the American culture.



Focus on the positive things about UMass Lowell and living in the U.S.



Keep your self- confidence. Believe you can do it and keep in mind the many strengths and advantages you will have when you succeed with your studies in the United States.

Living with a roommate If you have never lived with a roommate before, there will be an adjustment period after you first move in. Don’t worry, many American students have never lived with a roommate before either, and living with a roommate can be a lot of fun. Here are some hints to living with a roommate:  

Be friendly - If you are nice and friendly to your roommate it is likely to be reciprocated. Be understanding - Try to see the motives behind your roommate’s actions and help if you can.

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    

Give your roommate some peace and quiet sometimes- It’s great to have conversation, however everyone needs time to be alone and of course, to study. Do not use your roommate’s belongings- If there is something that you would like to use, ask! Keep it clean- Help keep the room clean, no one wants to live in filth. Talk it out- If you are having a problem with your roommate, talk to them. A good relationship with your roommate will require some give and take. Treat you roommate as you wish to be treated- it is as easy as that.

How Much Money to Bring We recommend that you not carry more than $1000 in cash (the cash should include small bills.) You may want to keep the cash in two separate areas easily accessible to you. Be aware of your personal belongings at all times during your travel. It is unsafe to carry a lot of cash, so please try not to carry more than $1000. We will help you arrange for a bank account in Lowell in your first week so that money can be wired or deposited. Your on-campus meal plan provides for 19 meals per week during the regular semester. If you choose to eat off-campus, meals generally cost $5-10 for breakfast, $5-15 for lunch, and $10-40 for dinner. During certain US holiday periods, on-campus food choices will be limited.

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What to Pack and What to Purchase upon Your Arrival Navitas and UMass Lowell will organize a shopping trip after you arrive on campus and throughout the semester. You will have the opportunity to visit many different stores. See the list below of what you can purchase upon your arrival. What to bring with you: 1. 2. 3.

3-10 light shirts or T-shirts 2-4 pairs of pants (either light fabric or 2-3 pairs of jeans) 2-4 pairs of shorts (you may need them in the summer time- but not when you arrive) 4. 1 jacket or coat – it will be cold when you arrive 5. 5-10 long sleeve shirts or sweaters 6. 1-2 formal outfits (men should bring 1 dress blazer and 1 tie, which could be purchased here). You may want to bring a traditional formal outfit from your country for special cultural events. 7. Shoes can be bought in the U.S. at reasonable prices, but it will be helpful to bring a pair of sneakers or comfortable shoes, sandals, etc. as well as one dress pair of shoes. 8. 7-10 pairs of undergarments 9. 1-2 pairs of pajamas 10. Toiletries - toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, hair brush, deodorant, shampoo, shaving supplies, feminine protection, etc. 11. Medication - You will need to carry a doctor’s note for any prescription medication as you’ll need to present this at airport(s). Follow the immunization instructional information which was provided to you from the UMass Lowell Health Services Department. Here is their contact information in case you have any last minute questions, http://www.uml.edu/student-services/Health/Contact-Us.aspx 12. Your favorite music or books 13. Software, computer, educational material- a scientific calculator, a school bag or back pack. Computers are reasonably priced in the U.S. if you prefer to purchase one upon your arrival. Follow this link to learn more about the recommended hardware configuration and software to you will need at UMass Lowell. There are computer labs on campus that run Microsoft Office 2007 that you will be able to use. http://www.uml.edu/IT/Services/Hardware/Student-HardwareRecommendations-Software-Licenses.aspx 14. Electrical Equipment- outlets in the U.S. operate with a voltage of 110-120 volts, 60 cycles. If your equipment requires 220 volts, bring a converter and plug adapter. If it operates within 110 and 240 volts, bring a plug adaptor.

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Things you can purchase when you arrive: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

A warm coat for winter Any additional clothing Winter shoes and boots Bedding (extra long twin sheets, blankets, pillows) Additional toiletries Food Supplies to wash clothes School Supplies (pens, pencils, etc.)

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Frequently Asked Questions: Q: When should I come to the United States? A: You may enter the U.S. up to thirty days prior to start date found in “section 5” of your Form I-20, as long as you have a valid F-1 visa. You should make sure you are in Lowell, Massachusetts by the start date of orientation. Remember, you will not be able to move into your residency until May 17th, 2015. Q: Is the water safe to drink? A: Yes, almost everywhere in the United States has safe drinking water. There are water fountains all over campus for you to take a drink or fill up a water bottle.

Q: What banking options will I have in Lowell? A: There is a number of banks to choose from in Lowell, however most students use Bank of America because of their on-campus ATM locations. During the orientation you can meet with a Bank of America representative to learn about the banking options and sign up for an account.

Q: What will I need to do when I arrive? A: You must attend orientation starting on May 18th, so you may choose to rest up between the time you arrive and the start of the orientation program.

Q: What can I do if I am home sick? A: During your orientation you will learn about homesickness and how to deal with it while you study with Navitas at UMass Lowell. You will also hear about the free counseling services available to students of UMass Lowell.

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Request for Airport Pick-up

Whether you request an airport pick up or not, please proceed to the link below and fill out the required arrival confirmation form: http://www.uml.navitas.com/arrival-booking If you have any problems or concerns please feel free to contact our Student Administrative Support Officer Christopher Acha at: [email protected]

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Health Forms Letter Dear future Navitas student, Congratulations on being accepted to Navitas at UMass Lowell. Please note that our process of receiving your health forms has changed. Please do not send Health forms directly to Navitas at UMass Lowell. All students are required to fill out Health forms. Health forms can be mailed to the address below or students can bring forms to Orientation. UMass Lowell Student Health Services University Crossing Suite 300 220 Pawtucket Street Lowell, MA 01854 International Students: As authorized under the insurance laws for higher education, students in Massachusetts (section 275 of Chapter 151 of the Acts of 1996), the University of Massachusetts Lowell requires that all international students must enroll in the University’s Student Health Insurance Plan. Thank you for your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you the University. Sincerely, Kyle Lapham Student Services Officer Navitas at UMass Lowell

Health Services 220 Pawtucket St., Suite 300 Lowell, MA 01854-3091 (978) 934-6800

NOTE TO STUDENTS UNDER THE AGE OF 18: Normally, we do not notify the parents of a college student who is ill or treated in our Health Service. A college student, regardless of age, is considered an emancipated minor in the state of Massachusetts and parental permission is not necessary to render them medical care. However, we would like to have permission to treat you should you need medical attention, especially since it is not always possible to reach a parent/guardian by phone when a student requires immediate attention. If you will be a minor (under the age of 18) at the start of your first semester, please ask a parent or guardian to sign and date the “Consent for Treatment” form below and return it us with your completed medical forms.

CONSENT FOR TREATMENT (Complete ONLY if student will be under 18 years old at the start of the semester.) I hereby give permission for medical treatment for my dependent if an accident or illness should occur while he/she is a student at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. This includes referral to a local hospital or hospitalization should it be necessary and I am unable to be reached.

This permission shall be granted for the period of one academic semester and must be renewed every semester that my child is under the age of 18 and is a student at the University of Massachusetts Lowell.

________________________________________________________

______________

Child’s Full Name (please print)

Date of birth

_______________________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Name (please print)

_______________ Date

Parent/Guardian Signature:______________________________________________

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Student Accommodation at UMass Lowell Dear Student, Congratulations on your acceptance to the University of Massachusetts of Lowell. On behalf of the Navitas at UMass Lowell family I would like to extend a warm welcome. Living in the residence halls affects your entire experience at Navitas at UMass Lowell. Research shows that students who live on campus earn higher marks in their academics than those who do not. Students also feel more connected to the University Family. Navitas at UMass Lowell is dedicated to ensuring all students succeed in their pathways program and move on successfully to the University. As you begin the process of signing up for housing, we want to provide you information and suggestions on how you can be most helpful in this process. Please be aware of some basic information about the housing process: 









All First Year UPP undergraduate students are required to live on campus for their first year. First-year students live in residence halls, predominately in double or triple occupancy rooms -based on availability- in traditional halls (Please see next page for a description of Residence Halls). Typically, first year students are housed together in the same area; the skills and lifetime friendships you make will ease your transition into the University community. The student housing application is included in your packet. All incoming students must fill out and submit their application.  Please do NOT submit a housing deposit, this fee is waived from the application process. Student Housing is guaranteed for all students that submit their Housing forms. Housing Assignments will be provided upon check-in on May 17, 2015. Students looking to be housed together must submit a housing application and send an email to Christopher Acha, Student Administrative Support Officer, at [email protected]. The email must state the name(s) of your intended roommate(s), with each student sending an email, in order to be considered for a roommate placement.

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How to manage your assignment expectations:  

The first year of college in a new country can be an overwhelming and challenging experience. The University does its best to make sure your academic experience is desirable and comfortable. Please understand the Office of Residence Life does it’s best to accommodate all requests made by students. Once on campus you will have the opportunity to request a room change.

Room Changes: On-campus room assignments are for the entire academic year. The office of Residence Life will consider requests for room changes by the student after they you been in your residence for two weeks. Changes prior to that time will be considered only for Emergency or Health cases. Meal Plans:   

All students who are living in traditional style residence halls are required to be on a residential meal plan. You will be enrolled in the Platinum meal plan which comes with Riverhawk cash to spend across the campus. For more information on dining services and Meal plan options please visit: http://umasslowell.campusdish.com/Commerce/Catalog/ShopSubCategory.a spx?category=Student_Not_Required_to_Buy_6917&lid=6917&root=Meal_Pl an

Questions? If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact me. Please call 978-9341942 or email Christopher Acha at [email protected] Navitas at UMass Lowell believes that your living experience should be an exciting, and we look forward to working with you to make it as such. Good luck with your preparations to attend Navitas at University of Massachusetts Lowell. We look forward to greeting you. Sincerely, Christopher Acha Student Administrative Support Officer

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Brief Information of Residence Halls and Apartments Each residence hall offers a variety of room options and benefits: East Campus Bourgeois Hall  doubles, triples, and quads  easy access to the parking garage and bus stop Donahue Hall  four-person, six-person, and eight-person suites  each suite has its own bathroom and common area Fox Hall  doubles, triples, and quads  boasts the largest dining hall on campus Leitch Hall  singles (by medical request only), doubles, triples, and quads  First semester students only. Easy access to Campus Recreation Center University Suites  four and six person suites  steps from the Campus Rec Center Downtown Lowell The Inn and Conference Center at UMass Lowell  doubles and triples  private bathrooms and individual climate controls South Campus Concordia Hall  singles and doubles  great open common area on the first floor Riverview Suites  four and six person apartments  full kitchens, living rooms and bathrooms within each unit

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Sheehy Hall  four-person, six-person, and eight-person suites  convenient for anyone in a South Campus major For videos and more information on Residence Halls and Campus Apartments please visit: www.uml.edu/reslife

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How to Register for Summer Housing

As it was mentioned earlier all the First Year UPP undergraduate students are required to live on campus for their first year. Please be aware that now you have to register for Housing directly by submitting a Housing Contract online. Please click on the link below and follow further instructions. UMass Lowell - Summer Housing Link We do our best to meet your accommodation requirements. However, university housing often has a limited number of rooms with selected preferences, which are given to students on a first come first serve basis. This means that your preferences are not guaranteed. Please make sure to read the housing policy handbook prior your arrival on campus. When you arrive, you will be expected to complete a form that states that you read the handbook and understood the policies. The link to the handbook is provided below: http://www.uml.edu/docs/ORL%20Guidelines%202014-2015%20updated%209-214_tcm18-152655.pdf If you have any problems or concerns please feel free to contact our Student Administrative Support Officer Christopher Acha at: [email protected]

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Are you ready to go to Navitas at UMass Lowell?

Checklist what you must do before arrival: SEVIS Fee and make appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate Instruction from the ISSO is included in this packet. Go to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate and obtain F-1 Visa. Please notify Navitas as soon as you’ve received your visa. Initial Invoice for UPP Program Payment of your initial invoice is due within 14 days of receiving your F-1 visa, or by May 1st, whichever is earlier. Please note that you will not be enrolled in classes until your invoice has been paid in full. Payment by May 1st will prevent delays in your registration. Navitas 12 Month Housing Contract – return May 1st Please return your Housing Contract (by email) to Navitas at UMass Lowell by Friday, May 1st. We cannot secure campus accommodation at UMass Lowell for you without this form. Please note that all Navitas undergraduate students are required to live on campus during the first year while enrolled in the university pathways program. Please refer to Housing information sheet in this Packet to get more information about housing options. Please see the invoice included in this packet. UMass Lowell Health Forms Please submit your completed Health Forms, with all required immunizations, to Health Service Center (220 Pawtucket St., University Crossing, Suite 300, Lowell, MA 01854) by the first day of orientation, which is on Monday, May 18th. Students in the United States are not allowed to live on-campus or attend classes without these immunizations, so it is important that these are sent to us prior to your arrival on campus. If you have questions about the required immunizations, please feel free to contact Health Services Center via email at [email protected], or via phone number at 978-934-4991. Arrival Forms/ Airport Pickup Request – return by May 8th As soon as you have booked your flights, please email your Arrival Form with your travel plans to us. It is important that you confirm your travel plans as soon as 32 possible, so that we can plan for your arrival to campus. If you require an Airport Pickup from Boston Logan International Airport, you must also return the enclosed

Navitas at UMass Lowell

Airport Pickup Request by Friday, May 8th with your full flight itinerary. In order to reserve the Airport Pick-up, please proceed to the following link: http://www.uml.navitas.com/arrival-booking. The airport pick-up is $125 USD. Pre-Arrival Guide Summer 2015 This pre-arrival guide has been carefully prepared to provide you with important information about your program of study with Navitas at UMass Lowell, and is available online at: http://www.uml.navitas.com/images/PDF/orientation/Summer_2015_PreArrival_UPP.pdf

Checklist what you must do upon arrival: International Orientation is May 18th-19th Please make travel arrangements to arrive to Boston Logan International Airport no later than May 17th, 2015. Orientation, which is mandatory for all new students, begins on Monday, May 18th so you should plan to arrive in Lowell, Massachusetts before this date. The campus residence halls will be open for move-in between 9:00am-9:00pm on May 17th. Please note that if you arrive before May 17th, you will need to make arrangements for a place to stay until the residence halls are open. In case of arrival at the University after 9:00pm, you are responsible for your own overnight accommodation. Check in with the International Students and Scholars office (ISSO) Each semester ISSO requires each international student to register on the SEVIS system verifying enrollment as a full-time student and confirmation of US address. Failure to do this automatically cancels the student’s immigration status. All Navitas students must register with ISSO during Orientation. Required documents for check-in include: passport, I-20, visa, copies of I-94. I-94 information is available through www.cbp.gov/I94.