From aa46f7bf0048cfc944a9ff8a8de8b34ff1e6832e Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: newhacker1746 Date: Sun, 15 Mar 2026 01:44:43 -0400 Subject: [PATCH 1/2] feat: initial draft of intl students pages --- src/pages/MoochingOffCMU.md | 2 +- src/pages/example.md | 2 +- src/pages/internationals-1.md | 28 ++++++++++++ src/pages/internationals-2.md | 79 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ src/pages/internationals-3.md | 60 +++++++++++++++++++++++++ src/pages/internationals-4.md | 13 ++++++ src/pages/internationals-5.md | 85 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ src/pages/internationals-6.md | 41 +++++++++++++++++ src/pages/internationals-7.md | 45 +++++++++++++++++++ 9 files changed, 353 insertions(+), 2 deletions(-) create mode 100644 src/pages/internationals-1.md create mode 100644 src/pages/internationals-2.md create mode 100644 src/pages/internationals-3.md create mode 100644 src/pages/internationals-4.md create mode 100644 src/pages/internationals-5.md create mode 100644 src/pages/internationals-6.md create mode 100644 src/pages/internationals-7.md diff --git a/src/pages/MoochingOffCMU.md b/src/pages/MoochingOffCMU.md index 5322b22..13c1fc1 100644 --- a/src/pages/MoochingOffCMU.md +++ b/src/pages/MoochingOffCMU.md @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ --- category: Miscellaneous -categoryOrder: 4 +categoryOrder: 5 order: 1 title: Mooching off of CMU diff --git a/src/pages/example.md b/src/pages/example.md index 947c413..eceb706 100644 --- a/src/pages/example.md +++ b/src/pages/example.md @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ --- category: Examples -categoryOrder: 5 +categoryOrder: 6 order: 1 title: Example diff --git a/src/pages/internationals-1.md b/src/pages/internationals-1.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1b29792 --- /dev/null +++ b/src/pages/internationals-1.md @@ -0,0 +1,28 @@ +--- +category: International Students +categoryOrder: 4 +order: 1 + +title: "Intro & Terminology" +description: An International Student’s Guide to Carnegie Mellon University ! ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ +layout: ../layouts/Layout.astro +--- + +Hi and WELCOME TO CMU! Congratulations on your acceptance and I hope you’re super excited to be here! I’m writing this as an international student that knows the struggles of being incredibly lost amongst the hurdles and confusions we often face… which is why I put together this document! This information is a combination of my personal experience, as well as some from this previous doc. + +I’m not a university official – just a current undergraduate student – so if you have any official, financial, or legal queries, you should reach out to oie@andrew.cmu.edu. See you all very soon, and feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions about [this doc](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1khKHKXQRBGKQZ1zBSYGV8Bfi8wCEkVdBNq1YqxJwDXc/edit). Best of luck :) + +## Terminology and Vocabulary +- **AndrewID**: Your student ID at CMU. Used to log into most CMU websites. +- **AP**: Advanced Placement. A common standardised test in the US. +- **Units**: Similar to credits. Each class has a certain number of units. Passing that class earns you those units. +- **F-1**: A visa for non-immigrant international students in the US. +- **Gened**: General Education requirement. Courses in fields outside of your major. Vary depending on school. +Immigration Document: Your DS-2019, or your I-20. +- **J-1**: A visa for non-immigrant international students pursuing work- or study-based programs in the US. +Mailing address: CMU’s mailroom address + your SMC number, while you live on campus. +- **OIE**: Office of International Education. Handles all international student documents/queries. [link](https://www.cmu.edu/oie/myoie/index.html) +- **OIE Portal**: Also known as MyOIE. The page where you will upload all your international-related e-forms and information. [link] +- **SEVIS**: Student and Exchange Visitor Program. Department of US Customs dealing with international students. +- **SIO**: Student Information Online. Your portal for all of your personal information. [link](https://s3.andrew.cmu.edu/sio) +- **Travel signature**: A signature from an OIE advisor that permits you to return to the US after international travel. diff --git a/src/pages/internationals-2.md b/src/pages/internationals-2.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7393f82 --- /dev/null +++ b/src/pages/internationals-2.md @@ -0,0 +1,79 @@ +--- +category: International Students +categoryOrder: 4 +order: 2 + +title: "Visas" +description: An International Student’s Guide to Carnegie Mellon University ! ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ +layout: ../layouts/Layout.astro +--- + +This was probably the most coveted section in this document – the visa process can be complicated and hefty if you have no idea what to expect. Hopefully this is helpful to an extent and guides you through it as much as possible :) + +## Citizens of Canada and Bermuda +[ N.B. I am neither Canadian nor Bermudan, so this information is not from personal experience. It’s taken from a previous document and the [OIE website](https://www.cmu.edu/oie/pre-arrival-and-settling-in/students/instructions/visa.html), so I apologise for any inaccuracies. ] + +Citizens of Canada or Bermuda are not required to apply for an F-1 visa. You do require financial documentation and an I-20, and will need to pay the SEVIS fee [steps detailed in the next section], and will need all documents except a visa sticker to enter the US. + +You can drive to any border entry with your documents and request to enter the US on an F-1 visa. You will likely go through some sort of immigration process where they check your documents. If you are flying to the US, you will undergo immigration similar to other international travel. + +## Getting your travel documents +As a first-year undergraduate, you will probably be receiving an **F-1 student visa.** If you’re not, I don’t think this section will be very helpful for you, sorry :( I believe the J-1 is a similar process, so you might find some answers here, but for special cases involving different types of visas you may have to ask OIE directly. + +**You can’t start** anything visa-related **before you receive your AndrewID**, so if you’ve just enrolled/committed, don’t stress! You will probably start applying and such in late April at the earliest. Just make sure you **start early enough** that you receive everything you need well in time for your travel to CMU. + +Before you even start the visa process, OIE will ask you for **proof of financial support**. Since international students don’t receive financial aid, you will be paying a hefty amount in tuition and other expenses, so they require documents like savings accounts or salary documents to show proof of financial support, whatever your source of support is. These will be uploaded to your OIE Portal. [Here](https://www.cmu.edu/oie/pre-arrival-and-settling-in/students/instructions/financial-support.html) is a link to the guidelines for uploading these documents, and a list of what is/isn’t acceptable as proof of financial support. + +The first step towards your visa process is receiving your immigration document, which is your DS-2019, or I-20. As per the OIE website, you’ll get the DS-2019 if you are receiving government funding, which will then help you obtain a J-1 visa. Again, I’m not super knowledgeable on that process so this is as much as I can tell you. For most students, however, **you will receive an I-20.** + +First, you’ll need to **accept your offer of admission** and to pay enrollment. You can’t do this if you’re still deciding whether to commit or not. You will be required to complete your information and submit some necessary financial docs as well. Once you do this, you will be able to fill in and submit a request form for your initial document. [Here](https://www.cmu.edu/oie/myoie/initial-instructions.html) is a link to the instructions for the **New Student Initial Document Request E-Form**. It’s not too difficult - you fill in a form and submit it via your **OIE Portal**. Once you follow all of these steps, OIE should send you your **I-20 via email** within around six weeks. You will also receive something called a **SEVIS ID**, which is very important. [The I-20 will be several pages sent to you by email that you will need to __print out__.] + +Use your SEVIS ID to fill in the [SEVIS I-901](https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.html#) form. If you are applying for your F-1 or J-1 for the first time, you will need to pay a **$350 SEVIS fee** to get a visa. You can do this online using a credit/debit card. After paying, make sure you save and print the receipt! You will need your **confirmation of SEVIS payment** as part of your travel documentation. [This will also be a page you will be required to __print out__.] + +The next step is to **apply for a visa**. To do so, you will need to visit a [US Embassy or Consulate](https://www.usembassy.gov/). You should make sure you know well in advance where the nearest one is and any individual details/processes to do with your US Embassy, because it is likely that if a lot of people from your country are going to US universities, the visa process might be a lot longer and busier. The application process may differ from place to place, but typically requires you to make an appointment at the embassy and attend an interview. It is likely they will ask for your acceptance letter, I-20, and financial documents. Processing time with your passport can take anywhere from a few days to a few months depending on your embassy, so ensure you renew your passport and undertake any other such procedures beforehand. + +Once your embassy returns your passport with your **F-1 visa sticker**, you’re done! [This will be a page in your passport with a sticker.] Try to bookmark the page with this sticker for easier travel. Remember that your travel documents include your **F-1 visa sticker, I-20, passport, and SEVIS payment confirmation**. It can also be a good idea to carry your **acceptance or enrollment letter**, especially for your first time entering the US. + +## The visa interview +TBD + +## Travelling inside the US +You can travel inside the US with no restrictions. You do not need your passport, visa, or I-20 to travel within the country. You’re all good! + +## Travelling outside the US +It is fully possible to exit and re-enter the U.S. on your student visa – it’s multiple-entry. However, there is a process you have to go through pre-travel called obtaining a travel signature. + +When travelling outside the US, always make sure you have your I-20. It will not be checked when leaving the country, but is absolutely necessary to reenter. You will also need a **travel signature**, which is an online signature obtained from an OIE advisor allowing for entry back into the US. Before you travel, submit a **travel signature request** through your **OIE Portal** - you will receive a **signed document** in return. Make sure to __print and sign it__, and carry it with you when you travel. + +A travel signature is valid for 12 months for F-1 visa holders. This means you only need to request it once a year. Try to do so well in time before your travels, because near winter/summer breaks OIE is *swamped* with various travel queries and requests, and it can take a while for them to get back to you. + +You should also ensure you renew your passport well in time since you need it to be valid for at least 6 more months to enter the US. If your passport is close to expiring, you may face issues during reentry. It is possible to renew your passport both within and outside of the US, but plan this well so you have everything ready for travel! If your F-1 visa sticker is in an older/expired passport, it will remain valid, so make sure you **carry the passport with your visa as well as your valid passport** when you travel! + +Make sure to carry your most **up-to-date I-20, SEVIS documents, and passport** when you travel out of the country. You will also need appropriate visas for wherever you are travelling to - this is not affiliated with your F-1 in any way. Make sure your F-1 is valid before reentering the US. It is possible to renew your visa in another country, but if your visa expires and is not renewed, you will not be able to return to the US. + +A minor note rather than important info, but do remember you will be required to go through **immigration** + check-in at your port of entry in the US. This means if you fly to Pittsburgh via New York, you will be dealing with immigration at JFK Airport. You will be required to pick up your bags and go through all international security measures and such at JFK Airport. When you then take a domestic flight to Pittsburgh, you will not go through any of the above. If you fly directly to Pittsburgh, that’s where you’ll be going through the whole ordeal – just something to keep in mind. + +If you have questions about travelling/pre-booking travel, jump to *Breaks and Storage*. <-- URGENT: MAKE THIS A LINK + +[Here](https://www.cmu.edu/oie/travel/index.html) is the OIE page for all travel info. + +## Immunisation Requirements +All incoming students at CMU have to meet certain **immunisation requirements**, which are a series of standard vaccinations, such as measles or chickenpox. You can submit your immunisation records on [HealthConnect](https://www.cmu.edu/health-services/new-students/index.html#healthconnect) and will need to do so before a deadline that’s usually around August 15. You can view the list of requirements [here](https://www.cmu.edu/health-services/new-students/index.html#immunizations). + +However, some international students will also be required to **test for tuberculosis** to meet immunisation requirements. This is not a difficult procedure – you can get a TB test at your local clinic – and you will need to submit the results of this test also via HealthConnect. There is a list of countries where, if you have travelled to one or more in a past certain period of time, you will have to add a TB test to your list of immunisations. You can find more info once you log into HealthConnect and complete the TB questionnaire. + +## Full-time Enrollment +You need to maintain **full-time student status** and **remain in good standing** so as to maintain your F-1 status. This means two things: take a certain number of units, and maintain a certain GPA. + +“Full-time enrollment” means taking a minimum of 36 units in each semester. This equates to about 4-5 classes for most people, but may vary. It is possible to add/drop classes during the semester, but if your total number of units drops below 36, you will only be a part-time student, and this will revoke your F-1 status. This means your visa will be cancelled and you will not be allowed to stay in the US. [This all sounds very dramatic, but rarely happens. Just don’t drop multiple classes.] + +Maintaining good standing means not facing academic action. Requirements differ based on college, but if your GPA drops below about 2.0 for multiple semesters, you may be temporarily suspended. If this is the case, your F-1 will also be revoked. [Also sounds very dramatic - keep yourself above Ds and you’ll be alright.] + +## Working On- and Off-Campus +As far as I’m aware, it’s not possible for students on F-1 status to work off-campus at the moment. However, there are a multitude of on-campus jobs, internships, and paid research opportunities to take advantage of. + +You are allowed to work a **maximum of 20 hours/week**, and employment gives you the opportunity to apply for a Social Security Number, which opens up the possibility of starting a US credit account, amongst other things. An SSN also lets you apply to several other jobs, which may require one. + +After you graduate, you may be granted OPT – I’m not too knowledgeable on how this works, but it permits you to remain in the US to find long-term work for a short period of time. You can find some information about OPT on OIE’s website [here](https://www.cmu.edu/oie/employment/f1-students/opt-stem-opt-extension/pre-completion-opt.html). + +[Here](https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10181.pdf) is the SSA’s webpage on SSN info for international students. diff --git a/src/pages/internationals-3.md b/src/pages/internationals-3.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6b39f97 --- /dev/null +++ b/src/pages/internationals-3.md @@ -0,0 +1,60 @@ +--- +category: International Students +categoryOrder: 4 +order: 3 + +title: "International Curricula" +description: An International Student’s Guide to Carnegie Mellon University ! ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ +layout: ../layouts/Layout.astro +--- + +[ N.B. I’m only really familiar with A Levels and minorly with the IB and CBSE, so I’m sorry if this information isn’t comprehensive/applicable. I will try to get more people to add to this if needed. ] + +## How important are my internal grades? +Don’t fail. You probably don’t need to worry about being rescinded, though. + +Dropping from straight As to Bs and Cs is not uncommon and you’ll be alright. Generally, unless you fail a class or fail to graduate high school, you won’t be rescinded. Even if you don’t meet your predicted grades or drop by two letter grades, it’s unlikely you’ll face any serious action from the university. + +If you do have multiple Cs or a D, it’s possible CMU reaches out to you over the summer to ask what happened. Don’t panic as they can’t and won’t rescind you instantly without some kind of communication. At most, you may be asked to write a letter/essay explaining the circumstances, and go forward from there. + +If you fail a class and it impacts you graduating, there may be more serious action taken, but again, they won’t instantly rescind you. You may be required to take some kind of remedial courses at CMU. If it’s really serious, I don’t know what to tell you, but the vast majority of you will be just fine. + +A lot of you have been/will continue to ask: “But I have a B!” “I had all A*s before!” “My IB score dropped 8 points!” “What if I get a C?” “My predicted was an A…” Just reread what I wrote above. The answer will not change. No, not even if you get a C in maths, or drop 3 grades in Spanish. You will be fine. This is not worth worrying over unless you’ve really messed up. + +However, you also probably don’t want to give up on school entirely as CMU will punch you in the gut otherwise. Don’t stress, but losing your work ethic might lead to difficulties in the near future. + +## How important are my external grades? +Again, don’t fail. These do have an additional importance as compared to internal grades, though, and that is in regards to transfer credit. + +It’s possible for you to receive credit for some IB/A Level courses, and you can find more information on this in the *next section*. To receive credit, you need to achieve a certain grade [usually an A] so you might want to focus on keeping your grades up for this. + +If you fail one of your A Levels, you may be required to retake, or take a remedial course at CMU. It’s important you pass all the classes you’ve told CMU you’re taking, especially since there are probably only 3-7 [depending on curriculum.] Try to maintain your external exam grades as much as possible. + +As before, though, they won’t rescind you if you drop a grade or two, or don’t meet your predicted grade. As long as you pass, you’ll be fine. + +[ N.B. When I say they won’t rescind you, I’m talking about academic action. It normally takes a significant academic violation for serious action to be taken, and performing somewhat poorer than expected is not one. This does not apply to disciplinary violations. If you are caught cheating, or commit some sort of crime, you’re far more likely to experience serious consequences. ] + +## Transfer Credits +If you did APs in high school, you will be able to receive credits for them depending on the grade you achieved, and also possibly skip certain base-level or prerequisite classes. This is also true for **some** IB and A Level classes. + +You can find some info on transfer credit [here](https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/registration/ap-transfer-credit.html). There’s docs with details on which IB and A Level courses you can get credit for, the CMU courses they replace, and the minimum grade required for credit. However, credit transfer is often done on a case-by-case basis, and also depends on your specific college/major requirements. You may not be able to receive credit for certain geneds, or major-required classes – **your experience with this will vary**. This will involve a conversation with your advisor. + +To successfully transfer credit, you don’t really need to do much. After you’re assigned an advisor, you’ll meet with them over the summer to plan/confirm your schedule before **registration in late July**. During this time, you can let your advisor know what credits you’re coming in with and discuss transfer credit options. You’ll need to send your advisor a copy of your results, and possibly a transcript, and they will handle the credit process from there. + +Note that the PDF only has information on CIE A Levels, but it is still possible to receive credit for some Edexcel A Levels. Talk about it with your advisor, but you shouldn’t encounter any issues with having done Edexcel maths/physics/chemistry etc. I’m not sure if the same goes for UK-only exam boards like OCR and AQA, though. + +## The IELTS and TOEFL +The IELTS and the TOEFL are **two separate English standardised tests** that demonstrate proficiency in the language. It may be necessary to take one or the other, but both are never required. + +If you attended a high school where English was not the language of instruction, you may be required to take one of the tests. If you attended high school in a country where English is not the first language, and did not study English First Language as a subject in high school, you may also be required to take one of the tests. + +If you are fluent in English, you should not worry: these are very basic and relatively easy tests to ensure its takers understand and speak English as a first language. You should **consult with your advisor** about your school and whether you require proof of EFL proficiency. + +## First-Year Writing +You may also be confused about the required English courses and their similar course codes, so here’s a run-down of what they are and how to figure out which one(s) you’ll need to take. + +**Regardless of English proficiency**, you will be required to take **FYW** [First-Year Writing.] This is course **76-101** and is a **requirement for all freshmen** at CMU, domestic and international, and across all schools. It is almost impossible to come in with credit for this course and no A Level or IB will get you out of it. There are multiple options for this course, but that’s something you can learn about when looking at scheduling and not something international-specific. + +There’s also **76-102**, which is **Advanced First-Year Writing**. This is an optional alternative to 76-101 and you will need to apply over the summer to take this. As the name suggests, it’s a harder writing course and is typically taken by those that particularly enjoy writing or are studying English/Creative Writing/Professional Writing/etc. It’s not a requirement for anyone, but is something you might apply for if you’re interested in the subject. + +If you happen **not** to have an IELTS or TOEFL score, or are an ESL student, you **may be required** to take 76-100 [Reading and Writing in an Academic Context.] You may have to take a placement test beforehand to gauge your English proficiency, after which you will be placed in, or out of, 76-100 accordingly. This is a preparatory English course and **does not exempt you from FYW**. After completing 76-100, you will be **required to take FYW** [either 76-101 or 76-102.] Being an ESL student means you will be taking **two first-year English courses**. diff --git a/src/pages/internationals-4.md b/src/pages/internationals-4.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..53c5f0b --- /dev/null +++ b/src/pages/internationals-4.md @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ +--- +category: International Students +categoryOrder: 4 +order: 4 + +title: "The Office of International Education" +description: An International Student’s Guide to Carnegie Mellon University ! ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ +layout: ../layouts/Layout.astro +--- + +OIE has advisors who have appointments for meetings, should you need to do so, but they are almost always near-fully or fully booked. However, you can reach OIE by calling 412-268-5231 or emailing oie@andrew.cmu.edu and they are usually relatively timely with their responses. <-- TODO: make the phone number and email links + +**You will be assigned a specific OIE advisor** whom you can contact for all of your OIE queries. They will be in charge of dealing with your visa status and all related concerns. You will be able to contact them via their own email/phone number. diff --git a/src/pages/internationals-5.md b/src/pages/internationals-5.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..316d1dc --- /dev/null +++ b/src/pages/internationals-5.md @@ -0,0 +1,85 @@ +--- +category: International Students +categoryOrder: 4 +order: 5 + +title: "Living in the US" +description: An International Student’s Guide to Carnegie Mellon University ! ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ +layout: ../layouts/Layout.astro +--- + +## Housing +Housing is usually not an issue/query specific to international students. **All first-year students are required to live on-campus**, and so you will go through the same process as everyone else: you will be required to list your housing preferences, go through the housing lottery, etc. You may want to look for a roommate beforehand, or not. + +Dorm living will be an option for you all four years, the same as everyone else. However, many students elect to move off-campus at some point during these four years. This is also generally not an issue for international students, but you may have to go through some additional hoops in terms of paperwork. You may also be required to pay a slightly higher security deposit as an international, but housing shouldn’t be more expensive for you overall. + +You probably won’t be able to have your parents co-sign, so you might want to consider living with at least one non-international student whose parents can be a cosigner for your house. + +## Banking +It’s often a good idea to open a US bank account in addition to your international one. It makes a lot of transactions much easier and is also important for emergencies. Luckily, doing this is not too difficult. + +To open an account, you’ll need to visit the bank in person, and will likely also need your **passport, I-20, and CMU ID**, so go well-prepared. Most banks have options for student accounts which are often better suited in terms of fees and savings accounts, so you may want to opt for these. + +The two banks you’ll probably be choosing between are **Chase** and **PNC**. Chase Bank is more widespread across the US, while PNC is less so; however, PNC has multiple ATMs on and near campus, often making it more convenient. It’s up to you which you choose – I have an account in both, so nothing is stopping you from doing that either. Both banks have conveniently located branches, about 5-10 minutes walking distance from campus. + +### Credit cards +Conventionally, credit card issuers **require a Social Security Number (SSN)** to open a line of credit. If you want to develop a credit history/credit score or access U.S. CC perks, you can obtain an SSN with on-campus employment. + +However, it's been reported that there is actually a mainstream exception to this. **Bank of America** *has* issued credit cards to CMU international students without SSNs. You can apply to any of their credit cards, though you may want to consider their student cards specifically. **You cannot apply online** under this exception; **you must visit a location in-person** (very nearby). You will need to bring various documents and information; you can visit or call them to ask or try to consult [this](https://wallethub.com/answers/cc/bank-of-america-credit-card-without-ssn-1000432-2140674196/) article (no guarantees). + +There are also other issuers that *may* issue them without SSNs, though their stipulations are more complex (almost certainly requiring an ITIN, which you can only get if you have some tax obligation to the U.S). If you really want to, [here](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/best-credit-cards-without-ssn/) is a 2026 article with some more, or you can research for other options, though they won't be anywhere near as easy as Bank of America's offer--I (Lee) personally know various international students who got theirs easily with them. + +## Health Insurance +CMU requires you to have some form of **medical insurance**. You may notice that a lot of domestic students have external providers for this – this is possible for you, but not recommended. + +CMU has **SHIP** [Student Health Insurance Plan], which provides most basic health insurance needs. If you do not provide proof of a different health insurance plan, you will automatically be enrolled in SHIP. It is on the expensive side, but most external providers may not be available to you, as an international, or may not have all the basic coverage you need. Essentially, it’s recommended you just enroll in SHIP, as expensive as it may be. It will cover your needs in the case of most emergencies. [I do say this from experience – SHIP has covered a lot of my emergency medical costs to date.] + +The basic SHIP plan **does not cover vision** or **dental insurance**. You can **add** one or both of these at an **additional cost**, but you may want to consider if this is worth it. Personally, I schedule all my vision and dental appointments at home, for cheaper and with my trusted doctors, and so don’t require either of these plans. If you won’t be visiting home during breaks, or this isn’t an option for you, then you should consider the vision/dental plans. + +You can find more information on SHIP and its plans [here](https://www.cmu.edu/health-services/student-insurance/plans.html). + + +## Drivers' Licenses [and other IDs] +When places (like banks) ask you for your ID, your **go-to** is probably going to be your **passport** until/unless you get a US drivers’ license. Unfortunately, I can’t drive, nor do I have a US ID, so I actually have no idea how this works… sorry! If you do please reach out and help me with this section D: + +## Addresses and Mailing +You may be required to **provide a US address** in certain forms, or for certain purposes. You have **two US addresses** at the moment, only one of which is residential: your **dorm address**. You also have a **mailing address**. These are two separate things used for separate purposes, and this is very important. There’s also the CMU campus address, but this is not one of your personal addresses. Lastly, you have a **permanent address**, which is where you live back home. + +First of all, you can check your registered addresses in SIO under a tab called “My Info.” Under “permanent address,” you should see your home address in your country of residence. If you move, SIO will require you to **update this**. This is the only address you are able to update manually, and you should ensure you do so, keeping it accurate at all times. + +Under “campus address,” you will see your mailing address. This is automatically assigned to you and cannot be changed. If you’re not already familiar, CMU has a mailroom [more on this later] with individual mailboxes for students on campus. Your mailing address will be CMU’s mailroom address as well as your **SMC number**. It will also have a different zip code to CMU’s address and your dorm address. + +You will also notice a tab called “off campus residence.” This is only applicable if/when you move off-campus and is pretty self-explanatory; it’s your off-campus address in the US. You will not have one during your first year at all, so don’t worry if it’s blank. + +Now, as for what the actual addresses are, and when to use them: + +- **CMU campus address**: 5000 *OR* 5032 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, ZIP 15213 + +This address isn’t used often on forms requiring personal information. Only use this address if something or someone specifically asks for the university’s address. Do not use this as either a residential or a mailing address, because packages cannot be received here, nor do you live here. It’s a vague address that essentially just is CMU’s location. + +- **US residential address:** Depends on your dorm. The zip code remains 15213. + +If a form asks for a permanent address in the US, your only option is to provide your dorm address. For first year housing, it’s formatted like this: + +[DORM NAME], [STREET NAME], Pittsburgh, PA, ZIP 15213 + +All housing on **The Hill** [Scobell House, Welch House, Henderson House, Hamerschlag House, Boss House, and McGill House] as well as **Donner** House, **Margaret Morrison** Houses, **Resnik** House, and **West Wing** House is located on **Margaret Morrison Street**. + +**Morewood Gardens**, Morewood **E-**Tower, **Stever** House, and **Mudge** House are located on **Morewood Avenue**. + +**Residence on Fifth** and **Clyde** House are located on **Fifth Avenue**. + +- **Permanent address:** Your home address + +As stated above, this is where you stay when you’re not at CMU, and is usually your parents’ address. On the uncommon occasion where you’re an international student residing in the US, this may then be a US address. In this case, you should use this as your permanent US address when asked. + +- **Mailing address:** 5032 Forbes Avenue, SMC [YOUR SMC NUMBER], Pittsburgh, PA ZIP 15289 + +This is the **only address at which you can receive mail** at CMU. Note the change in zip code: CMU’s mailroom has its own, and you must use it when filling in any mailing/shipping information, else you will not receive any deliveries. You can find your SMC number on SIO under “campus address.” + +The mailroom is located in the basement of the UC building, and has mailboxes as well as a package pickup counter. If you receive letters/mail, they will be sent to your mailbox, which is a box with your SMC number on it. It will remain assigned to you the entire duration of your stay on campus. Larger packages are required to be picked up at the counter. You will need to know your SMC number and to have your CMU ID with you to pick them up. Once you move off campus, you will no longer have an SMC number and no mail will be delivered to the mailroom. You should then update your mailing address to be wherever you are residing off campus. + +When you start open enrollment for your CMU health insurance, you will be required to provide an address for your insurance card to be shipped to. As this involves a package being sent and received, you must **provide your mailing address**. You should ensure you receive and pick up the card from your mailbox. The same applies to any credit or debit cards you may receive in the mail if/when you open a local bank account[s]. + +## Phone Plans +WIP diff --git a/src/pages/internationals-6.md b/src/pages/internationals-6.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f85f20d --- /dev/null +++ b/src/pages/internationals-6.md @@ -0,0 +1,41 @@ +--- +category: International Students +categoryOrder: 4 +order: 6 + +title: "Clubs and Orgs" +description: An International Student’s Guide to Carnegie Mellon University ! ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ +layout: ../layouts/Layout.astro +--- + +CMU has a variety of cultural organisations and such which you may be interested in joining. While this list is by no means exhaustive, here are some of the ones I’m aware of that you might want to look at. You can find more on [TartanConnect](https://tartanconnect.cmu.edu/club_signup). [I apologise if I missed out on any – feel free to let me know and they will be added!] + +## Religiously-affiliated Student Organisations +CMU is quite diverse and has its **MSA** [Muslim Student Association], **Om** [Hindu students], **Chabad at CMU** [Jewish students], and various **Christian student organisations**. I do not believe there is a Sikh student association – however, there is one at Pitt that I believe is also open to CMU students. There are various places of worship, including a buddhist centre, a synagogue, and several churches in the vicinity of campus. I believe the nearest Hindu temple is about half an hour’s drive away. + +## Cultural Organisations +CMU has various cultural organisations, including **ASA** [Asian Student Association], **SALSA** [Spanish and Latin Student Association], **CMU MENA** [Middle Eastern and North African students], and **SPIRIT** [Black students]. + +There are also several others, such as **Siam** [Thai students], **CSA** [Chinese Student Association], **Mayur SASA** [South Asian Student Association], **SSA** [Singaporean Student Association], **CSO** [Colombian Student Organisation], **TSA** [Taiwanese Student Association], etc. There are many more that may not be listed here, but you can definitely find them on TartanConnect or at the club fair! + +There’s also **SASE** [Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers], but I’m not aware of any other such similar organisations. The main thing is that you’ll surely be able to find a community here at CMU :) + +## Cultural Arts +CMU also has a variety of cultural dance groups/teams. They’re open to people of all backgrounds but are a great way to meet new people and engage in a variety of cultures! Here’s a non-comprehensive list of some examples: + +- **SPIRIT Dance** [hip-hop dance group for black students] +- **Tartan Salsa** +- CMU **Bhangra, Raasta, Abhinaya, Jiya, and Sahara** [different forms of Indian dances] +- CMU **KPDC** [K-Pop Dance Crew] + +Some cultural organisations like **Siam** and **JSA** [Japanese Student Organisation] also often put on student-led cultural dance performances for certain events. + +CMU also has some martial arts groups, including: + +- **Wushu Club** [Chinese martial arts with a focus on taolu] +- **Taekwondo Club** +- **Aikido Club** [I’m unsure if this still exists] + +You can also take karate classes in the Department of Athletics! + +I also know of **CMU Saans**, which is a South Asian acapella group on campus. It’s highly possible there are other similar organisations but I’m not aware of any at the moment. diff --git a/src/pages/internationals-7.md b/src/pages/internationals-7.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..4482038 --- /dev/null +++ b/src/pages/internationals-7.md @@ -0,0 +1,45 @@ +--- +category: International Students +categoryOrder: 4 +order: 7 + +title: "Miscellaneous & Credits" +description: An International Student’s Guide to Carnegie Mellon University ! ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ +layout: ../layouts/Layout.astro +--- + +## Move-in +**Move-in day** for international students is the **same as for all other students**, and is usually on the weekend before orientation week. This year, that's **NOT RELEASED YET** (DD/MM/YY). If, for whatever reason, you need to move in later, you can request to do so and it may be granted. It is a good idea to get there well before move-in so you can shop beforehand and be prepared! + +You may be far more limited than a lot of domestic students in terms of bringing things to campus due to flight restrictions, so shopping for storage needs and bedding may be something you do a couple of days before move-in. I hope you’re travelling with your parents, as every department store within a 30 mile radius of campus is raided for about a month before move-in. It’s a good idea to go to one slightly further away [hopefully you can do this] to do all your necessary shopping. + +## Breaks and Storage +Whether or not you travel over breaks [summer, winter, spring, fall, Thanksgiving, etc.] is up to you. It’s very common for international students to return home during winter and/or summer, but not so much other breaks due to long travel times and only week-long breaks. + +You can pre-book your tickets for winter and summer break if you know you will be going home/travelling. Return tickets are often cheaper and many students opt to book their flights well in advance. Just make sure you take a look at the academic calendar for the year and book your flight for after the final day of exams, but not too long after, as you will not be allowed in your dorm about 1 or 2 days after the semester ends. Many international students fly out around December 17th or 18th for winter break as that’s usually the day after the last exams. +You can opt to stay at CMU over winter break if you wish. Winter Break Housing typically costs about $500 and I believe you get to stay in your own dorm room over the entire break. Whether or not you are staying, you may leave your belongings in your room over winter break for no additional cost. If you opt not to stay, your ID card will stop working for your room door a couple days after the semester ends and you will only regain access a couple of days before the spring semester begins. + +You are not obligated to vacate your room for spring/fall break, or for Thanksgiving. You may continue to stay for all holidays at no cost, as well as leave all belongings in your room. + +You are required to vacate your room entirely over the summer. This means you will lose access to your dorm entirely, and you must remove all belongings and leave the room as you found it. Don’t drill any holes into the walls, as you will be required to pay for any damage! + +## What should I bring? +This is covered in <-- TO DO: LINK KAVYAS GUIDE that hasn't yet been markdowned + +## Do I get merch? +Maybe! More and more international students have been receiving acceptance packages by mail with a variety of stickers, letters, etc. Some ED international students also received the fat letter, but many, including myself, did not. So there’s nothing conclusive there, but as far as I’m aware, it depends on how far away you live. Canadians, South Americans, and some European internationals might be able to receive mail, but for us in Asia… I don’t think so Date: Sun, 15 Mar 2026 02:59:12 -0400 Subject: [PATCH 2/2] fix: add original gdoc owner credit on the first page of the set --- src/pages/internationals-1.md | 1 + 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+) diff --git a/src/pages/internationals-1.md b/src/pages/internationals-1.md index 1b29792..13b4320 100644 --- a/src/pages/internationals-1.md +++ b/src/pages/internationals-1.md @@ -5,6 +5,7 @@ order: 1 title: "Intro & Terminology" description: An International Student’s Guide to Carnegie Mellon University ! ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ + Original Doc by Mya '26+ layout: ../layouts/Layout.astro ---