Content Page How to use the Services Provided by UC International Services ...... Inside Front Cover Welcome to the University of Cincinnati ...... 1 I. Immigration Issues Important Immigration Documents ...... 2 Certi cate of Eligibility ...... 2 I-94 Arrival/Departure Record ...... 2 Passport ...... 2 Visa ...... 2 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) ...... 3 SEVIS Fee ...... 3 Who Must Pay the Fee ...... 3 Fee Payment Process ...... 3 Visa Application and Initial Admission to the United States 5 Visa Application Process ...... 5 Security Checks ...... 6 US-VISIT Entry/Exit System ...... 8 Upon Arrival in the U.S ...... 8 Secondary Inspection Requirements ...... 19 Upon Departure ...... 10 If you are Currently in the United States ...... 10 F-1 and J-1 Students ...... 10 All Other Non-Immigrant Visa Classi cations ...... 10 Special Registration Requirements for Certain Non-Immigrants ...... 10 Who is required to be Registered? ...... 10 What are the Requirements? ...... 10 Frequently Asked Questions about NSEERS ...... 12 Maintaining Your Status ...... 14 Requirements ...... 14 Students Not Subject to Passport and Visa Requirements ...... 16 Temporary Admission with Form 515-A ...... 16 Visa Expiration/Renewal ...... 16 Traveling Outside the U.S...... 16 Visits for Spouse and Children ...... 17 Optional Practical Training/Academic Training ...... 18 Curricular Practical Training ...... 19 A Few Words of Advice ...... 19 iStart e-Form Services...... 20 II. Packing and Travel What to Bring to the U.S...... 22 Clothing ...... 22 Finances ...... 22 Special Items ...... 22 Linens, Beddings and Room Furnishings ...... 23 Tips on Travel ...... 23 Housing ...... 24 On-Campus Housing ...... 24 Building and Floor Information ...... 24 Housing and Meal Plan Rates ...... 25 Independent Meal Plans ...... 25 Graduate and Family Housing ...... 26 Temporary Housing ...... 27 Off-Campus Housing ...... 27 Estimated Annual Expenses ...... 28 Money and Banking ...... 31 Banks ...... 31 Types of Accounts ...... 32 Foreign Currency ...... 33 III. Arrival in Cincinnati How to Get to UC ...... 33 Things to do During Your First Weeks ...... 34 Welcome Activities ...... 34 How to Get a UC Student ID ...... 35 IV. Taxation Issues Important Dates, Documents, and Forms ...... 36 V. For Assistance On-campus Assistance ...... 37 Tenant-landlord Issues ...... 37 General Legal Counseling ...... 37 Cultural Adjustment and Other Issues ...... 37 Campus Security ...... 37 Night Walk ...... 38 Health Care Issues ...... 38 University Health Services ...... 38 Student Health Insurance ...... 38 Compulsory Health Screening ...... 39 VI. Living in the U.S. Cultural Issues ...... 39 Social Invitations ...... 40 Hygiene ...... 40 Individualism and Privacy ...... 40 Directness and Assertiveness ...... 40 Friendship and Dating ...... 41 American Holidays ...... 41 Major Holidays Explained ...... 41 Academic Issues ...... 43 The Oral English Pro ciency Test (OEPT) ...... 43 Cultural Differences in the Classroom ...... 44 De nitions of Important Terms ...... 45 Vacations and Breaks ...... 46 Employment Opportunities ...... 46 Special Events & Programs ...... 46 Worldfest Celebration ...... 46 International Friendship Program ...... 47 International Education Week ...... 47 UC International Services listserv "The Advisor" ...... 47 International Student Organizations ...... 47 Campus Services and Attractions...... 48 Campus Tours ...... 48 On-Campus Dining ...... 48 On-Campus Attractions ...... 49 Flex $$ or Bearcat Cards ...... 49 Emergency Assistance ...... 49 Parking ...... 49 Shuttle Bus Service ...... 49 Stores ...... 49 Mail ...... 50 Recreation/Exercise ...... 50 Student Pro les ...... 50 About Cincinnati ...... 51 The City ...... 51 Winter Weather Health Tips ...... 52 Coping with the Effects of the Dry Air ...... 53 Transportation ...... 53 How to Obtain an Ohio Driver’s License ...... 55 Auto Insurance ...... 56 Dining ...... 56 Bars and Coffee Shops ...... 56 Restaurants ...... 57 Entertainment ...... 63 Amusement Parks ...... 63 Dance ...... 63 Festivals in Cincinnati ...... 63 Fine Arts ...... 64 Local Sports ...... 65 Movies ...... 65 Museums and Other Attractions ...... 65 Music ...... 66 Theater ...... 67 Parks ...... 67 Discounts ...... 68 Shopping ...... 69 Bookstores Off-Campus ...... 69 Clothing ...... 69 Food Shops ...... 69 Grocery and Drug Stores ...... 70 Ice Cream, Bakeries, and Sweetshops ...... 71 VII. Useful Web Sites ...... 71 University of Cincinnati ...... 71 The City of Cincinnati ...... 71 Appendices Campus Map (West Campus) ...... 73 Campus Map (East Campus) ...... 74 Form I-20...... 75 Form DS-2019 ...... 76 Map of Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport ...... 77 Advertisements Barlett & Weigle Co., L.P.A...... 13 Hammond Law Group LLC...... 13 . PNC Bank...... 30 CINCO Credit Union ...... 31 Efollet/ University of Cincinnati Bookstores...... 45 METRO Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority...... 54 The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra...... 64 UC Mobile ...... Inside Back Cover Welcome to the University of Cincinnati

The International Student Handbook has been prepared by the staff of UC International Services. All of us at UC International Services join the faculty, staff, and students in welcoming you to the Uni ver si ty of Cin cin nati. We hope that your stay here will be both pleasant and successful. This handbook has been prepared in an attempt to provide you with the information you will need to begin your studies at the University of Cincinnati and to explain those situations most frequently en coun tered by our Uni ver si ty of Cincinnati international students. Please take the time to read the handbook care ful ly. The University of Cincinnati is a large and exciting international community. During 2009-2010, 2,316 stu dents from over 120 different countries were on campus. UC International Services staff members advise international stu dents on a wide range of topics, including immigration matters, social and cultural dif fer enc es,  nan cial mat ters, and personal concerns. We provide pro grams designed to help students and their families adjust quickly to life in the United States. A listserv designed speci cally for international students (The Advisor) will keep you up-to-date regarding ed u ca tion al, social, and cultural activities and chang es in im mi gra tion reg u la tions. Please make sure you subscribe to the listserv upon your arrival. You should know that international students who chose UC have a very high rate of satisfaction with their choice. In the latest International Student Barometer (ISB) survey, a global benchmarking study of international student satisfaction, UC has consistently been ranked #1 in overall student satisfaction against a world-wide benchmark. This is the second consecutive year UC has scored as a top destination university. You will have the opportunity to participate in the ISB and to let us know what you think of UC once you enroll. UC International Services is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. We are located in Room 3134 Edwards Center One. Our phone number is (513) 556-4278. If you wish to meet with a staff member, you should call and make an ap point ment. We encourage you to make an appointment whenever possible. Be sure to bring your passport and im mi gra tion papers with you when you visit the of ce, especially if your question is about im mi gra tion regulations. Important Note

There are other University and departmental rules and regulations you will need to follow. Please con sult the University Graduate Handbook and your departmental handbook upon arrival for guide lines. If you want even more information about the University of Cincinnati or about being an international stu dent, we en cour age you to visit our home page at http://www.uc.edu/international/services. Again, welcome to the University of Cincinnati, and best wishes for a successful academic and per son al experience. UC International Services Staff

Director: Ronald B. Cushing Assistant Director: James Tenney Advisors: Deborah Jones, Jennifer Kutzko, Janet Schneider,Andrea Siouris Program Coordinator: Kelly Waikel Receptionist: Greg Williams Graduate Assistants: Collin Noronha, Corri Monks, Stephanie Talbot, Zach Darrow Student Helper: Sarah Bickers (Credited with Cover Design)

1 I. Immigration Issues Important Immigration Documents

Certi cate of Eligibility

Form I-20: Certi cate of Eligibility for F-1 Visa Form DS-2019: Certi cate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (J-1 Visa) These documents are issued by UC International Services. Uses: 1. To obtain an F-1 or J-1 visa from the American Embassy/Consulate in your home country. 2. To enter the country for the  rst time. 3. To re-enter after a short visit outside the U.S. 4. To transfer to another school. 5. For entry of family (spouse, children). 6. To extend expected program end/activity date. Note: The I-20 or DS-2019 you have been issued is only good for the quarter indicated. If you do not arrive by the date indicated, you must return the form to UC International Services. I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

The I-94 card is a small white card given to you when you enter the U.S. The immigration of cer will stamp the card and write your visa classi cation and the expiration date of your authorized stay in the U.S. • You must be in possession of your I-94 card at all times. Do not lose this card. If you do, you will need to apply for a replacement card. You must complete an application form (I-102) which can be obtained from UC International Services or the Department of Homeland Security to replace the card. A fee of $320 must be submitted with the application. After details of your entry are veri ed, a new I-94 will be mailed to you. UC International Services will assist you with this process. • You will receive a new I-94 card each time you re-enter the U.S. You must provide UC International Services with a copy of all new I-94 cards you receive during your stay in the U.S. • All students should have F-1 (exchange students J-1) written as the visa classi cation. • The card should also have an indication of "D/S”. It stands for “duration of status” and means the period during which the student is pursuing a full course of study, plus one year for optional practical training (18 months to three years for J-1 students), and 60 days in which to depart the country (30 days for J-1 students). Passport

A passport is your country’s identi cation of you as a citizen. Your passport must remain valid at all times. It is not allowed to expire. You may renew it by contacting your Embassy/Consulate within the U.S. Visa

A visa is a stamp placed in your passport by an of cial of the United States (or the country you are entering) permitting you entry. You must have a valid visa to enter the United States (unless you are visa exempt). How ev er, unlike a passport, once you are in the U.S., your visa is allowed to expire.

2 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a national tracking/monitoring system that allows the U.S. government to monitor and track various events of all F-1 and J-1 students during their program of study. In addition to biographical information, the University of Cincinnati will be required to provide information regarding a student’s academic program, enrollment status, and immigration activities. You will learn more about SEVIS at orientation upon arrival at UC. However, before you enter the U.S., you need to un der stand that once you have arrived, you must be committed to fol low ing all the rules related to your status. Any violations of status will be reported to the U.S. government. Stu dents who do what is required of their status will not be greatly affected by SEVIS. SEVIS Fee

Before applying for an F-1 or J-1 visa, you will be required to pay a fee, called the “SEVIS fee”, to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Students seeking an F-1 visa need to pay the $200 SEVIS fee. Students seeking a J-1 visa need to pay the $180 SEVIS fee. Individuals who are not required to obtain a visa (Canadian students) will be required to pay this fee before entering the United States. The fee can be paid by mail, using Form I-901, or by credit card through the internet. If your visa has been denied, you do not need to pay the fee again if you re-apply for the visa within 12 months of the denial. Who must Pay the Fee

You will be required to pay this fee if:

· You are seeking an F-1 or J-1 visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate for initial attendance at a university or initial participation in an exchange program. The fee must be paid before applying for the visa. · You will enter the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status, but are not required to have a visa. The fee must be paid before you apply for admission to the U.S. · You are applying for a change of status to F-1 or J-1. The fee must be paid before you submit your change of status application.

The fee is NOT required:

· For F-2 or J-2 dependents. · For J-1 participants in an exchange program sponsored by the U.S. federal government. · If your immigration status is F-1 or J-1 and you are transferring to another school, program, or program category. · If you are requesting an extension of your program or course of study. · If you paid the fee but your application for an F-1 or J-1 visa was denied and you are re-applying for the same status within 12 months of the denial. Fee Payment Process

Option #1: Payment by Credit Card DHS has set up a website on the internet to accept electronic submission of Form I-901 and payment of the SEVIS fee using a credit card. Go to http://www.fmjfee.com. We strongly recommend that you use this option if possible. Follow the on-line instructions. Print out the payment screen to verify your payment. Take the payment veri cation printout with you to your visa interview. 3 Option #2: Payment by Western Union This option allows Western Union to collect the SEVIS fee in local currency. This option is only available in countries where Western Union offers its “Quick Pay” service. A properly completed Western Union receipt serves as immediate proof of payment for the visa interview. You must request a “Blue Form” by clicking on “Payment Services” or “Quick Pay.” More instructions for paying using this option can be found on the SEVIS web site at http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901/wu_instr.htm. To  nd the nearest Western Union agent location go to http://www.payment-solutions.com/agent.asp Option #3: Payment by Check or Money Order When paying by check or money order there are two options: A. Internet-generated coupon. Students can go to the fee payment website (http://www.fmjfee.com), enter basic information, print out a coupon, and then mail a check or money order with the coupon to a lock-box address in Missouri. Once the information and fee are processed, SEVIS will then be updated with the fee payment information. B. Paper option. Students can download or otherwise obtain Form I-901,  ll it in, and mail it, with a check or money order, to the speci ed address in Missouri. Once the information and fee are processed, SEVIS will then be updated with the fee payment information. In both cases, a receipt notice will be issued when the fee is processed. The mailing addresses for paying by check or money order using the coupon or the paper Form I-901 are:

P.O. Box Address: Street Address for Courier/Express Delivery: I-901 Student/Exchange Visitor Processing Fee I-901 Student/Exchange Visitor Processing Fee P.O. Box 970020 1005 Convention Plaza St. Louis, MO 63197-0020 St. Louis, MO 63101

Check Speci cs: All checks and money orders must be: • Payable to the “I-901 Student/Exchange Visitor Processing Fee”. • Only checks and money orders may be used when paying by mail. • The check or money order must be made in U.S. dollars and drawn on a bank located in the U.S. Payment of the SEVIS fee is not limited to the student. DHS will accept fee payment from a third party individual or institution, either in the United States or abroad, using any of the options above. The fee must be paid at least three business days prior to the scheduled date of your visa interview in order for the payment information to show up on the SEVIS system. You should bring your I-901 receipt with you to your visa interview. The paper receipt can be used as veri cation in place of the internet veri cation. Completing Form I-901: A. You must have a Form I-20 or DS-2019 in order to complete the I-901. B. You must have the University of Cincinnati’s School Code. For F-1 students (I-20's) our School Codes are CLE214F10355000 (Main Campus), CLE214F10355001 (Raymond Walters) and CLE214F10355002 (Clermont College). For J-1 students (DS-2019) the school code is P-1- 00733. Students from Canada or Bermuda:

4 Students from Canada and Bermuda are exempt from having to apply for a visa. In addition to your I-20 or DS-2019 Form, you will have to provide the SEVIS fee payment veri cation to an immigration inspector at the port of entry when applying for entry into the United States as an F-1 or J-1 student. If your Visa is Denied: If your visa is denied you may reapply for the visa within a 12-month period without having to pay the SEVIS fee again. Dependents: If you have obtained an I-20 or DS-2019 for a spouse or children, they do not have to pay a SEVIS fee in order to apply for an F-2 or J-2 visa. If Admitted to More than One School: If you have been accepted to more than one institution and paid the fee using the SEVIS ID number of another institution but you wish to attend UC, you will not have to pay the fee again. You can have the fee transfered to your UC SEVIS number. Instructions for doing this can be found at http://www.ice.gov/ sevis/i901/faq7.htm#_Toc81222153.

Visa Application and Initial Admission to the United States

Visa Application Process

Upon receipt of your Certi cate of Eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019) you will need to pay the $200 SEVIS fee ($180 for J-1 students) and obtain a receipt. You will then need to make an appointment with the American Consulate or Embassy having jurisdiction over your place of permanent residence. Although you may apply at any U.S. Consular of ce abroad, it may be more dif cult to qualify for the visa outside the country of permanent residence.

Before you apply for the visa, you should understand the process and the rules governing visas. Many visa applications fail. In some countries, most applications fail. Often it is because the student did not know the rules or was not prepared. We do not want this to happen to you. Please read what follows very carefully.

The consular of cer will take a very legalistic view. In the U.S., it is considered important to be imper- sonal when administering laws. This is considered rude or improper in many countries, but not in the U.S., where the ideal is to apply laws equally to all regardless of status or sex. Do not try to negotiate or discuss personal matters.

The most important rule may seem strange to you. The consular of cer who makes the decision on your visa application is required to think of you as someone who plans to come to the U.S. permanently and you must prove that you intend to return to your country after completing studies. U.S. law very clearly states that F visas may be given only to persons who intend to remain in the U.S. temporarily. This rule is the number one reason for denials of student visa applications.

The other important rules are: (1) You must have a de nite academic or professional objective. You must know what you are going to study and where it will lead. Be ready to say what you want to study and what kind of career it will prepare you for in your home country. Be prepared to explain why it is better for you to study in the U.S. than at home. (2) You must be quali ed for the program of study. (3) You must be de nite about your choice of schools. If you do not seem certain that you want to attend the University of Cincinnati, you will not get a visa. (4) You must be adequately  nanced and have documents to prove

5 it. Except in the unusual case when employment is particularly authorized on the Form-I-20 or DS-2019 (i.e. graduate assistantship), you may not plan to use employment as a means of support while you are in the U.S.

U.S. Government of cials are convinced more easily by documents than by spoken statements. When possible, have papers to show your connections to your home country. If your family owns property, take the deeds. If you have a brother or sister who studied in the U.S. and then returned home, take a copy of the brother’s or sister’s diploma and a statement from an employer showing that they have returned home. If possible, show that an individual or company in your home country will give you a job when you return. If you cannot get a promise of a job, try to get a letter saying that you will be considered for a job, or that the company needs people with the kind of education you are coming to the U.S. to receive.

If your family owns a business, take letters from a bank describing the business to the visa interview with you. Do not emphasize any ties you may have to the United States or to family members in the United States. Your visa application is stronger and better if at least part of your  nancial support comes from your home country, even if most of it comes from the U.S.

Do not speak of working in the United States unless employment is authorized on your Form I-20 or DS- 2019. Though limited work permission is possible for students in F-1 or J-1 status (but not for dependents in F-2 or J-2 status), employment is not guaranteed and cannot be used as part of your  nancial support for visa purposes.

Read your Form I-20 or DS-2019. Some of the rules you must obey are printed on page 2. Be aware of these rules – especially the requirements that you study full-time. Look at the date entered in item for reporting to the school. You must apply for the visa in time to reach the school no later than that date.

There is no time limit on how soon you can apply for the student visa (although the visa cannot be granted more than 120 days prior to the start date on your I-20 or DS-2019). The sooner you apply the better. Consular of ces get extremely busy during the late summer months (July, August, September). How- ever, you will not be allowed to enter the United States more than 30 days prior to the start date on your Certi cate of Eligibility.

Security Checks

Visa applicants whose  elds of study or country of origin appear on the Department of State “Technology Alert List” will be checked against databases maintained by the FBI. This new security procedure will delay the issuance of your visa substantially. The Technology Alert List consists of a “Critical Fields List” (Tab A) as well as a Department of State list of designated State Sponsors of Terrorism (Tab B). Additional information on these technologies is also available online at http://tecworld.inr.state.gov/.

Tab A – Critical Fields List

(1) Conventional Munitions: technologies associated with warhead and large caliber projectiles, fusing and arming systems, electronic counter measures and systems, new or novel explosives and formulation, automated explosive detection methods and equipment.

(2) Nuclear Technology: technologies associated with the production and use of nuclear material for peace- ful and military applications include. This includes materials, equipment or technology associated with

6 nuclear physics or nuclear engineering.

(3) Rocket Systems: technologies associated Rocket Systems and unmanned Air Vehicles including bal- listic missile systems, space launch vehicles and sounding rockets, cruise missiles, target drones and reconnaissance drones.

(4) Rocket System and Unmanned Air Vehicle Subsystems: technologies associated with propulsion including solid rocket motor stages and liquid propellant engines. Other critical subsystems include re entry vehicles, guidance sets, thrust vector controls and warhead sa ng, arming and fusing.

(5) Navigation, Avionics and Flight Control Usable in Rocket Systems and unmanned Air Vehicles: These capabilities directly determine the delivery accuracy and lethality of both unguided and guided weapons. Associated technologies include: Internal navigation systems, Tracking and terminal homing devices, Accelerometers and gyroscopes, Rockets and UAV and  ight control systems and Global Posi- tioning system (GPS).

(6) Chemical, Biotechnology and Biomedical Engineering: associated technologies used to produce chemical and biological weapons.

(7) Remote Sensing, Imaging and Reconnaissance: technologies associated with satellite and aircraft remote sensing including military and intelligence reconnaissance activities, drones and remotely piloted vehicles.

(8) Advanced Computer/Microelectronic Technology: Advanced computers and software that play a useful role in the development and deployment of missiles and missile systems, and in the development and production of nuclear weapons, over the horizon targeting, airborne early warning targeting, and Electronic Countermeasures (ECM) processors.

(9) Materials Technology: technologies related to the metallic, ceramic and composite materials for struc- tural functions in aircraft, spacecraft missiles, undersea vehicles and propulsion devices.

(10) Information Security: technologies associated with cryptographical systems to ensure secrecy of com- munications video, data and related software.

(11) Laser and Directed Energy Systems: technologies associated with laser guided bombs, ranging devices, and lasers having critical military applications.

(12) Sensors: technologies associated with marine acoustics, missile launch calibration, night vision devices, high speed photographic equipment and magnetometers.

(13) Marine Technology: technologies associated with submarines and deep submersible vessels, marine propulsion systems designed for undersea use and navigation, radar, acoustic/non acoustic detection.

(14) Robotics: technologies associated with arti cial intelligence, automation computer controlled machine tools, and pattern recognition technologies.

(15) Urban Planning: technologies associated in the construction or design of systems necessary to sustain modern urban societies including architecture, civil engineering, community development, environmental planning, geography, housing, land use and urban design.

7 Tab B: Department of State's List of State Sponsors of Terrorism: Cuba, Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Sudan, Syria

Application for a student visa is made using form DS-156, DS-157 (for males between the ages of 16 – 45) and DS-158. A new electronic DS-160 is currently being used in the following countries: Vancouver and Montreal in Canada, Nuevo Laredo, Ciudad Juarez, Matamoros and Monterrey in Mexico, Hong Kong in S.A.R. and Dublin in Ireland. Eventually, the DS-160 will replace the DS-156, 157 and 158.

US - Visit Entry/Exit System

US-VISIT is a U.S. Department of Homeland Security program that en hanc es the country’s entry and exit system. The goals of US-VISIT are to: · Enhance the security of citizens and visitors · Expedite legitimate travel and trade · Ensure the integrity of the immigration system · Safeguard the personal privacy of visitors The initiative involves collecting travel information and “bi o met ric iden ti  ers” (such as  ngerprints, using a simple, inkless de vice) from visitors to assist the border of cer in determining whether to allow an individual to enter the U.S. Upon Arrival in the U.S.

At an airport or seaport, travel documents such as your passport and visa will be reviewed, and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Of cer will ask speci c questions regarding your stay in the U.S. You will have two  ngerprints scanned by an inkless device and a digital photograph taken. All of the data and information will then be used to assist the border inspector in determining whether to admit you. Careful planning and preparation by students and exchange visitors can ensure that your arrival in the U.S. is smooth. Here are some things you should do: • Con rm that your passport and non-immigrant visa are valid for entry into the United States. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected stay. • Check to see that your visa accurately re ects your correct visa classi cation. • If your review indicates any discrepancies or potential problems, visit the U.S. Embassy or Con- sulate to obtain a new visa. • Students and exchange visitors entering the United States for the  rst time under their respective non-immigrant visa classi cation may only be admitted up to 30 days prior to the program start date. Do not make plans to arrive more than 30 days before the start date of your program, as indicated on your I-20 or DS-2019. • When you receive your U.S. non-immigrant visa at the Embassy or Consulate in your country, the consular of cer will seal your immigration documents in an envelope and attach it to your passport. You should not open this envelope! The Customs and Border Protection Of cer at the U.S. port-of-entry will open the envelope. • When you travel, you should carry some speci c documents on your person. Do not check them in your baggage! If your baggage is lost or delayed, you will not be able to show the documents to the Customs and Border Protection Of cer and, as a result, may not be able to enter the United

8 States. Documents you should carry on your person: • Passport (including attached envelope of immigration documents) with non-immigrant visa. • SEVIS Form I-20 or DS-2019. • Visa exempt students (Canadians) entering the U.S. for the  rst time should have a Form I-797, Receipt Notice, or Internet Receipt verifying SEVIS Fee payment. • Evidence of  nancial resources (these should be stapled to your I-20 or DS-2019) • Name and contact information for Designated School Of cial (DSO) or Responsible Of cer (RO) at UC. See page 1 of this handbook for contact information. If you are traveling by aircraft, the  ight attendants on board will distribute CF-6059 Customs Declaration Forms and Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record, before you land at your initial port-of-entry in the U.S. Complete these forms while you are on the aircraft and submit them to the appropriate Customs and Bor- der Protection Of cer upon your arrival. It is important that the name you put on the I-94 card matches the name in your passport and on your I-20 or DS-2019 form. Upon arrival at the port-of-entry, proceed to the terminal area for arriving passengers for inspection. As you approach the inspection station, be sure that you have: Passport, SEVIS Form I-20 or DS-2019; completed Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record; and, CF-6059 Customs Declaration Form available for presentation to the CBP Of cer. The Form I-94 should re ect the address where you will reside (not the address of the school or program sponsor). If you are entering through a land or designated seaport, the Customs and Border Protection Of cer will provide the necessary CF-6059, Customs Declaration Form and Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record at the port-of-entry. If you do not understand a form, ask the CBP Of cer for assistance. Like all entering visitors, you will be asked to state the reason you wish to enter the United States. You will also be asked to provide information about your  nal destination. It is important that you tell the CBP Of cer that you will be a student at the University of Cincinnati. Once your inspection is complete, the inspecting of cer will: • Stamp your I-20 or DS-2019 Form for duration of status (“D/S”) for F and J visa holders. • Stamp the Form I-94 for duration of status (“D/S”) and F-1 (I-20) or J-1 (DS-2019) and staple it in the passport. • Return the I-20 or DS-2019 SEVIS Form. Please make sure your I-20 or DS-2019 and I-94 card are stamped correctly. Secondary Inspection Requirements If the inspector cannot automatically verify your information or you do not have all of the required documentation, you may be escorted to an interview area known as “secondary inspection.” Secondary inspection allows inspectors to conduct additional research in order to verify information. Veri cations are done apart from the primary inspection lines so that an individual case will not cause delays for other arriving passengers. In limited circumstances, if a student or exchange visitor is mostly in compliance, he/she may be issued a Form I-515A, Notice to Student or Exchange Visitor. This form authorizes temporary admission for 30 days into the United States and requires the student or exchange visitor to take immediate action to submit proper documentation. Non-compliance with the directions contained on these forms can result in future adverse action.

9 Upon Departure

You must return your I-94 card to the airline, ship, or border representative when departing the U.S. international travelers are no longer required to check out at a U.S.-VISIT kiosk. Note: US-Visit has not been fully implemented at all ports of entry/exit. It is expected that this will happen in the near future. For more information, please consult www.dhs.gov/us-visit.

If You are Currently in the United States F-1 and J-1 Students

If you already have valid F-1 student or J-1 student status by being enrolled at another school, college or university in the United States, by now you have completed the required Transfer eForm and requested that the international student advisor at your current school release your SEVIS record to UC. Your UC I-20 or DS-2019 will be issued to you at check-in . All Other Non-Immigrant Visa Classi cations

If you are currently in the U.S. in a visa classi cation other than F-1 or J-1, you should report to UC Inter- national Services with your passport and visa documents prior to the  rst day of classes.

Special Registration Requirements for Certain Non-Immigrants

As a result of the USA PATRIOT Act passed by Congress and signed into law by the President in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist acts, non-immigrants from certain countries are required to register their presence with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This re quire ment is known as the Na- tional Security Entry-Exit Registration System (NSEERS). Anyone subject to NSEERS must update their registration at certain pre-determined intervals and notify the DHS of any change of ad dress, employment, or educational institution. Prior to any departure from the U.S., these individuals must notify DHS of their intended departure AND they may only depart the U.S. from certain authorized airports. Who is Required to be Registered?

Non-immigrants from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Sudan, and Syria who enter the U.S. are required to register with the DHS. Individuals from other countries may be required to register in NSEERS at the discretion at the Port of Entry Of cial. What are the Requirements?

Individuals to whom these procedures apply must: 1. Register with DHS upon entering the U.S. 2. Be interviewed by DHS within 30 – 40 days of entering the U.S. 3. Be interviewed again by DHS one year after entering the U.S. 4. Continue to be interviewed by DHS on the anniversary date of the last admission to the U.S. 5. Inform DHS within 10 days of any change of address, change of employer or change of school. 6. Notify DHS of departure by leaving the U.S. from a designated port of departure. Cincinnati is a designated port of departure.

10 11 Frequently Asked Questions about NSEERS

I am a non-immigrant who was born in one of the  ve countries, but who is now a citizen of another country. Do these requirements apply to me? Yes. The law applies to anyone born in one of these countries. Also, individuals who may have been born elsewhere, but are citizens of these countries are also subject to this requirement. I am a non-immigrant who is not from one of these countries. These procedures do not concern me, right? Maybe. Maybe not. A U.S. consular of cer or a DHS inspector may determine that these procedures apply to you if you are engaged in work or study in a  eld that may have national security implications. How do I register? Initial registration occurs when you enter the U.S. from abroad. At the time you go through immigration inspection, if these procedures apply, you will be taken into another room. You will be  ngerprinted and photographed. Also, you will be given detailed information about what to do regarding mandatory interviews. After I enter the U.S., when do I have to go for my  rst interview? Once you have entered the U.S., you are required to be interviewed by a DHS of cer 30 to 40 days after you have arrived. For example, if you arrive on September 1, you must report to the DHS between September 30 and October 9 to be interviewed. Do I have to schedule an appointment? No appointment is needed. You must report to a designated DHS of ce. It is recommended that you arrive there early in the morning so you can be seen and interviewed the same day. It is suggested that you inform the DHS security guard that you are there as a result of the special registration process.

Can I go to any DHS of ce? No. You can only use the DHS of ces that have been authorized to conduct such interviews. In Cincinnati, the of ce is: Department of Homeland Security U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement 550 Main Street, Peck Federal Building Room 4001 Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 What if I am unable to make it to the interview during the required interview period? You can apply to the DHS for a waiver of all or part of the registration requirements if you become ill, such that hospitalization is required. Otherwise, you are expected to appear during the interview period. When I go to the interview, what should I bring? You should bring your Form I-94 and any written documents available to show the DHS of cer that you are doing what you said you would be doing at the time of your admission to the country. You should bring proof of your residence (lease, deed, etc.).

12 J-1 Scholar, H, O, TN, visa Visitor for Business Student holders, etc.

• Hotel Receipts • Class schedule • Pay stub, if paid by UC • Cab Receipts • Of cial noti cation of grades • Employment contract or letter of • Ticket stubs for places visited • Student identi cation card and appointment • Documents showing where evidence of participation in ex- • Letter of invitation if not paid by you have stayed tracurricular activities (if appli- UC cable) • If staying with friends or rela- • Letter from UC International verify- tives, documents showing their • Letter from UC International ing your status with UC name, like a postmarked enve- verifying that you are a UC stu- lope or bill dent in good standing

If I have just arrived, I will not have such things as transcripts or pay stubs. What should I do then? Bring whatever documentation you have to demonstrate your legitimate stay in the U.S. (contract letters, letters of invitation, etc.). Prior to going to the DHS for the interview, you should check in with UC International Services to obtain a letter verifying your status at UC. What can I expect during this interview? You will again be  ngerprinted and photographed. The DHS of cer may ask you questions regarding your stay and may ask questions about any documents you bring with you. Answer each question as best you can. Try to remain calm and be cooperative. What if the DHS asks me a question that doesn’t have anything to do with my immigration status? This is a possibility. Under current immigration law, you are required to answer any question asked of you by the DHS, even if there appears to be no relevance to your immigration status. Truthfully answer the question as best you can. Try to remain calm and be cooperative. Do not lie, under any circumstance. Do I ever need to be re-interviewed? If so when? If your stay in the U.S. extends to a year or more, you will be required to report to the DHS on each anniversary of your admission. You will have a ten-day window from the anniversary date of your admission to the U.S. to report. In the example above, we assumed you entered the U.S. on September 1, 2008. In 2009, you would need to report to the DHS between September 1-10, 2009. Will these interviews differ from the initial one done after 30 days of entering the U.S.? They should all follow the same pattern. By then, you should be fairly settled into your routine and you should have plenty of documentation to present to show that you are a legitimate student. Be sure to keep any documentation evidencing an address change, job or school change, etc. How do I notify DHS of changes in address? Most students who are in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information (SEVIS) do not need to complete the special Form AR-11 SR. You must instead notify UC International Services within 10 days of moving. You can do this by going to https://iof ce.uc.edu/ to submit your change of address request. What do I need to do if I travel outside the U.S.? You must notify the DHS and leave only through a designated port of exit. If you fail to depart the U.S. from a designated departure port, your re-entry to the U.S. may be denied. 13 Can I leave the U.S. from the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport? Yes nal Services also maintains a list of these ports at http://www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/travel/id_visa/nseers/nseers_ports.ctt/nseers_ports.pdf What if I drive to Canada or Mexico on holiday? Again, you can only use certain designated ports. Consult the list of ports and plan your trip accordingly. What if I do not comply with this program? If you fail to comply with these registration requirements, you will be considered to be out of status. You may be subject to arrest, detention,  nes, and/or removal from the U.S. This could impact any future plans you may have to apply for any immigration-related bene ts. Decisions regarding the impact of any noncompliance will be made on an individual, case by case basis. If you fail to depart the U.S. from a designated departure port, your re-entry to the U.S. may be denied.

Maintaining Your Status

Requirements

The responsibility for maintaining your immigration status lies with you. There are sev er al requirements you must follow to maintain status. Most of the requests discussed in this section will be submitted using e-forms. See the i-Start section of this handbook for further instructions on submitting e-forms. Requirement to Keep Your Passport Valid. Your passport must be valid at all times. Renewal ap pli ca tions must be made with the Em bas sy or Con su l- ate of the country issuing the passport. You will need a certi cation of student status from the Uni ver si ty of Cincinnati (this can be obtained from UC International Services). Addresses of em bas sies and consulates are available from the U.S. Department of State web site at: http://www.state.gov/countries. Requirement to Report Address Changes to UC International Services. You are required to report any address change to the University within 10 days of the address change. This includes address changes of any of your dependents as well. You should report your new address using your UC One Stop account at http://www.onestop.uc.edu/. Requirement to Obtain Prior Authorization from UC International Services to Drop Below a Full Course of Study. You are required to pursue a full course of study during normal enrollment periods (Fall, Winter and Spring Quarters). The Reduced Course Load Certi cation must be com plet ed prior to dropping below full time status. Full time at the University of Cincinnati is 12 credit hours for un der grad u ate students or 10 credit hours for graduate students not receiving a scholarship. You are allowed to deviate from this full course of study only with PRI OR authorization from a UC International Services advisor, and only under very limited cir cum stanc es including illness, completing all required course work (graduate students) or being in your last quarter of study. You will need to submit a request for a "Reduced Course Load" e-form by going to https://iof ce.uc.edu/ Requirement to Report Departure Date and Reason to UC International Services. For a variety of reasons, students leave the University early or un ex pect ed ly. Some of these reasons include graduation, leave of absence, suspension, ex pul sion, or family emer gen cies. You are required to inform UC International Services if you plan to leave the University, and the reason for doing so. You can do this by submittng a "Departure" e-form at https://iof ce.uc.edu/

14 Requirement to Abide by Employment Regulations. Students may work no more than 20 hours per week on-campus while school is in session. These 20 hours include the work you do for your assistantship, if you have one. You are not permitted to work off- campus without receiving PRIOR authorization from the DHS and/or UC International Services depending upon your visa status. Employment possibilities are very limited. During scheduled breaks (i.e. summer) there is no limitation on the number of hours you can work each week on campus. Transfer to Attend Another School. You are currently authorized to attend the University of Cincinnati. If you decide to attend another school in the U.S., you must notify UC International Services of your intent to transfer and the name of the school to which you intend to transfer. This is done by submitting a "Transfer Request" e-form at https://iof ce. uc.edu/.UC International Services will then enter a "Release" date in SEVIS (usu al ly the day the current quarter ends). After this date is reached the new school can issue you an I-20 or DS-2019. You will then have to report to the Designated School Of cial/Responsible Of cer at the new school within 15 days of the program start date in order to complete the transfer. Requirement to Apply for an Extension of Program. You must apply for an extension of your program prior to the expiration date on your Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 if you cannot complete your program by that date. Requests for extensions should be sub mit - ted to UC International Services prior to the expiration date on the Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 so the extension process can be completed before the expiration date on the document. Students must submit an "I-20 Extension" e-form by going to https://iof ce.uc.edu/. Requirement for Changing Your Academic Program or Degree Level. You must obtain a new I-20 or DS-2019 if you change your academic program from one degree level to another (e.g., from Bachelor's to Master's level) or from one major/ eld of study to another (e.g., from Chem i cal Engineering to Physics). You must receive a new I-20 or DS-2019 from a UC International Ser- vices advisor within 15 days of beginning the new program/degree level. Students must submit a "New Degree" level e-form request by going to https://iof ce.uc.edu/. Requirement for Receiving Authorization to Travel. You must notify UC International Services prior to traveling outside the U.S. so that your I-20 or DS-2019 can be endorsed for travel or if required, a new form can be issued. Your I-20 or DS 2019 form must have been signed within the past 12 months or your reentry will be denied. Students and scholars must complete and submit the "Travel Request" e-form at least 5 days prior to the anticipated travel date, although you are strong ly encouraged to submit the form even earlier. The e-form can be found and submitted at https://iof ce.uc.edu/. Requirement to Provide Documentation of Dependents. UC International Services is required to report information to the DHS and/or DOS regarding your depen - dents. You must notify UC International Services of any accompanying dependents in F-2 or J-2 status and provide biographical information (e.g., full name, address, country of birth, etc.) and immigration information (e.g., passport information, visa information, etc.) regarding those dependents using UC International Services "Dependent Request" e-form. The form can be found and submitted at https://iof ce.uc.edu/. IMPORTANT NOTE: This information is not exhaustive and is subject to change without notice. In - ter na tion al students should contact UC International Services at 513-556-4278 with questions on any of the information presented above. To keep up with changes in im mi gra tion law and UC International Services policies, you need to be subscribed to "The Advisor", our listserv. In struc tions for sub- scribing to "The Advisor" can be found at https://listserv.uc.edu/cgi-bin/wa.exe?A0=uc-isso.

15 Students Not Subject to Passport and Visa Requirements

Certain students are not required to have a valid passport or visa for entry to the United States. The most common examples are Canadian citizens entering the U.S. by land or sea, and citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Such individuals should be instructed to apply directly to an immigration of cer at a U.S. port of entry for admission as a F-1 student, bypassing the procedure of applying for a visa. The procedure at entry is the same as that described previously, except that you are not required to present either a passport or a visa. Landed immigrants of Canada can no longer apply for a visa at a U.S. port of entry. They must apply at a U.S Embassy or Consulate. (Note: Canadians who enter the United States by air must have passports).

Temporary Admission with Form I-515A

If you have lost or misplaced your Form I-20 or DS-2019, or for other reasons are unable to produce that form at the port of entry, you should ask to be admitted on a Form I-515A. In such a case, the immigration of cer will determine if you have a valid F-1 visa and are quali ed in all other respects for admission as an exchange visitor. The of cer may admit you to the United States in student status for a period of 30 days and issue the Form I-515A. That form instructs you to submit Form I-20 or DS-2019 and I-94 by mail to the USCIS of ce having jurisdiction over your place of activity. Upon receipt of these forms, the USCIS will convert the date on Form I-94 to "duration of status" by striking out the date and writing “D/S”. The valid I-20 or DS-2019 and original I-94 should be submitted so that the I-20 or DS-2019 can be marked “D/S”. If the immigration of cer at the port of entry is not able to determine that you are eligible for admission as an exchange visitor, the of cer may parole you into the United States for “deferred inspection”, which requires that you report in person to a USCIS of ce. Visa Expiration/Renewal

This procedure is only necessary when you intend to travel outside the U.S. and your visa has expired. To get a new visa stamp you will need a valid passport, a properly executed I-20 or DS-2019, proof of  nan cial support, and/or letter of certi cation. You must visit the American Consulate/Embassy Of ce located in the country you are visiting in order to get the visa stamp issued. A student visa cannot be obtained in the U.S. If you are traveling to Canada, Mexico, or other contiguous U.S. territories for less than 30 days, you do not need to get a new visa stamp. Students from Cuba, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Sudan, and Syria must have a valid U.S. visa to re-enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, or other contiguous U.S. territories. Traveling Outside the U.S.

F-1 visa holders need the following documents to re-enter the U.S. after a temporary absence: 1. Form I-20 endorsed by UC International Services for travel within one year of the date of travel return, or within 6 months if you are on Optional Practical Training. 2. A valid passport and U.S. F-1 visa (unless visa exempt). 3. Veri cation of adequate  nancial support. 4. Veri cation of enrollment. (Veri cation of Employment if you are on Optional Practical Training) NOTE: A new I-20 is required only if there has been a change in your  eld of study, degree level, the source or amount of funding, or if all the travel endorsement lines on your I-20 are complete. Requests for a new I-20 or for a signature must be made at least  ve days before your planned departure. J-1 visa holders need the following documents to re-enter the U.S. after a temporary absence: 16 1. A valid DS-2019 endorsed by UC International Services (or sponsoring agency). 2. A valid passport and U.S. J-1 visa (unless visa exempt). 3. Veri cation of adequate  nancial support. 4. Veri cation of enrollment. NOTE: A new DS-2019 is required if your current DS-2019 will expire before you plan to re-enter the U.S., if your program of study, degree level, or  nances have changed, or if all endorsements are complete. Requests for a new DS-2019 or for a sig na ture must be made at least 5 days before your planned departure. Visits for Spouse and Children

F-1 students must obtain an I-20 to send to family members (spouse or children) who wish to visit them in the U.S. for extended periods of time. The family member(s) will use the I-20 to support their application for an F-2 visa at the U.S. Em bas sy or Con su late. The Embassy/Consulate will require evidence that you have adequate  nancial resources for each family member's support without recourse to employment. As such, you must furnish proof of  nan cial support to UC International Services in the amount of $4,000 per year for a spouse and $2,000 per year for each child, in addition to the amount needed for your own studies and living expenses. You must realize that under no circumstances will your spouse be permitted to take any em ploy ment after he/she reaches the U.S. F-2 children may attend elementary or high school. F-2 spous es or children are not permitted to study full-time at the college level without changing status to F-1, unless the courses are recreational in nature and do not lead to a speci c educational objective. In ad di tion, bring ing family mem bers to the U.S. is not con sid ered a valid reason for needing em ploy ment authorization. J-1 Students must obtain a DS-2019 to send to family member(s) who wish to visit them in the U.S. for an extended period of time. The family member(s) will use the DS-2019 to support their application for a J-2 visa at the U.S. Embassy or Con su late. The Embassy/Consulate will require evidence that you have adequate re sourc es for their support. As such, you must furnish proof of  nancial support to UC Interna- tional Services in the amount of $4,000 per year for a spouse and $2,000 per year for each child in addition to the amount needed for your own studies and living ex pens es. J-2 dependents can apply for a work permit provided the em ploy ment is not needed to support the family. J-2 dependent spouses and children can study at any educational level. In addition, all J-1 exchange visitors must have in sur ance which covers them selves and any ac com pa ny ing de pen dents for the entire period of their program. The fol low ing levels of coverage and special con di tions must be met: • Medical bene ts of $50,000 per accident or illness. • $7,500 for repatriation of remains. • $10,000 for expenses associated with medical evacuation to home country. • Must include a deductible not in excess of $500 per accident or illness and shall not exclude coverage for perils in her ent to the activities of the program and; • The insurance policy must be underwritten by an insurance corporation with an A.M. Best rating of 'A-' or above, an Insurance Solvency International. Ltd. (ISI) rating of 'A-1' or above, a Standard & Poor's Claims paying Ability rating of 'A-' or above, or a Weiss Research, Inc. rating of 'B-' or above. Insurance coverage backed by the full faith and credit of the government of the exchange visitor's home country shall be deemed to meet this requirement. The University of Cincinnati Student Health Insurance Plan will meet the levels of coverage required. Single student coverage is $447.00 per quarter or $1,341.00 per year. Dependent coverage is not available on UC's plan. All costs are subject to change.

17 Optional Practical Training/Academic Training

Optional Practical Training/Academic Training is an opportunity to gain work experience to com ple ment your academic program. Students must complete one full academic year of study before being eligible for Optional Practical Training/Academic Training. All F-1 students are eligible for one year (12 months) of practical train ing for each higher degree ob tained. In addition, students who major in Science, Technol- ogy, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)  elds may be eligible to get 17 additional months of Optional Practical Training (29 months total) if their employer participates in the E-verify employment veri cation program. When it is time for you to do Optional Practical Training, you must attend a re quired seminar at UC International Services prior to meeting with an advisor for  nal pro cess ing. The Department of Homeland Security must receive your application for Op tion al Prac ti cal Train ing no later than the 60th day following your graduation date or they will not authorize your practical training. Please plan ahead. The application process at the DHS usually takes 90 days. J-1 students are eligible between 18 months and 3 years of Academic Training, depending on the degree obtained. J-1 stu dents must apply for Ac a dem ic Training prior to grad u a tion or the ex pi ra tion of the DS-2019 and must have a job offer. Unlike Optional Practical Train ing, Ac a dem ic Training is au tho rized by UC International Services. Optional Practical Training/Academic Training falls into four categories: (1) dur ing the stu dent’s annual va ca tion and at other times when school is not in session, if the student is el i gi ble, and intends to register for the next term or session; (2) while school is in session, provided that the training does not exceed 20 hours a week; (3) full-time after completion of all course re quire ments for the degree (excluding thesis or the equiv a lent), if the student is in a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree pro gram; and (4) full-time after completion of the course of study. Optional Practical Training/Academic Training under the  rst three options would occur before com ple tion of a course of study (pre-completion), while the last option would occur following completion of a course of study (post-completion). Optional Prac ti cal Training/Academic Training after com ple tion of studies may not be part-time. Who is eligible to apply for the 17-month OPT extension?

In order for you to take advantage of the 17-month OPT extension, your degree as shown on your I-20 form in SEVIS must be in a degree  eld that is on the current STEM Designated Degree Program List. "STEM" refers to degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics. This means if your degree is in such  elds as business, education, the humanities, social sciences or visual and performing arts, you will not be able to apply for an extension of your OPT. STEM  elds of study are as follows:

• Actuarial Science (CIP code 52.1304) • Computer Science (CIP codes 11.XXX (except data entry/microcomputer applications 11.06) • Engineering (CIP codes 14.XXX) • Engineering Technologies (CIP codes 15.XXX) • Biological and Biomedical Sciences (CIP codes 26.XXX) • Mathematics and Statistics (CIP codes 27.XXX) • Military Technologies (CIP codes 29.XXX) • Physical Sciences (CIP codes 40.XXX) • Science Technologies (CIP codes 41.XXX) • Medical Scientist (CIP code 51.1401)

Periods of Unemployment During OPT

DHS regulations currently de ne the period of an F-1 student’s valid status as the time the student is pursuing a full course of study or is engaged in authorized post-completion Optional Practical Training, plus a 60 day grace period. The DHS has established an aggregate maximum period of allowed unemployment of 90 days for students on 12-month OPT. Students who qualify for and receive the 17-month 18 OPT extension can be unemployed for an aggregate of 120 days. This particular part of the rule also puts responsibility on students to keep UC International Services up to date with the name and address of your OPT employer. Unless we have the SEVIS system updated with the name and address of your employer, you will be accumulating unemployment time in SEVIS. Once you have reached the 90 or 120 day maximum, your F-1 status will be terminated. Please notify UC International Services with the name and address of your employer once employment is secured using an "Employer Update for OPT" e-form by going to https://iof ce.uc.edu/. If you don’t secure employment within the 90 day period beginning with the start date on your OPT card, you will be expected to depart the U.S. or otherwise take steps to maintain proper F-1 status (get a new I-20 to start a new program of study). Volunteer (unpaid) employment does not accrue unemployment time provided the volunteer work is for 20 hours per week or more.

H-1B Cap-Gap Relief

F-1 students who are the bene ciaries of approved H-1B petitions, but whose period of authorized F-1 stay expires before the H-1B employment start date, will have a gap in authorized stay and employment requiring them to depart the U.S. and return within 10 days of beginning H-1B employment. New regulations provide relief to students and employers in this situation. New rules extend the status AND work authorization of any F-1 student who is the bene ciary of a timely- led H-1B petition requesting an employment start date of October 1 of the following  scal year. This rule applies to all students on OPT, not just STEM students. The extension of duration of status and work authorization automatically terminates upon the rejection, denial, or revocation of the H-1B petition  led on the student's behalf. Students are REQUIRED to obtain a new I-20 form from UC International Services showing an OPT recommendation that covers this “cap-gap” period. Students will need to provide UC International Services with proof of H-1B receipt or approval in order to obtain the new I-20 form.

Curricular Practical Training

F-1 students who have co-ops or internships as part of their degree requirement must be au tho rized for Curricular Practical Training (CPT). In addition, graduate students may be authorized for Curricular Prac ti cal Train ing if the employment is an integral part of a thesis or dissertation. Curricular Prac ti cal Training must be part of your degree requirement. You are not limited in the amount of Curricular Practical Training you can use. However, if you use 12 months or more of Curricular Practical Training on a full- time basis, you are not eligible for any Optional Practical Training after you graduate. CPT is authorized by UC International Services. You will need to submit a "Curricular Practical Training" e-form by going to https://iof ce.uc.edu

A Few Words of Advice 1. I-20 and DS-2019 requests submitted to UC International Services require 5 business days to process. Plan accordingly! 2. Bring your passport and all relevant immigration documents (I-20 or DS-2019, passport, I-94) and  nancial documents when you come to UC International Services with requests. 3. Always see a UC International Services staff member before you consider contacting the U.S. Citi- zenship and Immigration Services. The USCIS is a very busy agency and the of cer answering your call may not have the time required to fully un der stand your problem. If necessary, UC International Services will contact the USCIS for you. 4. If at any time you are uncertain about your status, check with UC International Services immediately. UC International Services is here to help you! 5. Please subscribe to UC International Services listserv "The Advisor" upon arrival. It will tell you about changes in regulations when they occur. It will also keep you updated on special events and activi- 19 ties occurring around campus.

iStart e-Form Services

All requests for processing of F-1 or J-1 student bene ts should be submitted to UC International Services using our e-forms. This includes the following requests:

Certi cation Letter Change in Degree Level Change in Major Curricular Practical Training Departure from U.S. Permanently Dependent I-20/DS-2019 I-20/DS-2019 Extension Invitation Letter Reduced Course Load (Academic Reasons) Replace a Lost I-20 Reduced Course Load for Medical Reasons School Transfer Signature on I-20/DS-2019 for Travel Tax Analysis Form Absent from U.S. During Current Quarter

In addition, enrolled students can use iOf ce to update their biographical information, emergency con- tacts, local U.S. address and permanent overseas address. iOf ce can also be used to sign up for PEER advising, use of our CINTAX tax assistance and more.

Newly admitted students should use the Orientation e-form to inform us of your arrival plans.

In order to submit an e-form request you should go to the following website: https://iof ce.uc.edu. Next you will click on the “login” button.

20 This will bring you to UC’s Central Login Service. Here you will enter your UC 6+2 username and pass- word. Once you enter your 6+2 account information, you will be brought to the iStart home page. Here you will see an overview of your iOf ce record, including any alerts that may need to be addressed, SEVIS program information, and any notes that have been put on your record by a UC International Services Advisor.

21 To submit an e-form request you will click on the “F-1 Student Services” (if F-1) or "J-1 Student Services" (if J-1) link and then select the e-form you wish to submit. Follow the instructions for the speci c e-form and forward any required documents to [email protected] as a PDF document.

II. Packing and Travel

What to Bring to the U.S.

Clothing

The climate in Cincinnati changes with the seasons. In spring, temperatures are moderate, although it can still be quite cool, particularly in March and April. Temperatures in the summer can get rather high. Sum- mer is hot and humid. Temperatures of 90°F (33°C) and above are not unusual. You are advised to bring some light clothing for this season. Fall (beginning of the school year) is pleasant with its bright colors and moderate temperatures. Winter can get very cold and snowy (10°F/-12°C). It is recommended that you bring warm clothing with you. However, winter clothing is available in Cincinnati at reasonable prices.

Finances

Before beginning your travel to the University of Cincinnati, please remember that your initial expenses here will be considerably higher than those you will incur later. Therefore, it is necessary for you to bring at least $2,000 in United States currency or travelers’ checks to cover these expenses. Even if you are going to receive  nancial support from the University, your  rst check will not be available upon your arrival. The University issues paychecks on the  rst of the month for work performed in the previous month. Therefore, it will be at least October 1st, and probably November 1st, before you receive your  rst stipend check! Before you can expect any money from the University, you will need to pay tuition, fees, health insurance, buy books for your classes, make a security deposit on your apartment, pay the  rst month’s rent, and buy food and other necessities! You must  gure your  nances carefully and plan on these expenses without help from the University. To prepare to meet your  nancial needs for the entire year, you should make the necessary arrangements with your government, your sponsor, and any banks in your country to ensure that these funds will be available to you. Remember that checks drawn on foreign banks will require several weeks to clear and therefore you will not have access to those funds right away! In order to have money available to you upon arrival, the necessary funds should be transferred to a local bank in Cincinnati at least one month prior to your arrival!

Special Items

UC International sponsors events which highlight the cultural heritage of in ter na tion al students during which you can display special items. Spices and food items from other countries are available in the U.S., so don’t neglect to bring favorite recipes from home. Items of cultural interest such as photos, books, slides, musical instruments, traditional dress, and taped music will be of interest to your American friends, if you have room in your suitcase!

22 Linens, Beddings and Room Furnishings

Blankets, towels, and room furnishings such as lamps or area rugs are more things you might bring with you if you have space for them in your luggage. However, remember that you can buy anything you need in the U.S., and that University housing offers furnished apartments and rooms. You should not attempt to bring food, plants, or anything that can be interpreted as being drug par a pher na lia, such as pipes or tobacco rolling papers. These will most likely be con scated from you at the port of entry.

Tips on Travel

1. Travel with your passport, visa, and I-20 or DS-2019 in your carry-on luggage. Your documentation will be inspected at the port of entry before you claim your checked baggage. 2. Arrange for a family member, friend, or student group to meet you at the airport, or take the Airport Executive Shuttle, as explained in your pre-arrival materials. 3. Take some of the things that are important to you such as prescription eyeglasses, a bilingual diction- ary, and medication etc., and keep them in your carry-on luggage. 4. To avoid unnecessary delays, make sure your ticket is con rmed at least one month before the day you are required to arrive. 5. Government-sponsored students, and those sponsored by private organizations, should work together with their sponsors every step of the way. 6. Shop around for airfare and check for baggage regulations before deciding which airline to take to the U.S. 7. Arrive at the airport about three hours before the intended  ight. 8. Make sure your schedule allows suf cient time for connecting  ights. 9. Carry suf cient money for unexpected expenses or events, such as missing your  ight. You may also want to carry an extra change of clothing in your carry-on luggage in case of unexpected delays. All articles brought into the United States, including gifts for other persons, must be declared to U.S. Cus - toms on a form they will provide at the time you enter. If all the articles you have to declare are entitled to free entry under the ex emp tions allowed, you need not  ll in the reverse side of the declaration form. Instead, you orally declare articles brought with you to the Customs Inspector. If the inspector deems it necessary, you may be required to make a written declaration and list articles brought with you. There is no limitation as to the amount of money (U.S. or foreign currency), travelers checks, money orders, or negotiable instruments in bearer form that you may bring into or take out of the United States. A report, however, must be  led with U.S. Customs at the time you arrive or depart with an amount which exceeds $10,000, or the equivalent in foreign currency. A form will be provided to you for this purpose. The following articles may be brought in free of duty and internal revenue tax, if for personal use and not for others or for sale: • Personal effects (e.g., wearing apparel; articles of personal adornment; toiletry articles; hunting,  shing, and pho to graph ic equipment). • One liter of alcoholic beverages (e.g., wine, beer or liquor) if you are an adult non-resident. • 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 2 kilograms (4.4 lbs.) of smoking tobacco, or proportionate amounts of each. • Vehicles (e.g., automobiles, trailers, airplanes, motorcycles, boats) for personal use if imported in con nec tion with your arrival.

23 In addition to the above exemptions, articles up to $100 in total value for use as bona  de gifts to other persons may be brought in free of duty and tax, if you will be in the United States for at least 72 hours and have not claimed this gift exemption in the past 6 months. You may include in this exemption up to 100 cigars.

Housing

Whether you are an undergraduate student, graduate student or a student with a family, you will have several options for on-campus housing. If you don't  nd something to your liking on-campus, there are many off-campus housing options in the area surrounding the university.

On-campus Housing

www.uc.edu/housing

2010-11 Building & Floor Information All halls are smoke-free. Residents and their guests will not be allowed to smoke inside the residence halls. All roommates and suite-mates are same gender. All  oors are co-ed unless otherwise noted.

Calhoun Hall (same gender by  oor) Dabney Hall Floor Designation Floor Designation 1 - 7 & 9 General 5 Peace Village 8, 10 & 11 Engineering Men 6 CAS Men & Women 12 Quiet Women 7 & 8 General

Daniels Hall Siddal Hall (Same gender by  oor) Floor Designation Floor Designation 1 & 2 General 1 & 2 CCM Men 3 & 4 Honors/Honors Plus* 3 & 4 CCM Women 5 General 5-7 General 6 Pathways Community 8 CECH Women 7 & 8 DAAP 9 CECH Men 9 Health Professions 10 WISE 10-12 General 11 Quiet Men Turner Hall Designation Honors/Honors Plus* General * Resident designated by Honors Program Athletics** ** Residents designated by Athletic Department

24 Upper-class Housing Options

Campus Recreation Center Schneider Hall (Academic year contracts only) Floor Designation Designation 3-4 General/Athletics* General General/Athletics*, Athletics* 5 & 6 12-Month Transfer Graduate, or Non-Traditional

2010-2011 Housing and Meal Plan Rates*

*All listed rates are subject to Board of Trustee approval

12-month* Room Types By the Quarter Academic Year (Turner & CRC only) Multiple Occupancy $1,933 $5,799 N/A Dabney, Daniels, Calhoun, & Siddall Single Rooms $2,231 $6,693 N/A Calhoun, Daniels Double Room Suites $7,850 $2,288 $6,864 Turner ($1,869/quarter)** Single Room Suites 4+ person/2 person $8,264 $2,426 $7,278 Campus Recreation Center (CRC) ($1,967.25/quarter)** Schneider & Turner

2010-2011 Room Rates

* 12-month contracts begin with summer quarter 2009 and extend through spring quarter 2010. See the housing Terms and Conditions for more information regarding 12-month contractsor thier website at http://www.uc.edu/housing/Rates/Rates_Default_Page.html ** Indicates the cost to students who have signed a 12-month contract. In effect, students who have signed a 12- month contract live on campus during summer quarter for only $986, the difference between the Academic Year total and the 12-Month total. Students who have not signed a 12-month contract and who continue to live on campus during summer quarter will be charged the full “By the Quarter” rate.

2010-2011 Residential Meal Plans

Meal Plan Description Cost/Quarter Cost/Year 209 Value Plan 209 meals/quarter* $1,301 $3,903 (19 meals per week) 154 Plan 154 meals/quarter* $1,237 $3,711 (14 meals per week) 132 Plus Plan 132 meals/quarter* $1,301 $3,903 (12 meals per week) $100 BCC dollars Platinum Independent Meal Plan 45 meals/quarter* (45 meals/quarter, $425 $1,275 $100 BCC dollars returning residents only)

25 * Meals on the plan maybe be used at MarketPointe@Siddall and CenterCourt Dining Centers. ** Bearcat Campus Card (BCC) dollar amounts are added to the student’s ID as part of the meal plan. The BCC dollars may be spent at any on-campus food location (including the Dining Centers) as well as any off-campus location participating in the BCC program. BCC dollars carry over from one quarter to the next, and a refund of any unspent BCC dollars is available upon request at the end of spring quarter or upon leaving UC. Returning residents have two additional options within their Housing Agreement: - The Platinum Level Independent Meal Plan - The Upper-class No Meal Plan option. The Platinum Level Independent Meal Plan is subject to the terms and conditions of the Independent Meal Plan Program. More information on this meal plan and can found at https://www.uc.edu/imealplans/. 2010-2011 Academic Year Cost (Room+Meal Plan)

Room Types with Meals 209 Value Plan 154 Plan 132 Plus Plan Platinum Plan* Multiple Occupancy $9,702 $9,510 $9,702 $7,074 Single Rooms $10,596 $10,404 $10,596 $7,968 Double Room Suites $10,767 $10,575 $10,767 $8,139 Double Room Suites (12- $13,054 $12,798 $13,054 $9,550 month) Single Room Suites (CRC, Schneider) $11,181 $10,989 $11,181 $8,145 Single Room Suites $13,468 $13,212 $13,468 $9,964 (12-month)

* The Platinum Level Independent Meal plan is an option available to returning residents only . Independent Meal Plans

Independent Meal Plans are available to upper-class students, Af liated Housing residents, commuter students, staff, and faculty. Platinum Community Includes Includes Always on campus? If you choose a 45 dining center meals / quarter $405.00 campus dining center for 4-5 meals/ + $100 on your per quarter week, this plan is your best value Bearcat Campus Card*

Gold Community Includes Includes A great choice if you eat 33 dining center meals / quarter $276.00 about 3 meals/week at + $50 on your MarketPointe@Siddall or Center Bearcat Campus Card* Court Dining Center. Silver Includes Includes Do you usually visit a dining center 25 dining center meals / quarter $214.00 a couple of times a week? This plan + $30 on your per quarter is for you! Bearcat Campus Card* Bronze Includes Includes Do you usually visit a dining center 15 dining center lunch meals / $140.00 for lunch a few times a month? This quarter per quarter plan is for you! + $30 on your Bearcat Campus Card* 26 Lunch Fare Plus Includes Includes Same features as Lunch Fare but 15 dining center lunch meals plus 2 $142.00 Includes 2 Mick & Mack’s lunches Mick & Mack’s lunches / quarter per quarter at $10 each + $30 on your Bearcat Campus Card*

* Although unused meals do not carry over from one quarter to the next, unspent Bearcat Campus Card dollars remain on your account. Your meal plan will be activated on the first day of the selected quarter, or within 24 hours after your application is received, whichever is later. Call 556-2000 for more information.

Temporary Housing

Temporary housing is available beginning August 1 through noon on September 7, 2010. The cost will be $26.00 per person (adult) per night for a multiple occupancy room. To reserve a room, you must return the “Temporary Housing Reservation Form”, which you will receive with your I-20. To check in, go directly to your designated hall to obtain your keys. You must return your key when checking out or you may be charged for the days you did not stay.

You may cancel your reservation in writing by e-mail, fax, or mail 48 hours in advance of the reservation date to receive a full refund. The contact information for temporary housing is: International Student Temporary Housing Of ce of Housing and Food Services University of Cincinnati P.O. Box 210045 Cincinnati OH 45221-0045 Phone: (513) 556-6470; Fax: (513) 861-6816 E-mail:  [email protected] Please try to make arrangements to arrive on campus in time to take advantage of temporary housing while locating a permanent residence.

Off-Campus Housing

Help in locating housing can be obtained from multiple sources. Off-Campus Referral Service will help you  nd off-campus housing. The Off-Campus Referral Of ce maintains a list of off-campus housing opportunities. They can be reached at (513) 556-0682 or by their web site at http://www.uc.edu/gradfami- lyhousing/offcampus_new.html. UC International Services also has a link to a housing website at http:// www.apartmentfrog.com/. This website offers listings of current students looking for roommates as well as a comprehensive listing of off-campus apartment listings and helpful tips on  nding an apartment. There are also many companies and complexes advertised in this handbook that can help you  nd an off-campus apartment. If you are ready to look for a house or apartment, there are some things you should know  rst.

27 Lease Agreements

When you rent a room or an apartment you will be required to sign a lease. A lease is a written contract between you and the landlord (the owner of the rental property). When you sign a lease, you agree to pay a certain amount of money each month and to follow certain rules in exchange for the right to occupy the rental property for a set period of time. Most lease agreements require that you pay a security deposit which is usually equal to one month’s rent. This security deposit will be returned to you if you ful ll all the terms of the lease. Read the lease carefully and be sure you understand it before signing it. Here are some key questions to ask any landlord when considering an apartment: • How many minutes does it take to get to UC walking? And driving? • Is there a bus line close by? • What type of apartment is it? A house? An apartment complex? • How many bedrooms does it have? • How much is the rent per month? • Is a security deposit required? • What type of lease term is offered (monthly, 6 month, 9 month, year)? • Are children allowed? • Are pets allowed? Is an extra security deposit required for pets? • What kind of heat is used (gas, electric, oil, etc.)? • Who pays for utilities (heat, electric, water, etc.)? • Is the apartment furnished or unfurnished? • What type of  ooring is there (carpet, hardwood, tile)? • Is there a stove? Is there a refrigerator? • Is there air conditioning? Are there laundry facilities? • What type of parking is available (garage, off-street parking, on-street parking)? • How soon will the apartment be available? Once you have moved in, your main responsibilities are to pay rent on time (use checks only; do not pay with cash) and keep the property in a clean and safe condition. While you have responsibilities to pay rent and keep the property in good condition, your landlord has responsibilities, too. If you believe the landlord is treating you differently than he would treat an American student, or if the landlord is not keeping the property in working condition, be assertive. Do not accept negligence from your landlord. Demand that the apartment is in a safe, clean, livable condition. Otherwise, you are inviting the landlord to victimize you. If you have problems with your landlord, it is a good idea to photograph the contested areas of the apartment which are in disrepair. In addition, put all of your complaints in writing, send your landlord a copy, and keep a copy of your complaints for your own  les. Let the landlord know that you are willing to go to court if the problems continue. If the problems are not resolved, consider taking legal action. UC International Services maintains a list of legal counsel for this.

Estimated Annual Expenses

Undergraduate Most Graduate College of Programs Programs Law Tuition (subject to change) $22,419 $21,552 $33,270 Living Expenses $11,319 $11,319 $15,940 Other Fees $2,844 $2,844 $2,844 Total $36,582 $35,715 $52,054

NOTES: 1. Tuition fees can vary by program or degree. Professional students (MD), branch campuses (Raymond Walters, Clermont) and some graduate programs (Architecture, PHARMD) all pay different fees than above. 2. The tuition is assessed for full-time students for three quarters of an academic year. 3. The tuition includes a general fee of $249 per quarter ($747.00 per year). All stu dents, except those who have graduate assistantships that cover the fee, are re quired to pay this fee, including stu dents award ed Uni ver si ty Grad u ate Schol ar ships. 4. All international students are required to carry the University Student Health Insurance policy unless they want to prove they have existing coverage equal to or greater than the University policy. Such insurance must be provided by a United States-based company. Foreign based policies WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Insurance fees will be included on your bill. The fee is $447 per quarter ($1,341 per year). Students are responsible for paying this each quarter. Students who will qualify for a waiver of the policy must follow the guidelines established by the Student Health Insurance Of ce for obtaining a waiver. Summer coverage is free for students who pay during Spring quarter. Students who begin a 12-month program during the Summer quarter will have to pay the insurance premium 4 times ($1,788). 5. All graduate students (except college of Medicine) are required to pay the Instructional Technology and In struc tion al Equipment Fee (ITIE). The fee is for costs associated with labs, instructional equipment and sup plies, and information technology. The fee will be $105 per quarter ($315 per year) and will be included on your bill at the time of registration. 6. All students (except Raymond Walters and Clermont Colleges) are required to pay Campus life fee. This fee is $147 per quarter ($441 per year). 7. The  rst month in the United States demands more  nancial outlay than any other single period. An ad di tion al $2,000 (at least) should be available to meet these expenses. 8. Summer school tuition is not included in the estimate because enrollment is optional for most programs. 9. A student with a family should budget an additional $4,000 per year for a spouse and $2,000 per year for each child. 10. Travel to and from the student’s country is not included in the estimate of personal ex pens es. 11. Undergraduate dormitory fees are due at the beginning of each quarter. Graduate res i dence hall rent is due at the beginning of each month. 12. Tuition and fees must be paid at the time of registration for courses. No ex cep tions are made for this re quire ment. 13. It is important for the student to know his/her government’s reg u la tions on cur ren cy ex change and bank pro ce dures for the transfer of need ed funds. 14. Students must have adequate  nances to cover all expenses for the entire time that is re quired to earn the degree. 15. Tuition and other expenses will change for the 2010-11 academic year. Updated information may be found at http://www.isso.uc.edu/index.cfm?fuseaction=newProspective.applyingAdmission.

Note: All fees are subject to change without notice. Programs in Architecture, Physiology, and Medicine have different fee structures. The exact cost of all programs can be found on our website at http://www.isso.uc.edu .

29 30 Money and Bank ing

Managing your  nances is one of the most important and challenging aspects of an enjoyable academic experience. This section introduces you to a few of the basic banking options available. When selecting a bank, you should compare services, service charges and bank locations before making your decision. Banks

When you open an account with a bank, most banks require two pieces of identi cation, such as your passport and UC ID.

Major banks located in the University area include:

Cinco Family Financial Center Credit Union Cinco University Branch-Tangeman University Center Auburn and William Howard Taft Avenue 2766 UC MainStreet #301 Cincinnati, OH 45219 Cincinnati, OH 45221 (513) 281-9988 (513) 475-6204 http://www.cinco.org

31 Fifth Third Bank on Corry Fifth Third Bank on Calhoun 30 E. Corry Street 132 Calhoun Street Cincinnati, OH 45219 Cincinnati, OH 45219 (513) 861-5100 (513) 221-2335 http://www.53.com http://www.53.com

National City Bank US Bank 31 William Howard Taft Avenue 425 Ludlow Avenue Cincinnati, OH 45219 Cincinnati, OH 45220 (513) 281-1662 (513) 475-6060 http://www.nationalcity.com http://www.usbank.com

PNC Bank 3030 Vernon Place Cincinnati, OH 45219 (513) 861-3400 Types of Accounts and services

Bank Cards: Many banks issue cards that enable you to deposit and withdraw money 24 hours a day by use of an Automated Teller Machine (ATM). These machines, which are fre quent ly located outside the bank, are very convenient. By using a bank card, customers avoid waiting in line at the bank and have access to cash after the bank closes. Banks that are members of a national ATM network allow you to access your funds with your bank card at selected ATM’s throughout the country. There are many ATM’s located on campus. In some instances, there may be small fees associated with ATM use. Cashing checks: To cash a check, you will need to endorse it by signing your name on the back. In addition, you will be asked for personal identi cation in the form of a driver’s license, a State of Ohio ID card, or a UC ID card. Some stores will cash a check for you if you shop there regularly. Checking Accounts: Banks offer different types of checking accounts designed to  t individual needs. The cost of checking varies from bank to bank. Some banks charge per transaction, some have a basic monthly fee, and others offer free services if you maintain a certain minimum balance in your ac count at all times. A list of all the account activity for the pre ced ing month, and in some cases your cancelled checks, will be sent to you in a monthly statement. Be careful to keep an accurate record of every check you write in order to avoid having checks returned due to insuf cient funds and incurring additional charges. “Bouncing” a check (writing a check for more money than you actually have in the account) is illegal and can cost you time and money. Through some banks, you can apply for a line of credit attached to your checking account that provides overdraft protection. Credit Cards: Credit cards may be convenient, especially if you unexpectedly have major ex pens es. You can pay expenses such as University and medical fees, airplane tickets and car repairs with any major credit card. You must understand that you can easily accumulate large bills with credit cards, and before you know it, you may be in debt. Before you accept a credit card, you must be sure to understand all your ob li ga tions. Most banks charge an annual fee. If you are unable to pay your full balance each month, you will be charged high in ter est rates (usually 18% or higher) on the re main ing balance and any additional charges you make. Make sure you stay within your budget when making credit card purchases. Debit Card: A debit card, also known as a check card, allows you to withdraw or deposit money to your bank account using an automatic teller machine (ATM) and to make purchases at stores that accept the card. Some debit cards carry a credit-card logo (such as Mastercard or Visa), and can be used in place of a check or credit card. Debit cards are not credit cards, however, and they can be used only to the extent

32 that you have funds in the account to which they are linked.

Savings Accounts: A savings account enables you to save money and accumulate interest on your savings. Interest is paid either monthly or quarterly. The difference between a savings and a checking account is that you cannot write checks on a savings account. Foreign Currency

If you deposit a check drawn on a foreign bank in your U.S. checking account, it may have to go through a collection process. This means that the money is not available to you until the U.S. bank has collected it from the foreign bank. It may take several weeks before the money is credited to your account. In countries with restrictions on foreign exchange, you may need to provide your sponsor or your family with certi cation of enrollment in order to receive money from your home country. The ap pli ca tion forms for letters of certi cation are available in UC International Services. Please allow  ve working days for processing.

III. Arrival in Cincinnati How to get to UC

From the Airport Upon arrival in Cincinnati, if desired, you can be picked up at the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport and taken to temporary housing accomdations. You need to make sure you arrive in Cincinnatiin time to take advantage of the temporary housing accomdations in order to give you time to locate per- manenet housing if you not been asssigned an on-campus dorm/residence hall. You can make reserva- tions at https://iof ce.uc.edu From the North or South via I-75 Exit at Hopple Street. Exit #3 (Exit is on the right driving South, on the left driving North.) At the top of the exit ramp, turn left onto Hopple Street, cross Central Parkway, and go up Martin Luther King Drive. Follow the signs to campus. From the West via I-74 Take I-74 to I-75 South, then use the directions above for getting to the campus from I-75. From the Southwest via I-71 Take I-71 to I-75 North, then use the directions above for getting to the campus from I-75. From the Northeast via I-71 Exit at William Howard Taft Road (Exit 3) and turn right onto Taft Road, a one-way (west) street that be - comes Calhoun Street and ends at the Southwest corner of the UC campus. From the East Follow US 50 to William Howard Taft Road. Taft becomes a one-way (west) street that changes to Calhoun Street and ends at the southwest corner of the UC campus.

33 Things to do During Your First Weeks

Your  rst weeks at the University of Cincinnati are very important and very busy. There are a number of things you must do before classes begin. The following list will help you organize your time and remem ber what must be done: 1. Check in with UC International Services. Once your visa has been obtained you should use our online systemto register for Fall International Student Check-In and let us know about your arrival in Cincinnati. It is important for you to provide this information so we can better plan for your check-in and orientation activities and make sure we are able to accomdate all the new students who plan to arrive . It will only take you a couple of minutes to answer the questions we have asked. you can register to check-in at https://ioff ce.uc.edu 2. Attend Orientation/Testing with your college/department . Undergraduates will have two or three days of testing and orientation. Graduate students will have a departmental Orientation to attend. 3. Complete the Health Screening 4. Buy University Student Health Insurance (unless eligible for a waiver). 5. Look for a place to live. If you are an undergraduate student, information regarding permanent on- campus housing is available on the fourth  oor of Dabney Hall in the Of ce of Housing and Food Services. On-campus graduate family housing is available at the main entrance of Scioto Hall. Help with  nding off-campus housing can be found at http://www.apartmentfrog.com/oh/uc/ and from many of the ads in this handbook. 6. Take the Oral English Pro ciency Test (OEPT) if required. International students who are re ceiv ing Uni ver si ty Graduate Assistantship funds, and whose native language is not English, are re quired to take the test. Students are required to take the test at the start of their  rst quarter of study. Those who pass are certi ed for Oral English Pro ciency and may assume the full range of duties, if any, as so ci - at ed with their  nancial awards. Those who do not pass OEPT will be advised to register for an “English As A Second Language” course that is suited to their needs. Students may not as sume instructional re spon si bili ties until they have passed the test. Students only receiving a graduate scholarship must take the test if instructed to do so by their admitting de part ment. Undergraduate students are not required to take the OEPT. 7. Register for classes. 8. Participate in “Welcome Activities” for Fall Quarter. You will receive more information when you check in with UC International Services and at the Fall Orientation. 9. Apply for a Social Security Number. Students who have been offered on-campus employment must have a Social Security number to obtain money from an assistantship, for employment on and off campus, and for  ling the annual federal income tax return. Upon arrival in the U.S., each student will be issued a University identi cation number. This number can be used to register for classes, obtain a University I.D., etc. until a Social Security number can be obtained. Instructions on how to obtain a Social Security number will be given to you at check-in. 10. Get a UC student ID card.

“Welcome” Activities

Cincinnati Rotary Orientation Program for New International Students (CROPNIS): To help you get better acquainted with one another, the Rotary Foundation of Cincinnati wishes to invite you to attend a 34 weekend of good fellowship, recreation, and discussion at Camp Allyn, the weekend following the Inter- national Student Orientation Program in September. The CROPNIS program is for you. It has no other purpose than to help you feel at home here. Over the three-day weekend you will be provided with practical tips about shopping and sightseeing, information on cultural resources of the city, and discussions of student attitudes and idioms. Camp Allyn provides dining, conference, and recreational facilities in a rural setting. It has dormitory accommodations for men and women. No overnight facilities are provided for children. Each student must provide his/her own toiletry articles. UC International Services encourages you to attend the CROPNIS weekend. It is a great way to meet people and make friends. Past students have made friendships that have lasted throughout their stay in the United States. A nominal fee of $25.00 will be payable at the International Student Orientation. Space is limited, so a lottery will be conducted at the International Student Orientation for those who want to go. Bus Tour of the City: Most of you will be living in Cincinnati for many years to come. Therefore, we believe it is a good idea to get to know the area as much as possible. To help you accomplish this, UC International Services offers a tour of the city. We will show you places of social and cultural signi cance in the greater Cincinnati area. Lunch will also be provided. It’s lots of fun and a great way to see the city in which you will be living. Information about the city tour will be distributed at the International Student Orientation in September. There is a small fee for the City Tour. How to Get a UC Student ID

A University Identi cation Card is required to borrow books from the library, to use certain facilities or equip ment, or to attend University athletic events. 24-48 hours after registering for classes you can go to the Public Safety Of ce in Edwards Center Four. To obtain your ID card you will need your passport or driver’s license, as well as your temporary UC ID number. Your UC ID number is an eight-digit number that begins with the letter "M". They will take a picture of you and make your ID Card.

IV. Taxation Issues

Whether or not you work during your program of study, you will have to deal with taxation issues on some level. UC International Services provides assistance to help you better understand the complexities of U.S. tax law. Please read the "The Advisor" each tax season for more details, but a brief introduction to taxation is below. The U.S. tax system encompasses many different types of taxes (e.g., income tax, Social Security tax, sales tax, personal property tax) and three layers of income taxation (local, state, and federal). You have ob li ga tions at several levels. Sources of U.S. income may include on-campus employment, scholarships, fellowships, graduate as sis - tant ships, practical or academic training, and any compensation received for labor. Typically international students do not have to pay taxes on interest paid to them by U.S. banks. Note that income is not limited to wages paid to you in cash, but also includes that portion of your scholar - ship, fellowship, or assistantship that is applied to your housing and meal expenses. The portion applied to your tuition, fees, books, and supplies is not counted as income. The payroll of ce will help you make these dis tinc tions. Be sure to inquire at UC International Services or the Payroll Of ce about the applica- bility of any tax treaty that might exist between your country and the United States. All F-1 and J-1 students (and accompanying dependents) are required to complete an income tax return annually. For most of you, this will mean completing the form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ (U.S. Nonresident Alien Income Tax Return) and a Form 8843. You are required to  le an income tax return even if you 35 have no income from U.S. sources, or if your income is exempt from U.S. taxes due to treaties between the U.S. and your home country. Funds from a University Scholarship (UGS, Cincinnatus) are tax exempt and do not need to be included on your tax return. UC International Services provides assistance with this annually. Important Dates, Documents and Forms

April 15: The last day on which residents and non-residents who have earned wages from U.S. sources may  le their U.S. federal income-tax returns. June 15: The last day on which non-resident students and their dependents who have no wage income from U.S. sources may  le their income tax returns. Form 519: U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens, an IRS publication. This publication is essential for individuals from nations having tax treaties with the United States. Form 8843: Statement for Exempt Individuals and Individuals with a Medical condition. This one-page doc u ment must be completed and returned with the 1040NR and 1040NR-EZ. It veri es nonresident alien tax status. Students who have not earned wages from U.S. sources will  le this form only. Form 1040NR: U.S. Non-resident Alien Income Tax Return. The longer version of the return completed by many non- res i dents. This form is distinct from the 1040, 1040A , or 1040EZ  led by residents for tax pur pos es. It is not in ter change able with those forms. The IRS publishes an instruction booklet to accom- pany the form. Form 1040NR-EZ: U.S. Income Tax Return for Certain Nonresident Aliens with No Dependents. A sim pli -  ed version of the 1040NR. Most F-1 and J-1 students may  le the 1040NR-EZ. The IRS publishes an instruction booklet for this form. Form W-2: Wage and Tax Statement. A form issued annually by employers (normally during the month of January). Copies of the W-2 must be  led with federal, state, and local tax returns. Form W-4: Employee’s Withholding Allowance Certi cate. A form completed by employees at the time of hire to indicate how much tax is to be withheld from the paycheck. Form 1042S: Foreign Persons U.S. Source Income Subject to Withholding is a form used to report total schol ar ship/fellowship payments income tax withheld and other information relating to grant pay ments. Form W-8BEN: Certi cate of Foreign Status of Bene cial Owner for United States Tax Withholding is a form used to certify an individual’s foreign status for tax purposes. Students who receive service free schol ar ships or fellowships must  le Form W-8BEN. Form 8233: Students who are employed in the U.S. (including teaching and research assistants) and are partially or fully exempt by treaty from U.S. taxation must  le Form 8233 and the appropriate attachment with the em ploy er to claim exemption from with hold ing each year. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT TAXES, PLEASE GO TO http://www.isso.uc.edu/index. cfm?fuseaction=taxInformation.home Each spring UC International Services will sponsor income tax assistance which will answer your ques tions, and help you complete your tax return. Please subscribe to "The Advisor". It will tell you the time, dates, and locations of the assistance.

36 V. For Assistance

On-campus Assistance

If you are having trouble with anything on campus: Of ce of University Ombuds: 607 Swift Hall, (513) 556-5956. Call to set up an appointment with the UC Ombuds to discuss your problem. The Ombuds is available to all members of the University community for CONFIDENTIAL discussion of your problem. This is not legal advice, but you will be presented with University policies and your options. The Ombuds may serve as an informal mediator and will also refer you to other services, if needed. You can also visit their website at http://www.uc.edu/ombuds/ Tenant-landlord Issues

If you are having trouble with your landlord: Tenant Information Project (TIP) at the University of Cincinnati Law School: (513) 556-0053. Call this number to discuss, by telephone, the Ohio Landlord and Tenant Law with UC law students. They will research particular points in the legal codes for you and give you reference points if you decide to pursue further legal assistance. http://www.law.uc.edu/students/tenant.shtml If you are having trouble with your landlord due to ethnicity, nationality, religious belief, etc.: Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME): (513) 721-4663. Call this number when there is reason to believe that landlord problems may be due to your ethnicity, nationality, religious beliefs, etc. HOME provides legal aid for those dealing with potential fair housing issues. http://www.cincyfairhousing.com/ General Legal Counseling

If you are having trouble with anything on or off-campus and need general legal counseling: Legal Aid: (513) 241-9400. Call this number for any legal concerns you may have. This service is provided free of charge to low-income individuals in Cincinnati. If Legal Aid is unable to help you, they will advise you and refer you to other services. Cultural Adjustment and Other Issues

Getting used to a new culture can be challenging. The Counseling Center provides a assistance with a wide range of issues, including cultural adjustment, to all students. No concern is too small or too large for The Counseling Center to help you. If they cannot be of service, they will help you  nd the right place for the information or assistance you need. All consultations are strictly con dential.

Counseling Center 316 Dyer Hall (513) 556-0648 http://www.uc.edu/cc

Campus Security

Security at the University of Cincinnati is provided by the Department of Public Safety, which includes the Clifton Campus Division and the Medical Center Complex. Each division employs full-time, trained, state-com mis sioned of  c ers who carry full arrest powers. Their jurisdiction extends to all state-owned Uni ver si ty property, which in cludes all University facilities and parking areas. They work with the city police 37 to provide service to the Uni ver si ty and surrounding com mu ni ties. On the Clifton campus, reports of all emergencies and crimes should be phoned in to the dispatcher at (513) 556-1111 (non-emer gen cy) or 911 (emergency only). Of cers will be dispatched immediately to assist. In the Academic Health Center complex, which consists of University Hospital, Medical Sciences Build- ing, Barrett Cen ter, Medical Arts Building/CARE and all Outpatient Clinics, Holmes Hospital, College of Phar ma cy, Col lege of Nursing, Health professionals and Kettering Lab o ra to ry, the Academic Health Center Police Divisions should be con tact ed. The dispatcher should be called at (513) 558-1111 or (513) 558-4900 (non-emer gen cy) or 911 (emergency only). Reports and inquiries regarding lost property in the Academic Health Center may be phoned to the Po- lice Head quar ters at (513) 558-1111 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. weekdays. Clifton campus police headquarters can be reached at (513) 556-1111. In an effort to make the students’ environment as safe as possible, the police need all the assistance that students can provide. Therefore, reporting crimes and unusual activities immediately to the dis patch er is essential to ensure a safe campus. The Department of Public Safety also provides a Crime Prevention Information Center. This center dis semi - nates information on methods of resisting threats of crime in the home and on the street. For in for ma tion on Crime Pre ven tion Programs offered by the Center, call (513) 558-4900 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. weekdays. For additional information on campus security go to http://www.uc.edu/pubsafety/ Nightwalk

In addition to the above services, Student Activities and Leadership Development (SALD) also provide a free walk ing escort service to anyone who needs an escort late at night across campus. Call 558-WALK (9255) for assistance.

Health Care Issues

University Health Services

If you have a health question or problem, you should go to University Health Service (UHS). The doctors at University Health Services are the same faculty who teach and train doctors at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. From sore throats to sprained ankles, University physicians are there for you. You can receive personalized attention at University Health Services. Services provided include primary care services, women’s health, dermatology, mental health services, preventative health care, health education, and wellness promotion. Additional special services include a pharmacy, x-ray, and laboratory services. University Health Services is open daily during the week for your convenience. Appointments are required. There is also a doctor “on call” 24 hours a day to advise you, should you have an emergency when the Campus Health Center is closed. Student Health Insurance All international students are required to carry the University Student Health Insurance policy unless they can prove coverage equal to or greater than the University policy. Such insurance must be provided by an

38 underwriter that is located in the United States, as well as a United States claims administrator. Foreign- based policies WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Insurance fees will be included on your tuition bill as soon as you are registered. The fee is $434.00 per quarter ($1,302.00 per year). Students are responsible for paying this fee each quarter they are registered. Summer coverage is free for students who pay during Spring Quarter. Students who qualify for a waiver of the policy must follow the guidelines established by the Student Health Insurance Of ce for obtaining a waiver. Students who begin a 12 month program during the Summer Quarter will have to pay the insurance premium 4 times ($1,648.00). Unless you register for 6 credit hours or more you will not be charged for the university student health insurance policy. However, you MUST go to the student health insurance of ce and enroll to get it. If at any time while registered for classes, international students change their F or J Visa status; register for classes from outside the United States; or transfer to another institution; they must contact the UC Student Health Insurance Of ce immediately. Faliure to do so will result in their responsibility to reimburse the University for the Student Health Insurance premium. Student health insurance fees are subject to change without notice.

Incoming international students have different Coverage Dates than other UC students. If international students incur medical expenses prior to the Effective Date speci ed in this Plan, they must provide proper documentation of the date they are required to be on campus - including veri cation by the UC International Services Of ce. All other bene ts and provisions for international students remain as set forth in this Plan. Compulsory Health Screening The University of Cincinnati requires that all students new to the University have a health screening at University Health Services (UHS). The health screening will include a two-step Mantoux test to screen for Tuberculosis (TB). Completion of the two-step Mantoux could require up to four (4) visits to UHS, which includes your initial health-screening visit. Based on your TB test results, a chest x-ray may be required and will be done at no charge to you. Chest x-rays from other countries cannot be accepted. Please consult the letter attached in your pre-arrival pack from UHS. It contains an immunization record sheet that needs to be completed and signed by a medical of cial. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ THE LETTER! Failure to complete the immunization record could result in expensive vaccinations, and you will be responsible for payment. Failure to complete the health screening upon arrival will result in noti cation to the Registrar’s of ce and possible cancellation of your classes for the subsequent quarter. If your classes are cancelled, you will be in violation of your immigration status. For more information on Student Health Insurance please visit the website http://www.uc.edu/uhs/

VI. Living in the U.S. Cultural Issues

UC is a diverse campus, with students, faculty, and staff from many parts of the world. For people of any age and background, being in a new country combines a sense of excitement and anticipation with some fears, loneliness, and doubts. Culture is a pattern of beliefs, values, and behaviors shared by groups of people. Cultural differences among groups can be sources of interest, pleasure, and growth. Learning about new and different languages, music, foods, and social customs will enhance your experience. Dif- ferences, however, can also lead to confusion about how to behave in different situations and the meaning of others’ behavior. Understanding some common cultural patterns in the United States can ease the transition and help students (and family members here with them) feel more at ease and a part of things. Understanding another culture does not mean, however, that a person must abandon his or her own ways. Getting acquainted with social and cultural differences is a very important process because it

39 will help you to build successful relationships with Americans. The following are some common American customs you will probably encounter.

Social Invitations

While you are here, we hope that you will meet and spend time with Americans and their families. These suggestions may help you feel more comfortable when you are invited out. The invitation is usually for you only, unless your hosts speci cally invite your family or friends. Bringing guests of your own without asking your host’s permission is considered impolite. The written invitation will include the date, time, place, and description of the occasion. You should always answer a written invitation, especially if it says R.S.V.P. (Répondez s’il vous plaît; French for “please respond”). You may respond by telephone or by letter; prompt notice is appreciated. Never accept an invitation unless you really plan to go. If you must decline an invitation, it is enough to say, “Thank you for the invitation, but I am unable to attend”. If an unavoidable problem makes it necessary for you to change plans, be certain to tell the host as soon as possible before the time when you are expected. Make sure you get directions to the place where the event will be held. When accepting an invitation for a meal, be sure to explain to your host if there is anything you are not supposed to eat. This courtesy will help the host to plan for food and beverages that everyone can enjoy. If you must refuse something after it has been prepared, refuse politely. Never hesitate to ask for any food on the table: “Would you please pass the rolls?”, since asking for more food is considered to be a compliment to the host. Being on time is very important in American culture. Hygiene

Americans put a great deal of emphasis on personal cleanliness. The standard of personal cleanliness that an individual maintains will determine (to a large extent) how he or she is accepted in society. Most Americans are very sensitive to the smells and odors of the human body-sometimes their own, but especially someone else’s. For this reason, most Americans bathe once a day, and sometimes more during hot weather or after strenuous exercise. They use deodorants and antiperspirants, and they wash their clothes frequently. Most Americans are also very concerned about having clean hair and fresh breath. Individualism and Privacy

The most important thing to understand about Americans is their devotion to individualism. From childhood, they have been trained to consider themselves as separate individuals who are responsible for their own situations in life and their own destinies. They have not been trained to see themselves as members of a close-knit, tightly interdependent family, religious group, tribe, nation, or other collectivity. Closely associated with the value they place on individualism is the importance Americans assign to privacy. Americans assume that people need some time to themselves or some time alone to think about things or recover their spent psychological energy. Americans have great dif culty understanding foreigners who always want to be with another person, or who dislike being alone. Directness and Assertiveness

Americans generally consider themselves to be frank, open, and direct in their dealings with other people. Americans will often speak openly and directly to others about things they dislike. They will try to do so in a manner they call "constructive", that is, a manner which the other person will not  nd offensive or un- acceptable. If they do not speak openly about what is on their minds, they will often convey their reactions 40 in nonverbal ways (without words), through facial expressions, body positions, and gestures. Americans are not taught that they should mask their emotional responses. Their words, the tone of their voices, or their facial expressions will usually reveal when they are feeling angry, unhappy, confused, or happy and content. They do not think it improper to display these feelings, at least within limits. They are much less concerned with avoiding embarrassment to themselves or others than most cultures. To Americans, being honest is usually more important than preserving harmony in interpersonal relationships.

Friendship and Dating

While many Americans are fairly open and warm people who are quick to make new acquaintances, their mobility and sense of individualism mean that their relationships are often casual and informal. This is not to say that Americans take friendship lightly. It just means that while Americans know a lot of people, their lasting friendships are often few. Comparatively, women in the United States are generally less inhibited than women from other countries. They are not usually shy with Americans or international visitors. Their relaxed and more independent attitude may be misunderstood by people whose native culture is more restrictive of women’s activities. It is not unusual, for example, for unmarried women to live by themselves, to share living space with other single women, or to go to public places unescorted.

American Holidays

Which American Holidays Are Important? Generally, throughout the United States, both the federal and state governments, and much of the public, con sid er the following dates holidays: New Year’s Day (Jan. 1), Martin Luther King Day (celebrated on the third Mon day in January) in honor of the slain Civil Rights leader; Memorial Day (end of May), In de pen dence Day (July 4), Labor Day (the  rst Monday in September), Thanksgiving Day (last Thurs day in No vem ber), and Christmas Day (De cem ber 25). Other hol i days might include Lincoln’s Birthday, Pres i dent’s Day or George Washington’s Birth day; Good Friday or Easter, which occurs either in March or April, is a holy day for Christians but also includes children’s activities; Columbus Day, the Monday nearest October 12, hon ors the “Discovery of Amer i ca”; Hal low een, Oc to ber 31, is a time to dress up in costumes and “trick or treat”, especially for children; and Valentine’s Day, February 14, is for sweet hearts to give each other gifts. Major Holidays Explained

New Year’s Day - January 1: Federal holiday for schools, of ces and banks. Stores are open. New Year’s Eve, De cem ber 31, is more important to Americans than New Year’s Day itself. Everyone gathers with family and friends to "ring out the old and ring in the new”, an expression that re ects the old custom of ringing church bells to greet the new year. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday - January 19 (Observed on 3rd Monday in January): Federal holiday that began in 1986. Martin Luther King, Jr. organized and led the civil-rights movement in America during the 1960s. Valentine's Day - February 14: Not a federal holiday. Lover’s holiday celebrated by sending cards and giving candy or  owers. Saint Patrick’s Day - March 17: Not a federal holiday. St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, and this holiday was brought to America by Irish immigrants. People celebrate this holiday by wearing some thing green and getting to geth er with friends to party and sing Irish folk songs. 41 April Fool’s Day - April 1: Not a federal holiday. As in many other countries, this day is marked by the custom of playing practical jokes on friends and colleagues. Easter - a Sunday in March or April: Not a federal holiday. A religious holiday for Christians who believe that on this day Christ rose from the dead. Many folk traditions are now connected with Easter, including the dec o ra tion of brightly colored eggs and giving gifts to children. Mother’s Day - second Sunday in May: Not a federal holiday. On this day Americans honor their mothers by sending  owers, buying small gifts, and taking their mothers out to dinner so that they don’t have to cook or do work around the house. Memorial Day - last Monday in May: Federal holiday. Memorial Day is the day on which Americans re mem ber those who died in military service to their country. Many families visit graves and decorate them with  owers. The day is also marked with patriotic parades. This day is considered the beginning of the summer season. Father’s Day - third Sunday in June: Not a federal holiday. Fathers are honored on this day. Chil dren give them cards and gifts. Independence Day - July 4: Federal holiday. Independence Day commemorates the day the Dec la ra tion of Independence was signed in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776. The holiday is celebrated all over the country with picnics, political speeches, and community get-togethers that culminate in  reworks dis plays. Labor Day -  rst Monday in September: Federal holiday. This holiday was established in recognition of the labor movement’s contribution to the productivity of the country. This day is the last holiday of the summer season and is celebrated with picnics and other outings. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur - late September / early October: Not a federal holiday. Rosh Ha- shanah, com mem o rates the beginning of the Jewish New Year, is the  rst of the Ten Days of Penitence, which end with Yom Kippur, the most solemn of Jewish holidays. For Rosh Hashanah, families gather for a feast in which an apple is dipped in honey to express hope for a sweet year ahead. In Judaism, Yom Kippur is the day of a atonement; on the eve of Yom Kippur, Jews ask forgiveness from those they may have wronged. The key notes of the hol i day are fasting and a collective confession, repeated several times throughout the day. Halloween - October 31: Not a federal holiday. This was originally a religious holiday, but its religious character has been lost in the United States, and it is now celebrated mostly as a children’s holiday. Traditions include carving out pumpkins with funny faces, as well as dressing up in costumes and going around the neigh bor hood to receive treats of candy, fruit, and cookies. When people come to the door, children say "trick or treat", meaning “if you don’t give me a treat, I will trick you.” Thanksgiving Day - fourth Thursday in November: Federal holiday. The  rst Thanksgiving Day was cel e brat ed by the Pilgrims at Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts in 1621 to give thanks for the bountiful harvest and their triumph of survival over the wilderness. Now it is a time when Americans give thanks for the good life they enjoy. They celebrate by getting together with family and friends to enjoy turkey, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie. Hanukkah - eight days, usually in December: Not a federal holiday. One of the less solemn of the Jew- ish holidays, but one widely observed even by nonreligious Jews. The only Jewish holiday connected with war, Hanukkah celebrates the victory of Jewish Maccabees over their Syrian rulers in 167 B.C. Hanukkah is marked with parties, games, gifts for children, and the lighting of the eight candles of the menorah. Christmas - December 25: Federal holiday. Many people regard Christmas as the most important holiday of the year, with the holiday season extending from a few days before Christmas to New Year’s Day. Although its origins are religious in nature, it is a holiday celebrated by almost everyone in the country. Family mem bers travel great distances to be together on this day on which gifts are ex changed, and 42 a traditional dinner is shared. Even families who do not have strong religious convictions decorate a Christmas tree and join in the festivities of the Christmas season.

Academic Issues

The Oral English Pro ciency Test (OEPT):

Who needs to be tested? All entering graduate students receiving a Graduate Assistantship whose native lan guage is not English must have an assessment made of their demonstrated oral pro ciency in the use of English. A de part ment can require students receiving a University Graduate Scholarship to take the test as well. There are two ways to demonstrate Oral English Pro ciency: 1. You may take the Test of Spoken English (TSE) before you arrive at the University. A score of 50 is accepted as a passing score. Please have the scores sent to: UC International, 3134 One Edwards Center, PO Box #210640, The University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221-0640. 2. If you do not have a TSE score of 50, you must take the Oral English Pro ciency Test. What does the test consist of? The Oral English Pro ciency Test is a 15-20 minute tape-recorded in - ter view and lecture which will require you to respond to a few warm-up questions (not scored), explain a syllabus, and de ne a concept.

Who conducts the interview evaluation? Each oral interview is conducted by three trained eval u a tors. They are English as a Second Language (ESL) professionals or graduate students in ESL, Com mu ni cation Sci enc es, or similar language-related disciplines.

How is the test evaluated? Each examinee receives scores for pronunciation, grammar,  uency and overall comprehensibility based on a scale from one to four. A score of three for overall com pre hen si bil i ty is the minimum passing score for the test. A score of 3.30 is recommended by the Center for ESL as the minimum score for teaching responsibilities. If you score less than three for overall com pre hen si bil i ty, you are rec om mend ed to take ESL courses before retaking the test. The following guidelines will help you plan your sched ule:

OEPT SCORE PROGNOSIS 1.0- 1.9 Student will need 3 to 4 quarters of ESL courses 2.0- 2.4 Student will need 2 to 3 quarters of ESL courses 2.5- 2.9 Student will need 1 to 2 quarters of ESL courses 3.0- 3.4 3.0 is the minimum passing score; further ESL and or TA train ing may be needed for teach ing responsibilities. 3.5- 4.0 No restrictions

How are the test results posted? Test scores will be sent to your department within two days of the test. You should request them from the Graduate Program secretary in your department.

How many times can a student take the Oral Pro ciency Test? You may take the test no more than twice without charge during one academic year. Consult the guidelines above to determine when to take the test the second time. You will need to present an application for a second test form (available in your departmental of ce), signed by your ESL instructor or ac a dem ic ad vi sor, in order to register for a second test.

43 How often is the test offered? The test will be given three times a year: September, December, and March. Precise dates and test registration materials are available in the OEPT of ce in 611C Teacher’s College.

What can you do if you wish to take the test more than twice during the academic year? The reason that you are allowed to take the test only twice during the year is to encourage all students to con cen trate on actively improving their English through coursework and frequent interactions with native speakers of En glish. You are urged to follow the guidelines above. However, if you really feel you need to take the test more than twice a year, you may take the Test of Spoken English administered by the Ed u ca tion al Testing Service. Application forms may be obtained from ETS: TSE, P.O. Box 6157, Princeton NJ 08541-6157. Cultural Differences in the Classroom

In many cultures, there is a great difference in status between students and professors. Stu dents show their respect for their professors by listening quietly. They do not question what the pro fes sor says. In the United States, it is quite acceptable for students to ask questions and to engage in discussions with the professor. This is not disrespectful. In fact, professors view participation in class dis cus sions as a sign of interest in the subject matter. During the  rst class meeting, your professors will inform you of their of ce hours and when and how they can be reached. If you have a problem with the material presented in class, do not hesitate to see the professor during of ce hours and ask for help. Even if you do not have a problem, it is a good idea to drop in and talk to your professor. It gives both of you a chance to get to know each other. This may be par tic u lar ly important if you have trouble understanding the professor, or he/she has trouble un der stand - ing you. Often, all it takes is a little time to get used to the other person’s style of speaking. At the time of the  rst class meeting, your professor will specify “due dates” for various assignments. These dates are quite  rm, and you must hand in your assignment by that date in order to get full credit. If you know that you cannot meet a deadline for an important reason, contact your professor before the deadline and try to work out an arrangement that is mutually agreeable. One thing you need to know about studying in the U.S. is that speaking and learning in English will be ex haust ing and frustrating, particularly in the beginning. Sometimes, international students have to spend much more time than their American counterparts to complete the same assignments. This can lead to stress and a feeling of inferiority. The most important thing you can do to improve your level of success in the classroom is to improve your English skills. Your English will not improve if the only people you talk to outside the class room speak your native language. You should speak to Americans whenever possible, watch television, listen to the radio, and read newspapers and magazines. Interacting with U.S. culture will greatly enhance your ability to understand your colleagues and professors on the academic level. The more pro cient your English be comes, the more successful you will be in the classroom. If you are feeling pressure, you have to take the initiative and ask for help. You must ask to join study groups or ask pro fes sors questions. No one will approach you to ask if there is anything you do not un - der stand. However, class mates and professors are usually willing to help if they know you are having prob lems. Be prepared to do whatever it takes to help yourself. Remember how much effort it took to get the opportunity to study at the University of Cincinnati, then put twice as much effort into your work to make the most of your stay here. Smoking is not permitted in University classrooms or buildings.

De nitions of Important Terms

Academic Year: The academic year at the University of Cincinnati is divided into four quarters (au tumn, winter, spring, and summer) of approximately 10 weeks each. Typically, awards such as schol ar ships and assistantships cover three quarters (autumn, winter, spring). At the end of each quarter, there is a  nal exam period. There is a short break between each quarter. Major: The  eld in which you are trying to get your degree. Grades: The quality of a student’s academic work is measured by letter grades; A (excellent), B (above average), C (average), D (lowest acceptable), F (failing). Under certain circumstances, let ters such as IP (in-progress), N (no grade), S (satisfactory), or U (unsatisfactory) may appear in grade reports. These letters are not grades and are not included in the calculation of a grade point av er age. Mid-Term: A test given around the middle of each quarter. Final: An exam given at the end of a quarter, usually on all the academic material covered in class. The  nal exam schedule is published in the Learning Opportunities Bulletin each quarter. Quiz: A test given during the quarter, sometimes unannounced. Credit Hours: The quantity of work a student does at UC is measured in credit hours. The number of credit hours a course is worth is usually based on the number of hours it meets each week. To com plete your degree, you must have a speci c number of credit hours. See your departmental handbook for de tails.

45 Assignment: Out-of-class work required by a professor; for example, reading books, writing pa pers, or doing a lab report. Your professor will expect the assignment by a certain date. Vacations and Breaks

Starting with the Autumn Quarter, the  rst vacation comes during the Thanksgiving holiday. A long vacation comes during the Christmas to New Year’s holidays, usually averaging over three weeks in duration. Many students go home or visit with friends. The vacation comes to an end a few days after New Year’s Day. During the spring, there is a week long break in mid-March. tired of the long winter, many students head for Florida or other warm beach areas. It is a time of freedom and enjoyment. The longest vacation occurs between spring commencement and the start of the fall semester. During the three months involved, many students travel, work or just relax and rejuvenate for the next academic year.

Employment Opportunities

As an international student, you are permitted to work on campus for a maximum of 20 hours per week while school is in session. You are not permitted to start working on campus more than 30 days prior to initially starting classes at UC. During holidays and breaks you will be permitted to work more. The Job Location and De vel op ment Pro gram in Career De vel op ment & Center, located on the  rst  oor of University Pavilion, maintains a listing of part-time job op por tuni ties. Student Em ploy ee Ser vic es (SES) can also help you  nd a position with an em ploy er on campus. Your skills, abilities, and class schedule will be matched with an em ploy er who is looking for someone like you. If you are interested in being placed through SES, or you would like to volunteer your time to help SES with their services, just com plete an application form. You can  nd the application forms at several convenient locations, in clud ing the Student Government Of-  ce; the Career De vel op ment and Center in 140 University Pavilion, or at Student Em ploy ment Services in Uni ver si ty Hall. If you have any questions, you can call SES at 556-4523, or send a fax to 556-1232. Once you  nd a job you will have to submit an "Employment Eligibilty Veri cation/ Social Security Letter" eFormat at https://iof ce.uc.edu

Special Events & Programs

WORLDFEST Celebration

The University of Cincinnati holds a special week of international events called “Worldfest: Cel e brat ing a Caring Community of Culture”. Worldfest typically takes place in May and has many events, including the In ter na tion al Festival for which international students decorate booths, give per for manc es, and prepare food from their native coun tries. International students play a major role in Worldfest, and we hope that you will be in volved while you are attending UC. It’s a week of fun for all!

46 International Friendship Program

The University of Cincinnati has a program for incoming international students called the UC In ter na - tion al Friendship Program. As a participant in the program, you will be paired with a Uni ver si ty faculty/ staff member or community representative with whom you may visit, enjoy an oc ca sion al meal, cel e brate holidays, participate in community sports and cultural events, or just relax in con ver sa tion. This will be an opportunity for you to ex pe ri ence American life in a non-university set ting and learn  rst-hand about our culture. If you are interested in participating in the UC International Friendship Program, applications will be dis - trib ut ed during the check-in process or you can pick up an application at UC International Services. Your obligations as a participant are to accept your “Friends'” invitations whenever possible and to be willing to share your culture and enjoy the differences and similarities of the two countries. We encourage all international students to participate in this program. It will be a valuable ex pe ri ence in helping you to better understand American culture and in helping Americans to better un der stand your culture. International Education Week

Each November, the U.S. celebrates its international connections with International Education Week. As a large international community UC celebrates this week with lectures,  lm festivals, and many other events that highlight our international connections. We hope that you will become involved in this week as well. UC International Services listserv "The Advisor"

In addition to its primary function of updating you on immigration regulations, "The Advisor" will keep you informed about upcoming special events, such as the International Coffee Hour and Worldfest.. International Student Organizations

The University of Cincinnati has many International Student Organizations whose purposes are to pro- mote education and understanding among cultures, as well as to create a network of friendship between students from all over the world. To make these organizations a success, we need your participation. Below is a list of all International Student Organizations with the names and e-mail addresses of their presidents. To  nd out additional information abiut this groups and more go to http://www.uc.edu/sald/

Arabic Club Asian American Association Grace Thome Pallavi Patel [email protected] [email protected] Association for India's Development (AID) Chinese Studenst and Scholars Association Dr. Manish Kumar (CSSA) [email protected] Hongssheng Wang http://cincinnati.aidindia.org [email protected] http://www.ucbbs.com/forum/ Cultural Connections (C2) Hindu YUVA Andrea Siouris Raj Bhatnagart [email protected] [email protected] http://www.uc.edu/groups/csquare/index.htm

47 Indian Students Assocaition (ISA) Japanese and Amercan Student Society (JASS) Manglik Raj Noriko Tsurui [email protected] [email protected] http://www.uc.edu/groups/isa/ Latinos En Accion National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. Yakaira Ramost Margeret Reed [email protected] [email protected]

Nepali Student Association (NSA) UC Taiwanese Student Association Yizong chengt Alex Lin [email protected] [email protected]

UC Alliance of Ethopian Students UC African Students Association Sarah Leggesse. Dr. John K. Kalubi [email protected] [email protected]

Vietnamese Student Associaiton University of Cinicnnati IHSAN Maureen Schomaker Hazeem Said [email protected] [email protected]

International Socailist Association Muslim Student Association Maurice Peck Ihab Saad [email protected] [email protected] http://masa-cincinnati.org/ Amnesty International German Club Howard Tolley Todd Herzog [email protected] [email protected]

Campus Services and Attractions

Campus Tours

Preview UC Tours are offered nearly every weekday year round and most Saturdays during the school year. The University is closed on Federal holidays. Registration is required for the tour. Additional information is available at http://www.admissions.uc.edu/visit/Visit_daily.html. On-Campus Dining

Students may choose from a number of quick and full-service dining facilities housed on campus. Visitors are also welcome in the Siddall and Center Court residence dining rooms. Tangeman University Center (TUC): TUC has a food court which includes Jump, Freshen’s, Goldstar Chili, Pizza Hut, and Wendy’s. Mick and Mack’s is a full service restaurant located in Tangeman University Center. Quick Mick’s has food items which can be purchased quickly. Student Life Center: Adjacent to Tangeman University Center, the Student Life Center houses Starbuck's Coffee and Subway Sandwiches. The CCM Café: Located in Emery Hall. Offers Java City Coffee, bagels, soups and sandwiches.

48 Campus View Café: Located in University Hall; this café offers a variety of food options. Center Court and Siddall Hall Dining Centers: One price - all you care to eat: Home-style entrées, grill, Bene’s Pizza, Pan Geos (fresh and made to order), salad and deli bar. Menus include American Favorites, ethnically inspired cuisine, and vegetarian selections. Stadium View Café: Offers a variety of food options including deli-styled sandwiches, chicken strips and chicken wings. Located between Nippert Stadium and the Campus Recreation Center, above Center Court. On-Campus Attractions

MainStreet Cinema: Located in the TUC. Showing recently released  lms as well as classic movies. Tickets cost $2 dollars with your Bearcat Campus Card. Catskeller Game Room & Sports Lounge: Located on the  rst  oor of TUC with entrances from both the Food Court and the Bearcat Plaza patio facing the press box at Nippert Stadium, the Catskeller features Golden Tee, pool tables, ping pong, Air Hockey, darts, Dance Revolution and more. Flex $$ or Bearcat Cards

At each of the locations above, students will be able to use their  ex dollars or Bearcat cards instead of cash. Payment options for the card are flexible, and students have many menu alter- natives on campus, making mealtime convenient. You can choose from many different meal plans, from three meals a day to seven meals a week plus additional cash on the Flex$$. Emergency Assistance

If you need assistance for any reason, pick up any of the Help Phones located throughout campus marked by a blue light and a sign. No need to dial; you’ll be connected immediately with the UC Public Safety Of ce. Parking

Parking for a fee is available in the following locations: Clifton Court Garage, Calhoun Garage, Campus Green Garage, CCM Garage, Corry Garage, Goodman Street Garage, Woodside Garage, Medical Sci- ences Garage, B lot and C lot (limited availability). You may park for a fee in most other campus lots between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Shuttle Bus Service

UC provides campus shuttle buses Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Schedules and routes are posted at each stop, and are also on the parking map, which you may request at one of the gatehouses as you enter, or at http://www.uc.edu/shuttle Stores

Clinique: Hypo-allergenic cosmetics, makeup, facial cleansers and fragrances. Located in Tangeman University Center inside the University Bookstore. Bookstore: Located on West Campus in the south wing of the Tangeman University Center, the bookstore can serve many of your needs in addition to sup ply ing your textbooks. It now carries a vast array of school sup plies, cloth ing, food, of ce and art supplies, com put er software, greeting cards, etc. There is also a bookstore for medical students on East Campus, located on the 1st  oor of the Medical Sci- 49 ence Build ing. You can purchase textbooks, lab gowns, white coats, various instruments, school supplies, etc. Phone: (513) 556-1700. Business on Main: Provides students, staff, and faculty with copying, printing, and shipping services. Located in the Steger Student Life Center. Market on Main: A campus grocery with fresh produce, everyday items, frozen meals and beverages. Located at the Campus Recreation Center, Market on Main is open to 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. Mail

The nearest U.S. Post Of ce is located on Vine Street. Its hours of operation are weekdays 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The telephone number is (513) 751-4384. Currently it costs 41 cents per ounce (23 cents each additional ounce) to send a letter anywhere in the United States. For overseas airmail letters, the cost is 90 cents per ounce. Letters to Canada cost 69 cents for the  rst ounce. Let ters to Mexico cost 69 cents for the  rst ounce. You can register or insure valuable documents or letters for an additional fee. These services some times allow for a return receipt, a postcard that is sent automatically to you when the letter is delivered to the addressee. The U.S. Postal Service will ship packages both within the U.S. and overseas. However, there are private com pa nies which can ship packages; some will provide overnight guarantees. United Parcel Service (UPS) and Fed er al Express (FedEx) are two examples. Recreation/Exercise

The University of Cincinnati Campus Recreation Center (CRC) is a state-of-the-art  tness and recreation facility. With over 200,000 square feet of recreation space, the Center offers University students, employees, and friends of the University a wide range of exercise and  tness opportunities, including: three pools (50-meter x 25-yard lap pool, Leisure pool, Whirlpool, and 2 one-meter & 1 three-meter diving boards). The center also includes 3 multipurpose  tness rooms, 8 racquet courts, 6-court gymnasium, 40 foot climbing wall, 10 foot bouldering wall, suspended running/walking track and over 200 pieces of specialized equipment. All University facilities are available to students. Visit http://www.uc.edu/reccenter to learn more.

In this section, we will take a closer look at studying at the University of Cincinnati through interviews with two current international students. Their experiences, both good and bad, will give you an idea of what to expect when you begin your studies at the University of Cincinnati. These two students have made the best of their time in Cincinnati. Please pay close attention to their advice. Shomo Sengupta, Singapore

After completing studies in IT, Shomo was in the army in for 3 years Singapore then worked as an IT trainer for one year before deciding to go back to school. As you can imagine, it was not easy to go back to school. He remembers the  rst few weeks here, running around getting registered for classes, looking for a place to live, searching for an on-campus job and applying for his SSN. It was a whirlwind few weeks and occasionally he did question why he decided to come so far for school. But as the quarter progressed, things started to settle down and he was able to concentrate on learning and broadening his horizons here at UC. He remembered being more observant about everything. He found that he was interesting to see how people reacted to you and that there are times when

50 you have to listen and take other people’s suggestions and thoughts into consideration. For Shomo, it has been an extremely rewarding decision to come to UC. He has made great friends, the faculty is extremely helpful and he has learned a lot, academically and culturally in a short period of time.

When asked for advice he would give to new incoming international students he said, “The  rst quarter is extremely important; you take the major step in coming to this country to pursue your studies, leaving behind your family and friends. Culture shock is inevitable, as you may not be used to the community here. It is important to be curious about everything around you and take the  rst quarter as more than just an opportunity to do well in classes. Explore your surroundings; there are so many interesting things to do around here if you look hard enough. Interact with the locals, learn their “lingo”, it is really amazing because they are as curious about your culture, your background, what made you come here as you are to  nd out about them. Set realistic goals, and work progressively to get to them”.

Fanghong Yu, China

Fanghong came to the United States to pursue her Master’s degree in Educational Studies. In the application process, Fanghong said she received a lot of help and support from a UC rep in China and UC International. The support consisted of choosing the right major, editing her resume and searching for an on campus job, as well as searching for housing. She received this support while in China and then again once she arrived here at UC. She states, “I appreciate all their help and support and they made me feel welcome.” She also says that because UC has recruiting of ces in China and many other places in the world, students can get to know the school better and lay a foundation for future studies at UC before arriving in the U.S.

When asked for advice she would give to new incoming international students she replied that, “She realized that she needed to improve her English. By taking English as a Second Language classes it im- proved her English skills. This helped her with listening, speaking, reading and writing. I believe everyone will bene t from ESL classes like I did”. She also adds, not to be shy to speak and practice your English with others. The more you speak, the better your English will become. With UC International, there are a lot of chances to socialize, make friends and practice speaking English. UC International Services holds monthly activities such as coffee hour gatherings, sports outings and festivals! These are great events to attend and get acquainted.

Welcome to UC!

About Cincinnati

The City

Cincinnati is the home of many multi-national corporations, including Procter & Gamble. Its metropolitan area is home to more than two million people. The small-town aspects of the city include beautiful parks, easy commuting, and an accessible downtown. Cincinnati was recently named one of the top 10 cities in the United States (http://www.cityrating.com). Our international airport makes Cincinnati an easy commute from your home country.We have professional sports teams like the Cincinnati Reds baseball team and the Cincinnati Bengals (American football team), world-class museums and art galleries and a vigorous, diverse economy with opportunities for co-op employment, internships and careers after graduation. Our

51 downtown is easy to navigate on foot, and its charming neighborhoods date back to the 19th century. Because of all that we have to offer, Cincinnati has been rated one of the most livable metro areas in America. Cincinnati’s riverfront has parks with places for strolling and sunbathing, watching a ballgame or dining in a riverfront café. Downtown contains architectural gems like the art-deco Carew Tower and majestic Music Hall. Cincinnati’s art deco train station has been converted into a stunning museum center with an Omnimax theater and the fascinating Cincinnati History Museum. The Cincinnati Zoo is internationally known for its collection of endangered species. And, if you’re in need of a mid-February visit to the tropics, the rain forest and  oral exhibits at the nearby Krohn Conservatory are sure to chase the winter blahs.The climate in Cincinnati changes with the seasons. For more information about Cincinnati go to www.cincinnatiusa.com

Jan. Feb. Mar Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Ave. Max Temp Celsius 2.9 5.3 11.9 18.2 23.7 28.2 30.0 29.6 25.9 19.7 11.9 5.4 Ave. Min. -5.8 -4.1 1.3 6.5 12.0 16.6 18.8 17.8 14.3 7.8 2.7 -2.9 Temp Celsius

Winter Weather Health Tips

Coping with the extreme winter weather conditions can be challenging. Here are some tips that will help make the weather conditions more tolerable. Wear layers of clothing: You will be much warmer if you wear several layers of clothing rather than one heavy shirt and a coat. For your  rst layer, you could start with a long sleeved thermal shirt. For your 2nd layer, a t-shirt is advisable. After that, you could wear a long sleeved  annel shirt. If temperatures are extreme, you could wear a quilted/lined  annel shirt rather than just a regular one. All of these are available at stores such as Wal-Mart and Target. Thermal shirts would be in the departments where you buy underwear. You can also get thermal pants to wear under your jeans, pants, or sweat pants. We often refer to thermal shirts/pants as "long underwear" or "long johns". Bene ts to wearing layers are that you can remove some of them you get too warm indoors, or you can add more if you are still too chilled. The biggest reason for layering, though, is that the layers really do protect you from the cold. Wear a hat!!!: Between 35-50 percent of body heat is eliminated through the head. If you want to use that heat to stay warm, cover your head! The following is a quote from the NOLS Wilderness, First aid, Cold Injuries website: "when exposed to the environment, the skin acts as a radiator. Unlike in the rest of the body, the blood vessels in the head do not constrict and reduce the blood supply  owing of the scalp. The head is therefore an excellent radiator of heat, eliminating from 35 to 50 percent of our total heat production. The effectiveness of garments designed to re ect and conserve radiative heat is not agreed upon universally, but the effectiveness of dry insulation, especially in the head, is undeniable." If you are displeased with the way a hat can mess-up your hair, you can use a long winter scarf instead. Just lay it over your head and wrap the long ends around your neck. It won't mess your hair up as much. You can also use the hood of your winter jacket (if it has one). In extreme cold, some people use both a hat and the hood. Keep your socks dry: If you have had your socks on all day, your feet will have perspired some. If you've walked a lot, they will have perspired more. Even a little perspiration will cause your socks to be damp. If your feet are even a little damp, they will be cold, and if your feet are cold, you will be cold. Walking through snow or walking in the rain will obviously contribute to the problem. It's a good idea to change into a clean, dry pair of socks before you go back outside-especially if you have to be out for

52 very long. Coping With the Effects of Dry Air

Dry Lips: You cannot live in cold weather regions without keeping at least one kind, if not an assort- ment, of lip balms. These come in various forms such as sticks, tiny jars, and tubes. Various brands are Chapstick, Blistex, Carmex, and others. They cost about a dollar, and this time of year they are often on display near the check-out (cashier) line in grocery stores and drug stores. They are also in the medicine sections of these stores. Dry Nose: The air during winter is much more drier than during other seasons. Dryness is even worse because of the dry heat in our apartments. Many newer homes are built with humidi ers that automatically put moisture into the air. But older houses and most apartments don't have humidi ers. You have several options: 1. You can purchase small humidi ers, sometimes called "room humidi ers" for around $35.00. 2. You can buy a vaporizer for about $10.00-15.00. These are sold in pharmacies or sometimes in the pharmacy department of the grocery store. Often they are used when a person has a cold or  u to keep the air moist near where the person is sleeping. (Since one usually must breath through the mouth due to nasal congestion, moist air helps keep the mouth and throat from getting too dry which can cause excessive coughing.) Special cold medications can be added to this apparatus, but they are not necessary if you simply want the bene t of the steam moisture it produces. 3. If you don't wish to purchase either of the above items, you can boil water in your apartment to add moisture to the air. Do be careful that you don't forget to turn off your stove. Added moisture in the air will also help to reduce the amount of static electricity that causes those irritat- ing shocks! Dry Skin: Be sure that you apply moisture lotion to your skin at least once a day. The best time to apply it is just out of the shower-it is more readily absorbed. Reputable brands are: Vaseline Intensive Care (Der- matologist recommended), Nivea Cream Moisture Lotion, Keri Lotion and Cetaphil (Cetaphil is excellent for anyone with sensitive skin or allergies to most lotions and creams). Others are good, too, but you will get a better product and, therefore, better results if you don't buy the cheapest brand. Hydration: Drink lots of water!! It's the best way to keep your body hydrated. If you drink coffee, tea, or caffeinated pop, the caffeine dehydrates your body, so drink even more water to replace the loss caused by the caffeine. Doctor-recommended water consumption per day is between eight and ten 8 oz. glasses. Transportation

The transportation system in the United States is quite different from that in most other countries. Most Amer i cans own cars, which are the most common form of transportation. Our rail and bus systems are not as ex tensive as those of many other countries. The Metro: Greater Cincinnati’s public transportation system, the Metro, offers bus service in Hamilton County and portions of Butler County and Clermont County every day of the year. For complete route, schedule and fare information, check http://www.sorta.com or http://www.go-metro.com, or call Metro at 513-632-7528 (TDD Ohio RelayService 1-800-750-0750), week days 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. or visit Metro Center’s in for ma tion of ce at 120 East Fourth Street, open week days, 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. UC Students, Faculty and Staff can purchase cards ona quarterly basis at www.go-metro.com/ucprogram.html. Your pass will be mailed to you within  ve business days of registration.

53 54 Taxicabs: There are many taxicab companies in Cincinnati. The Yellow Cab Company (241-2100) is reliable and experienced, but there are many other taxicab companies to choose from. You must call to be picked up; taxis do not cruise around town like in many other big cities. Out-of-Town Bus Service: The Greyhound bus station is located at 1005 Gilbert Avenue, downtown Cin cin nati. Call 1-800-231-2222 (out of town) or 352-6012 (local) for schedule and fare information. Bus fares are reasonable and riding the bus is a great way to see the United States and its people. http://www.greyhound.com Train Services: The Amtrak train station is located at 1301 Western Avenue, Queensgate. Routes may be limited. For more information call 1-800-872-7245, 651-3337 (local), or a travel agent. http://www.amtrak.com Air Travel: the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport is the city’s international airport. Flight and other travel information is available through any travel agency. Consult the Yellow Pages for con ve - nient ly located agencies

How to Obtain an Ohio Driver’s License

If you have a valid International Driver’s License or a valid driver’s license from another U.S. state, you may drive a car in Ohio for up to one year from the date of your arrival in the U.S. Your I-20 or DS-2019 must have been issued for a duration of time that exceeds one year in order to obtain an Ohio Driver's license. However, if you purchase a car and register it in your name, or if you do not have a valid driver’s license from Ohio, the procedure for obtaining an Ohio Driver’s license is as follows: 1. Get a copy of the Digest of Ohio Motor Vehicle Laws from any Bureau of Motor Vehicles. 2. Visit the nearest Deputy Registrar Of ce to get a temporary permit application packet. A fee will be charged, and you will need to bring identi cation with you. 3. Go to the nearest Bureau of Motor Vehicles license exam station to take a vision test and a written test on Ohio motor vehicle regulations and traf c signs. After you pass the written test, you will be issued a tem po rary instruction permit which authorizes you to practice for your road test only when there is a licensed driver seated in the front seat. 4. When you have developed your driving skills well enough, contact the nearest exam station to sched - ule a road test. 5. In order to be issued a license, a foreign national must present: a. Valid passport; b. U.S. visa; c. I-94 card; d. One of the following: An I-20 or a DS-2019, along with an original letter from UC International Services stating that you are af liated with UC. e. The foreign national must show he or she will reside or has resided in Ohio for 12 months, which can normally be proved using the above documentation; and f. Each applicant must state whether a permanent Social Security number has been assigned. How - ev er, a permanent Social Security number is not required to be issued a driver’s license. As stated above, foreign nationals who will not reside in Ohio for more than 12 months can drive on an international driver’s license. More detailed information about getting an Ohio driver’s license and license plates can be found in the Digest of Ohio Motor Vehicle Laws. You can also  nd information for new Ohio

55 residents who hold a valid driver’s license from another state and want to get an Ohio driver’s license in the Di gest. Please make sure you purchase auto insurance. It’s against the law to drive without it!

Driver’s License Exam Stations and Deputy Registrar’s Of ces: 10940 Hamilton Avenue, Seven Hills (513) 674-7830 and 11177 Reading Road Sharonville, (513) 769-3047 Additional information is available at http://www.dmv.org/oh-ohio/department-motor-vehicles.php. Auto Insurance

In order to obtain license plates for a car, you will be required to show proof that you have auto insurance. Many companies offer a variety of auto insurance policies, so you should “shop around”. When you have selected a policy, read it carefully before signing any documents. The following companies offer auto insurance.

Company Web Site Phone Allstate Insurance http://www.allstate.com 1-847-402-5000 American Family Insurance http://www.amfam.com 608-249-2111 Geico Direct http://www.geico.com 1-800-841-3000 Liberty Mutual http://www.libertymutual.com 1-800-225-2467 Nationwide Insurance http://www.nationwide.com 1-800-882-2822 Progressive Insurance http://www.progressive.com 1- 800-776-4737 State Farm Insurance http://www.statefarm.com 1-877-734-2265

Dining

Cincinnati is full of places to purchase all amenities to meet your living needs as well as places and activities to keep you en ter tained during your free time. This section of the handbook will serve as a guide to help satisfy all your needs. Bars and Coffee Shops

Arlin’s Bar: 307 Ludlow Avenue. Arlin’s features an outdoor patio with live jazz on Sundays. Phone: (513) 751-6566.

Arthur’s Cafe: 3516 Edward Road (Hyde Park). Great bar and cafe in trendy Hyde Park neighborhood. Excellent burgers that are borderline amazing Phone: (513) 871-5543.

Awakenings Coffee and Tea Co.: 2734 Erie Ave. Phone: (513) 321-2525.

Baba Budan’s: 239 W. McMillan. (513) 221-1911

The Blue Wisp Jazz Club: 318 East Eighth Street (Downtown). Phone: (513) 241-WISP.

Brutopia Coffee Co.: 278 Ludlow Ave. Phone: (513) 861-4278.

56 City View Tavern: 403 Oregon St. (Mount Adams). City View Tavern has for years been a popular spot amongst locals to grab an after-work drink. The outdoor deck is small but offers one of the best views of the city. Phone: (513) 241-VIEW. The Comet: 4579 Hamilton Ave. (Northside). Featuring a huge selection of beverages including over 200 beers. The Comet's famous San Francisco - style burritos, the hippest jukebox, 2 pool tables, work from local artists, and live music weekly and there is never a cover! Phone: (513) 541-8900.

The Dock: 603 W. Pete Rose Way (Downtown). Alternate lifestyle night club. Phone: (513) 241-5623.

Fries Cafe: 3247 Jefferson Avenue. Fries features seasonal cookouts, outdoor patio, shuf eboard, pool tables and darts. Phone: (513) 281-9002.

Havana Martini Club: 441 Vine Street (Downtown, inside Carew Tower with the entrance outsiide). The Havana Martini Club bills itself as an after-work bar for professionals. Phone: (513) 651-2800.

Highland Coffee House: 2839 Highland Avenue. Phone: (513) 861-4151.

Holy Grail: 13 West Charlton St., (Clifton). The owners of the Holy Grail, just across Jefferson Avenue from the University of Cincinnati campus, actually inherited the name. Sports bar began as a brewpub, making its own beer at the height of that craze. Phone: (513) 961-2200.

Mad Frog: 1 E. McMillan, Clifton. Live music  ve nights a week. Phone: (513) 784-9119.

McFadden's: 19 East 7th Street. Phone: (513) 621-6800.

Northside Tavern: 4163 Hamilton Ave. Phone: (513) 542-3602.

Panera Bread: 120 Calhoun Street. (513) 961-6300. Enjoy Coffee, Pastries, Salads and Paninis.

Poison Room: 301 West Fifth Streer (Downtown, Entrance across the street from the Convention Center). The Poison Room has two  oors and features local music. On the weekends, the second  oor aka "The Toxic Room" features DJs spinning the latest music. Phone: (513) 333-0010.

Sitwell's Coffeehouse: 324 Ludlow Ave., Clifton. This is a place for people-watching, book-reading, studying and playing games. Internet hook-ups allow customers to check their e-mail or do research. Phone: (513) 281-7487

Starbucks: 202 W. McMillan, Starbucks also specializes in gourmet coffees; Phone: (513) 241-7015.

Sudsy Malone’s Laundry and Bar: 2626 Vine Street, Corryville. Do your laundry while listening to live music! Phone: (513) 751-2300 Restaurants American

Allyn's Cafe: 3538 Columbia Parkway. Phone: (513) 871-5779. Web: www.AllynsCafe.net

Arby's: 263 Calhoun Street, Clifton. Phone: (513) 281-1130.

Bagel Brothers: 347 Calhoun Street, Clifton. Phone: (513) 221-4000.

Bruegger’s Bagel Bakery: 3317 Clifton Avenue. Phone: (513) 221-2243. Bruegger’s has delicious bagel

57 sandwiches and soups.

Buffalo Wild Wings: 200 Calhoun Street. Phone: (513) 281-9464.

Cadillac Ranch: 41 East 6th Street (corner of 6th and Walnut, Fountain Square). Phone: (513) 621- 6200.

Camp Washington Chili: 3005 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati. Phone: (513) 541-0061. For a city known for its love of chili, Camp Washington has always been near the top of the list.

Cheesecake Factory: 7875 Montgomery Road. Phone: (513) 984-6911. Web: www.cheesecakefactory. com

Chez Nora: 530 Main St., Covington, KY. Phone: (859) 491-8027. Web: www.cheznora.com

Chicago Gyro: 200 W. McMillan, Clifton. Phone: (513) 621-3828.

Corinthian Restaurant and Lounge: 3253 Jefferson Avenue. Phone: (513) 961-0013.

Currito: 222 Calhoun Street. Phone: (513) 281-1500.

Daniel’s Restaurant & Pub: 2735 Vine Street, Clifton. Phone: (513) 281-1026.

Dewey's Pizza: 265 Hosea Ave. Phone: (513) 221-0400.

Frisch’s Big Boy: 3226 Central Pkwy. Phone: (513) 559-0555.

Jersey Mike: 211 W. McMillan, Clifton. Phone: (513) 421-6453.

Jimmy John's: 335 Calhoun St., Clifton. Phone: (513) 751-9555.

Gold Star Chili: 2713 Vine Street, Cincinnati. Phone: (513) 751-8841.

Holy Grail: 13 West Charlton St., Clifton. Phone: (513) 961-2200.

Izzy's Restaurant: Located at 612 Main St. Phone: (513) 241-6246 and 800 Elm St. Phone: (513) 721- 4241. Izzy's is famous for their corned beef sandwiches.

Mac's Pizza Pub: 205 West McMillan Ave. (Clifton). Phone: (513) 241-MACS.

Mt. Adam’s Bar and Grill: 938 Hatch, Mount Adams. Phone: (513) 621-3666.

Panera: 120 Calhoun Street. Phone: (513) 961-6300.

Park Chilli: 4160 Hamilton Ave., Phone: (513) 541-9902.

Penn Station: Clifton 208 W. McMillan, Cincinnati. Phone: (513) 961-7366. Famous hot grilled subs. http:// www.penn-station.com/index.php.

Potbelly: 210 Calhoun St., Clifton. Phone: (513) 961-1500.

Proud Rooster: 345 Ludlow Avenue, Clifton Gaslight District. Phone: (513) 281-4965.

Riddle Road Market: 533 Riddle at Marshall. Phone: (513) 751-7333.

58 Rock Bottom Brewery and Restaurant: 10 Fountain Square (Downtown). Phone: (513) 621-1588.

Servatii: 286 Ludlow Avenue. Phone: (513) 861-0672.

Shaky Puddin': 324 Ludlow Ave. Phone: (513) 221-2277.

Sidewinder Coffee and Tea Co.: 4181 Hamilton Avenue. Phone: (513) 542-8321.

Sitwell's Coffeehouse: 324 Ludlow Avenue. Phone: (513) 281-7487.

Skyline Chilli: 290 Ludlow Avenue. Phone: (513) 221-2142.

Slims: 4046 Hamilton Ave., (Clifton). Phone: (513) 681-6500. Web: www.slimsrestaurant.com

Spicy Pickle: 2504 W. Clifton Ave., (Clifton Heights). Phone: (513) 569-0000.

Starbuck's: 202 W. McMillan. Phone: (513) 241-7015.

UDF (United Dairy Farmers): 3325 Clifton Avenue. Phone: (513) 751-5132.

Uncle Woody’s: 339 Calhoun Street, Clifton. Phone: (513) 751-2518.

Vinyl: 1203 Sycamore Street (Over the Rhine). Phone: (513) 898-1536.

Zip's Cafe: 1036 Delta Ave., (Mt. Lookout Square). Phone: (513) 871-9876. Asian

China Food: 410 West McMillan, Fairview. Phone: (513) 784-1113.

China House: 1 West Corry Street, University Plaza. Phone: (513) 281-1300.

China Kitchen: 323 Ludlow Avenue, China Kitchen offers free delivery. Phone: (513) 221-5333.

Chinese Combo King: 28 West 4th Street, Downtown. Phone: (513) 369-0101.

Cilantro Vietnamese Bistro: 2510 Clifton Ave., Clifton Heights. Phone: (513) 281-1732.

Dragon City: 8343 Vine Street. Phone: (513) 761-2328.

Happy Wok: 2733 Vine St. Phone: (513) 221-8999.

King Wok: 203 West McMillan St., Clifton. Phone: (513) 723-1999.

Orient Restaurant: 627 Main St., Downtown. Phone: (513) 241-9191.

P. F. Chang's China Bistro: 2633 Edmondson Rd. Phone: (513) 531-4567

Red Pepper Chinese Restaurant: 204 W. McMillan St., Clifton. Phone: (513) 559-9229.

Shanghai Mama's: 216 E 6th St., (Downtown). Phone: (513) 241-7777.

Sung Korean Bistro: 700 Elm St., (Downtown). Phone: (513) 721-7864.

Thai Cafe: 316 Ludlow Avenue. Phone: (513) 961-5678.

59 Thai Express: 213 W McMillan. Phone: (513) 651-9000.

Wah Mee: 435 Elm Street, Downtown. Phone: (513) 579-0544.

Wok Inn Express: 4609 South Vine Street, St. Bernard. Phone: (513) 641-2888.

Yum Yum: 909 Race Street, Downtown. Phone: (513) 721-7705. French

Cafe de Paris: 17 Gar eld Place, Downtown. Phone: (513) 651-1919.

JeanRo Bistro: 413 Vine St. Phone: (513) 621-1465.

Jean-Robert at Pigall’s: 127 W. Fourth St., Downtown. Phone: (513) 721-1345.

Jean-Robert's Greenup Cafe: 308 Greenup Street, Covington, KY. Phone: (859) 261-3663.

Palace Restaurant: At the Cincinnatian Hotel, Sixth and Vine St., Downtown. Phone: (513) 381-6006.

La Petite France: 3177 Glendale Milford Road. Phone: (513) 733-8383. German

Christy's and Lenhardt's: 151 West McMillan St., Clifton. Phone: (513) 281-3600.

Hofbrauhaus: 200 E 3rd St Newport, KY. Phone: (859) 491-7200.

Mecklenburg Gardens: 302 E. University Ave. Phone: (513) 221-5353. Indian

Akash India: 24 E 6th St., Cincinnati. Phone: (513) 723-1300.

Ambar India: 350 Ludlow Avenue, Clifton Gaslight District. Phone: (513) 281-7000.

Amol India: 354 Ludlow Ave. Phone: (513) 961-3600.

Apna India Restaurant: 341 Ludlow Ave., Clifton. Phone: (513) 861-6800.

Baba India Restaurant: 3120 Madison Road (Oakley). Phone: (513) 321-1600.

Cumin Indian Fusion Cuisine: 3520 Erie Ave., (Hyde Park). Phone: (513) 871-8714.

India Palace: 944 Ludlow Ave., (Clifton). Phone: (513) 221-8111.

Krishna Indian Carry-out: 313 Calhoun Street. Phone: (513) 961-2878. Irish/English

The Pub at Rookwood Mews: 2692 Madison Road. Phone: (513) 841-2748.

Claddagh Irish Pub: 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY. Phone: (859) 581-8888.

Cock and Bull: 601 Main Street, Covington, KY. Phone: (859) 581-4253.

60 Molly Malone's of Covington: 112 E. Fourth Street, Covington, KY. Phone: (859) 491-6659.

Nicholson's Tavern and Pub: 625 Walnut Street. Phone: (513) 564-9111. Italian

Biagio’s Bistro: 308 Ludlow Avenue. Phone: (513) 861-4777.

Brio Tuscan Grille: 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY. Phone: (859) 431-0900.

Buca di Beppo: 2635 Edmondson Rd., Norwood. Phone: (513) 396-7673.

Campanello’s: 414 Central Avenue, Downtown. Phone: (513) 721-9833.

La Rosa’s: 2717 Vine Street. Phone: (513) 347-1111.

Pomodori’s: 125 W.McMilllan St., Clifton. Phone: (513) 861-0080

Papa Dinos Pizza: 349 Calhoun Street. (513) 221-4747.

Pompillo's Restaurant: 600 Washington Ave., Newport, KY. Phone: (859) 581-3065.

Maggiano's Little Italy: 7875 Montgomery Road. Phone: (513) 794-0670.

Martino’s: 2618 Vine Street, Corryville. Phone: (513) 221-8487.

Nicola's Ristorante: 1420 Sycamore Street. Phone: (513) 721-6200.

Scotti’s: 919 Vine Street, Downtown. Phone: (513) 721-9484.

Tavern on the Hill: 1111 St. Gregory St., (Mount Adams). Phone: (513) 421-3309.

Trattoria Roma: 609 Walnut Street. Phone: (513) 723-0220. Japanese

AOI Japanese Cuisine: 1 Levee Way Newport, KY 41071. Located at the Plaza Level on the Valet

Circle. Phone: (859) 431-9400.

Benihana Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar: 126 E 6th Street. Phone: (513) 421-1688.

Ko-sho: 215 E. 9th Street, Downtown. Phone: (513) 665-4950.

Maki Express: 209 W. McMillan Street. Phone: (513) 721-6999.

Sake Bomb: 3672 Erie Ave., (Hyde Park). Phone: (513) 533-0555. Korean

Chung Kiwha Restaurant: 7800 Commerce Drive, Florence, KY. Phone: (859) 525-9978.

Riverside Korean Restaurant: 512 Madison Ave., Covington, KY. Phone: (859) 291-1484.

Sung Korean Bistro: 700 Elm St. Phone: (513) 721-7864.

61 Mediterranean/Middle-Eastern

Andy’s Mediterranean Grill: 906 Nassau St., Walnut Hills. Phone: 281-9791.

Cafe Istanbul: 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY. Phone: (859) 581-1777.

Chigao Gyro: 200 W. McMillan Street, (Clifton). Phone: (513) 621-3828.

Dinner on Elm: 801 Elm St. Phone: (513) 421-0049.

Floyd’s: 129 Calhoun Street, Clifton. Phone: (513) 221-2434.

Jardin Wine and Tapas Bar: 208 E. 12th St., Phone: (513) 721-2919.

Mediterranean House: 235 W McMillan. Phone: (513) 784-0144. Mexican

Burrito Joe’s: 328 E 4th Street, Downtown. Phone: (513) 751-5637.

Cactus Pear: 3215 Jefferson Avenue, Clifton. Phone: (513) 961-7400.

Chipotle: 2507 Clifton Ave. University Hts. Phone: (513) 281-8600.

Currito: 222 Calhoun Street, (513) 281-1500.

Daniels Restaurant: 2735 Vine Street, Corryville. Phone: (513) 281-1026.

Don Pablo's: 401 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY. Phone: (859) 261-7100.

Habanero: 358 Ludlow Avenue, Clifton. Phone: (513) 961-6800. South American

Boi Na Braza: 441 Vine Street. Phone: (513) 421-7111. Thai

Ban Thai: 792 Eastgate South Drive, Eastgate, OH. Phone: (513) 752-3200.

Thai Cafe: 316 Ludlow Avenue. Phone: (513) 961-5678.

Thai Express: 213 W. McMillan. Phone: (513) 651-9000 Vegetarian

Carol's on Main: 825 Main Street (Downtown). Phone: (513) 651-2667.

Clifton Natural Foods: 169 West McMillan Avenue, Clifton. Phone: (513) 961-6111.

Kona Bistro and Coffee Bar: 3012 Madison Rd. Phone: (513) 842-5662.

Myra’s Dionysus: 121 Calhoun Street, Mount Auburn. Phone: (513) 961-1578.

Melt: 4165 Hamilton Ave., (Northside). Phone: (513) 681-6358.

62 What's for Dinner? Deli and Catering: 3009 O'Bryon Street (O'Bryonville). Phone: (513) 321-4404. Many of these restaurants have discount coupons available in the Bearcash and Saver Coupon books, which are found at many campus locations.

Entertainment

Amusement Parks

Coney Island Sunlite Pool: Located at 6201 Kellogg Avenue, Coney Island has the world’s largest re - cir cu lat ing pool complete with a rowboat lifeguard patrol. The pool features the Zoom Flume, the Zip, two thrilling water slides plus miniature golf, paddle boats, tennis courts and a picnic area. Open daily Me mo ri al Day through Labor Day (232-8230). Paramount’s Kings Island: Located North on I-71 exit 24 (6300 Kings Island Drive), Paramount’s Kings Island is the largest and best theme park in the Midwest. Features include thrilling roller coasters such as The Beast, Vortex and King Cobra, Whitewater Rapids, Flight Commander and a 16 slide wet and wild water park. Open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day, and weekends only from mid April to Me mo rial Day and Labor Day to the end of October. Special events are scheduled for Halloween and sometimes during the Christmas holiday season. The Beach Water Park: I-71 North Exit 25 (King’s Mills Road, across from Kings Island, 2590 Water Park Dr.). The Beach fea tures a wave pool, a real sand beach, 8 main attraction water slides, sand volleyball and a video arcade. Open Me mo ri al Day through Labor Day (398-7946).

Dance

Cincinnati Ballet Company at Music Hall: The season runs September through April. The annual performance of “The Nutcracker” in late December has become a Cincinnati tradition. Student rates are available. The Cincinnati Ballet participates in Enjoy the Arts (see Fine Arts section below for further details). Phone: (513) 621-5282. Corbett Theater: UC Main Campus. The College-Conservatory of Music offers a full slate dance performances yearly. Phone: (513) 556-4183. Festivals in Cincinnati

Appalachian Festival: One of Cincinnati’s most popular annual festivals -- The Appalachian Festival-- began 38 years ago in the basement of Cincinnati’s Music Hall as a quaint crafts’ exhibition developed by the Cincinnati Junior League. Phone: (513) 251-3378 http://www.appalachianfestival.org/. Festival of Lights: A beautiful display of Christmas lights and  reworks at the Cincinnati Zoo, nightly in November and December. Phone: (513) 281-4700. May Festival: Featuring the May Festival Chorus and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the Festival presents marvelously concentrated choral repertoire rarely found in the usual concert season. Many choral festivals are largely repetitions of the standard repertoire from the subscription season. Nothing about the Cincinnati May Festival is routine - musically, socially or personally. http://www.mayfestival.com/ Oktoberfest: Held within a six-block area surrounding Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati in Sep- tember. http://www.oktoberfest-zinzinnati.com/. Panegyri Greek Festival: Greek food, beverages, music, dancing, grocery and boutique. Held in June at

63 the Holy Trinity-St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 7000 Winton Road, Finneytown. http://www.greek- fest.com/North/Cincinnati/cincinnati.html. Queen City Blues Festival: Held in Cincinnati at Sawyer Point Park, by the Ohio River in the downtown area. Over 30 national, regional, and local acts. Everything from electric blues to acoustic blues to boogie woogie piano to gospel. http://www.cincyblues.org/events.htm. Riverfest: Live bands and a fantastic 45 minute  reworks display on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend. Summerfair: 300 artists from the US and Canada, 5 stages of local entertainers, strolling performers, youth arts festival, kids' hands-on crafts and delicious food court. http://www.summerfair.org/. Tall Stacks: The Tall Stacks Music, Arts & Heritage Festival presents music, food, fun and riverboats to entertain and educate thousands and to once again shine positive national attention on the Tri-State http:// www.tallstacks.com/. The festival is held every four years. The most recent one took place in 2006. Taste of Cincinnati: A gastronomic feast held in late May, downtown on Central Parkway. Taste portions of many restaurant specialties for $2.00 or less! Fine Arts

The best way to get up to date information on concerts, exhibits, plays, lectures, and other cultural events, is to consult the listings of events in the Cincinnati Enquirer or Cincinnati Post or at: http://www.cincinnati.com.

64 Local Sports UC Bearcats: football, basketball, baseball, soccer, tennis and other sports are free with student I.D Cincinnati Reds Baseball: Great American Ballpark. Tickets are $7.00 to $17.00. Cincinnati Bengals Football: Paul Brown Stadium. Tickets are $34.00 and up. Cincinnati Cyclones ice hockey: US Bank Arena. Tickets are $5.00 and up. The US Bank Arena, located in downtown Cincinnati, at 100 Broadway, hosts various events including concerts, rodeos, motorcross and monster truck races, and  gure skating. Phone: (513) 421-4111. Movies

First Run Theaters Esquire: 320 Ludlow Avenue in Clifton. Foreign  lms, art movies, and independent  lms. Call 281-8750 or 281-2803. http://www.esquiretheatre.com/home.htm AMC Theaters: Located in The Newport on the Levee, Kentucky AMC Entertainment is a leader in the theatrical exhibition industry. Call 859-261-8100 to get AMC show times and reserve tickets with a major credit card. http://www.amctheatres.com/ Showcase Cinemas/National Amusements: http://www.showcasecinemas.com/home.asp Erlanger (Kentucky): off I-75 South Norwood: Reading Road. Phone: (859) 342-8866 Phone: (513) 351-2232 Florence: Florence Mall, KY (859) Springdale: 12064 Spring eld Road Phone: 525-8400 Phone: (513) 671-6884 Kenwood: Kenwood Town Centre, 7875 Mont gom ery Rd. Western Hills: 5870 Harrison Avenue Phone: (513) 791-2248 Phone: (513) 574-7777 Northgate: Northgate Shopping Mall, Colerain Avenue Milford: 500 Rivers Edge Drive, Milford Phone: (513) 385-5585 Phone: (513) 699-1500

Second Run Theaters (Super Saver Cinemas) Cincinnati Mills: Forest Park-1st run shows $4.50 before 6:00, $7.00 after 6:00; all 2nd run shows are $2.60 at all times. Phone: (513) 671-1710. Danbarry Dollar Saver: 5190 Glen Crossing - $2.50 at all times. Phone: (513) 451-2300 Museums and Other Attractions

Art Academy of Cincinnati: 1212 Jackson St. (513) 562-6262, located next to the Art Museum. Aside from a variety of tem po rary and student exhibits, the Art Academy also offers non-credit workshops and art classes for the public. For more in for ma tion, call the Community Art Education Department at (513) 562-8748. http://www.artacademy.edu. Carew Tower and Fountain Square: Located on the corner of 5th Street and Vine Street (downtown). On a sunny day, there is a great view of the entire city from the top of our tallest building. Af ter wards, stop and enjoy ice cream on Fountain Square. However, watch out for the pigeons, because they are always hungry! Cincinnati Art Museum: 953 Eden Park Drive (513) 721-2787. Open year round, free ad mis - sion on Sat ur day, and closed Mondays. 118 galleries and many temporary special exhibits. http://www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org. 65 Cincinnati Museum Center: Located on 1301 Western Avenue (513) 287-7000. An art deco train station turned into a world-class museum. It’s the world’s largest half-dome structure with a magni cent series of mo sa ics de pict ing the history of transportation. There’s also a children’s discovery center, a pre-school playhouse, and a garden area. The center includes the Cincinnati History Museum, Cinergy's Children Museum and the Museum of Natural History and Science, which includes a planetarium and all new exhibits. Union Terminal is also the proud host to the Omnimax Theater which plays special feature  lms with great acoustics and almost 180 degrees of screen surrounding the audience. This is a wonderful thing to do while in Cincinnati! Ad mis sion is charged. http://www.cincymuseum.org. Cincinnati Zoo: 3400 Vine St. Two blocks North of the Medical Center on the corner of Erkenbrecher and Vine (513) 281-4701, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is consistently ranked as one of the top zoos in the country. Opened in 1875, it is the nation's second oldest zoo and a national historic landmark. The Zoo's 75 acres house more than 500 animal species and 3,000 plant varieties. This not-for-pro t entity is internationally known for its success in the protection and propagation of endangered animals and plants, and engages in research and conservation projects around the world. Visit http://www.cincinnatizoo.org for information on special events, current hours, admission, membership and more. Contemporary Arts Center: Located at 44 East 6th St. (513) 345-8400, the Contemporary Arts Center has all the latest in weird and wonderful art! Admission is free on Mondays from 5pm-9pm. http://www. spiral.org. Krohn Conservatory: 1501 Eden Park Drive, (513) 421-4086, open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. In Eden Park, the Krohn Con ser va to ry con tains specimens of tropical plants and has beautiful seasonal  oral displays. During the winter holidays, there is a giant Christmas tree and live manger scene. Admission is free. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center: 50 East Freedom Way (513) 333-7500. The Freedom Center is located on the banks of the Ohio River in Cincinnati, Ohio. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center stands as the nation’s newest monument to freedom. It brings to life the importance - and relevance - of struggles for freedom around the world and throughout history, including today. Made up of three buildings that symbolize the cornerstones of freedom - courage, cooperation, and persever- ance - the Freedom Center’s curving architecture re ects the winding river and the often-changing path to freedom. There is a charge for admission, except on special occasions as announced http://www. freedomcenter.org. Newport Aquarium: Located on One Aquarium Way, Newport Ky. 41071-1679. It offers unexpected de- lights of undersea creatures and many adventures in an exciting  shbowl. Price: Adults $17.95; Seniors (citizens, 65+) $13.95; children (ages 2-12) $10.95. Phone: (859) 261-7444. http://www.newportaquarium. com. Taft Museum: Located at 316 Pike St. downtown (513) 241-0343. Built in 1820, the Taft family res i dence includes collections of Rembrandt, Croga, and Chinese and French objects d’art. Ad mis sion is free on Wednesdays. http://www.taftmuseum.org. Music

Cincinnati Opera at Music Hall: 1243 Elm Street (513) 241-2742. The season runs from June through August, with additional per for manc es in March and September. The Cincinnati Opera honors Enjoy the Arts membership discounts. http://www.cincinnatiopera.com. Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra: The Orchestra plays at the Memorial Hall, located at 1406 Elm Street and offers several concerts during the year. Call (513) 723-1182 for more information. http://www.cincychamberorch.com. Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: At Music Hall and Riverbend. For ticket sales, call (513) 381-3300. Reg u lar sea son (Music Hall) runs September through May. http://www.cincinnatisymphony.org/home. 66 asp. College Conservatory of Music (CCM): Performances are on the main campus of UC, usually at Patricia Corbett Theater. CCM sponsors a variety of events, including performances by the renowned LaSalle Quartet, CCM’s Philharmonic Orchestra, and various ensembles presenting Baroque through con tem po rary music. Stu dents with an I.D. can attend most of the events for free. A free schedule of events for each quarter is available by calling the box of ce at (513) 556-4183. http://www.ccm.uc.edu/events/calendar.aspx. Riverbend Music Theater: 6295 Kellogg Ave. Large outdoor amphitheater with the closest seats under- cover (price dif fer ence). Big name shows all summer long! Phone: (513) 232-6220. http://www.riverbend- music.com. US Bank Arena: 100 Broadway. Home to indoor concerts and entertainment events. Phone: (513) 421- 4111. Theater

Playhouse in the Park: 962 Mt. Adams Dr. (513) 421-3888. Cincinnati’s major summer theater which pre sents a variety of productions from classical Greek to contemporary pieces. Two separate the aters carry dif fer ent schedules: the large Marx Theater and Shelterhouse offer shows from Sep tem ber to June. The smaller Marx Theater offers summer productions. Student rates are available. Playhouse in the Park participates in the Enjoy the Arts program. Showboat Majestic: 435 E. Mehring Way. Phone: (513) 241-6550, during April through Oc to ber, this theater has local productions of musicals, reviews, and dramas. The cost is $16.00 each for students, senior citizens and groups of 20 or more (regular prices are $17.00). Taft Theater: Located on the corner of 5th and Sycamore St., (call (513) 721-8883 for a recorded mes - sage), this theater presents many Broadway-type musicals, concerts, spoken word tours and shows. No student rates. The Aronoff Center: 650 Walnut Street. Phone: (513) 721-3344. Administration tickets: (513) 241-7469 Cincinnati’s newest theater which presents a variety of productions from Broadway musicals to concerts. Parks

Alms Park: Tucked away off Tusculum Avenue in Mt. Lookout, Alms is one of the city’s smaller and qui- eter parks. Ault Park: Located on Principio and Observatory Avenues in Hyde Park, this 237 acre park is the city’s largest, featuring an extensive garden of roses, peonies, dahlias and annuals in season. A good place to catch free summer symphony concerts as well as a nice Fourth of July  reworks celebration. As with many of Cin cin nati’s parks, Ault Park has a nice view of the city. Bellevue Park: Located on Ohio Avenue, this park is small but it is close by and has a fantastic view of the city. Burnet Woods: Located on Clifton Avenue between Martin Luther King Drive and Ludlow Av e nue, this park offers the Trailside Nature Center, free Sunday concerts in the summertime, a great set of swings, and picnic facilities. DeVou Park: This park is actually located in Covington, Kentucky, across the Ohio river from Cincinnati. Take I-75 South to the Covington, 5th Street exit. Turn left at the  rst traf c light and left again at 4th Street. At the end of 4th Street turn right. Then turn left onto Western Avenue. Turn a hairpin right up a hill after the  rst stop sign and you’ll arrive at a fantastic view, Cincinnati’s “Inspiration Point”. DeVou also has golf, 67 tennis and a beautiful ampitheater. Eden Park: At 2000 Gilbert Avenue between Walnut Hills and Mt. Adams, Eden Park is Cin cin nati’s pre- mier park, hosting the Art Museum, Playhouse in the Park, the Cincinnati His tor i cal Society and Krohn Conservatory. Free concerts and other events at the Seasongood Pavilion take place during the sum mer. The park has some spectacular views, a Parcourse Fitness Trail, and a re ection pool and fountain perfect for wading in the summer and skating in the winter. Mt. Echo: On Elberon Avenue on the west side of town, this park has one of the best scenic overlooks of the city, the Ohio River and the hills of Kentucky. Mt. Storm Park: Situated at Lafayette and Ludlow Avenues, this is an accessible getaway spot that is nice for an af ter noon picnic. Sitting on top of a hill which overlooks the “I-75 Valley” between Clifton and the west side of town, Mt. Storm Park has a very nice view of the city. Winton Woods: Completely surrounding the city of Greenhills, Winton Woods, at 2,449 acres, is one of the biggest and most popular parks in the Hamilton County Park District. The park has a 3-mile paved hike-bike trail (bike rental is available), bridle trail and riding center on the south side of Winton Lake. The park also has a dozen picnic areas, a 1-mile  tness trail, a boathouse, nine shelters and an 18-hole Frisbee golf course and a regular golf course. Parky’s Farm, a combination play farm and petting zoo, is a great attraction for kids. Winton Rd. and Lake Forest Dr., Spring eld Township. Phone: (513) 521-7275 Yeatman’s Cove Park: Immediately adjacent to Sawyer Point Park, Yeatman’s Cove features the Ser - pen tine Wall and splashing fun at the Concourse Fountain wading pool. The big event at the park is the annual WEBN Labor Day  reworks display, one of the biggest and best displays in the country. Summer parties in the park are also held here for free. Discounts

Enjoy the Arts: Entertainment discounts can be received for many activities by obtaining a membership (full-time students: $25.00 a year, individuals age 30 and under: $40.00) in Enjoy the Arts. Membership bene ts include the following: • Over $500 in free tickets to arts events and museums in the Cincinnati area. • Two $12 tickets (or lowest advertised student rate) to many dance, music, and theatre events, as often as you'd like. • Get two $10 tickets to most 20/20 Festival events (some discounts vary). • Free and discounted tickets are good for both the member and a guest. • Really fun member-exclusive social events. • Discounted movie tickets (purchased directly from us). • Discounted Cincinnati Zoo and Newport Aquarium tickets. Contact Enjoy the Arts at (513) 621-4700, 1338 Main Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45210-2333 Web site: http://www.etastart.com Entertainment Coupon Booklet: Approximately $40.00. "Two for one" discounts for many rec re ation al ac tiv i ties, in clud ing several  ne arts performances. This coupon booklet contains discounts for various res tau rants from gourmet to fast food and discounts for major movie theater chains. Call (513) 672-3100 for information.

68 Shopping

Bookstores Off-campus

DuBois Bookstore: Located at 321 Calhoun Street, the DuBois Bookstore offers an alternative to the UC Book store. They also carry textbooks, school supplies, clothes, posters, etc., and have late hours. Phone: (513) 281-4120. Student Bookstore: Located at 335 Calhoun St., the Student Bookstore also offers textbooks, school sup plies, clothes, post ers, etc. Phone: (513) 221-7771. Clothing

There are many clothing shops in downtown Cincinnati. Located just 5 to 10 minutes from campus, down - town is a convenient shopping location. Go south on Vine to Central Parkway, right (west) on Central Parkway to left (south) on Race Street. Begin looking for parking once you’ve come to 7th Street. Shop - ping down town offers the ad van tag es of a con cen trat ed num ber of stores within short walking distance of each other. Re mem ber that the hours of down town stores are more likely to follow 9 to 5 working hours than stores in suburban malls which often stay open until 9:00 or 10:00 p.m. Sear’s: Located at Northgate, Tri-County and Eastgate Malls, among others. Macy's: At Fountain Place downtown, as well as in Tri-County, Kenwood, and other mall locations. Saks Fifth Avenue: Located at Fifth and Race Streets, also downtown, Saks has high quality men’s and women’s clothing. Tower Place Mall: At 28 West Fourth Street downtown, this mall has a wide variety of clothing and other shops. It’s the place to shop downtown. Food Shops Asian Francis International Market: 4414 Colerain Avenue (Northside); phone: 681-9253. Asian Market: 11259 Reading Road (Sharonville); phone: 563-9922. Dong Ying Asian Market: 3207 Jefferson Ave, 861-6007. K&P Oriental Food Store: 9731 Montgomery Road (Montgomery); phone: 891-9280. The Saigon Market: 119 W. Elder St. 45202; phone: 721-8053. Thanh Mai: 918 East McMillan (Walnut Hills); phone: 221-2929. Tokyo Oriental Food Shop: 10738 Reading Road (Evendale); phone: 563-5990.

Indian Indian Grocers: 7617 Reading Road (Roselawn); phone: 821-0304. Jagdeep's Indian and Pakistani Grocery: 356 Ludlow Ave, 961-2699. Jewish Queen City Kosher/Aris Grill: 4070 East Galbraith (Dillonvale); phone: 792-9961.

69 Mediterranean Athena Foods: 8548 Winton Road (Finneytown); phone: 729-0440. Mediterranean Foods: Located at 314 Ludlow Avenue, this is a small specialty grocery which offers some take-out deli items. The Mediterranean Foods phone number is 961-6060. Mediterranean Imports: 108 West Elder (Over-the-Rhine); phone: 241-8222. Miscellaneous Clifton Natural Foods: In the area near campus on 169 W. McMillan St., this is a good place to pick up health food, vitamins and spices. They also have a juice bar, serve frozen yogurt, and have deli food for takeout; phone: 961-6111. Findlay Market: This open air farmer’s market is located at 1801 Elder Street in the Over-the-Rhine area. This is a great place to get good buys on very fresh fruit and vegetables, meats, eggs, cheese and more. The earlier you get there the better the selection. Findlay Market is open Monday and Tuesday, 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Wednesday thru Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m; phone: 721-6533. Marina’s International Deli: Specializes in European Food. 11426 Montgomery Rd. 469-6100, http://www.marinasdeli.com. Park and Vine: 1109 Vine Street (Over the Rhine). Phone: (513) 721-7275. Riddle Road Market: 533 Riddle Road (at Marshall Avenue). Phone: (513) 751-7333. Shake It Records: 5156 Hamilton Avenue (Northside). Phone: (513) 591-0123. Grocery and Drug Stores

Bigg’s Place: Located in four areas around Cincinnati: Eastgate, Ridge Road Colerain Ave. and Western Hills. "Bigg” is the correct word: There are over 50 checkout lanes and large carts. This is a store with groceries, electronics, clothing, and much more. Prices tend to be low because of the large quan ti ties they buy. The Ridge Road, Colerain Avenue and Western Hills Bigg’s have food only. CVS Pharmacy: Located at 101 W.H. Taft Rd. 569-4300. Also open 24 hours a day, it’s the place to go for pharmaceutical products. Kroger: Located in the University Plaza. This is a well-stocked, crowded place, especially on Fridays. Kroger honors “Double Coupons”, and offers good specials and a decent se lec tion of wine and beer. They have a salad bar with all the  xings where you pay by the pound. The Kroger stores have a good bakery as well. Jungle Jim’s: 5440 Dixie Highway (Fair eld); phone: 674-6000. Specializing in international cui sine from around the world, Jungle Jim’s is a favorite shopping location for many students. Trader Joe's: There are more than 2000 unique grocery items in their label, all at honest, everyday low prices. All of their private label products have their own “angle,” i.e., vegetarian, Kosher, organic or just plain decadent, and all have minimally processed ingredients. Located in Kenwood, 7788 Montgomery Road Cincinnati, OH (513) 984-3452. Across the street from Taco Bell. Open daily from 9am-9pm. Walgreens: Located in the University Plaza, this is an inexpensive store open 24 hours a day. It’s the place to go for pharmaceutical products. Look for coupons in the Sunday papers. Wild Oats Market: 2693 Edmonson Rd. Phone: (513) 531-8015. Web: www.WildOats.com.

70 Ice Cream, Bakeries, and Sweetshops Cold Stone Creamery: Cold Stone Creamery offers ice cream, yogurt and Italian sorbet. Located at 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY 41071 Graeter’s: When you speak of ice cream in Cincinnati, there is only one name, Graeter's. Located at 332 Ludlow Avenue in Clifton’s Gaslight District, they make terri c ice cream and pastries. Phone: (513) 281-4749 UDF (United Dairy Farmers): 3325 Clifton Avenue. (513) 751-5132. Ice Cream is their specialty al though they are a convenience store carrying many products. Servatii: Located at 286 Ludlow Avenue. Servatii specializes in French pastries, Vienna tortes and various other sweets. Phone: (513) 861-0672.

VII. Useful Web Sites

University of Cincinnati

College of Allied http://www.cahs.uc.edu School of Social Work: http://www.uc.edu/socialwork Health Sciences: College of Applied Sciences: http://www.uc.edu/cas Undergraduate http://www.admissions.uc.edu Admissions: 1-513-556-2417 McMicken College of http://www.artsci.uc.edu Graduate School: http://www.grad.uc.edu Arts & Sciences: College of Business: http://www.business.uc.edu UC International http://www.isso.uc.edu Services: Clermont College: http://www.ucclermont.edu Bookstore: http://www.uc.edu/bookstore

College Conservatory of http://www.ccm.uc.edu Honors Scholars http://www.uc.edu/honors Music: Program:

College of Design, http://www.daap.uc.edu Housing & Dining http://www.uc.edu/housing Architecture, Art & Planning: Services: College of Education, Criminal http://www.cech.uc.edu One Stop Student http://www.onestop.uc.edu Justice & Human Services: Service Center: College of Engineering: http://www.eng.uc.edu Orientation: http://www.uc.edu/orientation College of Nursing: http://www.nursing.uc.edu Student Activities & http://www.uc.edu/sald Leadership Development: College of Pharmacy: http://www.pharmacy.uc.edu Student Financial Aid: http://www. nancialaid.uc.edu Raymond Walters College: http://www.rwc.uc.edu

The City of Cincinnati

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport http://www.cvgairport.com/ Cincinnati Convention and Visitors Bureau http://www.cincyusa.com/ Cincinnati's Local News Guide http://www.cincinnati.com/ Regional Tourism Network http://www.cincinnatiusa.com/ Cincinnati's Entertainment Guide http://rodeo.cincinnati.com/cinweekly/ 71 Appendices

72 73 74 75 76 77 Notes

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