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TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome ………….………….……………..……………. 2 Office of International Experience ………….…………. 2 Important Vocabulary …………………………..…..…... 3 Maintaining Your Visa Status ……………………..……. 4 Employment ……………………………………………... 5 Welcome to St. Louis …..………….……………………. 7 Life in the U.S. ………………..………………………….. 9 Health Services…………………….……………………. 13 Cultural Notes ……………………….…………………. 14
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WELCOME Welcome home to Missouri Baptist University! We are so glad that you decided to pursue your dreams at MBU. While you are here, the Office of International Experiences (OIE) is excited to equip you to have the fullest experience and to help you be a successful student. As you adjust to life in St. Louis, you can use this handbook to become familiar with STL culture and the many resources available to you as an international student at MBU. In this handbook, you will find suggestions for an exciting St. Louis experience, as well as important information on your responsibilities as an international student. If you have questions and can’t find the answers in this handbook, please contact us!
INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCES MISSION International Experiences (OIE) is located in Spartan Row 503 Suite 302C and seeks to elevate
conversation and learning around cultural competencies and exposure to our global community. The OIE intends to increase international student enrollment and outbound experiences in order to enhance belonging to and understanding of a global society centered in a Christian worldview.
CONTACT The OIE office hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (9-16), Monday through Friday. You can contact us by calling 314-392-2348 or emailing international@mobap.edu. You can also connect with us through Instagram and WhatsApp (314-705-2063). We look forward to connecting with you!
**Disclaimer** The information provided in this handbook only highlights certain points of immigration law and you are responsible for complying with any laws (federal, state and local) which apply to non-immigrants. Extensive information on your F-1 rights and responsibilities can be found through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security at http://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students.
Current students should also reference the MBU International Experiences canvas shell.
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IMPORTANT VOCABULARY Credit hour – one credit hour is typically given for a course that meets one hour per week. A threecredit-hour course will usually meet for 55 minutes three days a week, Monday (M), Wednesday (W), Friday (F). If the class meets on Tuesday (T) and Thursday (R), expect the class to last an hour and 25 minutes. DSO – Designated Signing Official A DSO is a person authorized to makes changes to students' records in SEVIS. You will need a signature on several documents including: I-20, dual-enrollment verification, to obtain a driver’s license, transfer-out form. The principal DSO for all MBU campuses is the Director of International Experiences, Marie Tudor. DHS – Department of Homeland Security The cabinet department of the U.S. federal government responsible for public security. SEVIS – Student and Exchange Visitor Information System This is an electronic, government database used by DHS to maintain accurate information on F-1 students. MBU is required by law to keep SEVIS updated with accurate information. Form I-20 "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status" The Form I-20 confirms acceptance to a Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified institution and is required to apply for an F-1 visa. This form is updated every semester to confirm continued maintenance of status. Note: It's recommended to keep ALL copies of I-20s issued to you throughout your time in the U.S. F-1 Visa An F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa type used to pursue full-time study in the United States. It is a document put in your passport (for all students except Canadians) and allows you entrance into the U.S. Your visa must be valid every time you cross the border to enter the U.S. Note: The F-1 visa can expire while you are in the U.S. if you maintain a valid I-20. The I-20 confirms the approved duration of your stay. If you leave the U.S., you need a valid visa to return. You can only renew your visa outside the U.S. Form I-94 Admission Record An I-94 is proof of your legal admission into the United States and confirms the visa status used when entering, the date of reentry, and any applicable expiration. Every time you enter the U.S. you are given an updated I-94 record. You can check your I-94 and travel history online. Note: Every time you renter the U.S., check that your passport stamp matches your I-94 record and that your record correctly reflects your expiration as D/S (duration of status). D/S is tied to the program end date on your Form I-20.
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MAINTAINING YOUR VISA STATUS WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO “MAINTAIN YOUR STATUS?” From the time your visa is granted and you enter the United States, you must follow a set of requirements in order to maintain legal status. Those who follow the requirements “maintain status” and ensure their ability to remain in the United States. Those who do not follow the requirements violate their status and are considered “out of status.” If you do not maintain your visa status, you may be required to leave the U.S. and may not be readmitted to the country.
KEY STEPS TO MAINTAIN YOUR VISA STATUS Stay in touch with International Experiences (OIE). -
Make sure to check in with OIE when you first arrive on campus and provide copies of immigration documents as requested Check your email – OIE will send important reminders, updates, and immigration information to your MBU email address Let OIE know before you leave, change, or finish your academic program Inform OIE when you move to ensure that your address and other information in the SEVIS database are accurate and up-to-date Notify OIE at least 2 days in advance if you plan to travel out of the U.S.; you must have a valid signature on your I-20 before you leave the country Notify OIE if you will transfer to a new program or a new school Report any dependents (spouse or children) to OIE Work with OIE to extend your I-20 if you need additional time to complete your program of study
Maintain a valid passport at all times. You can renew your passport at your country’s Embassy while in the U.S. Take a full-time course load. -
Undergraduate: 12 credit hours minimum per semester, 9 credit hours face-to-face Graduate: 6 credit hours minimum per semester, 3 credit hours face-to-face
Follow the rules for employment. -
Any employment must be authorized by DSO and have the appropriate paperwork. On-campus employment is limited to a maximum of 20 hours per week while class is in session and may exceed 20 hours per week whenever class is not in session (i.e. summer) Please refer to the section on employment for additional information.
Pay state and federal taxes if you are employed or have a taxable scholarship. Obey state and federal laws.
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EMPLOYMENT As an international student, you may obtain employment or assistantships on the MBU campus and work a maximum of 20 hours per week while school is in session, but you may exceed 20 hours per week when school is not in session. Off-campus work is prohibited unless you have DSO or DHS approval.
CURRICULAR PRACTICAL TRAINING Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an off-campus work authorization available to F-1 students completing an eligible internship or practicum course in their degree program. Authorization requires approval from the academic department and DSO and must be an integral part of an established curriculum. Students must have CPT authorization on their I-20 before they begin employment. Students must be in status at least one academic year to be eligible to apply for CPT. Although there is no total hourly limit for CPT, those who have completed one year or more of full-time CPT (20+ hours per week) are ineligible for OPT. Contact OIE if you would like to apply for CPT.
OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING F-1 students who have been enrolled at least one academic year may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which is an off-campus work authorization that allows up to 12 months of employment in their field of study. Students may be eligible for another 12 months of practical training at a higher degree level. Post-completion OPT F-1 visa holders who are in status and plan to complete a degree program are allowed to apply for Post-completion Optional Practical Training. Students can apply as soon as 90-days before the completion of their program. It is recommended you allow plenty of time to contact International Student Services about the application process. Workshops are also provided for students each semester to guide in this process. Students in some majors in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) may be eligible for a 24-month extension of OPT. Pre-completion OPT Students who begin OPT during their degree program are limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session. Time spent working in pre-completion OPT counts against the 12 month practical training total. Students who participate in pre-completion OPT must submit a second application if wishing to pursue post-completion OPT.
SOCIAL SECURITY CARD A Social Security card is only necessary for students who have obtained employment either on campus or as part of their internship. You may apply for a Social Security number (SSN) after you have been offered a job. You will need to obtain a letter from the employer indicating the terms of employment and bring it to International Student Services. OIE will prepare a letter for you to take
6 with the employer letter and your immigration documents to the regional Social Security office. You will be notified by email or WhatsApp when your letter is ready.
ECONOMIC HARDSHIP OFF-CAMPUS EMPLOYMENT Students must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year and must prove to the satisfaction of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) that employment is necessary due to severe economic hardship caused by unforeseen circumstances beyond their control. This allows for off-campus work that does not need to be related to your field of study. An application will need to be submitted accompanied by extensive documentation of economic need. This work authorization is granted for one year at a time, or until a student completes his/her studies. If you are interested in pursuing this option, please contact OIE for more details.
HELPFUL WEBSITES U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services Uscis.gov Department of Homeland Security Dhs.gov
Student and Exchange Visitor Program Ice.gov/sevis Study in the States Studyinthestates.dhs.gov
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WELCOME TO ST. LOUIS, MO A D Y N A M I C C IT Y I N T H E C E N T E R O F T H E U . S .
With a metropolitan area of nearly three million people, St. Louis is a thriving urban center in the heart of America – just 480 km south of Chicago. Filled with museums, national monuments, world-renowned performance venues and impressive local restaurants, St. Louis offers a glimpse into America’s rich past and dynamic present. Identified by its Gateway Arch, St. Louis’ varied skyline reflects the diversity of its many neighborhoods, each with its own uniquely vibrant atmosphere. St. Louis is also home to the headquarters of several Fortune 500 companies, major employers and international firms.
PLACES TO VISIT IN STL City Museum The City Museum is fondly known as a playground for people of all ages! With interactive sculptures, slides, and so many more it’s the best place to go with friends or family. The Gateway Arch A well-known St. Louis attraction, The Arch allows visitors to ride to the top of the 630-foot structure and view St. Louis in a new way! The Museum and park surrounding the structure has been newly renovated and tells the story of American pioneers and Native Americans. Forest Park Attractions This area includes a ton of different St. Louis attractions. The Saint Louis Zoo, Art Museum, and History Museum can all be found in this one park. The best part? They all feature free entry to the public! Missouri Botanical Garden The Botanical Garden is a perfect spot to visit on a nice day! Spread over 79 acres it features multiple different gardens and greenhouses and is the country’s oldest operating botanical garden having been open for 153 years. Ted Drewes Ted Drewes is the staple for delicious frozen custard in St. Louis. Voted “Best Ice Cream” in the world (no, we’re not joking), it’s definitely a must-see while in STL! With multiple locations in the St. Louis area, it’s an easy find.
CAMPUS RESOURCES AT A GLANCE Student Success Center | FIELD ACADEMIC HALL, 117 AND 119
8 The SSC offers tutoring services, writing assistance, and testing services for students of all classes. Here is where you would go take a missed test, get help with a paper, or figure out that one math problem that has been bugging you since class. Athletics | THE CARL AND DELORIS PETTY SPORTS AND RECREATION COMPLEX (SRC) Here you can find the Fitness Center, Athletic Training, and coach offices. You can also take a variety of fitness classes here! Career Development | LEARNING CENTER, 1ST FLOOR Career Development helps students with the next step of life while at MBU. If you require assistance with creating a resume, LinkedIn profile or more, you can find great resources here. They also offer information regarding on-campus jobs for international students. Financial Services | ADMINISTRATION BUILDING, MAIN LEVEL Here you can find information regarding your bill and financial aid. Please tell the front desk that you are an international student needing to address financial concerns, and they will direct you to your Account Counselor. Mercy Health Clinic | SPARTAN VILLAGE, BUILDING 503 Here you can find help for any medical needs that may arise during your time at MBU. Public Safety Their office is located in the modular office building just outside of Muncy Gymnasium. You will talk to Public Safety if you need a parking pass, for your student ID, for campus or for any safety concerns you may have if living on campus. See the Public Safety brochure for more information. Information Technology (IT) You will talk to IT about issues regarding WiFi, myMBU Access, or personal computer problems. Records | FIELD ACADEMIC HALL, LOWER LEVEL Here you can find forms to add or drop classes, change your major, add a minor, schedule a graduation check, etc. Many of these resources can also be accessed online: https://www.mobap.edu/academics-overview/academics-records-registrar/
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LIFE IN THE U.S. COMMON QUESTIONS
EMERGENCY INFORMATION If you find yourself in an emergency, call 911. If you are on-campus, you can contact Public Safety at 1.314.744.5355. https://www.mobap.edu/student-life/safety/
MONEY AND BANKING Do not carry large amounts of cash on you or store valuables in your dorm or apartment. Instead, deposit money into a bank account and consider keeping valuables in a personal safe or safety deposit box at your bank. The federal government insures most U.S. banks (look for the term “FDIC”); therefore, your deposits are guaranteed. How to open a bank account – the most common bank account available to international students is a checking account. This account is the easiest way to manage your money since they come with a bank card (often referred to as a debit card). Each bank has slightly different requirements for a minimum deposit and different fees associated with the account, so make sure you ask beforehand. When you go to the bank to open a bank account, you will need to bring: -
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Your full name, home address, home telephone number, your campus telephone number, and your college address (Letterhead showing the local address – i.e. utility bills or apartment contract) Unexpired passport I-94 I-20 or I-797 approval notice Any secondary form of identification (such as: your passport, your Student ID card, birth certificate, state driver’s license, or a letter from the International Students and Scholars Office) Enrollment verification letter from your school
DRIVING
10 Many students choose to purchase a car upon arrival to St. Louis, although it is not necessary. If you decide to purchase a car, there are several responsibilities and costs to consider. You will have to pay for: -
License plates, registration and personal property taxes based on the car’s price License plate renewals Car insurance State and emissions inspections Personal property tax
Car Insurance Missouri law requires that you have liability insurance, which covers damages to another person if you are involved in a car accident. Car insurance can be costly, so be sure to inquire with several agencies to get the best rate. Collision insurance pays for damage to cars in an accident. Comprehensive insurance covers any loss of your car due to accidents, theft or vandalism. The insurance rate will be based on the type of car, your age and driving record, where you live, how far you drive daily and the type of coverage selected. Getting a driver’s license As an international student, you can obtain a driver’s license in the state of Missouri. You will have to pass a written test (you may request a non-English version in advance), vision test and driving test to obtain a license. Requirements vary if you request a REAL ID-compliant driver license or a Non-REAL ID-compliant driver license. Visit the following website for more information: https://dor.mo.gov/drivers/idrequirements.php Parking A parking sticker must be on your vehicle by the first day of classes. This sticker, placed in the bottom-left corner of your rear window, will clearly state what lots you are allowed to park in. Students who park in lots that they do not have permission for will be ticketed.
HOUSING Living On-Campus Office of Resident Life || Spartan Village Row, 503 || 314.392.2262 Living in an MBU residence hall or apartment will provide you with a unique opportunity to study and socialize with American students. You will meet new people, learn about different cultures and interact with the student community. Involvement with the university community will strengthen your MBU experience and help you better understand American culture. Resident Advisors Each residence hall and apartment building has multiple Resident Advisors (RAs). Your RA is a great resource and can answer many of the questions you have about St. Louis, living on campus, and community events. If you are experiencing problems with your roommates, food or any other aspect of campus living, you should talk with your RA first before seeking other help.
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Length of the lease: When can you move in and out? Your monthly budget: What can you afford? Distance from school and transportation: How will you get to campus? Safety: Is this neighborhood safe? If you will have roommates: How many rooms will you need?
MAIL Mail is distributed to student mailboxes Monday through Friday. No mail is delivered on Saturday, Sundays, Closed Breaks or holidays. Mail addressed to on campus students should be addressed in the following manner: STUDENT NAME Missouri Baptist University Building, Mailbox # One College Park Drive St. Louis, MO 63141 Packages must be picked up and signed for at the switchboard during regular business hours. It is recommended that students not send or receive cash through the mail. Outgoing mail and small prepaid and labeled packages (FedEx or UPS) can be dropped off at the main campus switchboard in the Administration Building. For other mail services, consider the following: United States Postal Service (USPS) Usps.com Federal Express (FedEx) Fedex.com
United Parcel Service (UPS) ups.com DHL Worldwide dhl.com
When you change addresses, please go to the USPS address to change your address. Doing this will forward any mail received to your new address for a limited period of time. Please Note: If OIE receives an item of mail on your behalf, you will receive an email or text notification. If the mail is received during the summer, you will have until September 1st to come by our office and pick up mail. If the mail is received during the school year, you will have 30 days to come pick up the mail or communicate to us to scan the contents to you. Any mail remaining after 30 days from the date of notification will be shredded.
MOBILE PHONES There are several mobile phone carriers in the United States. A few of the most common are listed below. Visit their websites to find store locations or to order online. AT&T wireless.att.com Sprint sprint.com T-Mobile
T-mobile.com Verizon verizonwireless.com Cricket cricketwireless.com
12 Mint SIM Cards (a pre-paid plan) are also available in the OIE office.
INTERNET On Campus MBU is a wireless campus. Wireless high-speed Internet is available in all university housing and throughout the MBU campus. Information Technology (IT) can assist you in connecting to MBU’s network. “MBU Open” is available to MBU students and guests. The password is “Spartans” (without the quotes). Off Campus To order Internet service for your apartment, contact a local provider. Common local providers are listed below. AT&T Att.com
Spectrum Spectrum.com
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HEALTH SERVICES MERCY CLINIC The Mercy Clinic on-campus office in Spartan Village is a great option for services regarding sick/acute visits, personal wellness visits, vaccinations, chronic disease care, and mental screenings. Appointments are available Monday through Thursday from 1 pm to 5 pm. Please schedule your appointment through My Mercy, outside the office, or by calling 314-364-3970.
URGENT CARE If the Mercy Clinic on campus is unable to treat you, urgent care is a common alternative that can save you money. Although these are off campus, most urgent cares are able to complete necessary medical assistance such as stitches or X-rays. Before going to urgent care, make sure that they accept your insurance.
EMERGENCY ROOM If a medical condition is life or limb-threatening or involves something more serious, please go to the emergency room. The ER and hospital visits, such as specialists, often are costly but sometimes necessary. Not all off-campus medical practices accept every insurance, so please check providers before a medical visit. Please research your options beforehand and have a plan in place in case a medical issue arises.
HEALTH INSURANCE F-1 international students are enrolled in a mandatory group health insurance plan. The cost is added directly to students’ billing account. Students should review the New International Student Canvas Shell and their MBU student email for additional information and details.
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FALL VS. SPRING CHARGES On your billing statement, the insurance charges for the spring semester are greater than the insurance charges for the fall semester. This is due to the dates of coverage on the insurance. Fall Semester ---- August to January Spring Semester ---- January to August Students on OPT may request to continue their Compass Health Insurance coverage. Charges will be billed to your MBU student account. Note: For continuing students, coverage through summer term is required regardless if you leave the country, so that there is no break in coverage.
CULTURAL NOTES NAMES First or given names are used more frequently in the U.S. than anywhere else. If two people are about the same age or status, first names may be used immediately after they meet. When you meet someone with a title such as “Professor,” “Doctor,” or “Dean,” it is correct to use that title and their last or family name. If you are uncertain as to how to address someone, you can ask them “How should I address you?” or “What name do you prefer to go by?” Be patient with people in terms of helping them pronounce your name. Just like some sounds are new to you, there will be sounds that are new to them. It is also helpful for instructors and other people who come in contact with you to know your full name and your nickname. Some international students may use nicknames because people have trouble pronouncing their birth names. Being called by a nickname can indicate you are viewed with respect and affection.
TIPPING The U.S. has tipping practices that are very different than other countries. Tipping is expected in restaurants, taxis, and when ordering food (such as pizza). The amount one tips is up to the customer, but there are some general guidelines to follow. If you are pleased with your service, a tip of 15% of your total bill is standard. If you are dissatisfied with your service, you might consider leaving a 10% tip. To leave no tip at all is considered extremely rude.
IT’S OKAY TO SAY NO The freedom of speech to which Americans have become accustomed has established a way of communicating that is sometimes seen as very direct. Directness while communicating with others is
15 very acceptable and sometimes expected. Do not feel bad about saying no – your opinion and boundaries are valued. You may feel the need to change your habits and agree with whatever an American might say. However, please respect your own values and culture while also respecting the values and culture of those interacting with you. Anticipate a lot of people asking you questions about your home country and culture. Over time, you will learn how to navigate these conversations and will value those who are curious about who you are and where you come from.
ALCOHOL The legal age to purchase and/or drink alcohol is 21. You must show your identification before buying any kind of alcohol. The laws against drunk driving are also very strict. If you are found driving under the influence of alcohol or in possession of alcohol as a minor (under 21), there are serious consequences. U.S. citizens could lose their license and go to jail. Please refer to the Spartan Virtues, MBU’s student handbook, and the Student Athlete handbook for MBU’s policy on alcohol. International students will face serious consequences and risk falling out of immigration status if found breaking the law.
CULTURE SHOCK Adjusting to a new country and new cultures is difficult and can feel overwhelming. This is entirely normal, usually unavoidable, and it does not mean anything bad about you or your new home. Culture shock is not quite as “shocking” or sudden as most people expect. It is part of the process of learning a new culture or cultural adaptation. The differences between U.S. culture and your culture’s values and behaviors may become irritating and small incidents and difficulties may make you anxious and concerned about navigating your experience. But culture shock does not happen all at once. It is a feeling that grows little by little, as you interact with other students, faculty and people in the community. For many, this gradual process leads to an emotional state known as culture shock. There are ways to deal with this period of culture shock, so it helps to recognize that culture shock may lie behind the signs and symptoms.
Some signs that you are experiencing culture shock include: Extreme homesickness Loneliness Lack of motivation or ability to concentrate Avoiding contact with other people, especially Americans Anger, frustration, confusion
Depression and anxiety Tiredness or need for excessive amounts of sleep Loss of enjoyment in daily activities Irritation towards other cultures
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Throughout this cultural adjustment, take good care of yourself! Here are some ideas: -
Exercise Get plenty of rest Eat good food and do things you enjoy with friends Take special notice of things you enjoy about living in the U.S. Remember that you are not alone in this experience Be open-minded and curious about your new environment Talk with us in The Office of International Experiences Make friends with Americans as well as other international students! If you are struggling academically, talk with your professor, advisor, or the Academic Success Center. Find new hobbies, friends, and other activities – explore St. Louis! Read a book or rent a video in your native language Catch up with what is going on at home via email and social media Take a short trip if possible
Be patient with yourself and this new culture you are experiencing. Culture shock gradually eases as you begin to understand the new culture. It is useful to realize that often the reactions and perceptions of others toward you – and you toward them – are not personal evaluations but are based on differences in cultural values and behaviors.
