Settling In

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Lease Agreements
Off Campus
On Campus
Settling In  

Moving into a dorm is an easy process. You'll usually get the key to the room and then walk on in. You'll have to contact your school's housing department for specific information about what will be available in the room. Unlike a hotel they won't make your bed with fresh sheets every morning, and you'll probably have to bring your own pillow.

When you first enter your dorm room utilities such as electricity and telephone connections will most likely be ready to use. Each school does have their own policies on paying for long-distance telephone charges. Figure out what these policies are before you call home. You may end up being better off using a phone card to call home.

Settling into an off-campus accommodation is a bit more complicated. If your rent does not include utilities, you will need to request that the companies turn on the electricity and telephone service when you arrive. Your landlord should be able to provide you with the appropriate contact information.

The least expensive way to keep in touch with your friends and family is through e-mail. You should usually be able to get internet access through your school. Each U.S. school has its own policies and procedures for accessing the Internet. There are also off-campus internet service providers. You can expect to pay about $20 per month for an off campus ISP.