Predeparture Miami AYA 2012

EF International Language Centers

Academic Year Abroad For adults and Students aged 16 & above

Miami Beach Study English in Miami Beach where an ideal climate, sandy beaches and a stylish culture make it a popular destination. The EF school is primely located on the beach, on the picture-perfect boardwalk in trendy South Beach.

Contact details: 2469 Collins Ave Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA Tel: +(1) 305 538 8581

EF Miami

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Accreditations and Memberships The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester, Bristol and Bournemouth are:

The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester and Bournemouth are members of:

EF Dublin is accredited by:

The EF International Language Centers in the USA are accredited by:

The EF International Language Centers in the USA are members of:

EF Vancouver and Toronto are accredited

by Languages Canada.

The EF International Language Centers in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth are accredited by:

Important Note: Factual information contained in this document is subject to change.

The EF International Language Centers in Brisbane and Perth are members of:

The EF International Language Centers in Cambridge, München, Cape Town and Nice are accredited by:

EF Nice is recognized with the Label Qualité Français Langue Etrangère.

Federation of International Youth Travel Organizations.

All EF Courses are certified by Southern New Hampshire University.

EF Education is an active participant in the Comité Européen de Normalisation.

All EF Courses are recognized by Hult International Business School.

www.ef.com

Contents - Miami Section....... Topic

1 .............Introduction to EF 2 .............Welcome to the US 3 .............Weather watch 4 .............Travel & transfer service 5 .............School information 6 .............Academics 7 .............Accommodation & meals 8 .............Money matters 9..............Phones, faxes & Internet 10 ...........Health care & insurance 11 ...........School activities & excursions 12............Transportation 13 ...........Expectations 14 ...........US culture & living tips 15 ...........Adjusting to a new culture 16 ...........EF school calendar & holidays 17 ...........Checklist

Dear Student Thank you for choosing EF Miami Beach to study English. The staff and I are looking forward to meeting you. We will introduce you to the school, the city of Miami Beach and help you make this the experience of your lifetime!

The mild weather of South Florida provides an enjoyable atmosphere to study and to participate in all kinds of outdoor activities. EF is located in the cosmopolitan city of Miami Beach. You can get a sun tan at its famous beautiful beaches, tour the historic and colorful Art Deco district, dine at an Ocean Drive cafĂŠ, shop at trendy boutiques, or watch a fashion shoot all just a few blocks from the school.

We look forward to meeting you in Miami Beach.

Best wishes, Ana VanGilst, School Director EF International Language Center, Miami Beach

1. Introduction to EF EF Education First welcomes students of all ages from every corner of the world to learn a language where it is natively spoken. Our innovative curriculum, the EF Efekta™ System, integrates face-to-face learning in a classroom with studying outside the classroom using the interactive learning tools in our online iLab. An intensively structured academic program along with an array of educational and social activities results in a fast and fun way to learn a language.

EF students come from diverse backgrounds and like you, they have chosen a program to enhance their language skills as part of their academic or career plan. Many have planned for years to take advantage of this opportunity.

A large percentage of EF students apply their new language skills by taking a recognized exam, such as Cambridge, TOEFL, TOEIC and IELTS. Successful completion of such exams provides the necessary language qualifications for university and for professional endeavors. Many students view their time with EF as a chance to explore educational alternatives while improving language and study skills. Students wishing to study at university can access information and make informed academic choices through our EF University Placement Service.

A great aspect of an EF program is the variety of nationalities at our schools. We welcome you to join this international community where you’ll experience life and language with EF. We take great pride in our continuing dedication to our mission - breaking down barriers of language and culture.

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2. Welcome to Miami Beach, USA

3. Weather Watch

South Florida is famous all over the world for its sunshine, blue skies and beautiful beaches.

The city of Miami Beach offers a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Located at the southern tip of Florida, it is a very vibrant and colorful city with cultural, ethnic, musical, culinary and art festivals happening almost every weekend.

The famous Art Deco District is a two-block walk from the school and is filled with shops, restaurants and live entertainment. Beachfront sidewalk cafes and Lummus Park are located along Ocean Drive, just ten blocks away - a perfect place to “people-watch”, roller blade or play volleyball.

With a subtropical climate, Florida is an ideal location for outdoor sports, activities and recreation - sunshine prevails all year round! The summer months (June-October) are characterized by afternoon rain showers followed by good weather. Make sure to pack an umbrella for the rainy days, sunscreen for the tropical sun and a sweater for the air conditioned areas.

The almost perfect climate of the area makes it a great place to be outdoors. Besides all of the traditional outdoor sports such as baseball, basketball, volleyball, rollerblading and running, Miami also offers a wide selection of water sports, including windsurfing, diving, snorkeling, waterskiing and boating. The famous Miami Seaquarium and Metro Zoo combine outdoor exhibits with interesting daytime excitement.

The proximity to many Caribbean islands also makes Miami the “Cruise Capital” of the world and a perfect jumping off point for weekend island get-a-ways.

4. Travel & transfer service

The EF school is located on Miami Beach, an island off the coast of the city of Miami. It is

Before you leave your home country, you should put EF baggage tags on each piece

connected to the mainland by numerous bridges. By car the school is about ten minutes from downtown Miami, 15 minutes from the airport and 40 minutes from Fort Lauderdale. Many attractions in South Beach are within walking distance from the school. There are six public bus routes that stop in front of the school. The free bus stops on 17th street, just eight blocks from the school. Miami Beach also boasts a nationally famous symphony orchestra, ‘The New World Symphony’, and ballet company, a Performing Arts Theater, art museums, a public library - all within 15 minutes walking distance from the EF school!

of luggage (including your carry-on baggage) indicating your home address and the address of the EF school. This will help in the location and recovery of your luggage in case it is lost or misdirected during your travel.

Temperatures range from: Spring: 20° to 30°C (68° to 86°F) Summer: 24° to 32°C (75° to 90°F) Autumn: 19° to 27°C (66° to 81°F) Winter: 15° to 26°C (59° to 79°F)

Transfer service Arriving at a busy airport in a foreign city can be confusing. EF offers a one-way transfer service from Miami International Airport to the School for an additional fee. It is strongly recommended that you take advantage of this service.

At least one month before your arrival, you must inform the EF office in your country of the exact details of your flight (date, arrival time, airline, flight number). This assists us in preparing for your arrival.

If you have paid for an EF transfer, please follow the instructions below. If you have arranged for an EF transfer and take a taxi instead, EF will not be able to reimburse you later.

When you arrive at Miami International Airport on an international flight, look for the EF Greeter in the Customs Lobby after you pass through customs. He or she will be wearing an EF Tshirt and/or carrying an EF sign. If you arrive on

a domestic flight, the EF Greeter will meet you in the baggage claim area of your flight. Please do not go far from this area – this is where the EF Greeter will be looking for you!

If, however, you cannot find the Greeter, go to the Information Booth on the second floor of the airport in Concourse “E.” Have the EF Representative paged (called-out over the loudspeakers) and wait close to the information booth. It may take up to 30 minutes for a greeter to locate you. If you have waited longer than 30 minutes, call the EF emergency service (you will receive this number and other important contact information from your local EF office prior to departure). Please see below for instructions.

30 minutes and the cost will be approximately $28 to $33 plus tip.

5. School Information The Facility Even though the Miami Beach school is minutes away from the activity of South Beach, our school is located in a quiet upscale residential section of South Beach – very conducive for studying. The school is located right on the beach. Students have the luxury of walking along the ocean boardwalk or sunbathing on the beach or by the outdoor pool.

There is a student activities center located in the lobby where students can relax, chat with new friends or play games.

The building has central air conditioning and

If you have missed one of your flights, arrive on a different flight or date, or you are lost, you should go to the nearest pay telephone and call the EF Miami Beach school. If you are not able to communicate with the school, then you should call the EF emergency number (you will receive this number from your local EF office prior to departure). Please see below for instructions.

When calling the EF emergency number: The answering service will ask you several questions. Be prepared to state your name, the school (Miami) you will attend and the airline and flight number you arrived on at Miami International Airport. If you call from Miami International Airport, be prepared to state where you are located in the airport. The answering service will call the EF staff to assist you.

Traveling as an “unaccompanied minor” If you are traveling as an “Unaccompanied Minor”, please advise the school and tell your airline that you will be picked up by the transfer company of EF Miami Beach.

Students arriving independently If you are arriving by private car you should arrive at the EF student residence between 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. An RA will be waiting to welcome you and show you to your room.

If you would like to take a taxi, follow the signs from the baggage claim area outside the taxi stand. A taxi ride to the campus will take 15-

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individual units in the bedrooms. Classrooms boast ocean front views and there are two computer labs for classroom use.

Residence students will have classes, eat meals and live in the same building. The indoor dining hall and outdoor dining terrace overlook the pool and ocean. The school also provides facilities on most living floors for students to prepare drinks or quick meals.

Staff The School Director is assisted by very competent academic staff, a Facilities Director, a Director of Student Services, Housing Coordinator and an Activities Coordinator. The Activities Coordinator organizes social events, games, excursions and can assist students in arranging travel plans.

EF has several staff members who live in the dormitories and will help you get settled into the dorm when you arrive. These Resident Assistants (RAs) oversee student life in the residence and are also available in case of an emergency.

Mail sent to the school Letters sent to you at the school should be addressed as follows: Your Name (very important) c/o EF International School of English 2469 Collins Avenue Miami Beach, FL 33140 USA

6. Academics EF language courses give students the opportunity to study the English language and the local culture for as long, and with as much intensity, as suits the student and his or her needs.

EF Level Placement Test Within 24-hours after booking your course, you’ll receive your personalized EF username and password for the online EF campus called My EF. Before traveling, you will take the EF Level Placement test online. This test will measure your language level and ability, grammar and listening comprehension abilities. Using your test results, our academic team will place you in one of six different language levels.

As your English language skills become stronger, you will be promoted into the next language level. You may speak with your teacher if you feel you have been placed into the wrong level. Please note: you may have both morning and afternoon classes depending on the time of year and course type.

Orientation When you arrive at the school you will take the EF Level Placement test, if you have not done so already. During your orientation you will receive your class schedule and other important information about the school and the city. Fun activities are planned to help you meet students and staff.

General English Classes General English classes focus on the development of the four skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. They also include work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation.

Special Interest Classes Depending on your course type you may also select a number of special interest (SPIN) classes. SPINs allow you to improve your English through the study of a wide range of subject options. Admission to some of these will depend on academic and linguistic level and availability of places. The selection of SPIN classes varies throughout the year and a student may not be able to repeat the same SPIN class. Each lesson is 40 minutes in length.

Class size The average class size is 15 students with a maximum of 17 students.

Attendance You are expected to attend all classes.

Consistent failure to attend class, for whatever reason, may result in expulsion from the program with no refund of course fees. It is important to note that in order to be eligible for an EF certificate, students are expected to participate in class and must attend at least 80% of all classes.

US immigration regulations require you to attend 80% of all your classes. EF is required to report students who fail to maintain this 80% average to US Immigration Authorities. Consequently, students with low attendance may be asked to leave the program and return to their home country.

Homework You are expected to complete all assignments set by your teachers in General English and Special Interest classes. If you are taking an examination preparation class you should expect at least one hour of homework per night.

Assessment You will be assessed at regular intervals throughout the course. Assessment is based on attendance, participation, attitude and performance.

Course books As part of your academic program, you’ll be expected to buy the books and classroom materials that you will use in class. The exact number of books that you’ll need is determined by your academic level, progress and choice of special interest classes. If you wish to buy additional books you may need more money. The books you buy are yours to keep, write in and take home with you for future reference. iLab Learning All English language school courses include six iLab sessions per week. iLab sessions complement and reinforce classroom learning in an interactive online learning environment.

Please note: iLab is not included in the EF Basic Course.

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Exams You may enroll for several different public examinations during your course. Some can be taken at the school itself, others must be taken at an external examination center and booked several months in advance. Please note: you will be responsible for the cost of all exam registration fees, which cannot be paid at the sales office.

EF University Placement Service EF International Language Centers offer a University Placement Service (UPS) that provides guaranteed admission into a university or college for qualified students. If you are interested in continuing your studies, you are encouraged to talk with the University Pathways Manager at your school.

University Transfer Credit Through our partnership with Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), EF students may be eligible to receive university credit for their coursework.

7. Accommodation & Meals Student residence Student residence accommodation is available at the EF Miami Beach school. All housing matters during your stay should be directed to the Housing Coordinator.

All students must pay a $100 key and damage deposit upon arrival. The deposit will be returned to you at the end of the program, less any charges for a dirty or damaged room, lost

key or other outstanding costs incurred while at the school. Lost keys cost $50.00.

Check-in begins at 12 pm.

Students living in the dormitory will be matched with other EF students to share a room.

Students will be accommodated in quadruple rooms. Twin rooms are very limited and require a supplemental fee. Handicapped accessible rooms are available.

Each room has an en-suite bathroom complete with a shower, toilet and sink. It is furnished with a bed, desk and chair for each student.

The closets and dressers in each room are shared among all roommates. Students may make internal and local calls free of charge from their rooms and from the lobby.

Each residence room is cleaned once a week.

You and your roommates are responsible for keeping the room clean and emptying the trash. Cleaning equipment is available from the Resident Advisor. Bed linens and towels will be provided upon arrival. There are coin operated washing machines and dryers in the building.

Check-outs are Saturdays before 10 am.

Seasonal Residences Students who book a course in the summer between the end of June to the end of August may either be housed in the school residence or in one of a number of nearby hotel residences. If your stay goes beyond the last weeks of August you may be moved back into the school for those remaining weeks. While it

is possible to request to be in the school, EF cannot guarantee this as we prioritize bookings by the date the reservation is confirmed. All hotels have an EF representative (Resident Advisor) living there and the hotels are all within walking distance of the school varying from between 5 to 20 minutes walking distance.

Since we try to choose those hotels located closest to the school, there may be a variance in the facilities offered by each hotel. i.e. not all hotels have a pool or free wireless Internet, however all offer twin rooms, en suite bathrooms, housekeeping at least once a week and linen exchange.

Students will still take their classes and meals at the school and of course have access to all school facilities. You will be informed at least two weeks before departure of where you are accommodated, but if you do not receive this information from the sales office, please contact them prior to departure in order to know where you have been housed.

Meals Residence students will eat at the school in the dining hall. Included in your course fees are a breakfast and dinner, Monday through Friday, and brunch and dinner on the weekends and holidays.

In addition to hot entrees and side dishes, the deli bar (cold cuts and cheese for sandwiches) and a salad bar are available at lunch and dinner. There are also vending machines where students can purchase soda and snacks at all hours.

8. Money Matters Currency The dollar is the basic monetary unit in the U.S. 1 dollar = 100 cents 1 cent = $.01 “penny” (100 pennies = $1) 5 cents = $.05 “nickel” (20 nickels = $1) 10 cents = $.10 “dime” (10 dimes = $1) 25 cents = $.25 “quarter” (4 quarters = $1) Paper currency comes in denominations (values) of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. All the paper currency is the same size and color, so be careful when you pay!

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Banking You should open a bank account at the start of your course. During orientation, a local bank representative will be at the school to help you with this. Depending on your needs, you can have a checking or savings account or both.

These types of accounts allow you to have a 24-hour ATM card.

Money for expenses We recommend that you bring approximately $100 in cash for expenses upon arrival and the rest of your spending money in traveler’s checks. We recommend that you take between $75 and $150 per week, excluding excursions, depending on how much traveling, shopping and eating in restaurants you plan to do during your visit to the Miami area.

You will also need to take money for learning materials used in class and for any language proficiency exams you plan to take Please note: It is expensive and inconvenient to exchange foreign currency in Miami.

Wiring money If you need to have money wired to you during your stay in Miami Beach, have it wired to Western Union. There are nine locations in Miami Beach.

The nearest location is: Western Union 1300 Lincoln Rd. Miami Beach, FL 33139 1-305-534-2006 You will be charged a fee for receiving wire transfers. Please inquire with Western Union before sending your money.

Credit cards We strongly recommend that students bring either a Visa or Master Card. Credit cards enable you to rent cars, reserve hotel rooms, and participate in various activities and excursions which may be more difficult with cash or travelers’ checks. Credit cards are also useful in an emergency. Please note, the school is not able to accept credit cards.

9. Telephones, faxes & Internet Phone calls Please tell your friends and family to call you at +(1) 305 538 8581. They will be greeted by an answering machine instructing them to dial “7” plus your room number. When you arrive, please be sure to call your parents or send them an email to tell them your room number.

Each room also has its own direct number, which can be found on the door inside your room. In case they don’t know your room number, there will be a receptionist to assist them from 8:30 am until 11:00 pm.

Students may make internal and local calls free of charge from their residence rooms and from the lobby.

In order to place a long-distance call outside the school, a student must have a phone card, which is available for purchase at the activities office or a local convenience store. You must dial “9” for an outside line and then the “305” or “786” number on the card, followed by the pin number. To dial out of the country dial 011+ the country code + the number you are calling.

Faxes Faxes can be received at +(1) 305 672 0350.

There is no charge for receiving up to 4 pages at this number. If you receive over 8 pages, the cost is $1 per page. Sending faxes: International - $3 per page Internet There is one computer lab that is open at specific times for students to access the Internet.

The building is also equipped with a Wi-Fi Internet system so students can bring their laptops. There are a limited number of wireless Internet cards, which may be borrowed from the school for a $100 deposit. This provides Internet access 24 hours/7 days a week from anywhere in the building.

10. Health Care & Insurance The EF staff can recommend local hospitals and doctors offices if you need medical attention. For non-emergencies you will need to pay immediately in cash or by credit card for any medical service. You will be reimbursed by your insurance company. Please ask the EF staff for assistance if you need medical attention.

Immunizations EF requires that all students attending an EF school in the United States carry proof that he or she has been immunized against measles I and II, polio, TBC, mumps, rubella, diphtheria and tetanus. Please note that it is not sufficient to have had the diseases as a child. If you do not bring this documentation with you, you will be required upon arrival at the school to obtain the immunizations at an area hospital. The cost to students is approximately $50 (this amount is not covered by insurance).

Insurance All students traveling to the USA are required to have medical and accident insurance upon starting their program of study.

All students are required to bring proof of insurance in English to show that they have proper health insurance when a medical emergency occurs. Students who do not bring proof of insurance will be required to purchase insurance through EF at the school.

Erika Travel Insurance Because security is EF’s number one priority, we have negotiated a comprehensive tailormade travel insurance package for EF students with Erika Travel Insurance, an international insurance expert. The policy protects you against expenses incurred through accident or illness, and provides coverage for loss or theft of baggage and personal effects. It also provides coverage against interruption of your EF program due to illness as well as liability and legal expenses.

The EF staff is trained to assist with your Erika Travel Insurance questions and claims. When you are sick or injured the last thing you want to do is deal with such issues. Let us help you!

11. Activities & Excursions The activity staff at the EF school are here to help you make the most of Miami and Florida.

The Activity Coordinator can help you plan your free time by organizing a variety of events and excursions, including: Day Excursions – the Miami Seaquarium, Everglades Alligator Farm, Kennedy Space Center, shopping, windsurfing, snorkeling, Parrot Jungle, Monkey Jungle, and more...

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Night excursions – hot spots around Miami including South Beach, Coconut Grove, and Ft. Lauderdale where there are outstanding evening activities, events, professional sports team, and dance clubs.

Weekend excursions – the world famous Disney World and Universal Studios complexes, the Southernmost point in the USA, Key West and Explore Florida tours, which include other major cities and attractions such as the Tampa/St. Petersburg area and Busch Gardens.

Social and Cultural Events - parties, BBQs, dance lessons, fitness and aerobics classes, movie nights, club activities with the staff, art deco tours, international days, and holiday festivals all take place around the school.

Sports - beach volleyball, pool, basketball, tennis, American touch football, ping-pong, swimming and more. You are free to use any of the equipment we own at EF anytime the activities office is open or an RA can get something for you - just be ready to leave your ID card so we can keep track!

Many activities in or around the school are free, such as sports tournaments, holiday parties and dances, pool parties and club activities. Excursions beyond EF and their costs depend upon the time of year and the number of students involved. Our schedule of activities and exact prices, as well as cut off dates for signing up for activities, will be posted weekly around the school.

The following prices are estimations to help you budget your trip - exact prices will be available when you arrive at the school: Day Excursions - generally average $40 for sites around Miami such as the Everglades Alligator Farm, the Seaquarium and the Parrot Jungle.

City tours cost $30. Longer day trips such as the Kennedy Space Center costs $90, and sporting events are in the $20 - $100 range.

Weekend Excursions - the costs of weekend excursions vary greatly depending on the trip, the season and the numbers of students. Two-day trips to Orlando/Disney World cost $250. Two days in Key West cost $220.

Costs for longer distance trips and cruises can be discussed when you arrive, since Miami is in close proximity to glamorous Caribbean destinations, as well as a major destination for cruise ships traveling within the Caribbean. For example, a three-day trip to the Bahamas from Miami will cost about $400.

All EF weekend excursions include transportation, accommodations & admission fees. Although some trips may include some meals, you should expect to pay for meals when traveling with EF. In addition to our program of excursions, we are more than happy to help individual students or small groups plan their time and activities to make the most of their trips to Miami, Southern Florida and beyond.

Please Note: Students intending to travel outside of the United States, whether on an EF excursion or independently should obtain tourist visas before travel. It is highly recommended to apply for these visas before departure. To be able to travel outside the US and return, students must obtain a valid multiple entry visa from the US embassy.

For help with visas after you arrive, please see activities or the student services coordinator.

Shuttle bus On South Beach we also have a shuttle bus called the South Beach Local, which runs between 17th and 5th streets, up and down Washington Avenue, which is one of the main streets for shopping, working out, eating out and clubbing. It also provides easy access to Ocean Drive, just two blocks from Washington and parallel to it. This shuttle bus costs $0.25 US.

Sports and Games facilities in EF Miami z Outdoor swimming pool z B each sports such as Frisbee, running, beach soccer and volleyball z Ping Pong (table tennis) in the student lounge

Taxis and limousine services Transportation by taxi is also an excellent way to get around Miami. Up to five people can ride in one taxi, all at the same rate, which makes getting around Miami relatively cheap. From the school to anywhere on South Beach is $8 or less, to downtown around $15, and to the airport or Coconut Grove, $30 plus tip.

Other activities in the area (fees may apply) Within a 5-10 minute bus or taxi ride from school z Fitness clubs z 1 8-hole public golf course with Par 3 course and driving range z J et-skiing (available across the street from the school - 2 minute walk!) z Swimming z Tennis z Basketball Available at Flamingo Park - public recreation area - 10 minute bus or taxi ride from school z Soccer fields z Basketball courts z Baseball courts z Tennis courts Available in Key Biscayne and other parts of Greater Miami (within 30 minutes by car) z Sailing z Snorkeling z Water skiing z Scuba diving

12. Transportation Metro Miami buses There are six metro Miami buses that pass in front of the school on their regular routes each day from 6:00 am to 10:30 pm. The buses pass about every 15 minutes. They cost $1.50 per ride, and a ticket to transfer to any other form of public transportation in the city costs $.25 extra.

Monthly passes are also available. These passes must be purchased in advance at the end of each month. See activities if you are interested in purchasing a bus pass.

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For special nights out, activities can also help you hire a limousine service for up to 12 people at a flat rate of $100 per hour, or for pick-up and dropoff from different locations around the city.

Car rentals There is no student parking available at the school. Some students choose to rent a car on weekends for private excursions. Most rental car agencies will only rent to people who are 25 years or older. All agencies require a credit card. Some agencies will rent cars to students over 21 years but the rates are higher. EF does not recommend that younger students rent cars. EF recommends that anyone renting a car (even for short trips) purchase full comprehensive insurance coverage.

The only person authorized to drive the car is the one whose name is on the contract. Do not rent cars for your friends!

Flights The Miami area is serviced by the Miami International Airport located 10 miles from the school - 15 minutes by car or taxi. The EF Student Services Coordinator is available to help you change a ticket purchased through EF, as well as to help with any other flight arrangements.

What you can expect from EF: zS upportive staff, available for guidance and encouragement. zA n academic program which combines language, special interest, and culture-oriented classes. zF ull program of local activities and excursions at special EF rates. zA ccommodation in either homestay or student residence. zA ll designated meals. zE F Academic Year Abroad Diploma for Academic Year Abroad students with 80% attendance per term and good academic standing and academic records zE F Course Certificate for International Language Students with 80% attendance and good academic standing. zP reparation classes and/or materials for appropriate standardized language exams and availability of University Placement Service (UPS).

What EF expects of you: zT o develop a greater understanding of the world around you. zT o attend at least 80% of all classes and to do your best in class at all times. zT o be respectful of your homestay hosts, your classmates, your teachers and your community. zT o keep your room and shared areas clean. zT o speak English at all times. zT o abide by all laws, rules and regulations of your host country, state, campus and school.

What you can expect from your EF Residence: z A comfortable, clean place to live. z Breakfast and dinner every day.

14. US Culture & living tips Food The multi-ethnic nature of the American culture is perhaps best exhibited in the variety of food enjoyed by Americans. While there are “typical�

American dishes such as steak and potatoes, turkey with stuffing and hamburgers with French fries, most Americans eat foods from around the word.

13. Expectations Expectations are a normal part of anticipating a new experience. Remember that many of your expectations may have been formed by the unreal world of TV and movies. Arrive at your course center with an open mind!

Mealtimes zB reakfast: 6am -10am Toast, cereal, juice, coffee or tea. zB runch: 11am- 2pm Combination of breakfast & lunch

Scrambled eggs, pancakes zL unch: 12pm-2pm Sandwich, salad or light hot meal zD inner: 5pm-8pm Largest meal of the day Meat (beef, chicken or fish) and vegetables Mail Mail service is relatively inexpensive and reliable.

For best service, be sure to write the complete address and your return address on the envelope.

The normal form of address in the U.S. is: Name Street Address, Apartment number City, State abbreviation, Zip Code (zip code is also called the postal code) Alcohol The legal age for purchase and/or consumption of alcohol is 21 years old. You will be expected to show identification (driver’s license or passport) when purchasing alcohol in a liquor store or bar.

Many nightclubs are only open to people who are 21 years and older. Some clubs may be open to 18 and older, but will not allow alcohol purchase.

There are also very strict rules regarding “driving under the influence” of alcohol.

Smoking Over the past few years, smoking is considered more and more a health hazard to those who smoke and those people around smokers.

Therefore, it has become much less tolerated in the U.S. compared to other countries. If you smoke, you will be asked to do so in certain areas or most of the time, outside. Many restaurants do not allow smoking at all unless there is a separate room for smokers. Some schools are completely non-smoking and most homestay hosts will not permit smoking in their home. While EF recognizes your right to smoke, we kindly ask that you behave courteously and follow the rules of your school.

Appliances Electric outlets in the U.S provide a current at 117 volts, 60 cycles (Hertz). Since many other countries operate with a voltage of 220, you might need a transformer to operate non-American appliances. You might also need an adapter to change the shape of the plug, which is either two flat prongs or three prongs for large appli-

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ances. Hairdryers and radios can be purchased very inexpensively in the U.S. so it may be better to buy some appliances upon arrival.

recommended for students who have very limited English skills.

15. Adjusting to a New Culture Refrigerators are available to rent and have in your dorm room for a monthly fee. These are available through local companies and can be arranged once on campus.

If you plan to buy a television while in the US, a small one costs about $150-$200 and is a great way to practice listening comprehension.

Tipping People who work in the hospitality industry in the U.S. rely on tips from customers more so than in many other countries. Average tip amount: zR estaurant servers: 15-20% of bill zT axi drivers: 10- 15% zS alons: 20% of bill Sales Tax Expect to pay 5-8% sales tax on your purchases (amount and the type of item taxed varies from state to state). Remember that a certain percentage will be added to the net total when you purchase something from a store or when you pay for food and beverages in restaurants Store hours Store hours in the US are more liberal than in most other countries. In general, the following rules apply: zD epartment stores and shopping malls: Monday to Saturday 10am to 9pm Sunday 12pm to 6pm zS upermarkets: Monday to Saturday 8am to 9pm Sunday 9am to 7pm (some 24 hours) zS mall retail stores and grocery stores may close every night at 6pm and may not be open on Sunday Recommended reading zL et’s Go USA (or Let’s Go Miami) is a great student travel guide for where to go, how to get around, where to stay and what to eat. zD on’t Know Much About History by Kenneth C. Davis. Everything you need to know about American history! zF ifty Nifty States by Jerry Aten. Elementary school textbook about U.S Geography,

The EF community is more than a group of students who have come together to learn English. It is also a multi-cultural group of young adults who are eager to share their own culture and learn the culture of their host country and fellow classmates.

One’s culture is made up of values, beliefs, arts, traditions and practices of a specific community or population. Our culture affects how we view ourselves, how we relate to others and what we value as important in life. We are often unaware of how much our culture affects our lives.

You may have already had some exposure to the new culture you are about to experience.

You may have seen television shows, read books, or studied in school about the USA. While some parts of this culture may already seem familiar to you, experiencing a new culture first-hand will prove exciting. You will be meeting students from all over the world who, like you, are looking forward to spending a year learning and living a language, both inside and outside the classroom.

As a visitor to a new culture, you may experience periods of fatigue and discomfort when you are uncomfortable. Culture shock is what sometimes happens when we try to meet challenges of our new culture by using the values, beliefs, and attitudes of our own culture. As visitors to a new culture, we must learn that cultural differences are merely different - not right or wrong.

It is a good idea to bring traditional objects from your culture to share with other students and your host to teach them about your country.

Tips on coping with change Remember that change does not come without some effort! We humans need a certain amount of stress to motivate us to learn new ways of being. Learning always involves some form of change. You should try the following: zW hile you might be tempted to surround

yourself with things that are familiar to you, try not to isolate yourself by being only with others from your home country. Keep reaching out to your host, roommates and other students. zP ut off making major decisions such as an accommodation change, until you feel more “at home” with the culture in general. zT alk to us about your worries or problems.

EF Staff are here to help and would prefer to know about any problem you may have so that we can help you. Many EF staff members have studied or lived abroad, so they understand what it’s like to adjust to life in a foreign country! zS et goals, no matter how big or small, and accomplish them! You will feel good about yourself in doing so, and you will reduce the negative feelings associated with culture shock. For example, set a goal that you will speak English at all times. zR emind yourself that you came to this country to experience a new culture, to meet others and to explore your new surroundings.

Relax, take a deep breath and reflect back on the days before leaving your home country when you were excited about your new adventure. Try to refocus this former excitement towards your experience.

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Miami, USA

Keeping a journal One way to keep track of emotions and changes that take place over the year is to keep a journal. By recording your experiences and feelings on a regular basis, you will be able to reduce the impact of culture shock. You will have a record of your academic and personal progress to look back on in days and years to come. Be sure to note changes in: zL anguage skills zS chool performance and involvement zC ampus/host adjustment z I ndividual learning and growth Keeping a journal will help to remind you that culture shock is truly a temporary phase of adjustment.

Bring pictures and Items from home If you have room in your suitcases for some music, a costume, pictures, or some typical crafts, it would be good to show other students, as well as to decorate your room to make it seem like home. We have seen costumes and drums from Korea, dancing and music from Austria and a piñata and tortillas from Mexico. Please bring pictures of your friends, family and surrounding area.

16. EF School Calendar Academic Year Schedule The Academic Year is divided into three terms.

(See the applicable start date below for your program’s specific term and break schedule).

January 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 6 Jan - Sun 8 Jan Term 1: Mon 9 Jan - Fri 9 Mar Holiday: Sat 10 Mar - Sun 25 Mar Term 2: Mon 26 Mar - Fri 1 Jun Semester Departure: 2 Jun 2012 Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun Term 3: (Year) Mon 11 Jun - Fri 17 Aug Departure: 18 Aug 2012 April 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 13 Apr - Sun 15 Apr Term 1: Mon 16 Apr - Fri 1 Jun Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun Term 2: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep Semester Departure: 8 Sep 2012 Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep Term 3: (Year) Mon 24 Sep - Fri 30 Nov Departure: 1 Dec 2012

School holidays The EF International Language Centers in North America recognize the following public holidays when there will be no classes. If your arrival falls on one of these dates, please check with the school staff upon your arrival for an exact orientation schedule.

2012 January 1 - New Year’s Day February 20 - President’s Day May 28 - Memorial Day July 4 - Independence Day September 3 - Labor Day November 22 and 23 - Thanksgiving December 25 - Christmas Day 2013 January 1 - New Year’s Day February 18 - President’s Day May 27 - Memorial Day July 4 - Independence Day September 2 - Labor Day November 28 - Thanksgiving December 25 - Christmas Day

Holiday: Term 3: (Year) Departure:

Sat 8 Jun - Sun 16 Jun Mon 17 Jun - Fri 16 Aug 17 Aug 2013

■■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student identification cards, travel cards and other possible documents ■■ Flight ticket ■■ Luggage correctly labeled ■■ E F Confirmation letter & other EF documents ■■ M ake sure all EF forms are complete, especially the Health Certificate

■■ Immunization documents with a copy of them in English ■■ Basic medical supplies, any medication you take regularly and a spare pair of contact lenses or glasses if you wear them.

1 June 2013

January 2013 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 4 Jan - Sun 6 Jan Term 1: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar Term 2: Mon 25 Mar - Fri 7 Jun Semester Departure: 8 Jun 2013

■■ Valid passport (with visa where necessary) It’s a good idea to make copies of these and pack them in your suitcase just in case. You don’t need to carry your passport with you while you are in the USA but you must keep it and your other documents in a safe place while you are in the country.

■■ Medical and travel insurance documents with proof of insurance in English, if you have secured Erika Travel Insurance from EF, you do not need to have anything translated.

September 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 21 Sep - Sun 23 Sep Term 1: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan Term 2: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar Semester Departure: 9 Mar 2013 Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar Term 3: (Year) Mon 25 Mar - Fri 31 May Departure:

17. Checklist

Important telephone numbers Homestay host’s or student residence name

________________________________________ Homestay host’s or student residence address

■■ An International Driving License if you are planning on hiring or buying a car.

■■ Local currency for first week and for any learning materials that are not included in the cost of the course.

■■ Money in the form of an ATM card (Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring large amounts of cash in any currency!).

________________________________________ Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s)

■■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appliances you plan to bring with you.

________________________________________

■■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook.

EF Sales Office telephone number

________________________________________ EF School telephone number

■■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers.

■■ Personal sports equipment.

+(1) 305 538 8581 ________________________________________

■■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.

EF School emergency telephone numbers

■■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.

+(1) 786 543 9511 ________________________________________