By Bruce S. Morgan
Wayne State University

One of the great advantages of American higher education is the large number of student resources and services found on the campuses of all major universities such as Wayne State University.
What is important for all international students is to know what these resources and services are, or know how to find out about them.

The next important question is, of course, how to use them. In general, the great majority of the services an American university or college provides are of no additional cost to students. All students whether they are graduate or undergraduate, or those who are preparing themselves in an English language institute at the university, are able to benefit from all student services.

What each of these student service offices do is usually describe in a student handbook which the university or college publishes every year and is distributed to all students for free.
At the beginning of the school year, copies of the student handbook are usually left at the student activity center, near the cafeteria, or places where students gather.

Another good way to familiarize yourself with campus resources and services is through the student resource center. Asking questions is sometimes the most direct way of finding information on campus. Don't hesitate to ask your professors, classmates or other people you run into about the information you need. Or use the campus phone and call the campus operator; the call is free.

Most new international students have to go through a special orientation when they first arrive on campus. This orientation is usually arranged by the international student office which is also a major source of information and assistance for all students from outside the United States. Try to get to know the names of a few of the counselors. Later on you can go to see them to get more information about what you need, or you can even call them.

Many campus activities, services, and resources are described-even advertised-in the student newspaper. This paper usually comes out three times a week and is free. Make sure that you read it regularly.

American colleges and universities provide many resources and services for international students. They have been admitting and educating thousands of students from all over the world for many years.

The international advisers and counselors at American universities are trained to help international students with all their academic and personal needs. Most of them have traveled overseas and can communicated easily with people from other culture, sometimes even in languages other than English. To have a rich educational and personal experience, try to use as many of the offices as you can.

Good luck, and I hope you will enjoy living and studying in the US