I first became interested in attending university in the United States when I was fifteen years old. I had been a passionate golfer from a young age, and I had heard of other junior golfers from the U.K who had played for collegiate teams before playing professionally, so moving to the U.S. seemed like the natural next step to advance my career. With my family’s support, I left my hometown of Sheffield, England in August 2021 to play for Jacksonville State University in Alabama, where I spent a year before transferring to St. Mary’s University in the fall of 2022. While preparing to graduate in May 2025, I began looking back on my college experience and what I had learned in my time in the U.S. Here are seven essential tips that I wish I had known before I came to the U.S:

Thoroughly research the schools you are applying to

It is really important to have a thorough understanding of your future university before you arrive. Some international students are able to go on visits to their future university, but this is not always possible. If a visit isn’t feasible, take advantage of online resources like virtual campus tours, student testimonials, and interactive maps. These can help you visualize your new university environment and get a feel for its layout and facilities. As well as looking at the university, it is equally important to research the surrounding local area. You should familiarize yourself as much as possible with the city or town where you’ll be living, as understanding the culture, local attractions and available services can make your transition smoother and help you feel more at home. The process of moving to a new country for university can feel incredibly daunting, but prior research can help put your mind at ease about your future home for the next four years.

Pack the right things

Knowing what to bring and what not to bring to university is essential when you only have a limited amount of space. Something that you may overlook is considering the climate in the state you will be studying. For example, before I moved to San Antonio, I had to purchase lighter clothes for the incredibly hot summer months that were a big change from my clothes back home. As well as everyday clothes, make sure to have at least one business professional outfit for university job fairs, and a formal outfit for special occasions. Keep in mind, however, that there’s no need to stress about bringing everything with you. Many items, such as bedding, toiletries, and even extra clothes can easily be purchased once you arrive in the U.S., so focus on the essentials and leave room for the things you’ll need right away.

Make sure you have all of your important documents

If you are working with an agency to help you in your preparations for the U.S, you should be given a list of important documents to have and applications to complete. This list will likely include important paperwork such as your student visa, the I-20 form (which is required for your student visa application), scholarship award letters from your university, and any bank statements or financial documents from your family to demonstrate sufficient funding for your stay¹. Additionally, you may need documents related to health insurance, housing arrangements, or other paperwork required by the university or government. To make sure everything is safe in one place, you can keep all of these important documents in a binder. It is also essential to have physical and digital versions of your documents and keep some copies as a backup.

Connect with other students

Being an international student can feel incredibly isolating at times, as you navigate a new environment far from home while facing challenges that others may not fully understand. It is essential to build a community of support by making connections with other students. While it can be comforting to bond with other international students who share similar experiences, it is just as important to reach out to American students as well. These connections can provide fresh perspectives, help you gain insight into the local culture, and foster a broader network of friends and support. By opening yourself to both international and American students, you can create a well-rounded support system that will make your time in the U.S more enriching and fulfilling.

Use international office resources

Most universities will have an international office dedicated to supporting students with a variety of needs related to their international status². Whether you have questions about visas, work permits, taxes, or other regulations, this office is usually your first point of contact. In addition to providing essential resources, many international offices will also arrange events and activities for students to get involved with the campus community. Be sure to stay informed about these opportunities, as they can offer valuable ways to build relationships and immerse yourself in university life.

Create a budget

For many international students, the opportunity to earn money while studying in the U.S. is either limited or unavailable due to visa restrictions, so it is crucial to create a well-thought-out budget while at college. The specifics of your budget will vary based on several factors, such as whether you live on-campus or off-campus, whether you have a campus dining plan, the cost of textbooks and course materials, as well as other personal needs. Before arriving in the U.S., take the time to carefully plan your finances by creating a budget, either on a monthly or weekly basis, and account for all expected expenses. Don’t forget to set aside emergency funds, as unexpected costs, from medical bills to travel disruptions, can arise at any time. A detailed budget will allow you to make the most of your college experience and avoid any unnecessary stress.

Take advantage of as many opportunities as you can

It is an amazing experience to be an international student, so it’s important to fully embrace it and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. Attend as many university events as possible, connect with the local culture and embrace the opportunity to live in a different country. This is your chance to broaden your horizons and immerse yourself in a new way of life, which will not only enrich your university experience but also allow you to grow as a person. Keep in mind that time at university will pass quickly, so it’s crucial to savor every moment. Embrace the highs and lows of life as an international student, and make each day count – it’s an adventure you’ll remember forever.