Essential Services
Everything you’ll need to know from getting your U.S. plan, to stores to shop at, and more!
United States Welcome Guide
Coming to the U.S.
Welcome to the United States! We’re here to help you know what to pack and where to shop if it’s your first time living in the U.S.
Recommended Packing List
What to Bring in Your Carry-On
- Immigration documents including your I-20/DS-2019, Visa and Passport
- Cash – Enough for your first few days here in the U.S.
- Clothing and medication – enough for a few days in case your luggage gets lost or delayed in transit
- Personal electronics, like your laptop computer, mobile phone or other small devices.
- Emergency contacts
- OISS: +1 (651) 962-6650
- Public Safety: +1 (651) 962-5500
What to Bring in Your Suitcase
- Herbs and spices from home. You may not be able to buy certain items here in the U.S.
- Traditional clothing or small items from your home country. There are a few events throughout the year on campus that allow for you to teach others about your home country and culture and it is always nice to have a few items to show others.
- A power adapter. The electricity voltage here in the U.S. is . You may want to buy an adapter if you plan on bringing an electrical appliance from home.
What to Leave at Home
- A large amount of everyday items. During orientation, OISS will host a trip to Target where you can buy everyday items such as soap, shampoo/conditioner, pillows, sheets, etc.
- Meat. U.S. customs is very strict. See a .
Packing List
If you would like an example of a packing list, here's a document we created for you! Feel free to print it and add your own items.
What to Bring in Your Carry-On
What to Bring in Your Carry-On
- Immigration documents including your I-20/DS-2019, Visa and Passport
- Cash – Enough for your first few days here in the U.S.
- Clothing and medication – enough for a few days in case your luggage gets lost or delayed in transit
- Personal electronics, like your laptop computer, mobile phone or other small devices.
- Emergency contacts
- OISS: +1 (651) 962-6650
- Public Safety: +1 (651) 962-5500
What to Bring in Your Suitcase
What to Bring in Your Suitcase
- Herbs and spices from home. You may not be able to buy certain items here in the U.S.
- Traditional clothing or small items from your home country. There are a few events throughout the year on campus that allow for you to teach others about your home country and culture and it is always nice to have a few items to show others.
- A power adapter. The electricity voltage here in the U.S. is . You may want to buy an adapter if you plan on bringing an electrical appliance from home.
What to Leave at Home
What to Leave at Home
- A large amount of everyday items. During orientation, OISS will host a trip to Target where you can buy everyday items such as soap, shampoo/conditioner, pillows, sheets, etc.
- Meat. U.S. customs is very strict. See a .
Packing List
Packing List
If you would like an example of a packing list, here's a document we created for you! Feel free to print it and add your own items.
International Grocery Stores
For a little taste of home, find a grocery store that carries your native cuisine.