Buyer Persona:
Reem – First-Time International Student
Buyer’s Journey:
Awareness
Head Keyword:
International Student Guide
Long-Tail Keywords:
- Moving to the U.S. as an international student
- How to adjust to college in America
- International student survival guide
This content is part of a student project at UCLA Extension. Any logos used might be slightly changed to indicate that this document is NOT a communication from the company represented by the changed logo. Any statements made in this content are the statements of the UCLA student and not of any company. This statement is made so that any reader will understand this document is part of a UCLA student project and NOT a communication from any existing company.
The Ultimate International Student Guide: 10 Things to Do Before Moving to the U.S.
Moving to another country for college is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between applying for your visa, finding housing, opening a bank account, understanding transportation, and making new friends, there are dozens of things to think about before classes even begin.
For Reem, a first-time international student, the excitement of studying in the United States comes with plenty of questions. Where should she live? How does healthcare work? What’s the easiest way to make friends? Like many students, she wants to feel prepared before stepping onto campus.
If you’re moving to the United States for school, this international student guide will help you prepare before you arrive and make your transition much smoother.
1. Prepare Your Essential Documents
Before boarding your flight, make sure you have all your important documents organized in one place.
Keep both printed and digital copies of:
- Passport
- Student visa
- Form I-20
- University acceptance letter
- Health insurance information
- Housing confirmation
- Financial documents
- Emergency contacts
Being organized before your flight makes your arrival much less stressful.
2. Research Housing Before You Arrive
Finding the right place to live is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make before moving.
When searching for housing, consider:
- Safety of the neighborhood
- Distance from campus
- Access to public transportation
- Grocery stores nearby
- Furnished versus unfurnished apartments
- Monthly living expenses
Choosing the right location can have a huge impact on your overall college experience.
3. Learn the Basics of Everyday Life in the U.S.
Many international students are surprised that everyday life in America works differently than back home.
Simple things like:
- Opening a bank account
- Getting a phone plan
- Using public transportation
- Grocery shopping
- Tipping at restaurants
- Laundry facilities
- Healthcare and insurance
…can all feel confusing at first. Learning these basics before you arrive helps reduce culture shock and allows you to settle in faster.
4. Create a Realistic Budget
Your first month abroad is often the most expensive.
Plan for expenses such as:
- Rent
- Utilities
- Groceries
- Transportation
- Phone bill
- School supplies
- Entertainment
- Emergency savings
A realistic budget gives you peace of mind and helps prevent financial stress later.
5. Build Your Community Early
One of the biggest challenges for international students isn’t academics—it’s feeling alone.
Making friends takes effort, but it becomes much easier when you:
- Attend orientation events
- Join student organizations
- Introduce yourself in class
- Participate in campus activities
- Connect with other international students online
The earlier you start building relationships, the more comfortable your new environment will feel.
How The First Mile Helps
Students like Reem shouldn’t have to search dozens of websites just to figure out how to start life in a new country.
The First Mile brings practical information and real human connection into one platform designed specifically for international students.
Inside The First Mile, students can:
- Access relocation checklists.
- Learn about banking, transportation, healthcare, and housing.
- Connect with students who have already experienced the move.
- Ask questions and receive real advice from a supportive community.
- Feel more confident before arriving in the United States.
Instead of navigating the process alone, students gain a trusted resource that helps them every step of the way.
Start Your Journey with Confidence
Every international student starts with uncertainty, but no one has to navigate the experience alone.
Whether you’re preparing months in advance or leaving next week, having the right information and a supportive community can make all the difference.
The First Mile is designed to help students like Reem take their first steps in the United States with confidence, knowledge, and meaningful connections.
Your journey begins long before your first day of class—and The First Mile is here to help you every step of the way.
