Welcome to the University of Washington
 Pre-Arrival Email #1 of 6
 
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FIUTS connects university students with local and global communities through programs that build international awareness, cross-cultural communication, and informed leadership. 
 
Greetings!

Nicole's picture
On behalf of the Foundation for International Understanding Through Students, I would like to welcome you to the University of Washington!  We are thrilled that you are joining our community.
 
University of Washington (UW) International Student Orientation is produced by FIUTS, a non-profit organization founded on the UW campus in 1948. FIUTS programs inspire international understanding and friendship both on and off campus. My name is Nicole Comforto, and I am the Manager of Student Programs at FIUTS.  

Before you arrive, you can connect with other students and learn about upcoming FIUTS events and programs by becoming a fan of the FIUTS Facebook page, and visiting the FIUTS Website and the UW Website.
 
Again, congratulations on your admission to the UW - we look forward to meeting you soon!
Orientations at the UW
UW Fountain 
Many orientation programs are offered at the UW for newly admitted students and scholars. Depending on your level and program you may have a number of orientations to attend.
 
Undergraduate Students: You should attend a minimum of TWO orientations: The FIUTS International Student Orientation and a First Year Programs Advising and Orientation Session.
 
Exchange Students: You should attend the FIUTS Orientation Program and an IPE Information Session with IPE Advisor, Tina Wong.

Graduate Students: You will probably attend two orientations: The FIUTS International Student Orientation and a departmental orientation.
 
FIUTS Orientation
FIUTS International Student Orientation is scheduled for September 16-27, 2009.  We have activities, information sessions and fun social events planned every day. 
 
You can preview the Orientation Schedule now!  The schedule is periodically updated so be sure to check back for changes.  We'll send you more details on all the events and sessions later in the summer.  You don't need to register in advance for Orientation. 
 
If you are attending UW Tacoma or Bothell campuses this fall, you are welcome to participate in FIUTS Orientation.  Please join in any events that fit your schedule!
ISS Check-In & FIUTS Greeting Table
All new international students with "F" or "J" visa status who arrive between September 11-25 are required to complete an online check-in process and visit the FIUTS Greeting Table in the HUB Lobby to have their passport and immigration documents copied.  If you arrive before September 11 or after September 25, go directly to the International Student Services Office in 459 Schmitz Hall to have your documents copied.
The online check-in process can be completed at any time.  Visit the ISS website to get started!
Housing 
 
HousingDue to high demands, housing can be a challenge, especially if you are not familiar with the process. It is your responsibility to secure permanent housing, whether on or off campus.

On-Campus Housing: If you would like to live on campus, you should have already applied for on-campus housing.  Visit the Housing and Food Services website to read about campus housing options.

Off-Campus Housing: The Off-Campus Housing Affairs (OCHA) Office is located in the basement of the HUB (Husky Union Building), which houses many student services offices, including FIUTS. If you are interested in off-campus housing, you can start your search on Craig's List and in the Seattle Times Classifieds.

Short-Term Homestay: The deadline to apply for the FIUTS Homestay Program is TODAY! If you wish to spend your first week with a local host, apply now.

Long-Term Homestay: If you would prefer a longer homestay (three months minimum) with a host family, opportunities are available through Abode Homestay.

Hotels: If you have a housing assignment but are arriving before it is available, you can also choose to stay in a hotel. Click here to see a list of short term housing options.
This is the first in a series of emails you will receive each Friday from FIUTS about pre-arrival topics, including airport transportation, local landmarks, and Seattle culture.  Please send us an e-mail if you have any questions in the meantime.  We look forward to welcoming you as a part of our community. 
 
Sincerely,
 
Nicole Comforto
Manager of Student Programs
Foundation for International Understanding Through Students  (FIUTS)
 
website: www.fiuts.org