1. Airport Transportation
The Tampa International Airport (TPA) is located approximately 19 miles from the University of South Florida (USF). The Friends of Internationals, a USF Campus ministry, offers an airport pickup service for new students. To request airport pickup, go to Airport Rides.  If you prefer to arrange for your transportation upon arrival, a shuttle service and taxis are available in the baggage claim area. The Bay Shuttle (shared van ride) costs approximately $24 with up to three pieces of luggage and taxi fare is approximately $35 from the airport to the university area.

2. Jet Lag
In the first few days after your arrival, you are likely to experience physical changes as a result of taking a long flight and traveling through a number of time zones. You will probably be sleeping and waking at the 'wrong' times, feel tired, and have less patience than usual. This will pass within a few days, once your internal clock has adjusted to the time change.

3. Cultural Adjustment & Exploration
Living and learning overseas successfully usually means adjustment to a different lifestyle, food, climate, and time zone, often accompanied by the necessity of learning to communicate in a foreign language.  Be aware that you will probably experience a change in your diet and eating habits. Before you leave, try to learn more about the foods eaten and the eating habits of your host country. These are an integral part of the culture.  Keep an open mind and take each experience as an opportunity to learn and discover a new way of life.

4. Cash
You may be wondering how much cash you should bring. Some of our students in the past recommend that $200-$500 should be adequate to cover expenses in the first couple of days. Make sure to bring enough small bills ($1s, $5s, and $10s). You'll need them to tip the taxi driver or buy a quick snack from the vending machine.
A few words about tipping, 15-20% of the total is the norm.

5. Electricity
If you plan to bring electrical appliances from home, make sure to also bring the correct transforming converters necessary to meet the U.S. standards below:

• 110-120 volts electricity
• AC power
• 2 flat-legged wall sockets

Similarly, if you buy any electrical appliance in the US, make sure you can use it back in your home country.