Arriving at St. Olaf
Orientation for New International Students
When is international student orientation?
August 31 - September 4, 2010 will be a special orientation for new international students and American Third Culture Kids. Time will be spent introducing you to St. Olaf College, American college life, immigration and visa regulations, health services, academic requirements, banking, etc. International Student Counselors who have been specially trained will help you through your adjustment and finding your way around the campus.
What day do I have to arrive? What if I arrive before August 31, 2010?
All new international students should arrive in Northfield on Tuesday, August 31, 2010. Students arriving by air should book flights into the Minneapolis (MSP) airport on August 31. Flights will be met by a college represenative on that day only. Please complete the ARRIVAL FORM with your flight information, flight number, and arrival time to the International Student Advisor by August 13 so that a shuttle schedule can be arranged.
No campus housing is available before that date, therefore those who arrive earlier will need to arrange for a room at a local hotel. You are encouraged to find a hotel near the airport and we will pick you up from there on August 31, 2010.
Where wil I meet the St. Olaf representative?
When you arrive at the Minneapolis airport, proceed to the baggage claim area. Please wait for your college driver or escort (wearing a St. Olaf T-shirt) near Door #6 and the statue of the firefighter. Shuttle service is offered approximately every 2-3 hours throughout the day from 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
What airline is recommended?
There is not one recommended airline, but note that Delta Airlines, does have daily flights to Minneapolis from Amsterdam, London, Frankfurt, Tokyo, etc.
If I arrive by car, when/where should I go once on campus?
If you are coming by car, plan to arrive on campus after 3 p.m. Please check-in at Larson Hall (regardless of what residence hall you have been assigned to). The International Student Counselors will be there to welcome you. For maps and directions to the campus visit this site.
Can I arrive on campus earlier than August 31, 2010?
No. We regret that housing is not available at the college before August 31 (except for students involved in pre-season athletics).
Whom do I contact in case of an emergency?
Keep these telephone numbers handy. They may be useful to you in the event of airline changes or other emergencies.
Carol Myint, International Student Advisor:
1-507-786-3995
Dean of Students:
1-507-786-3615
College switchboard:
1-507-786-2222 (After hours: 1-507-786-3666)
Larson Hall front desk:
1-507-786-2103 (For August 31 only)
How do I send baggage?
You are encouraged to bring all your baggage with you. Sending baggage separately is usually costly and may involve customs clearance. If you choose to mail small packages, address the packages as follows. This is the address that all students should use.
Your Name St. Olaf College 1500 St. Olaf Avenue Northfield, MN 55057-1001 USA |
Where will I be staying when I arrive?
During our orientation days, most international students will be housed in their assigned residence hall (or honor house if you are a language assistant) after checking into Larson Hall. Some students, such as language house exchange students, may stay in Larson Hall until their Language Honor House is available. Please pack your belongings in such a way that the few things you need during your first week on campus will be easily accessible. Your roommate(s) may not arrive on-campus until the beginning of Week One, if you are a first-year student, or until returning students are permitted back on-campus.
Who will my roommate be?
During the summer you will receive information about your residence hall and roommate from the Residence Life Office. (Please be sure the International Student Advisor has a summer address for you.)
What happens after the international student orientation?
On Saturday, September 4, the campus will come to life as about 800 first-year and transfer students arrive on campus. On Saturday afternoon, "Week One" begins. This is a week of introduction to college life for all new students. Lectures, films, and music will stimulate you to think about the liberal arts education you are beginning at St. Olaf. Meetings with your Academic Advisor and the faculty of various academic departments will enable you to learn more about courses offered throughout the college. Social activities will introduce you to students from all over the United States. Soon you will also receive the schedule of Week One events. Additional information about Week One can be found here.
