Professional Documents
Culture Documents
India Club at Georgia Tech Welcome Packet 2012-2013 Namaste and Welcome to Georgia Tech! Dear Student,
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On behalf of the India Club at Georgia Tech (ICGT), we would like to extend a very warm welcome to you. It is indeed a matter of great pride to be accepted at such a renowned institution and we intend to help you make the best of your time here at Georgia Tech. Our general board has put together this welcome packet, which we hope will help you through your years here at Georgia Tech. Before we introduce ICGT and its activities, we would like you to know that our primary goal is to facilitate your transition to life at Georgia Tech and make sure that you have a great cultural and social experience throughout your stay here. The India Club at Georgia Tech was established in 1973 and has since surpassed all expectations. Today, ICGT is recognized as one of the foremost student organizations at Tech with over 450 primary members and over 250 affiliate members. In fact, in 1999, we were honored by the Best Organizational Spirit Award by the President of the Georgia Institute of Technology, which bears ample testimony to the hard work and dedication shown by our officers and members. ICGT strives to fulfill the cultural, social, and educational needs of its members. In order to do so, we organize a series of programs, functions and events to take place throughout the year. Some of the events that have become an annual feature on our calendar are: 1. Membership Drive During the first two weeks of school, we open up registration for annual or semesterly ICGT membership. The second week also provides membership events such as ICGT Freshman and Graduate Student Mixers with free food, and great company! 2. Fall Raas-Garba Held to celebrate the Navratri festival, Garba features traditional Indian dancing as well as a Maha Durga Pooja sponsored by the Hindu Students Council. It is attended by over 500 people every year and is one of our more popular events. Dandiyas and snacks are provided. 3. Diwali Dinner Every year we celebrate the auspicious event of Diwali during the month of November. It is one of our biggest events of the year and hosts nearly 350 members. After a wholesome dinner and students showcasing their hidden talents, night ends on a high note with dancing and more fun. 4. Sports Tournaments ICGT has always taken great interest in its sporting events. Every semester, a Cricket tournament is held with the teams competing for a prestigious title and trophy. Cold drinks are served as new talents are discovered. ICGT also hosts Table-Tennis, Basketball and Badminton tournaments every semester in Georgia Tech's state-of-the-art Campus Recreation Center (CRC) facilities. ICGT also boasts a roster of competitive and accomplished intramural teams in various different sports such as soccer and flag football. 5. Holi Playing The Festival of Colors is celebrated in grand style with "rang," "thandaai," food, and masti. Without skipping a hint of tradition, we play with water balloons, water hoses, and laughter. Just remember to wear old clothes! 6. Holi Show The Holi Show is one of the most esteemed cultural performances in the Southeastern United States and serves as a union between college students all over Georgia. With an audience of over 1,600 people, the Holi Show is a diverse culmination of ethnic displays of talent and gives pride to the entire Georgia Tech community. Annually, over 200 performers showcase their talents in all forms on dance, music, comedy and theater. The Holi Show has
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been hosted in many prestigious venues such as the Georgia World Congress Center and the Atlanta Symphony Hall, as well as the Ferst Center on Georgia Tech Campus. 7. Ski Trip We enjoy a weekend of fun and friendship at a ski resort nearby during January. This event is a breath of fresh air for our members who enjoy the thrill of the outdoors with the camaraderie of their friends. 8. Annual Member Banquet Held at the end of the academic year to celebrate the culmination of yet another successful year for the club, the banquet features a complete Indian meal, Indian music and is your chance to meet the next years board! Definitely a night to remember. 9. Indian Movies We organize regular movie screenings of the most recent Bollywood Films, with free Popcorn and other snacks for members! 10. Volunteer Projects As a part of our duty to society, we are engaged in various philanthropic activities and strongly urge our members to participate in them. Members of India Club are encouraged to participate in other volunteer activities at Tech such as Teambuzz, Tech Beautification Day, Relay for Life; and activities outside of Tech with the Bhutanese Refugees of Greater Atlanta for example. ICGT also provides airport transport to new incoming students called ICAT, India Club Airport Transport. This year we will also be celebrating Independence Day at Grad Expo (coincidentally falls on Aug 15 ) for the first time, and will be continuing last years tradition of hosting Jet Atlantas Swamiji for an inspirational talk, Freshman Undergraduate and Graduate Mixers and the India Day Cultural Event. ICGT is the most active and also the largest cultural organization on campus and strives to become better by the year. We are also the largest Indian student organization in south-east America which is a great achievement for us. ICGT pulls a lot of respect all over Atlanta and hosts a lot of events in conjunction with others like NET IP, Jet Atlanta, Vibha, Asha for Education, Raksha, and more. As you will have realized, ICGT provides the perfect medium to blend in with the society here, while at the same time enabling you to maintain a strong relationship with Indian culture and traditions. It is our never-ending endeavor to combine the best qualities of both the Indian and American cultures and provide our members with the best of both worlds. It is indeed a great platform for Indian talent to grow and prosper. We strongly encourage all of you to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity and become members of the India Club of Georgia Tech. We eagerly look forward to your joining our journey of enjoyment and growth! With Warm Regards, Sushen Mittal & Siddharth Reddy ICGT Co-Presidents 2012 13 Edited & Compiled by Apoorva Salimath, ICGT Grad VP, 2012-13 (Some content has been adapted from Abhishek Padiyar (IGSA, Alum, University of Pittsburgh), Sai Ravaru, with input from Tejas Potdar, Prakhar Agarwal, Srinivas Ramachandran and many more) Be sure to visit our website: www.gtindiaclub.com, which has the above events on the Calendar.
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Table of Contents
Before Arrival: ................................................................................................................................................................5 Post-I-20 Steps, Obtaining a Visa ..............................................................................................................................5 DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT US CONSULATE ON THE DAY OF APPOINTMENT .....................................................5 After obtaining the Visa ............................................................................................................................................6 Immunization ........................................................................................................................................................6 Tickets ...................................................................................................................................................................6 Health Checkups ...................................................................................................................................................6 Housing Options ........................................................................................................................................................7 OFF- CAMPUS HOUSING .......................................................................................................................................7 ON-CAMPUS HOUSING .........................................................................................................................................9 Packing Tips .............................................................................................................................................................11 Recommended Medicines ..................................................................................................................................11 Clothes ................................................................................................................................................................11 Luggage ...............................................................................................................................................................14 Actually Start Packing! ........................................................................................................................................14 Important things to do/leave at Home ...............................................................................................................15 In the Last Week before Departing .........................................................................................................................16 On the Day of the Flight and on-Board ...................................................................................................................16 Once off the Plane: ..................................................................................................................................................17 Landing in Atlanta through Domestic Flight .......................................................................................................17 Landing in Atlanta Internationally ......................................................................................................................17 After Arrival .................................................................................................................................................................19 Transportation In and Around Tech ........................................................................................................................19 Where Will I Eat? Your guide to Restaurants ..............................................................................................................20 Nearby Options ...................................................................................................................................................20 Indian restaurants ...............................................................................................................................................20 Other restaurants ...............................................................................................................................................20 Campus Resources .......................................................................................................................................................21 Things to do/see In Atlanta .........................................................................................................................................22 Frequently Asked Questions ........................................................................................................................................23 MS degree related ..............................................................................................................................................23 Managing your Money ........................................................................................................................................24 Regarding Job Placement after Degree ..............................................................................................................25 Health..................................................................................................................................................................26 Social Life ............................................................................................................................................................26 Contact Information ....................................................................................................................................................27
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Before Arrival:
Post-I-20 Steps, Obtaining a Visa
(Courtesy TBA) Post I-20 steps: 1. Pay SEVIS fee - US $200: a. Find Form I-901 at http://www.FMJfee.com/ b. SEVIS ID number is on your I-20 c. Print a copy of the online receipt as you cannot come back to this page later. Be sure to make copies of your receipt. The official receipt will be reach you through post (mail). Visa a. Get a digital Photograph and some hard paper copies. b. Fill out the DS-160 form, and upload your digital photograph. Print the confirmation paper that has the an alpha-numeric CEAC barcode on it. i. First test your photo to see it is acceptable. Click on the button 'Test Photo' and upload the photo (.jpg file, less than 1 MB in size). You will see the confirmation that the photo has been accepted or be provided with the reasons for rejection. ii. Print the confirmation page with the CEAC code using a laser printer. Ink-jet or dotmatrix printers do provide sufficient resolution to print a usable barcode. Once you have printed the barcode confirmation page, hit the Back button and email yourself the same so you have a backup copy. The emailed file will be in PDF format. You must bring this Confirmation page with you to your US Embassy Interview Pay Visa Fees Pay the Application Fee and VFS Service Charge at a designated branch of HDFC Bank. a. Submit a clear photocopy of the first page (bio page) of your current passport. b. The bank will issue multiple copies of a visa fee receipt within a 10 digit bar code number. c. After you have paid the fees wait for 2-3 days(compulsory) before scheduling interview. i. Book visa online: https://www.vfs- sa.co.in/ApplnForms/RegularUser.aspx ii. Choose the date most suitable to you to confirm interview appointment. Your appointment time will appear on your appointment confirmation letter. iii. Please note data entered by you is not saved till you schedule a confirmed interview appointment. d. If you would like to make an appointment for other family members in the same appointment slot at the same date and time, click on the 'CO-WORKERS / FAMILY MEMBERS TRAVELING TOGETHER' link.
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questions honestly, and clearly, such that the Officer knows your sole purpose to enter the USA is to get a degree in a field that interests you in an institution of high esteem.
Immunization
Find out which immunizations are required and recommended (on the Medical History form) and get everything done on time. Some vaccines, like Hepatitis B, require 3 doses once each month. So start early. These vaccines are very costly in US and you certainly do not want to start spending money the moment you land in US. Some vaccines you will have taken at a young age, try to recollect the old paperwork, or trust the doctor that vaccinated you to fill out said medical forms with ballpark dates.
Tickets
Block the ticket first, that step is free! You can pay later (~10 days before departure) after your ticket and schedule are confirmed. Block flights with many airlines. Book the most direct flight as possible to final destination. Avoid changing too many airlines, as they can have different baggage rules. However, book flights (even if the airline changes) so that you can get as close as possible to your final destination by plane. Travelling by other means such as greyhound (bus), Amtrak (train) is not advisable in terms of safety and convenience after a long flight. Buy a single ticket all the way through add-ons are expensive. If you have a layover, ensure at least 2-3 hrs gap between the scheduled arrival of one flight and the scheduled departure of the connecting flight. Baggage is usually safe with a single airline - change of airline sometimes leads to misplaced luggage. Some airlines don't take care of baggage transfer - you may have to personally carry it (check this while booking) and cross check everything you are promised by the Travel agent with the original air lines. Even if you have a confirmed ticket in your hand. Ask for student concessions You can book a return trip during the first break between semesters. (those entering in fall, you will get at least 10 days off during winter) The official dates are available here: http://www.registrar.gatech.edu/home/calendar.php Typical expenses: ~$1600, Rs. 88,000
Health Checkups
Get a full medical and especially dental check-up done well in advance. Get that root canal done, cavities filled, molars removed, everything! U.S doctors and dentists have high rates. With dental, students are required to pay the cost, as dental care is not covered under health insurance in the U.S. (including the Campus-offered Pearce and Pearce insurance). Also, doctors and dentists expect you to make an appointment of two to three weeks in advance which is too long to suffer with any condition. Get your eyesight checked - get a new prescription signed by a doctor and bring it with you so you can use it to get new glasses here if required. On Average an eye exam in the states is $40-$80 (Even at optical express, student center, where the rates are much cheaper). Buy at least one extra pair of glasses and a years supply of contact lenses. Lens solution is readily available and you need not pack a large bottle of this.
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Housing Options
Will the India Club at Georgia Tech help me find accommodation? No, India Club does not help you to find accommodation directly. However, we can suggest several useful resources such as this document, the ic_gt yahoo group managed by India Club members: (http://dir.groups.yahoo.com/group/ic_gt/) and ICGT facebook groups for incoming students: (http://www.facebook.com/groups/230039117040418/, http://www.facebook.com/groups/243854132368336/). Please note the general India Club Facebook group will permit postings only from ICGT Board Members and is meant for us to communicate with the student body. Please do not post housing questions here. (http://www.facebook.com/groups/gtindiaclub/ ) The other groups will be frequented by grad student board members to address any housing related concerns. Public references which will help you make more informed decisions include: - Promove.com (an agent will be assigned to you to find the best fit apartment for you. The service is free to you, the agents receive commission when you sign a lease with an apartment and state that your apartment was referred from promove) - Apartmentratings.com (will provide insightful reviews from renters personal experiences) - Georgia Tech provided resource: http://www.housing.gatech.edu/assignments/publications/OffCampusDirectory.pdf Since I have to register for the fall and spring semester together, is there any way I can experiment with oncampus for 1 semester and then shift to off-campus? Yes, you can stay on-campus for 1 semester and then shift off-campus. However, off-campus apartments will offer cheaper rent for a 12-month lease compared to a 6-month lease, and most apartments prefer to begin leases in the July/August period. It is assumed there are better choices for off-campus apartments when you start in Fall than in Spring. There are always exceptions to this rule, you may still be able to find a good deal for an off campus place starting in Jan. Do note that if you choose to move in the middle of the academic year, you may be spending valuable time hunting for an apartment, packing and moving. The restrictions for on-campus housing allotment are far more relaxed for grads than undergrads. You can change roommates after 1 semester and try to room with friends that you have made the first semester. On campus offerings for grad students are GLC (Graduate Living Center) or Tenth and Home E&F.
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These numbers are rough estimates. Please note that rent varies significantly and get up-to-date information through the yahoo group archives and websites of apartments. Look for old posts or ads for roommates. Utility bills also vary from apartment to apartment and while for example Electricity and Gas are metered, waste management and sewage are flat rates. Internet and Cable costs vary from provider to provider.
Midtown Apartments:
Use Tech Trolley at Publix or Marta stops to get to campus 5) 100 Midtown Pros: Very close to Publix, Tech square. Close to all the frequented nightclubs and bars of midtown Atlanta. Cons: Some rooms dont have any windows (the apartment complex used to be a hospital) and the regular issues with noise and safety since the location is central to the city. 6) The Plaza at Midtown Pros: Much nicer apartments than 100 Midtown, Publix is in the same building. Very safe with security guard, doorman - all guests are escorted directly to specific apartments. Short walk to Marta station and other happening places in Midtown. Cons: Pricey
India Club at Georgia Tech Welcome Packet 2012-2013 Pros: Pool in the complex, many desis live here. Apartments are really nice. Cons: People have complained about management being uncooperative.
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ON-CAMPUS HOUSING
The Georgia Tech Housing website has a lot of information on how to sign up for housing, rates, facilities etc. Please direct any specific questions to the representative listed on their website: http://www.housing.gatech.edu/index.cfm
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Each floor has a Resident Assistant who you can answer any questions you have. Some RAs rent our housing vans and will take you to Walmart and Kroger also (cheaper stores than Target). There are several flexible meal plans you can opt for and the options are decent even for vegetarians. Socially, you will have more fun, and get to meet a lot of people from different backgrounds. Many organized events for social networking, career exploration and exposure to various other cultures and backgrounds. Celebrate all major American Holidays with events and free food in the building. Living on campus means you are more aware of all the events on campus through newsletters and flyers delivered to your door. Cons: Considered expensive as you cannot share a room. The all inclusive price scares away many students. However you have the freedom to take long showers, keep all your lights on, and the room at 20 degrees when it is hot outside e.t.c and be as environmentally irresponsible as you like. You may not know your roommates, but if you sign up in advance and provide your roommate preferences and you can get around this. General limitations of on-campus housing apply in regards to smoking, alcohol, noise levels, pets, even the ability to light candles. The rooms are small for the price, you have to share the bathroom.
Tenth and Home Buildings E and F, Single Residents, 251 10th Street NW
How to get to campus: 6-10 minute walk, Green route, Stingerette (7pm to 7am) (See GLC for on-campus style housing pros, all apply here as well) Pros: Bigger rooms than the GLC, and very comfortable. Washer Dryer included in each unit, as opposed to the common laundry facility available in the GLC. Tenth and Home E&F apartments are also fully furnished (the other, family units are not). Cons: Pricey. Most units are occupied by Families (A to E) so there is an older group here. Less sense of community than with the GLC
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Packing Tips
There are so many things one needs to carry, as you are shifting your life to a completely new place! If you have a friend who is going to the same university, for the same semester, share a few things. This saves space and money.
Recommended Medicines
Crocin tablets (paracetamol 500 mg)- 3 strips, For fever, body ache, and headache, One tablet three times a day as necessary, Above 60 kg please use 650 mg tablets (thermol/dolo) For fevers, mild pain relief Actifed tablets 2 strips, (casuses drowsiness) A costlier but much better alternative is Alerid (cetrizine) or Neoloridin(loridine), less sedation and next to no side effects Azithromycin 500 mg tablets (aziwin) - 3 strips, One tablet once a day for atleast 3 days, for bacterial cold or Respiratory infection (dark yellow colored mucus, fever).NOT for ordinary cold (white mucus, watery secretions) Sporidex 500mg capsules - 2 strips, One tablet twice a day when necessary as advised (please dont use on your own. This stuff needs a prescription to be used properly, meant only for persistent troublesome infections) Avomine tablets - 1 strip for air/ motion sickness. One tablet as necessary (causes drowsiness) Lomotil/Andial tablets- 15 (for diarrhea), best treatment for which is plenty of fluids, rest and bland food Omeprazole 20 mg - for gastritis, once or twice a day Digene tablets- 20 mg - for stomach discomfort, One each three times a day. Spasmoproxyvon capsules - 3 strips, for abdominal colic pain, backache, menstrual pain etc. One tablet every 6 hours Domstal tablets - 10. For vomiting,Has to be taken at least half an hr before food Electral powder - 4 packets. To rehydrate after vomiting & diarrhoea Novalgin - 2 strips for headache & bodyache. One tablet as necessary. Brufen 600mg tablets - 2 strips, For arthirtic joint pain. One tablet three times a day after food. Avil Tablets - 1 strip, for allergy (use cetrizine/loridin for less sedation), One tablet as necessary. Volini/ Relaxyl ointment - 1 tube, applied as pain balm. Band Aid assorted 12 Soframycin skin ointment - 1 tube Nimesulide tabs - For severe headaches and pains. (banned in the US), 100mg upto 3 times a day Ciplox capsules 500 mg - 2 strips. 1 capsule twice a day. For Infective diarrheas Vitamin B-complex capsules and/or Multivitamins (Just in case your starving yourself out there)
Clothes
Jeans: 4 to 6 pairs Shorts: 3-4. (guys, get the longer ones that go 2-3 inches beyond knees, girls, anything goes) Cotton T-shirts: 8-10 Cotton shirts: 4-5 Night clothes: 2-3 pairs Formal suit & Ties - 1-2 pairs. You rarely need them: for Convocation ceremony and interviews only Undergarments, a lot of them! 10-15 pairs. This is important, you may go to the laundry once in 2 weeks!! Socks: 8-10 pairs you can bring even more because you would be wearing shoes most of the time. Do not take nylon socks. Cotton ones are better. Bring at least 2 nicer socks to wear with formal shoes. full sleeved Sweater: 1, or you could get a hoodie of Georgia Tech here during Barnes and Noble sales Jacket for colder weather: 2, bring what you already have, you can get a good winter coat after you come here. You will need to invest in one here that is made for this type of weather.
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2-3 belts including one formal leather belt Kurta-pyjamas/Churidhaar/Sari/Ghagra Choli: 2-3, for ICGT events! Dont be left out and don't forget extra naadi!
Shoes
SPORTS/TENNIS SHOES/SNEAKERS: 1 pair (For walking to class and/or exercising) Sports shoes are real cheap in US, especially during thanksgiving and Christmas sales. Dont spend too much money for these, bring the ones you have or get some moderately priced ones so that you need not buy them immediately after coming to US. LEATHER/SUEDE SHOES/BOOTS: 1 pair. Preferably waterproof, with good grip for cold and wet weather (rain /snow/hail/sleet e.t.c) Ensure shoes have good, firm grip to prevent breaking head, bones. SANDALS/SLIP-ONS/FLATS: 2pairs. open, for comfort, class, casual affairs. Get two pairs of them. You could get something to match your ethnic wear. Girls, bring along a pair of nice heels too. Wear your shoes during travel to save space. If you seem to be short on space, bring the ones you will wear the most. Except leather, most other types of shoes are cheap in the US. For some weather conditions, Indian leather shoes may crack.
Woolen gloves, fleece blankets, hangers, can be purchased here in regular grocery stores. Dont bring a raincoat. You wont use it.
Toiletries
Shaving kit & Blades (5). Brush (3) & toothpaste (2 tubes) ( (temporary, can buy new ones here). Soap, soapbox, Shampoo (2) (get a couple to last you until you make your first grocery trip in US). Body Spray/Deo/Anti-Antiperspirants/Perfume/Aftershave (1 or 2 of whatever you use should be enough) Combs & hair oil (regular Indian brands are available in Indian store here also). Nail cutter, nail file Small scissors, Safety pins bunch. Mini-sewing kit with some buttons (learn how to sew!) Hair ties/clips, for girls, makeup
Utensils
Depends on whether you plan to cook alone or with your housemates. Most people don't get time to cook daily, and food is made for two days at a go - so keep this in mind when you buy vessels, etc. These things are definitely more expensive in the states.
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2-3 plates, Glasses, Cups and bowls (for cereal-cornflakes), Forks, spoons to eat with Coffee Mug to leave at office on campus, or travel mug to travel to class with Serving spoons (1) Cutting Knives (2) Cooking vessels (Kadai/sauce pan/Deep Pot), try to get something nonstick Non-stick frying pan/tawa Large Plastic spoons and ladles for cooking in the big pots + flipper/spatula for chappattis Hand-held Peeler, grater Pressure cooker - 3 liters 1 pressure pan (Prestige), ask your prospective roommate to get one too 4-5 Tupperware boxes for carrying food to college, reheating in microwave, storing food in fridge.
Food Items
Spices: Haldi, Dhania, Jeera, Garam masala, red chili, Asafoetida/Hing powder Mustard and Jeera seeds, Elaichi, Clove (good for coughs too), Cinnamon, Bayleaf Ready Made Masalas: Rajma, Channa, Pav Bhaji, Tandoori/Butter Chicken, Sambar Powder Tamarind paste Rice, Moong and toor dal in small quantity for initial use. Indian instant coffee + Indian tea (it takes time to get used to the American stuff) Salt, sugar in small quantities Well packaged and sealed home-made pickle. The variety available here is the usual oily store stuff.
Most Indian food items are available even in small cities in the US. Don't bring too many ethnic foods as you may have problem with customs. If you do bring Jeera, tell the customs officer who will ask you directly if you bought cumin seeds that you do NOT have any. TIP: Try to get "instant" stuff, as people don't have much time for cooking in the US, and you probably find it quicker and easier to eat outside while you are settling down in your first few weeks. Pizza is your next best friend! ----You are not coming here to cook like a chef, be sensible in what you bring! ---
Don't bring Indian files (empty) or punching machines - filing system is different in the US (3holes, A4). Loose paper sheets are not necessary. Try to buy some common required textbooks in India. You may be able to get a list for it by pestering your seniors on various forums such as fb and the icgt yahoo group. Some general suggestions for books are - Clarks Tables, a booklet for units conversion et.c [note: there should be no legal hassles taking Xerox copies of books - but don't flaunt them to Americans/profs]
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You could bring some Non-technical books (fiction/religious). [Note: second-hand storybooks are cheap in the US]
Don't worry yourself if you can't bring any of the stuff listed above - most items are available pretty cheap in the US (Made in China). Exceptions are leather goods, formal wear. In a month or two you will be able to get anything you want. Luggage
Luggage is an essential thing you will have to buy. Plan for this well, luggage is expensive and should be retained for years, now that you will be doing lot of traveling in flight. Plan for 2 large size suitcases (check-in), and one back pack and trolley (carry-on). You can also plan to use this Backpack for college. Buy a good handbag, as big as your flight will allow you to carry, it will be useful while you are doing laundry and need to haul clothes from one place to the other! Check the rules of your airline for the dimensions of allowed baggage: ex. 2 pieces of baggage with total liner dimension (L+B+H) not exceeding 270cms (106"), with total linear dimension of each piece not exceeding 158cms (62"). The weight of each bag should not exceed 23kg (50lb) [note: Sometimes they are not particular about this, and you can plead that you are a student going for the first time and are carrying lots of books e.t.c] Carry-on baggage with linear dimension not exceeding 115cms (45") on board fits beneath the seat.
Documentation
Carry all documentation safely, and have 3 sets of photocopies of all (see visa documents from getting the visa section). Leave one set of copies at home in India and take two sets with you. Visa, Passport
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India Club at Georgia Tech Welcome Packet 2012-2013 Xth, Inter (10+2), Degree marks sheets, Convocation Certificate of Under graduation. I-20 and acceptance letter from the university. Take all the I-20's with you if you have more than one. Copies of your photos (passport size)
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Money
Other than you fee requirements you may have to take $1000-$2000 from (for example) Thomas Cook/American Express /any Foreign Exchange bank like SBI, SBH IOB etc. Get the cash in the form of DDs or TCs after you buy your ticket. Typically, get a DD for the entire fee you have to pay, $1000-$2000 in TCs, and $100 in cash: a combination of notes (tips, food, minor expenses, your ICAT volunteer ;) and coins (vending machines and payphones). Other than your fee, you may have to pay the security deposit for your accommodation, rent and groceries for the first month, groceries for the first month and other basic utilities like toaster, rice cooker etc. which may come up to ~ $500. Have a RBI permit ready for the dollars you are carrying with you, just in case. Carry some Indian currency as well: Rs.300 - Rs.500/- for airport tax and Rs.600/- for the $20 you'll get inside the airport.
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Note: In most cases, you will not be asked to open your boxes at all & you will be simply waved through.
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You will enter a cavernous baggage claim area. Locate the correct carousel and fetch your luggage. Pick up a cart to carry the bags. They are free. Pick up your bags as they come out on the conveyor (suitable eyecatching labels help here, carousel number is announced in flight). Hopefully the identification marks/ribbons/ropes you tied on your bags will help you now.
Note: If you don't get your baggage, ask/look around for the missing baggage counter. You may have to wait 0.5 1 hour here if this happens. Exit the airport through the one common exit door. Your volunteer will wait for you here. Hopefully you will have shared photos (fb!) or other recognizable qualities such as clothing color e.t.c
TIPS:
Never leave your baggage unattended. Once you reach your friend's house (or your intended destination) call home & inform them of your reaching safely. If you get your hand on Internet, do type few words of your experience and email it.
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After Arrival
Attend orientation, check-in with OIE Get your student ID (Office is in Tech Square, take Tech trolley there) Pay the Tuition and Fees online (computer available in all buildings + Student Center/Library) Register for classes online Introduce yourself Prof if you have got an RA or a TA. Email them first, to get an appointment time Open a bank account (Wells Fargo, Bank Of America are good options) Get a phone Find an apartment and/or roommates. Look up the procedure to get your Social Security Number
Generally your seniors or your dept through all these will guide you. So don't worry too much. A new chapter of your life unfolds here! Work hard to make your dreams come true! We wish you success in all your future endeavors!
On-campus Transportation
Georgia Tech does provide excellent shuttle services in the forms of Tech trolley, Stinger and Stingerette. You can visit the parking services website for further information. Below is the link for the route map of all shuttle services. Remember these services run at very good frequencies during school days and school working hours and run skeletal services after hours and holidays. (please also see Housing Section, for tips of which routes will take you to which apartment complexes)
http://www.parking.gatech.edu/info/1_maps__schedules/2_stinger_all_routes.php
http://www.nextbus.com/predictor/stopSelector.jsp?a=georgia-tech next bus predictor will tell you when the next bus is arriving. Check out the live map link on the right for even more detailed information on where your buses are.
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Nearby Options
Tech Square on 5th Street: Moes, Tin Drum, Rays and more Student Center Dining: Food Courts, Subway, Chik Fil A, Taco Bell, Wingnuts and more th Jimmy Johns Sandwhiches: 14 Street, fast delivery. th Complex on 10 St: Rocky Mountain Pizza, Firehouse Subs, and more Wal-mart complex on Howell Mill: Taco Bell, Artuzzis, La Parilla, Subway and more (little far) Atlantic Station on 17th Street: California Pizza Kitchen, Tin drum, fishhook grill, Which which, Cheesecake Bistro and many more (little far) (look out for Food truck Fridays here too!)
Indian restaurants
These are generally not closeby. You may have to take marta or rent a Zipcar/ask a friend to take you here. Caf Bombay, Chat Patti (next to each other) Mirch Masala, Chinese Dhaba (next to each other in patel plaza) Gokul Sweets (behind patel Plaza) Madras Sarvana Bhavan The Viceroy
Other restaurants
Here are some popular options for American and World cuisine. The Flying Biscuit - Breakfast is served throughout the day, but The Flying Biscuit offers plenty of down-home, Southern-style lunch and dinner options. The regular menu and consistently changing specials are often vegetarian friendly. Vortex - The big, fat, juicy burgers are the main act. Topping options include blue, jack and cheddar cheese as well as homemade salsa. If burgers arent your thing, youll find good chicken, fish and shrimp options plus generous deli sandwiches. Vegetarians can choose a black bean or veggie burger. For compromisers, theres a good turkey burger. Lunchtime hosts mostly business folk, but it draws in the younger set at night. The Real Chow Baby - Boasting over 70 ingredients, The Real Chow Babys create-your-own stir-fry bar allows guests to choose their favorite type of rice or noodles, over 25 fruits and veggies, a broad variety of sauces and spices, and meats/proteins that include beef, chicken, pork, tofu and five types of seafood. Once youve filled your bowl to the brim, the chefs take over, cooking on a 60-inch flat top grill to create the perfect soup, salad, stir-fry or wrap, then bring your unique creation right to your table. Best of all, the I is all-you-can-eat, so youre welcome to go back and try a different combo as many times as you like, all for one flat rate. Ru Sans - $1 Sushi, with a lot of variety Top Spice - It is located in the same complex as Ru Sans, and they deliver on campus. Good lunch specials. http://www.topspiceansleypark.com/ Spoon - The traditional Thai dishes on its menu. (The dishes dont have to be truly cool, since all of them are available as medium spicy, hot, or Thai hot.)
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Campus Resources
www.GTIndiaClub.com. Your avenue to the Indian Community at Georgia Tech. Provides a calendar of our events and information of what India Club is up to. http://www.oie.gatech.edu/ - There are three main parts to this site: study abroad, international student and scholars, and faculty resources. International students and scholars are defined as F-1 or J-1 visa holders who study and/or work at Georgia Tech. Study abroad includes information for prospective, current, and returned study abroad participants. Faculty resources include information for faculty teaching abroad, on the establishment of international partnerships, and other resources for GT professors. http://studentcenter.gatech.edu/ This is the website for the Student Center where you can get information about all of the Student Centers activities and programming. http://health.gatech.edu - In the case of a health emergency, you can visit our Wellness Center website. http://www.crc.gatech.edu - The Campus Recreation Center hours are located here, along with all the information about recreation, special classes, and sports clubs you can join. http://www.bursar.gatech.edu - This is the website for the Bursars Office, where you can get information regarding tuition, fees, and other financial inquiries. http://www.registrar.gatech.edu - This has all degree information, academic calendar, final exam schedule, and many of Georgia Techs policies. http://www.finaid.gatech.edu - Information about financial aid such as grants, scholarships, etc. https://oscar.gatech.edu/ - easy access to registrar / bursar e.t.c (one-stop shop) http://www.service.gatech.edu -Provides various opportunities to take part in volunteer and service projects around Metro Atlanta http://jacketpages.gatech.edu/ - A highlight of campus events and hotspots to visit such as restaurants, attractions, etc.
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10. Miscellaneous Enjoy the outdoors on the Chattahoochee River, see kangaroos at the Yellow River Game Ranch & Kangaroo Conservation Center and Zoo Atlanta, or catch a game at the Braves Stadium, explore Underground Atlanta, visit the Georgia State Capitol Building and shop at the bohemian shops at Little Five Points!
MS degree related
(Most of these questions do apply for PhDs as well but use them selectively) How long does it take to finish the course? I have heard that they dont offer all courses in summer? Then what, according to you is the best option? Fall, spring, summer internship and then fall next year? The duration of the course is specific to the student and more so to the department. It is almost impossible to speculate the exact time frame required to complete your degree. It depends on several things namely internships, thesis/project work, etc. Typically internships are done in summer so you will not be taking any classes that semester thereby prolonging your degree. Similarly if a student wishes to pursue thesis or project option as against special problem it may take the student an extra semester to complete the research commitment. Some students also do CPT (curriculum practical training)/co-ops for alternate semesters but dont exceed 364 days i.e. just less than 1 year else your duration of OPT (optional practical training) will be affected. These figures are provided with the sole purpose of helping you plan your degree and in no way are exact. Please contact the Office of International Education for more information. The duration of your course also depends on the number of pre-requisites you will be required to take especially in the case of students moving to a different field of study after the BE. http://www.oie.gatech.edu/ Is it possible to finish MS in one year flat, without doing internship? What is your advice on this? Does it affect future job opportunities? Internships and CPTs are very crucial in helping you get jobs. You will develop contacts and they may come in handy when applying for jobs. In most cases the companies you work for during your internship will absorb you full time. The alternate view here would be the if the student does not have funding he/she would like to push themselves and try to finish your degree within a year but again without jobs the degree does not do any good so try your best to land an internship. Which option is better: Thesis or non-thesis? What are the pros and cons? Thesis If you are really interested in research. Be aware that you might not graduate on your planned timeline. You advisor gets to decide if your thesis has substantial material. Non Thesis this is good in that it wont stress you out but you have to take more courses to compensate for the research hours in your thesis option. How many courses should we take per semester? This is a very specific question and depends on what the individual student can handle. Dont sign up for more than 4 courses, but the most preferred number is 3 as the assignments, tests and project schedules will keep you on your toes and taking 4 in the same semester is pushing too hard. But again if you are up to the task please do sign up for as many as you can. In your first semester dont sign up for challenging courses or at least dont sign-up for more than 1 challenging course and possibly take a math course to ease your way into the education system in the US. It does take a semester for everyone to get accustomed to the system here so dont be too ambitious but use your discretionary powers and dont follow seniors blindly. As always take multiple opinions and also talk to the professors if needed. It is advisable that you sign up for more than the required amount of courses in case of schedule clashes. At the end of first week in any semester
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you should have an idea on which ones to drop and which ones to keep. That is the most sensible way of selecting a course as in many cases the courses may have been offered earlier by a different professor and impressions that you get from your seniors may not always be current. How and when do we select the courses? Can I do this from here in India or only when I come there? You can look up the course schedule available at https://oscar.gatech.edu/ and browse to the Georgia Tech Course Catalog for more information. We have what is called as registration time tickets and you will be allotted one such time ticket once you have finished a semester at GT. The irony is being a new student you will not get to register until a week before classes begin. (Please check with the registrar and official school calendar on the exact dates). This means students who have been at Tech for more than a semester will register for courses before you get an opportunity and the end result is popular courses may fill up even before you get a chance. But there is always a way out by applying for an override. A override happens when you submit a request to the department or in Oscar for an override and the prof/dept will consider your case individually and approve/reject your request based on whether he thinks he can take you as an extra student over-capacity. Every department, and for that matter, every course is handled differently and you will have to contact the professor individually and/or the department for more information on the procedure. You will be given preferences for courses offered by your own department. What about summer? How many courses OR full-time work OR other options? You are not required to sign up for courses in summer semester. Hence students typically apply for summer internship and come back in the Fall. It is a competitive world out there hence you will have to apply before the beginning of Spring or asap.
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(after tax) monthly Stipend allowance. Before tax it is ~2k, upon filing tax returns you can get back about 1k. About 3-4k *annually* is lost to the US government. So while the GRA stipend may say you get paid 24.9k annually, you may only see about 21k of this in cash yearly. On campus housing plans are not monthly. They have a semester payment of a ~3k for each semester. This is about 875 rent including utilities, cable, free laundry etc per month. That is not on the bill above, because it only applies to a person that is going to live on campus that semester. Such student has to be prepared to pay all fees + housing at the beginning of the semester. Living on the stipend is comfortable and convenient. One can have anywhere from 500-1000/mo leftover after making the appropriate savings for next semesters fees to buy plane tickets, go shopping et.c.
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What are the chances of getting a T.A. or R.A.? The chances of getting an on-campus job are brighter than getting an RA or TA. Most professors at Tech are involved in world class research and may not respond to your emails as a prospective student. The best way to get RA/TA is to contact the students in the lab/dept and enquire if there are any openings. They invariably have more current information than anyone else. They will have knowledge of people graduating or students who have shifted to other labs and/or work for other professors and created vacancies in their previous jobs. Once you know there is a vacancy then send a specific email to the professor describing what research you want to take up in the lab, and why you are well suited for it. It would be a good idea to attach your resume, and kindly ask for an appointment time to meet in person.
Health
Is health insurance mandatory? As an international student you are not required to register for courses in summer. But you must have health insurance at all times and because while your brain takes off, your bodies dont. The OIE (Office of International Education) will ensure every international student pays their summer health insurance fees along with fees for Spring semester. Please also understand that Health Insurance is different From the Health fee which refers to services provided by the Gatech Health Center. These services allow you to get some free medication and consultation and discounts on eye exams (Optical Express, Student Center), contacts and prescription glasses. Are there recreational facilities at Gatech? Assuming we do find time for some recreation, are there any extra charges for the use of these facilities? Is use of these facilities restricted to on-campus students? The CRC (Campus Recreation Center) facilities are not restricted to oncampus students. They are infact open to all students who have registered for coursework at Gatech. If you are an active student who has registered for courses you will already have paid what is referred to as mandatory fees. This fees includes among others health fee, athletic fee, transportation fee, technology fee, recreation fee. Even if you are funded as a RA/TA the student had to bear the mandatory fees the department only supports the tuition. http://www.crc.gatech.edu/
Social Life
Are there lots of Indians there? Tons!!! Hows the social culture? I have heard lots and lots and lots about severe racism present in Georgia. The social culture is pretty good. Tech is in midtown so you have to be a little bit street smart. Do not worry about racism. India Club has loads of activities to keep you busy and all we require from you is your participation!
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Contact Information
Please do not hesitate to contact us about any concerns or questions that you have. Our goal is to make your transition to the Georgia Tech Community as smooth as possible!
# Position Name Email Address
Position Co-Presidents Vice President- Finance Vice President - Graduate Vice President - Logistics Vice President - Marketing Vice President - Operations Social/Events Chair Arts and Dcor Chairs Service Chairs Sports Chairs Campus Relations Sponsorship Chairs Graphic Designer Webmaster Diversity Chair Public Relations Membership Chair Photographer Graduate-Representative Graduate-Representative Sigma Beta Rho Rep. Arts and Dcor Committee Service Committee Marketing Committee Sports Committee Advisors
Name Siddhartha Reddy Sushen Mittal Sushanth Reddy Apoorva Kalasuramath Ishwarya Venkat Maansi Nigam Saloni Sharma Smruti Keshani Khushbu Tejani Midhun Mathew Shivani Sardana Tapan Asgaonkar Jay Dholakia Siri Yellamraju Arjun Patel Siddarth Sreeram Jaheda Khanam Abhishek Prasad Avinash Bheodari Shibani Kansara Amulya Mandava Sahithya Dinakar Gauri Jog Kunal Malhotra Krishna Dommeti Krishi Patel Sangeeta Gadepalli Bharvi Patel Amit Garg Binita Patel Aditya Murali Jay Patel Vishwaja Cheruku Akhil Kumar
Email terasiddhartha@gmail.com sushenmittal@gmail.com sushanth_nag@yahoo.co.in a.kalasuramath@gmail.com ishven12@yahoo.com n.maansi@gmail.com saloni.sharma93@yahoo.com eskaye115@gmail.com khushbut1992@gmail.com MVMathew91@gmail.com specialshivani@yahoo.com asgaonkar.tapan@gmail.com jaynba@yahoo.com syellamraju@gatech.edu apatel347@gatech.edu ssreeram6@gatech.edu jkhanam3@gatech.edu Abhi.ak@gatech.edu abheodari@me.com skansara@gatech.edu amulya.mandava@gmail.com sdinakar3@gatech.edu gaurimjog@gmail.com kunalxvision@gmail.com krishipatel5@gmail.com sangeetagadepalli@gmail.com bharvip23@gmail.com amit.garg@gatech.edu patelb254@yahoo.com amurali3@mail.gatech.edu jpatel75@gatech.edu vishwajac@gmail.cpm a.kumar@gatech.edu
Phone Number (615) 5212457 (302) 2495909 (770) 7787142 (337) 5158931 (678) 6224045 (404) 2198314 (404) 6448183 (901) 5813276 (678) 2079834 (678) 4924065 (770) 6307085 (404) 4061233 (949) 6789729 (770) 5009206 (678) 3822755 (513) 2223112 (678) 7907382 (404) 8621355 (678) 764-6742 (404) 9177978 (832) 2604473 (609) 8659070 (734) 2723767 (678) 5928689 (678) 7079596 (770) 3355873 (678) 3109391 (404) 9840430 (678) 9738776 (404) 8197048 (478) 3193695 (404) 2456481 (678) 3159666
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