508 - 856-VISA (8472)
ISSOUMMS@umassmed.edu
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INDEX
Section One page 4
Welcome -International Students and Scholars’ Office
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Notary Public
Section Two pages 6 - 21
For Your Information
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Coping Skills for Cultural Adjustment
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Working on Common Cross-cultural Communication Challenges
Respecting Our Differences and Working Together
Guidelines for Multicultural Collaboration
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Immigration Acronyms and Terms
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American Slang
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Americans and Hygiene
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Facts About Domestic Violence
Section Three pages 22 - 37
Employment in the United States
Information for Student/Exchange Visitors Pursing Employment in the
United States
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“Moonlighting” J-1 Information – (ECFMG sponsored)
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U.S. Taxation of Student, Scholars and Other Non-Immigrants
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How to Apply for a Social Security Number & Individual Tax
Identification Number
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Vacation and Time Off
Section Four pages 38 - 39
Banking
Section Five pages 40 - 43
National Immigration Project – Travel Advisory
Criminal Classes of Deportability
Section Six pages 44 - 45
Renting an Apartment
Utilities – Gas, Oil, Electric, Water, Cable and Telephone
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Section Seven pages 46 - 54
Getting Around in the Worcester Area – Transportation
Stores and Restaurants in Walking Distance
International Food Markets
Worcester Public Library
Places of Worship
Section Eight pages 55 - 62
If You Have Children
- UMass Childcare Scholarship (including application)
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Babytime
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Private Schools
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School Attendance Requirements
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Hospitals/Health Care
Section Nine pages 63 - 68
Driving in Massachusetts
Buying a Car – Costs After the Purchase
Child Passenger Safety Recommendation
Car Care
Car Insurance
Section Ten page 68
Avoiding Trouble and Staying Safe
Section Eleven page 69
New England Weather
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Welcome to the University of Massachusetts Medical School and its affiliates. The
UMass Office for International Students and Scholars is pleased to provide this
Orientation Program and the attached materials to help acquaint you with various issues regarding your non-immigrant visa and your stay in Worcester.
The University of Massachusetts Medical School International
Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) is a resource that primarily offers advice and assistance on immigration, visa and employment issues which may affect your stay while in the U.S. The ISSO also assists in locating resources available in the
Worcester area to help you to adjust to life in the United States. The staff, administrators and scientists within your department are available to assist you with professional laboratory and other work- related issues at the school and hospital.
The primary focus of our institution continues to be the delivery of the finest education, research and patient healthcare. This goal requires us to strive constantly to advance the boundaries of research, training, education, and the knowledge to apply new discoveries in the most expeditious and effective manner.
We hope you find your experience with the UMass system to be personally fulfilling and professionally enriching.
If you have any questions regarding your visa status, please contact the ISSO to arrange an appointment. The ISSO office hours are:
Day
Monday
Time
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday 8:30 to 12:00 noon;
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday 8:30 to 12 noon;
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Thursday 8:30 to 12 noon
Friday 8:30 to 12 noon
Our Main Number is 508-856-8472
Michelle Deignan, Immigration Specialist
Susan Longtin, Immigration Specialist
Barbara Lefebvre, Student Visa & Tax Treaty Specialist
We wish you success during your stay in the United States
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NOTARY PUBLIC
Michelle Deignan and Susan Longtin of the International Student and Scholars
Office are Notary Publics. The notary service is free of charge to UMass employees, staff and etc. Please call the ISSO for an appointment for notary business.
Michelle 508 - 856-3344
Susan 508 - 856-1859
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As soon as you step foot in America you are no longer the person you were when you left home. You will be different because of this new experience.
1.
Expect the unexpected. Be aware of the existence of cultural adjustment even if this is not your first time away from home.
2.
Realize that it is natural to miss your family, friends, and home.
-Talk about these feelings with someone you feel comfortable with or with someone who has experienced these symptoms of culture shock and who has overcome them.
-Stay in touch with your family and friends at home.
-Write letters make phone calls, remember birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays.
-Keep up with what is going on at home. Have your family send local newspapers from time to time, or buy them here if they are available.
3.
Make friends with people who are from your home country but try not to spend all your time with fellow citizens. Resist making jokes, stereotypes, and negative comments about Americans and the U.S. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of the new culture.
4.
Find an American to be a “culture informant” in order for you to gain a proper prospective. Be curious. Do not be afraid to ask questions and get honest feedback about your interpretation of American customs, values, and behaviors. People will enjoy responding to your interest in understanding Americans.
5.
Maintain your sense of humor. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Talk about your mistakes. You might even find that others have had the same or similar experience. Be able to laugh at your own mistakes.
6.
Don’t expect too much of yourself at the beginning. It is very possible that in the first couple of months you will not do as well in your studies as you did at home. You are dealing with another language, a different academic method, a new culture, and a great many other new situations. Make allowances for yourself. Have a low goal/task orientation and keep realistic expectations to avoid disappointment. It will take you longer to accomplish tasks (i.e. reading a chapter) in a new culture, academic environment, and in a new language.
7.
Stay busy. Get involved with activities. Do things that make you feel good.
Seek out similar activities between your old and new environment that will provide comfort and continuity such as hobbies, sports, movies, etc. Maybe try something new that you have always wanted to do but never have done before.
8.
It is natural to go though phases of criticizing American culture and also your own culture (really, don’t be surprised when it happens, its normal). If you do not like your new surroundings and find a lot to criticize, try and
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think of one thing a day which you can find to like about this new environment.
9.
Find restaurants where you can eat food you are accustomed to having at home, or buy ingredients from a local ethnic food store which will enable you to make dishes you have at home.
10.
Take the opportunity to get to know Americans and to understand and appreciate their culture. You don’t want to look at America through the window. You can do that at home. Experience America. Get involved in institutional activities as well as community activities in the Boston area.
The “calendar” section in the Thursday’s Boston Globe tells all about lecture series, theater, movies, museums, and other cultural happenings. There is also an activities section in the Worcester paper. Invite an American classmate over to share some food from you country.
11.
Keep your self-respect and concentrate on the long-term advantages of study in the U.S.
12.
Keep your self-confidence. Believe you can do it and keep in mind the many strengths and advantages you will have when you succeed with your studies in the U.S. You are moving forward in your language skills and adjustment to the American culture even if you don’t “feel it”. There are plateaus but at the end you realize you have come a long way even though you couldn’t see it when you were on the plateau.
13.
Have a tolerance for ambiguity and for difference. Remain open-minded, flexible and adaptable. Try to suspend judgment until you look for the logical reasons behind the difference. Be objective and perceptive.
First DESCRIBE what you see.
Then INTERPRET what you think about what you see.
Then EVALUATE what you feel about what you see.
Once you have interpreted things from both an objective and subjective point of view, it is helpful to seek out a “cultural” informant with whom you can discuss the conclusions you have reached.
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Toward a More Perfect Union in an Age of Diversity
Working on Common Cross-cultural Communication Challenges
By Marcelle E. DuPraw, National Institute for Dispute Resolution and
Marya Axner, Consultant in Leadership Development & Diversity Awareness
 Six Fundamental Patterns of Cultural Difference o Different Communication Styles o Different Attitudes Toward Conflict o Different Approaches to Completing Tasks o Different Decision-Making Styles o Different Approaches to Knowing
 Respecting Our Differences and Working Together
 Guidelines for Multicultural Collaboration
We all have an internal list of those we still don’t understand, let alone appreciate. We all have biases, even prejudices, toward specific groups. In our workshops we ask people to gather in pairs and think about their hopes and fears in relating to people of a group different from their own. Fears usually include being judged, miscommunication, and patronizing or hurting others unintentionally; hopes are usually the possibility of dialogue, learning something new, developing friendships, and understanding different points of view. After doing this activity hundreds of times, I’m always amazed how similar the lists are. At any moment that we’re dealing with people different from ourselves, the likelihood is that they carry a similar list of hopes and fears in their back pocket.
From Waging Peace in Our Schools
By Linda Lantieri and Janet Patti (Beacon Press, 1996)
We all communicate with others all the time—in our homes, in our workplaces, in the groups we belong to, and in the community. No matter how well we think we understand each other, communication is hard. Just think, for example, how often we hear things like, “ He doesn’t get it,” or “She didn’t really hear what I meant to say.” “Culture” is often at the root of communication challenges. Our culture influences how we approach problems, and how we participate in groups and in communities. When we participate in groups we are often surprised at how differently people approach their work together.
Culture is a complex concept, with many different definitions. But, simply put,
“culture” refers to a group or community with which we share common experiences that shape the way we understand the world. It includes groups that we are born into, such as gender, race, or national origins. It also includes groups we join or become part of. For example, we can acquire a new culture by moving to a new region, by a change in our economic status, or by becoming disabled. When we think of culture this broadly, we realize we all belong to many cultures at once.
Our histories are a critical piece of our cultures. Historical experiences -- whether of five years ago or of ten generations back— shape who we are. Knowledge of our
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history can help us understand ourselves and one another better. Exploring the ways in which various groups within our society have related to each other is key to opening channels for cross-cultural communication.
In a world as complex as ours, each of us is shaped by many factors, and culture is one of the powerful forces that acts on us. Anthropologists Kevin Avruch and Peter
Black explain the importance of culture this way:
…One’s own culture provides the “lens” through which we view the world; the “logic”…by which we order it; the “grammar”… by which it makes sense. (Avruch and Black, 1993)
In other words, culture is central to what we see, how we make sense of what we see, and how we express ourselves.
As people from different cultural groups take on the exciting challenge of working together, cultural values sometimes conflict. We can misunderstand each other, and react in ways that can hinder what are otherwise promising partnerships.
Oftentimes, we aren’t aware that culture is acting upon us. Sometimes, we are not even aware that we have cultural values or assumptions that are different from others!
Six fundamental patterns of cultural differences – ways in which cultures, as a whole, tend to vary from one another – are described below. The descriptions point out some of the recurring causes of cross-cultural communication difficulties. As you enter into multicultural dialogue or collaboration, keep these generalized differences in mind. Next time you find yourself in a confusing situation, and you suspect that cross-cultural differences are at play, try reviewing this list. Ask yourself how culture may be shaping your own reactions, and try to see the world from others’ points of view.
Six Fundamental Patterns of Cultural Differences
1.
Different Communication Styles
The way people communicate varies widely between, and even within, cultures. One aspect of communication style is language usage. Across cultures, some words and phrases are used in different ways. For example, even in countries that share the English language, the meaning of “yes” varies from “maybe, I’ll consider it” to “definitely so,” with many shades in between.
Another major aspect of communication style is the degree of importance given to non-verbal communication. Non-verbal communication includes not only facial expressions and gestures; it also involves seating arrangements, personal distance, and sense of time. In addition, different norms regarding the appropriate degree of assertiveness in communicating can add to cultural misunderstandings. For instance, some white Americans typically consider raised voices to be a sign that a fight has begun, while
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some black, Jewish, and Italian Americans often feel that an increased volume is a sign of an exciting conversation among friends. Thus, some white Americans may react with greater alarms to a loud discussion than would members of some American ethnic or non-white racial groups.
2.
Different Attitudes Toward Conflict
Some cultures view conflict as a positive thing, while others view it as something to be avoided. In the U.S., conflict is not usually desirable; but people often are encouraged to deal directly with conflicts that do arise. In fact, face-to-face meetings customarily are recommended as the way to work through whatever problems exist. In contrast, in many Eastern countries, open conflict is experienced as embarrassing or demeaning; as a rule, differences are best worked out quietly. A written exchange might be the favored means to address the conflict.
3.
Different Approaches to Completing Tasks
From culture to culture, there are different ways that people move toward completing tasks. Some reasons include different access to resources, different judgments of the rewards associated with task completion, different notions of time, and varied ideas about how relationship-building and task-oriented work should go together.
When it comes to working together effectively on a task, cultures differ with respect to the importance placed on establishing relationships early on in the collaboration. A case in point, Asian and Hispanic cultures tend to attach more value to developing relationships at the beginning of a shared project and more emphasis on task completion toward the end as compared with European-Americans. European-Americans tend to focus immediately on the task at hand, and let relationships develop as they work on the task.
This does not mean that people from any one of these cultural backgrounds are more or less committed to accomplishing the task, or value relationships more or less; it means they may pursue them differently.
4.
Different Decision-Making Styles
The roles individuals play in decision-making vary widely from culture to culture. For example, in the U.S., decisions are frequently delegated—that is, an official assigns responsibility for a particular matter to a subordinate.
In many Southern European and Latin American countries, there is a strong value placed on holding decision-making responsibilities oneself. When decisions are made by groups of people, majority rule is a common approach in the U.S.; in Japan consensus is the preferred mode. Be aware that individuals’ expectations about their own roles in shaping a decision may be influenced by their cultural frame of reference.
5.
Different Attitudes Toward Disclosure
In some cultures, it is not appropriate to be frank about emotions, about the reasons behind a conflict or a misunderstanding, or about personal
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information. Keep this in mind when you are in a dialogue or when you are working with others. When you are dealing with a conflict, be mindful that people may differ in what they feel comfortable revealing. Questions that may seem natural to you—What was the conflict about? What was your role in the conflict? What was the sequence of events? – may seem intrusive to others. The variation among cultures in attitudes toward disclosure is also something to consider before you conclude that you have an accurate reading of the views, experiences, and goals of the people with whom you are working.
6.
Different Approaches to Knowing
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Notable differences occur among cultural groups when it comes to epistemologies—that is the ways people come to know things. European cultures tend to consider information acquired through cognitive means, such as counting and measuring, more valid than other ways coming to know things. Compare that to African cultures’ preference for affective ways of knowing, including symbolic imagery and rhythm. Asian cultures’ epistemologies tend to emphasize the validity of knowledge gained through striving toward transcendence (Nichols, 1976). Recent popular works demonstrate that our own society is paying more attention to previously overlooked ways of knowing.
You can see how different approaches to knowing could affect ways of analyzing a community problem or finding ways to resolve it. Some members of your group may want to do library research to understand a shared problem better and identify possible solutions. Others may prefer to visit places and people who have experienced challenges like the ones you are facing, and touch, taste, and listen to what has worked elsewhere.
In addition to helping us to understand ourselves and our own cultural frames of reference, knowledge of these six patterns of cultural difference can help us to understand the people who are different from us. An appreciation of patterns of cultural difference can assist us in processing what it means to be different in ways that are respectful of others, not fault-finding or damaging.
Anthropologists Avruch and Black have noted that, when faced by an interaction that we do not understand, people tend to interpret the others involved as
“abnormal,” weird,” or “wrong.” (Avruch and Black, 1993) This tendency, if indulged, gives rise on the individual level to prejudice. If this propensity is either consciously or unconsciously integrated into organizational structures, then prejudice takes root in our institutions—in the structures, laws, policies, and procedures that shape our lives. Consequently, it is vital that we learn to control the human tendency to translate “different from me” into “less than me.” We can learn to do this.
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We can also learn to collaborate across cultural lines as individuals and as a society. Awareness of cultural differences doesn’t have to divide us from each other. It doesn’t have to paralyze us either, for fear of not saying the “right thing.”
In fact, becoming more aware of our cultural differences, as well as exploring our similarities, can help us communicate with each other more effectively.
Recognizing where cultural differences are at work is the first step toward understanding and respecting each other.
Learning about different ways that people communicate can enrich our lives.
People’s different communication styles reflect deeper philosophies and world views, which are the foundation of their culture. Understanding these deeper philosophies gives us a broader picture of what the world has to offer us.
Learning about people’s cultures has the potential to give us a mirror image of our own. We have the opportunity to challenge our assumptions about the “right” way of doing things, and consider a variety of approaches. We have a chance to learn new ways to solve problems that we had previously given up on, accepting the difficulties as “just the way things are.”
Lastly, if we are open to learning about people from other cultures, we become less lonely. Prejudice and stereotypes separate us from whole groups of people who could be friends and partners in working for change. Many of us long for real contact. Talking with people different from ourselves gives us hope and energizes us to take on the challenge of improving our communities and the world.
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Cultural questions—about who we are and how we identify ourselves—are at the heart of Toward a More Perfect Union in an Age of Diversity, and will be at the heart of your discussions. As you set to work on multicultural collaboration in your community, keep in mind these additional guidelines:
 Learn from generalizations about other cultures, but don’t use those generalizations to stereotype, “write off,” or oversimplify your ideas about another person. The best use of a generalization is to add it to your storehouse of knowledge so that you better understand and appreciate other interesting, multi-faceted human beings.
 Practice, practice, practice. That’s the first rule, because it’s in the doing that we actually get better at cross-cultural communication.
 Don’t assume that there is one right way (yours!) to communicate. Keep questioning your assumptions about the “right way” to communicate. For example, think about your body language; postures that indicate receptivity in one culture might indicate aggressiveness in another.
 Don’t assume that breakdowns in communication occur because other people are on the wrong track. Search for ways to make the communication
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work, rather than searching for who should receive the blame for the breakdown.
 Listen actively and empathetically. Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes. Especially when another person’s perceptions or ideas are very different from your own, you might need to operate at the edge of your own comfort zone.
 Respect others’ choices about whether to engage in communication with you. Honor their opinions about what is going on.
 Stop, suspend judgment, and try to look at the situation as an outsider.
 Be prepared for a discussion of the past. Use this as an opportunity to develop an understanding from “the other’s” point of view, rather than getting defensive or impatient. Acknowledge historical events that have taken place. Be open to learning more about them. Honest acknowledgement of the mistreatment and oppression that have taken place on the basis of cultural difference is vital for effective communication.
 Awareness of current power imbalances—and openness to hearing each other’s perceptions of those imbalances—is also necessary for understanding each other and working together.
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DOS: Department of State, as in U.S. Department of State. The DOS governs the
J1 visa programs. All advisory Opinions and waiver applications are approved by the DOS. Located in Washington, D.C.
EAD: Employment Authorization Document. This is the wallet-sized plastic card, with beginning and end date, that grants work authorization to a non-immigrant.
ECFMG: Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates. The ECFMG issues the J1 visa to physicians who are accepted into Graduate Medical Education residency and fellowship programs. The ECFMG also controls the USMLE 1 and 2 exams as well as the Clinical Skills Assessment exam. The ECFMG is located in
Philadelphia, PA
ICE: Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The primary functions of ICE are:
Immigration and customs investigations; customs air and marine interdiction, immigration and customs intelligence, detention and removal.
USCIS: United States Citizenship and Immigration Service. There are four service centers in the United States: Vermont (the one we use!), Nebraska, California, and
Texas.
LCA: Labor Condition Application. This is the five page form used to support the
H1B visa. It is sent to the U.S. Department of Labor for approval prior to sending the H application to CIS. This form must be posted for 10 working days on two bulletin boards.
NAFSA: National Association of International Educators. We are part of Region
XI, which encompasses Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. NAFSA offers an Annual Region XI Conference (2-3 days), as well as a one day Spring Conference. NAFSA sends out weekly newsletters that we find extremely informative.
POE: Port of Entry. SEVIS (below) began tracking international students and scholars on January 30, 2003 from the POE.
SEVIS: Student Exchange Visitor Information System. On January 30, 2003,
SEVIS began tracking international students and scholars. For example, when
SEVIS informs us that Dr. X from China has arrived at the POE, Dr. X will have 30 days to register with us. If 31 days pass and we have not seen Dr. X, we must report
Dr. X to USCIS.
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Passport: The document issued by the country of citizenship that identifies a person.
Visa: A stamp in a foreign national’s passport issued overseas by a U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate that allows the individual to enter the United States for the purpose indicated by the visa category.
Grace Period: This is the brief period of time that the nonimmigrant may enter the U.S. before the effective beginning date of the visa stamp AND the time after the effective ending date. While in grace period, the person must not be employed.
If a person is terminated, the grace period does not exist.
 F visa has 30- day grace period
 J visa has 30- day grace period
 H visa has 10- day grace period
Immigrant Visa: U.S. lawful Permanent Resident status, fondly known as the
Green Card, has an ending date usually 10 years in the futures. If it expires, the person may still be employed. If the person exits the U.S. and tries to re-enter the
U.S on an expired Green Card, the person will be denied entrance.
Nonimmigrant Visa: One of any of the 30 types of visas that allow the individual to enter the United States for the purpose and period indicated on the visa. The holder must leave the country at the end of the permitted period, extend the period by application to Immigration and Naturalization Service, or change to a different immigration status.
Alien Registration Number (“A” Number): Identification number assigned to an immigrant for U.S. government purposes.
“Certificate of Eligibility” (Form I-20, or DS-2019): Forms I-20 or DS-
2019 are issued by a recognized U.S. educational, vocational or non-academic institution that accepts a foreign student for full-time study. Their sponsor or the
U.S. educational institution they will be attending issues the DS-2019 to exchange visitors. The I-20 and DS-2019 forms are not visas; they are visa petitions that state your eligibility to apply for the non-immigrant student visa status.
Change of Status: Change from one non-immigrant classification to another.
Change of status requires USCIS approval.
Dependent: One who relies on another for support. For immigration purposes a dependent is a spouse or an unmarried minor child (under 18 years 0ld).
Section 212 (e) requires the person to return to the home country after the research or clinical activity has been completed. They must remain in their home country for two years before they are allowed to apply for another type of visa in the United States. If the person has completed three years on a J1 and returns home for 12 months, the person is again eligible for another J1 visa.
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Waiver of Section 212(e): Before a person who is subject to Section 212(e) can change visa types, the waiver must be obtained and approved. First, the person must contact the home government for a “no objection” letter. Then the person applies to the U.S. Department of State. The U.S. Department of State will send a letter to the applicant and to CIS requesting that approval be granted. Finally, the
CIS will send the applicant Form I-612 stating that the waiver has been approved.
Visa Waiver: A program that allows individuals from certain countries to enter the United States for business or pleasure without a visa for up to 90 days. The period cannot be extended in the United States.
I-94 Card: This is the small white card stapled to the passport. When issued for J and F visas, this card will state: J1 D/S or F1 D/S. If the card states a specific date after the visa type, that person is not allowed to be employed after that date. The
I-94 is date-specific and always lists the ending date of the H1B visa.
 Some J/F I 94’s are date specific to only 30 days in the future. Sometimes the person did not have the proper documents to enter the U.S. Then the J or F must go immediately to INS in Boston to have the I-94 extended by bringing the correct documentation.
 Green I-94 cards are not employable. If you want to offer a position to someone with a green I-94, that person must exit the U.S. and re-enter on the approved work visa.
U.S Embassy/U.S Consulate: There is only one U.S Embassy in a foreign country. In a large country, there may be a few U.S. Consulates, but only one U.S.
Embassy. The international person must go to the closest U.S. Embassy or
Consulate. Rarely will another Consulate process a person’s documents outside the jurisdiction of the location of the person.
Special Registration: The U.S. government is requiring that certain nonimmigrant aliens be obligated to register with the Immigration Service upon entering and exiting the country. Registration is solely based on nationality and citizenship, not ethnicity or religion.
Who is responsible to register?
 Males 16 years of age or older, not citizens, permanent nor holders of A or G visas who have not entered unlawfully or through parole.
 Did not have an application for asylum filed on or before January 16, 2003.
 Last entered the U.S. on or before September 30, 2002 and will remain after
March 28, 2003. The following are within the required registration groups:
Group 1- Syria, Sudan, Iraq, Iran, Libya. Group 2- Afghanistan, Algeria,
Bahrain, Eritrea, Lebanon, Morocco, North Korea, Oman, Qatar, Somalia,
Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, Yemen. Group 3- Pakistan, Saudi Arabia.
Group 4- Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Kuwait, Jordan.
~The best case scenario is to register at the airport upon entry to the U.S.~
(instruction will be given by an Immigration Official at that point)
~Be sure to have all travel documents available, i.e. Passport, I-20, DS-2019, I-
797 and any government issued identification~
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At the time of registration, the alien may be fingerprinted and photographed. If so, the “FIN” (Fingerprint Identification Number) designation will be indicated on the back of the I-94 card.
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A to Z Slang can be found at www.eslcafe.com/slang
Airhead: stupid person
“Believe it or not, Dave can sometimes act like an airhead!”
Armpit: dirty, unappealing place
“This cheap motel is an absolute armpit!”
Awesome: great and impressive
“ Dave’s ESL Café is truly awesome!”
Ball: a fun time
“I really had a ball in Dave’s ESL class.”
Bang: a very powerful thing
“Disneyland is really a bang!”
Bazillion: an infinite number of something
“Has Dennis really taught a bazillion students?”
B-ball: basketball
“Do you wanna play b-ball with me?”
Beans: money
“ I’ve worked for this company of ten years, but I still don’t have beans.”
Beat: tired
“I’m really beat because I was awake all night.
Biggie: something important
“I was hoping to get my homework completed, but it’s no biggie.”
Couch potato: a person who watches too much television
“ Why did I have to marry such a couch potato?”
Cheesy: cheap; outmoded
“Why are you wearing such cheesy clothes?”
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The American culture is one that honors the adage “cleanliness is close to
Godliness.” We are a prideful group that stresses the importance of personal hygiene. Americans spend billions of dollars yearly on deodorants, soaps, shampoo, perfume, disinfectant sprays, room deodorizers, scented candles, you name it; if the smell is not pleasing, and every effort is made to get rid of it! We are especially conscious of body odor; the American culture honors daily showering/bathing. Dental hygiene is another obsession in the American culture, again, billions of dollars are spent yearly on professional dental care preventing, maintaining, and restoration. Several billions are spend yearly on toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss, whitening kits, breath fresheners, and fluoride.
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Facts About Domestic Violence
What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence is an abuse of power, a pattern of coercive behaviors used by one person to gain control over another, including but not limited to:
 Physical violence
 Sexual violence
 Emotional intimidation
 Psychological intimidation
 Verbal abuse
 Stalking
 Social isolation
 Economic control
Domestic violence is a crime that has devastating effects on the victims, their children and workplaces.
Facts about domestic violence
 One out of every three women is a victim of domestic violence.
 Every year about one million more women become victims.
 Women are about six times more likely than men to experience violence committed by an intimate; a spouse, ex-spouse, boy/girlfriend, or exboy/girlfriend.
 Domestic violence does not discriminate by gender, race, ethnic or economic groups. It happens in heterosexual, lesbian and gay relationships.
 According to government reports, nearly 25 percent of women and about seven percent of men say they have been raped or assaulted by a current or former partner. Many assaults go unreported.
 Perpetrators are responsible for the violence they commit.
 Battered victims do not provoke or control their partner’s violence.
 Twenty-five to 40 percent of battered women are assaulted while pregnant.
Domestic violence often begins and escalates during pregnancy.
 Nationally, 50 percent of homeless women and children are on the streets because of domestic violence.
Domestic Violence Comes to Work
There is a direct link between home and workplace violence. At work, women are more likely than men to be attacked by an intimate. Men are more likely to be attacked by a stranger. Research shows that abuse against spouses and partners is frequently carried out in the workplace by phone, email, or in person.
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Seventy-four percent of employed battered women are harassed at work by their abusers. Domestic violence interferes with the victim’s ability to get a job, perform job duties, and retain a job so much so that at least 20 percent of these women lose their jobs.
Effects on Children Who Witness Domestic Violence
Countless children and young people witness domestic violence every day.
Children who live in homes where one spouse abuses the other become secondary victims and suffer increased physical and psychological illnesses including:
 Feelings of fear, anger, depression and anxiety, grief, shame, despair, and distrust
 A sense of helplessness and powerlessness
 Physical reactions such as stomach cramps, headaches, difficulty with sleeping and eating, and frequent illness
 Delayed developmental milestones
 Low self-esteem, poor school performance
 Difficulty relating to peers
 Behavioral problems such as substance abuse, running away, school truancy, aggressive language and violence.
Domestic Violence Resources
UMass EAP
YWCA Daybreak
UMass Memorial Health Care
Domestic Violence Prevention Program
National Domestic Violence Hotline
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1-800-322-5327
1-508-755-9030
1-508-793-5211
1-800-787-3224
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F-1 VISA Status: Types of employment available to F-1 students
 On-campus employment~ F-1 students are generally permitted to work part-time on the premises of the school that issued their currently valid I-
20, while they are attending school and maintaining their F-1 status (subject to restrictions).
 Employment authorized because of severe economic hardship~ must have had F-1 status for at least one full academic year. Must prove to USCIS that employment is necessary due to severe economic hardship caused by circumstances beyond his/her control that arose after obtaining F-1 status.
Must apply to USCIS for employment authorization
 Practical Training (curricular and optional practical training) ~ in both instances an F-1 student must be “lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one full academic year” to be eligible.
 CPT- must be an integral part of an established curriculum. Requires
Designated School Officials (DSO) authorization. (Subject to restrictions)
 OPT- temporary employment for practical training directly related to the student’s major area of study. (Generally after the completion of studies, and subject to restrictions)
 In the circumstances of PT, CPT and OPT you must consult with the ISSO
prior to beginning employment.
 F-2’s are not eligible for employment authorization
J-1 VISA Status
 A J-1 visitor is classified as an alien authorized (incident to status) for employment with a specific employer (Subject to restrictions)
 The J-2 dependant is permitted to apply for employment authorization through the USCIS, and is only permitted to work after receiving the EAD from USCIS.
H1B1 VISA Status: For the temporary employment or training of foreign nationals by a specific employer.
 H1B1 are individuals who will perform services in a “specialty occupation”.
 H-4 Spouse and dependant children of the principle H nonimmigrant
 Employment is prohibited for H-4 dependents
 Study is permitted for H-4 dependents however they are not eligible for F-1 benefits such as on-campus employment and practical training.
 H-4 children who turn 21 years of age are no longer considered children and are no longer eligible for H-4 status. In order to remain in the United
States, they must change to another nonimmigrant status, such as F-1 for full-time students.
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O-1 VISA Status: For the employment of individual aliens who have achieved and sustained national or international acclaim for extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business.
 O-3 the spouse and children to accompany the principle O-1
 Employment is prohibited for O-3 dependents
TN Professionals: The TN (Trade NAFTA) category was developed as part of the
North American Free Trade Agreement to facilitate the entry of Canadian and
Mexican citizens to the United States to engage in professional business activities on a temporary basis.
 Dependents of the TN status holder are admitted in TD (Trade Dependant) status.
 TD status holders are not authorized to work in the United States.
 TD status holders may attend school either part-time or full time.
~Your best source of information can be found in the International Student and Scholars
Office~
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ECFMG-SPONSERED J1 VISA INFORMATION CONCERNING
MOONLIGHTING
(From ECFMG website)
Training Authorization/Employment
Associated training/employment authorization is specific to the approved activities stated on Form DS-2019. A Form DS-2019 obtained for a particular program may be used only for that program and is not transferable to another institution or program.
Federal regulations prohibit work, training, and/or financial compensation for activities that are outside of the approved Exchange
Visitor Program. http://ecfmg.org/evsp/usiastmt.html
This site has the regulation concerning moonlighting *
Two employment- related or work authorization questions arises from the desire of many participants and medical facilities to have the foreign medical graduate participate in residency training as a "chief" resident or work outside of the residency program. First, the number of years of eligibility for program participation and thereby work authorization is dependent upon the period of time established by the American Council for Graduate Medical Education as published in the American Medical Association: Graduate Medical Education Directory.
Many residency programs have attempted to add an additional year of residency training and thereby have the services of the foreign medical graduate for the additional year. Given the requirement that the USIA administer this activity on a national basis and in conjunction with criteria established by the Secretary of
Health and Human Services, USIA will not authorize program participation for this additional year unless such additional year is set forth as a requirement in the
American Medical Association: Graduate Medical Education Directory.
A foreign medical graduate is not authorized to "moonlight" and is without work authorization to do so. A foreign medical graduate may receive compensation from the medical training facility for work activities that are an integral part of his or her residency program. The foreign medical graduate is not authorized to work at other medical facilities or emergency rooms at night or on weekends. Such outside employment is a violation of the foreign medical graduate’s program status and would subject the foreign medical graduate to termination of his or her program.
http://ecfmg.org/evsp/evspemot.pdf
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UMass Medical School is not responsible for the following information and only provides it in order to give general information that applies to the majority of foreign nationals. It is important to read the official Internal Revenue Service
(IRS) Publication 519 for full details. Other helpful publications include the instructions for forms 1040, 1040NR, and 1040NR-EZ, Publication 901 on Tax
Treaties, and other schedules and forms pertaining to special situations.
Non-immigrant visa holders (J-1, H-1b, F-1, TNs, J-2s) may be subject to U.S. taxation based on the source and type of income, immigration status and how long they’ve been present in the U.S. Tax treaties with over 40 countries may alter tax liability. Other forms of taxation include state income tax, state and local sales tax, and Social Security. Under the U.S. system, it is the individual’s responsibility to determine tax liability and file the appropriate forms in a timely manner.
Effective since 1992, all non-immigrant visa holders including F, J, H or M visa holders (except B-2 Tourists) must file a federal tax return statement and Form
1040NR even if they have no U.S. source of income or have not worked in the U.S.
TN status aliens are also required to file. See IRS publication 519 for details. Most international students/scholars file both federal and Massachusetts state income tax returns. Filing a tax return does not necessarily mean that you have to pay taxes, just that you are meeting the tax requirements of living in the United States.
Citizens of the U.S, permanent residents (green card holders), H-1B aliens, and J-
2s with employment authorization are generally required to file “resident” tax returns (form1040). F-1, J-1, M, and Q status holders (applies to students) may file
“non-resident” tax return Form 1040NR or “resident” tax form 1040 depending on
“days of presence in the U.S.” Canadians generally file “resident” returns, unless a tax treaty article applies.
How to Determine Tax Status
A key factor in determining an individual’s income tax liability is whether his or her status is considered that of a “resident alien” or “non-resident alien” for tax purposes. This status may or may not coincide with their resident or non-resident status with the Immigration and Naturalization Service. Many individuals who are in a non-immigrant status are considered “resident aliens” for tax purposes.
Throughout this document, reference to resident or non-resident aliens means for tax purposes only.
F-1 students are generally “EXEMPT” (or excused) from paying federal taxes for a period of five calendar years. After five calendar years, most students will have to pay taxes on U.S. source income, unless otherwise considered exempt by a Tax
Treaty with their country or some other IRS tax regulation.
F-1 students, however, must file a federal and state return each year during tax season from January 1 to April 15. If you receive no U.S. source income, you may file your income tax return no later than June 15 of each year.
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Teachers, researchers, and trainees who are in the U.S. on J-1 visa for under two calendar years, including partial years, are exempt from counting days of presence in the U.S and are considered “non-resident aliens” for tax purposes.
Generally this means that J-1 professors, researchers and trainees are exempt from paying the Federal FICA tax for a period of two calendar years. However, other taxes may apply. A scholar who has been in the U.S. for over two calendar years during the previous six years on a J-1 visa must start counting days of presence in the U.S. and is considered a “resident alien” for tax purposes, provided that the substantial presence test is met. If all income for services performed in the U.S. is from a foreign source, the person is considered a “non-resident alien” for four years. Tax treaties may allow for additional exemption.
A calendar year is defined as January 1 through December 31. If someone arrived in August, that counts as one calendar year. Some treaties may provide additional exemptions form the date of arrival.
Substantial Presence Test
Once a person is no longer exempt from counting days of presence, the substantial presence test is used to determine “resident” vs. “non-resident” status. The individual must have been in the U.S. for at least 31 days in the current and two preceding years as follows (the days that one is exempt from counting while in J-1 status should not be included):
All of the days from the current years + 1/3 of the days from last year + 1/6 of the days from two years ago. If the total is 183 days or more, the individual must file as a “resident alien.”
What is Taxed?
Non-Resident Aliens
 Only U.S. source income, based on the residence of the payer.
 Dividend income from domestic corporations. Note: interest paid by bank savings, loans, and credit unions is NOT taxed.
 Wages and any other compensation for services performed in the U.S. The location of the service determines taxability, so it is possible that wages from a foreign source could be taxed if the services are performed in the
U.S.
 Rental income from property owned in the U.S.
 Royalties from patents, copyrights, etc.
 Profit from the sale of property in the U.S. (some exceptions for personal property).
EXEMPT- Income of $3,000 or less paid by a foreign organization or individual to a non-resident alien who was in the U.S. less than 90 days during the tax year; income exempt by a tax treaty; and income received by an F, J, H, or M visa holder from a foreign employer.
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Resident Aliens
Worldwide income, same as U.S. citizens. See IRS Form 1040 instructions.
Treaty Benefit
The U.S has tax treaties with over 40 countries that permit taxation at a reduced rate or exempt certain income altogether. Since each treaty is independently negotiated, no general rule applies to all. Although a tax treaty may exempt you from paying income tax, you are still required to file income tax return. IRS publication 901 gives a brief summary of the provisions of each treaty. For complete details, the full treaty should be consulted. Any tax treaty benefits overrule other tax codes. If you intend to claim a tax treaty benefit, you must file Form 1040, 10NR-EZ or 1040NR with Form 8843 at the time of filing your return.
Non-Resident Aliens
Teachers and researchers who are employed in the U.S. and are fully or partially exempt by treaty from U.S. taxation must file form 8233, plus the appropriate statement with the employer (payroll office) to claim exemption from withholding each year. Scholars who receive a service-free scholarship or fellowship must file Form W-8BEN.
Resident Aliens
Individuals who would otherwise be considered resident aliens also may benefit from some provisions of the treaties and should consult Publication 901 or
Publication 519 and/or the treaty itself.
How is Income Taxed?
Income that is effectively connected with trade or business in the U.S. is taxed at the graduated rates that apply to U.S. citizens. Income that is not effectively connected is taxed at a flat 30 percent or a lower treaty rate. Some income may be exempt by virtue of tax treaties.
Anyone who is in the U.S. on a J-1 is considered to be engaged in trade or business. Therefore, all income earned by J-1 scholars is considered to be effectively connected. All income from U.S. sources (except investment income) is treated as effectively connected, even if there is no connection between the business and the income. H1-B aliens are typically taxed at the same rate as
U.S. citizens.
All payment for personal services (with some minor exceptions) is considered effectively connected. This includes salary, wages, commissions, fees, per diem allowances, bonuses, services, or property. However, payment to a nonresident alien by a foreign employer is not included in gross income (see exclusions above).
Resident Aliens
Income is taxed at graduate rates, same as U.S. citizens.
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Scholarship and Fellowships
Special tax rules apply to scholarship and fellowship grants. The rules for determining the taxable part of a scholarship or fellowship apply to both resident and non-resident aliens. They are separate, and in addition to any rules pertaining to exclusions from income for foreign scholarships or exclusions under a tax treaty. A qualified scholarship or fellowship grant made after August 16, 1986 is tax-free only if the student is a candidate for a degree at an educational institution. A qualified scholarship or fellowship is any amount received by or paid for the student, as a scholarship or fellowship that is used under the terms of the grant for the following purposes:
The following apply to U.S. source grants and are non-taxable:
 Tuition and fees required to enroll in or to attend an educational institution
 Fees, books, supplies and equipment that are required in order to enroll in a particular degree in an educational institution
 Portion of tuition that is paid for graduate research or teaching assistantship (does not include payment for services)
 Grants from source income paid foreign governments, corporations or public international organizations (including those that are managed by
U.S. agents on behalf of the foreign payer)
The following apply to U.S. source grants and are taxable:
 Room and board (includes cost of room and board received for work performed)
 Incidental expenses such as travel
 Money paid for services even if services are required for that particular degree
Withholding
Employers are required to deduct a certain amount from each employee’s paycheck to cover the individual’s estimated tax liability. They must withhold an amount equal to 90 percent of the current year’s estimated tax or 100 percent of the prior year’s liability whichever is lower.
Withholding is not automatic. Employees (those who receive pay from the U.S. institution) must complete Form W-4 and submit it to the employer (payroll office) to declare their tax status (resident or non-resident) and instruct the payroll office how much to withhold. Extreme caution should be exercised in filling out the forms, as errors could result in having to pay back taxes, fines, or penalties.
Sometime in late January, the employer returns a W-2 statement to the employee that identifies earnings from U.S. income and the total amount of taxes deducted by the employer.
Non-Resident Aliens
The W-4 was not prepared with non-resident aliens in mind. These individuals should not use the worksheet and instructions; non-resident aliens should fill out
Form W-4 using the following instructions instead of the instructions on the W-4 form:
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1.
Check only “single” marital status on line 3 (regardless of your marital status)
2.
Claim only one allowance on line 5, unless you are a resident of Canada,
Mexico, Japan, or South Korea.
3.
Request that your employer withhold an additional amount of $7.60 per week (for the 2003 tax year) on line 6. If your wages were paid based on a monthly period, the additional amount would be $33.10. This amount to be withheld changes each year and can be found in Publication 519.
4.
Do NOT claim “Exempt: withholding status on line 7.
Individuals from treaty countries who wish to claim partial or total exemption from withholding must file additional forms with the employer. Form 8233 must be filed annually to claim treaty exemption from income derived from services performed for the employer. Form W-8BEN must be filed to claim treaty exemption from service –free scholarship or fellowship income.
Those who have income from which no tax is withheld may need to file Form
1040-ES (NR) and make regular estimated tax payments. This must be done if the amount withheld is less than either 90 percent of the tax for the current year or
100 percent of the prior year.
Resident Aliens
Resident aliens must either file form 1040EZ, 1040A or 1040 at the address shown on the instructions for that form. It must be filled by April 15 each year. Filing extensions may be possible under certain circumstances.
What Income Tax Can Be Excluded?
Non-Resident Aliens
 Foreign source income, including grants from international organizations
 Compensation from foreign employers (this does NOT apply to employees of foreign governments, unless that government gives the same exclusion to
U.S. government employees working in that country)
 Some annuity income
 Income excluded by treaty (see official IRS Publication 901)
Resident Aliens
Income excluded by treaty
Deductions/Itemized Deductions
Non-Resident Aliens
Non-Resident aliens may claim only deductions that are effectively connected with their U.S. trade or business. The standard deduction cannot be claimed.
Itemized deductions that may generally be claimed are state and local income taxes, charitable contributions, casualty and theft losses, and possibly some moving, travel or miscellaneous job expenses.
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Resident Aliens
Resident Aliens are eligible for the standard deduction and all itemized deductions for which U.S. citizens are eligible.
Tax Payment and Credits
Non-Resident Aliens
Most non-residents are not eligible for tax credit except for the amount of Federal tax that was withheld for wages. Under limited circumstances they may be eligible for childcare credit or foreign tax credit.
Resident Aliens
Resident Aliens are eligible for the same credits as U.S. citizens.
Social Security and Medicare
Non-Resident Aliens
During their first five calendar years in the U.S., F-1 students are not required to pay Social Security (FICA) taxes.
During their first two calendar years in the U.S., J-1 scholars are not required to pay Social Security (FICA) taxes if services performed are to carry out the purpose for which they were admitted. This includes work that is considered to be a part of the J-1’s program and any other employment that is explicitly authorized by the
Exchange Visitor Program’s Responsible Officer (or Alternate Responsible
Officer). H1-B’s are generally required to pay Social Security taxes (FICA) like U.S. citizens but may also claim personal exemptions and itemize deductions.
Resident Aliens
J-1 scholars who have been in the U.S. long enough to be considered resident aliens for tax purposes must pay Social Security and Medicare taxes. J-2
Dependants who have obtained work authorization from the INS and are working must have these taxes withheld and are treated like U.S. citizens for tax purposes.
State Taxes
Many states have a state income tax, and U.S. source income of J-1 scholars may be subject to state taxation. It varies by state, and the state tax authority should be consulted. Both resident and non-resident aliens may deduct state income taxes from their federal tax liability.
Most states also have state and local sales taxes, which are added to the cost of purchases when they are made. These taxes are not deductible from federal taxes.
Massachusetts State Tax
You are NOT required to file a Massachusetts state tax return if:
 You made less than $2,200 in the tax year
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 You are a degree candidate with income from only scholarship or fellowship
(including money for room and board)
 You are Massachusetts resident with gross income of $8,000 or less
 You have a tax treaty which exempts you from U.S. taxation
 If you are non-degree candidate, you are allowed an exemption of up to
$300 per month from your Scholarship or Fellowship, with a 36-month maximum
You are considered a resident of Massachusetts if you spend more than 183 days of the taxable year in Massachusetts and maintain a permanent place of abode in
Massachusetts. Please note if one or more of the above apply, you are not required to file a Massachusetts tax return. However, if you do earn any income, it may be beneficial for you to file, since you may be owed money from the state. Regulations may change from year to year, so it’s important to obtain a copy of the current
Massachusetts Department of Revenue publications. Massachusetts residents are taxed on their entire income. A non-resident however, is taxed only on income derived from or connected to sources in Massachusetts.
A permanent place of abode does not include a dormitory room. An off-campus apartment is considered a permanent place of abode.
Documents Needed When Filing Income Taxes
 Income statements, if any (W-2, 1042S or 1099MISC)
 Banking interest statements
 Social Security number (You must have a Social Security number or an
IRS tax ID number (ITIN) from the IRS.
 Passport and I-94
 Either Form DS-2019, Form I-20, or Form I-797
 Other forms may be required depending on your individual circumstances
 Tax Treaty Article Number (if applicable)
You must determine whether you are a resident or non-resident alien for tax purposes and obtain the appropriate federal and state forms. Refer to IRS
Publication 519 for detailed information.
You must have received wage and tax statements (W-2, 1042S, or 1099MISC) from your employer(s) or sponsor(s). These statements will list your income and any taxes paid during the tax year. Bank statements may be used to document any interest earned from your bank account during the year. Bank interest that is not effectively connected with a trade or business (but personal) is not taxable for nonresident aliens on the federal tax return.
If you have earned income from a UMass affiliate, you should have received a W-2 form. If you did not work but received a stipend, you should have received a 1042S
Form. Typically, employers issue income statements (W-2, 1042S or 1099MISC) and banks issue bank statements sometime in January. If by the end of January, you have not received anything from either your employer or your bank, please contact them.
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If you have been participating in a tax treaty exemption, you must have the Tax
Treaty Article Number. Refer to IRS Publication 901 Table 2.
Forms Which May Be Filled Out By All F, J, H, or M Non-Resident Visa
Holders Who Earned Income During the Tax Year (Deadline: April 15):
 1040, 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ
 Form 8843
 Form INR (Massachusetts state tax) only if you earned over $2,200 during the year
 Other forms may be required, depending on your circumstances
Forms Which Must Be Filled Out By All F, J, or M Non-Resident Visa
Holders Who Did Not Earn Income During the Tax Year (Deadline
April 15)
 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ
 Form 8843
 Other forms may be required depending on your individual circumstances
 Note: It is usually not necessary to file a Massachusetts state tax return if you did not earn any income during the year.
Where to Mail Completed Forms :
Your completed Federal 1040NR stapled to your Form 8843 (along with any required attachments) should be mailed to:
Internal Revenue Service Center
Philadelphia, PA 19255
Your completed State INR form (along with any required attachments) should be mailed to:
Massachusetts Department of Revenue
Post Office Box 7054
Boston A 02204
Additional Assistance
This brief summary of very complex tax regulations is for general informational purposes only. Foreign Nationals on temporary, non-immigrant visas should read official IRS publications 519, 901, and the instructions to the appropriate forms
1040NR, 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ. The UMass International Office may be able to offer some resources, though there is not a tax expert on staff and only general
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assistance is available. The IRS may be able to answer some questions and can be reached at the toll free number 1-800-829-1040 or 617 -565-4325. For complex situations it would be advisable to consult a tax attorney, a Certified Public
Accountant, or other reputable tax advisor.
Look for Tax Seminars sponsored by the ISSO during tax season (January through
April).
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Anyone earning money in the United States is required to have a Social Security number (S.S.N.). Some banks and investment companies require a Social Security number if you have an interest-bearing account. As of May 1996, the Social
Security Administration (SSA) changed policy about issuing numbers to nonimmigrant visa holders. The SSA now allows only those non-immigrant visa holders who are “work authorized or work eligible” to obtain a Social Security number. Those who do not have employment authorization, but may still need a tax identification number can apply for an Individual Tax Identification Number
(ITIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Social Security Numbers and Mass Drivers License
As a result of this policy change by SSA, the Registry of Motor Vehicles in the State of Massachusetts, requests applicants for a drivers license to produce a social security number or a “denial letter” from SSA before you can apply for a
Massachusetts Drivers License.
To Obtain a Social Security Number
If you are eligible to obtain a Social Security number, the International Office recommends that you apply
after arrival in the United
States. This must be more than 48 hours after registering your SEVIS number with the ISSO (if you are on F1/J1 visa). Non-immigrant visa holders including H-
1B Temporary Specialty Workers, TNs, T-1 Exchange Visitors, and F-1 Students are eligible to apply for Social Security numbers. J-2 spouses are eligible to apply if they have received employment authorization via a valid Employment
Authorization Document (EAD) issued by INS.
To obtain a Social Security number, you should apply in person to the Social
Security Administration Office nearest you.
Documents required include:
 Passport
 I-94
 Visa status documents (DS-2019, I-20, I-797)
 Social Security Letter, issued by ISSO.
While at the Social Security Administration, you will complete an application form, and if accepted, within several weeks you will receive (by mail) a Social Security card with a number on the card. This is your individual Social Security number.
Other dependents of principal aliens (H-4, F-2, TD) are not employment eligible.
They may apply for a Social Security number, but are likely to be denied. If dependents wish to obtain a Massachusetts Drivers License, they must first apply
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to Social Security Administration for a number. If they are not eligible for a number, a “denial letter” will be issued at the time of application. The dependent alien may then take this “denial letter” to the Registry of Motor Vehicles and apply for a license. (See “How to Apply for a Massachusetts Driver’s License” for more information.) Other visa categories, such as a B-1/B-2 visitor visa are not eligible for a Social Security number, and are also ineligible for a Massachusetts Drivers
License because they are in the United States strictly as visitors.
The main number for the Social Security Administration Office is 1-800-772-1213.
(You may also use this telephone number to find the location of the Social Security
Administration Office nearest your home.) Website: www.ssa.gov
Social Security Administrative Office is located at:
55 Myrtle Street
Worcester MA 01608
Directions from UMass Medical School are as follows:
1.
Start at 419 Belmont St. Worcester going towards Frank St.- go .4 mi
2.
Continue on Shrewsbury St.- go 1.5 mi
3.
Bear Right on Washington Sq. –go .1 mi
4.
Bear Right on Old Mechanics St. – go .1 mi
5.
Continue on Worcester Center Blvd- go .2 mi
6.
Continue on Frances McGrath Blvd – go.2 mi
7.
Turn Right on Myrtle St. – go .1 mi
8.
Arrive at 52 Myrtle St Worcester
Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)
If you are required to file a tax return (see section on U.S. Taxation of Foreign
Students, Scholars, and Other Non-Immigrant Visas), and DO NOT have a Social
Security number, then you may apply for an Individual Tax Identification Number
(ITIN) from the local Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
All foreign nationals on temporary, non-immigrant visas (except those on B-1/B-2
Visitor B status) are currently required to file a tax return with the federal Internal
Revenue Service (IRS) and, depending on residency determination, the State of
Massachusetts.
If you are not eligible to obtain a social security number, but are required to file a tax return, then you may obtain an Individual Tax Identification Number ITIN.
Even those individuals who earned no U.S. source income are required to file a tax return. Filing a return doesn’t mean that you will pay taxes, only that you are complying with IRS laws and regulations. People who fit into this category are generally dependent spouses holding status such as J-2 (without an EAD), H-4,
TD, and F-2.
The application for an ITIN may be obtained at the local IRS Office located at:
Internal Revenue Service
JFK Federal Building
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Government Center
Cambridge Street
Boston, MA 02203
Telephone: (617) 536-1040 or 1-800-829-1040
When applying for an ITIN, you should bring the same type of identification mentioned above, including your passport, I-94, visa status document or a copy of spouse’s I-20, DS-2019, etc.
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After 6 months of new employment and the new employee decides to return to the home country for a visit or get married, do NOT tell the P.I. that you are going home for 5 weeks. It is our custom to ASK for the time off and give a reason why.
It is the decision of the Principle Investigator for whom you work to allow you to have a vacation and to use vacation time. Even though you received 3 weeks' vacation and personal time upon starting employment here, do NOT presume that you may use all of this time prior to working a full year and at your own discretion. The PI may prorate your vacation time based on the number of months worked prior to the leave start date. If you are granted leave but do not have enough vacation earned to cover the entire period of your absence, the uncovered period will be considered 'leave without pay.' 'Leave without pay' means that your sick and vacation time will cease to accrue and you will be required to pay 100% of your health insurance cost until you return to work.
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The policy at UMass Medical School is that all payroll is directly deposited to your account.
Banks offer many services such as checking and savings accounts. Banks vary somewhat in the types of services they offer. Consider the following when you are choosing a bank:
Location
Business Hours
International Banking Services
Availability of staff who speak your language
Automated Teller Machines (ATM)
Automatic Checking Services
Credit Line Services
Transfer of funds from abroad
Most banks require two forms of identification to open an account. Again, a U.S. license, passport, other picture I.D. or major credit card are acceptable. A Social
Security number may be required to open an interest-producing bank account.
You will also need proof of your current address. A letter of employment, bill addressed to you at your present address, or a copy of your lease agreement is usually sufficient.
Checking Accounts
It is convenient to have a checking account in a local bank so that you can pay your bills by check. Banks offer different types of checking accounts designed to fit individual needs. The cost of each type of account varies from bank to bank. Some banks charge for each transaction. Some have a basic monthly fee while others offer services free of charge, if you maintain a certain minimum balance in your account at all times. Every month you will receive a bank statement, which lists all of the transactions that took place the previous month. Some banks will return canceled checks to you as well. Be careful to keep an accurate record of each check you write so that you avoid “bouncing” a check (a check “bounces” when you do not have as much money in the account as the check was written for). If this happens, you will be charged a fee.
Savings Accounts
A saving account enables you to save money and accumulate interest on your savings. Interest is paid either monthly or quarterly. The main difference between a savings account and a checking account is that you cannot write checks with a saving account.
“NOW” Accounts
NOW accounts provide the services of both a checking and a savings account. This means that you can write checks and collect interest on the money remaining in your account. A minimum balance must be maintained.
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Cashing Checks
If you receive a check from someone, you must endorse it (sign your name on the back). After you endorse the check you need to show some form of personal I.D. A good idea is to get another form of I.D. (Massachusetts I.D.) rather than carrying your passport with you all the time. Some small stores will cash a check for you if you there regularly and supermarkets may allow you to pay by check after you have obtained authorization from their credit department. Checks are not accepted everywhere.
Bank Cards/Automated Teller Machines (ATMs)
Many banks issue plastic cards that make deposit and withdrawal services available to you 24 hours a day by use of an automated teller machine (ATM).
These machines, which are frequently located outside the banks, inside shopping centers, at airports and other public locations are very convenient. You can avoid waiting in line at the bank and have easy access to cash after the bank closes.
Banks that are members of a national ATM network allow you to access your funds with your bankcard at selected ATMs throughout the country. Many supermarkets also have ATMs, and many allow you to pay for your purchases with your ATM card. Some banks have service charges for these transactions. In addition to your funds in your bank accounts, you are also able to get cash advances on your credit cards (Visa or Mastercard). Contact a customer service representative with your credit card company for more information about these transactions.
Automatic Checking
Some banks offer an “automatic checking” service on some accounts. If you are qualified, your ATM card may be used like a credit card except that the money for the purchase will “automatically” be deducted from your checking account. Most banks do charge a small fee for this service.
Debit ATM Cards
Some banks and ATM cards may also have a debit function which acts as a check when making purchases. The debit cards are convenient to use when making purchases, and the money is automatically deducted from your checking account.
You receive no bill from the bank, but must remember to enter the amount debited from your account into your checkbook. Ask your bank about a debit card.
The cost of international money transfer is approximately $15 plus the money you wish to send. A Western Union operator will assist you. If you wish to pay by cash or check, you will need to stop by a local Western Union agent. If you have questions regarding the use of Western Union or their locations you may contact their website www.westernunion.com
*A Note Regarding Bank Accounts
Some banks will not open a account without a social security number. The following banks will open an account without benefit of a social security number.
UMassFive College Federal Credit Union, Room S1-820, 55 Lake Ave.North, Worc.
Bank North – 137 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester
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39

Travel Advisory For International Students
I.
Prepared by Leila Laoudji—Post 9-11 Project Attorney
May 23, 2003
Documentation
When you are traveling, it is important that you have all the following documents in order, even when taking a brief trip to Mexico or Canada or along the southern border of the United States.
1.Valid passport (When you come back to the U.S. your passport must be valid for six months longer than you plan to stay in the U.S.)
2.I-94 card.
3.New SEVIS Form I-20 with a signature from your international student advisor (“ISA”) that will not be older than six months by the time you come back to the U.S. You and each member of your family must have a
SEVIS I-20 by August 1, 2003 to return to the U.S.
4.Valid F-1 stamp in passport (See Section on F-1 visa stamp below).
5.Evidence of financial support (Your personal bank statement, scholarship letter).
6. Proof of Enrollment (Transcript or letter of enrollment from your
ISA).
II.
Your Student Visa Stamp
If you have an expired visa stamp and want to travel abroad, it is not guaranteed that the U.S. Consulate will renew your stamp and as a result, you may not be able to return to the U.S. to finish your studies. You cannot renew your visa stamp in the United States.
If you have an expired student visa and are traveling back to the U.S. to continue your studies, you might want to consider deferring one semester until your paperwork is in order, instead of traveling to the U.S. and being removed.
(For the harsh consequences of removal, see Section Five)
Automatic Visa Stamp Revalidation (Travel to Mexico and Canada)
In the past, students with expired student visa stamps were able to travel to
Canada or Mexico for less than 30 days with an expired student visa and reenter the United States with no complications. This process is called
Automatic Visa Revalidation. Now this process is no longer available to students from the following countries: Iraq, Iran, Syria, Libya, Sudan, North
Korea, and Cuba. All other students traveling to Canada or Mexico with an expired visa must now get their new visa stamp application approved in Canada or Mexico. If Canada or Mexico does not approve the student visa applications, students must travel back to their home country to get the application approved before being able to return to study in the U.S.
40

III.
Traveling after graduation and Optional Practical Training
If you plan to return for F-1 Practical Training, it is important that you have the following documents in addition to those listed above for traveling abroad:
1.Your Employment Authorization Card
2.Proof of employment (letter from your employer or if you are not yet
employed, a proof of personal funds, i.e. bank statement).
3.You must still have a valid student visa to re-enter the United States
The same travel regulations apply for J-1 students as for F-1 students but instead of having an I-20, J students have a DS-2019.
IV.
Traveling home after graduation if you are an out of status student and/or did not comply with special call-in registration
If you did not register under the Special Call-In Registration program or if you are an Out- of -Status Student, you may be stopped at the airport or detained either when you are traveling out of the country or attempting to come back into the country. It is important that you contact your ISA, an immigration attorney, or the organizations listed below, to find out about possible solutions before you travel. There are both Special Call-In Registration requirements and
Special Registration requirements. Make sure that you have complied with all the regulations before you leave the United States.
V.
What to do if you are stopped at the airport or the border when you attempt to come back into the U.S.
At no time during the inspection process should you falsely claim to be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident to gain entry into the United States. If you do, you can be charged with a crime and deported permanently from the U.S.
VI.
Internal Border Checkpoints
You should have your travel documents in order not only when you travel out of the United States but also when traveling along the southern border of the
United States. There are internal border checkpoints along highways and roads that lead out of border cities, usually located every 50 miles or so along the major roads. For instance, I-10 from Miami to California has internal checkpoints. The checkpoints look very much like a tollbooth but instead they have Border Patrol Agents who may inquire about your immigration status. If you are out of status, they may detain you. You may not make a U-turn on the road if you notice a border checkpoint ahead of you because doing so raises suspicion. The Border Patrol will send a patrol car to stop your vehicle and perform an inspection. If you are stopped and do not have your documents with you, contact an attorney immediately and ask the Inspecting Officers to grant you parole or deferred inspection so that you can get the documents that prove that you are an in-status student. See Section Five.
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VII.
List of organizations that can help
The organizations listed below may be able to provide you with an attorney who can represent you free of charge or connect you with a reputable attorney in your area. It is best to have an attorney’s contact information before you travel out of the country.
American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC)
Legal Department
Tel: 202-244-2990
Fax: 202-244-3196
E-mail: legal@adc.org
Web: www.adc.org
American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)
Immigration Lawyer Referral Service (ILRS)
Tel: 800-954-0254
E-mail: ilrs@aila.org
Web: www.aila.org
Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)
Civil Rights Department
Tel: 202-488-8787
Fax: 202-488-0833
E-mail: CAIR@cair-net.org
Web: www.cair-net.org
National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild
Tel: 617-227-9727
Fax: 617-227-5495
E-mail: Leila@nationalimmigrationproject.org
Web: www.nationalimmigrationproject.org
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42

Definition
Statute
Bar to
Readmission
Waiver
Available
Effective
Date
Aggravated
Felonies
Everexpanding list of crimes appearing in the statute below
INA 1 s. 101
(a) (43)
Lifetime 2
None
Convictions on or after
11/18/88
Requisite
Period of
Incarceration
Varies by crime
Crimes
Involving
Moral
Turpitude 3
Act or
Omission which are contrary to moral laws and customary rules of right and duty between people
INA s. 237
(a) (2) (A)
(i)
10 Years
Full pardon by the
President or governor
Conviction within five years of admission
Conviction where a sentence of more than one year may be imposed
Multiple
Criminal
Convictions
Domestic
Violence
Same as one
CIMT
INA s. 237
(a) (2) (A) (ii)
10 Years
Same as one
CIMT
Convictions anytime after admission
None
Conviction for
Domestic
Violence,
Stalking,
Child Abuse and/or
Neglect, Child
Abandonment
OR violation of a protective order
INA s.237 (a)
(2) (E)
10 Years 4
None
Convictions after 9/30/96
None
Drug
Offenses
Violation of any law relating to controlled substances 5
INA s. 237
(a) (2) (B)
(i)
10 Years 6
None
Conviction any time after entry
None
1 “Immigration and Nationality Act”
2 Unless Attorney General has consented to readmission
3 “Crime involving Moral Turpitude”
4 Unless aggravated felony, then bar is lifetime.
5 Except single offense for possession of less than 30 grams of marijuana for one’s own use.
6 Unless aggravated felony, then bar is lifetime.
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43

When renting an apartment you are normally asked for a one month security deposit plus the first and last month’s rent. The security deposit will be returned to you when you leave if there has been no major damage to the apartment. For your own protection, you should examine the apartment carefully before you sign the lease (contract) and get a written statement from the landlord about the condition of the apartment at the time you move into it. The landlord or the leaser is the person who rents the apartment. The lease or contract between you
(tenant, lessee) and your landlord should specify the following renting conditions:
 Know which services and utilities are not included in the rent ~ electricity, gas, air-conditioning, TV antenna, washing machine, etc.
 Ask if the landlord will pay for repairs
 Know the exact duration of the lease
 Learn the conditions under which you can end the lease if you need to leave the apartment
 Ask if you can sublet to someone else and under what conditions you may do so
 Be sure the landlord knows the size of your family. (Some apartment houses do not allow children or pets.) www.guardianselect.net/Worcester-apartments-real-estate.htm
www.rent.com
www.worcester.americasapartments.com
www.tatnuckassociates.com
www.worcester.rentclicks.com
www.agentpreview.com/realtors/Massachusetts/Worcester_County
* The Office of International Students and Scholars is not affiliated with any rental agency or realtor; the web sites above are for your information only.
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44

Natural Gas
New England Gas Company http://www.negasco.com/
Fuel Oil Companies
The yellow pages in the telephone book list many oil companies. It is recommended that you look for a company that is full service, has a 24 hour burner service, installation and repair and will provide budget plans. The following are just a few in the area: www.cksmith petroleum.com , www.cleghornoil.com
, www.pioneer-oil.com
Fuel Assistance Program http://www.wcac.net/fuel_assistance.htm
Electric
Massachusetts Electric Company www.nationalgridus.com/masselectric
Water and Sewer (Winter plowing and Trash Collection)
The Department of Public Works, Worcester www.ci.worcester.ma.us/dpw
Cable
Charter Communications www.charter.com
Telephone
AT& T www.att.com
There are many telephone services listed in the Yellow pages of the Telephone book.
.
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45

Transportation
Taxi Services
 Arrow Cab- 508-756-9000
 Red Cab- 508-792-9999 (24- hour service)
 Worcester Yellow Cab- 508-754-3211 (24- hour service)
Bus Service
The Worcester Regional Transit Authority provides scheduled bus service throughout the city of Worcester and 13 surrounding communities including:
Auburn
Boylston
Brookfield
Clinton
East Brookfield
Holden
Millbury
Oxford
Shrewsbury
Spencer
Webster
West Boylston
Leicester
The WRTA also provides a variety of special services for elderly and disabled residents in the entire service area.
287 Grove Street
Worcester MA 01605 http://www.therta.com
Hours of operation:
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (4 p.m. for downtown customer service)
Phone numbers to contact:
Customer Service
508-791-WRTA (9782)
508-421-8796
508-421-8799
Use these numbers to call about schedules/routes, system maps, tickets/passes, snow routes, holiday hours, and to make complaints or provide suggestions. You can also e-`mail our customer service manager at rglavin@therta.com
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Top
Transportation in Worcester
Worcester Regional Transit Authority
Web Address: http://www.therta.com
Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
Web Address: http://www.mbta.com
Trains: leave the train station in Worcester located on Washington Square to
Boston South Station every 75 minutes.
Bus Companies serving Worcester:
Peter Pan and Greyhound
Web Address: www.peterpanbus.com
www.greyhound.com
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D’Errico’s Market
145 East Central Street
International Food Markets
Imported products from Italy and France
Worcester, MA
508-754-8630
Ed Hyder’s Mediterranean Marketplace
408 Pleasant Street
Worcester, MA
508-755-0258
George’s Fruit Store
347 Chandler Street
Worcester, MA
508-755-8793
Tom’s International Deli specialties
118 Water Street
Worcester, MA
508-755-7295
Fresh produce and imported specialties
Hungarian, Russian, Polish & German
Twin’s Oriental Market
118 Cambridge Street
Worcester, MA
508-798-2547
Worcester India Grocery
256 Shrewsbury Street
Worcester, MA
508-754-3407
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48

Stores/Restaurants in walking distance
Shaw’s Supermarket- Boston Turnpike Road in the White City Shopping Center
(White City Shopping Center – has many stores and restaurants)
Restaurants
Regatta Deli- 28 Lake Ave
El Basha- 424 Belmont St.
DeAngelo’s- 394 Belmont St.
Vinny Testa’s- 7 Boston Turnpike Rd.
MacDonald’s- Boston Turnpike Rd.
MacDonald’s – Shrewsbury St.
Burger King- Boston Turnpike Rd.
Piccadilly Pub – Shrewsbury St.
Things to do in Worcester www.socialweb.net
www.wormtown.org
www.eworcester.org
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49

Visiting the Library from Home www.worcpublib.org
Main Library
3 Salem Square, Worcester, MA 01606
508-799-1655
Monday 9:00 - 9:00
Tuesday 9:00 - 9:00
Wednesday 9:00 - 9:00
Thursday Closed
Friday 9:00 - 5:30
Saturday 9:00 - 5:30
Sunday Closed
Books 'n' More Store Hours
Monday, Tuesday and Thursday -- 12 noon to 4 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. to 12:30 a. m.
3 Salem Square Worcester,
MA 01608
508 799-1655
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50

All Saints Church – Episcopalian 508 752-3766
10 Irving Street Worcester, MA
Armenian Church of the Martyrs –Catholic 508-753-7650
22 Ormond Street Worcester, MA .
Christ Tabernacle Church- Protestant 508-753-7650
1189 Main Street Worcester, MA
Concordia Lutheran Church
86 Murray Street Worcester, MA
508-755-7351
Emmanuel Baptist Church
717 Main Street Worcester, MA
508-756-0009
First Baptist Church 508-755-6143
111 Park Avenue Worcester, MA
First Unitarian Universalist Church
90 Main Street Worcester, MA
508- 757-2708
St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox 508-791-7326
102 Russell Street Worcester, MA
Salem Covenant Church 508-853-4071
215 East Mountain Street Worcester, MA
Second Church of Christ, Scientist 508-757-2158
255 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA
St. Andrews United Methodist 508-756-9880
100 Chandler Street Worcester, MA
St. Matthews Parish 508-755-4433
695 Southbridge Street Worcester, MA
St Paul’s Cathedral – Catholic 508-799-4193
38 High Street Worcester, MA
St. Peter’s Church - Catholic 508-752-4674
929 Main Street Worcester, MA
Temple Emanuel 508-755-1257
280 May Street Worcester, MA
Temple Sinai 508-755-2519
661 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA
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Unitarian Universalist Church of Worcester 508-757-2708
90 Holden St. Worcester, MA
United Congregational Church 508-752-3785
6 Institute Road Worcester, MA
Wesley United Methodist Church 508-799-4191
114 Main Street Worcester, MA
Cathedral of St. Paul - Catholic
Church: 15 Chatham St.
Rectory: 38 High Street
Hispanic Apostolate
508-799-4193
508-754-3195
Ascension - Catholic
Church: 40 Vernon St.
Rectory: 48 Vernon St.
Parish Center: 40 Vernon St.
Blessed Sacrament - Catholic
Church: 555 Pleasant St.
Rectory: 551 Pleasant St.
Christ The King- Catholic Church
508-752-4459
508-753-9217
508-755-5291
508-752-4368
1052 Pleasant St.
Rectory: 1052 Pleasant St.
Religious Education: 1052 Pleasant St.
Parish Hall: 1052 Pleasant St.
Holy Name of Jesus – Catholic
Church: 53 Illinois St.
Rectory: 51 Illinois St. – Catholic
Parish Center: 53 Illinois St.
Religious Education: 53 Illinois St.
Immaculate Conception – Catholic
Church:353 Grove St.
Rectory: 353 Grove St.
Notre Dame-St. Joseph – Catholic
Notre Dame Church: at the Worcester Common
St. Joseph Church: 35 Hamilton St.
Rectory: 5 Whitman Road (mailing address)
Our Lady of the Angels – Catholic
Church: 1222 Main St.
Rectory: 1222 Main St.
Outreach Services: 1222 Main St.
508-754-5361
508-752-5514
508-753-7244
508-799-2792
508-752-9463
508-756-6370
508-754-8419
508-754-5009
508-438-1700
508-438-0368
508-791-0951
508-791-0951
508-754-4165
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Our Lady of Czestochowa – Catholic
Church: 34 Ward St. 01610
Rectory: 34 Ward St.
Our Lady Of Fatima – Catholic
Church: 43 Belmont St. 01605
Rectory: 7 Auburn St.
Religious Education:
3820
Our Lady of Loreto – Catholic
Church 37 Massasoit Road 01604
Rectory: 33 Massasoit Road
Our Lady of Lourdes – Catholic
Parish Center and administrative offices 37 Massasoit Road
Parish Hall: 37A Massasoit Road
508-755-5959
508-755-3820
508-755-6477
508-755-
508-753-5001
508-755-5001
508-752-9872
Church: 1290 Grafton St
Rectory: 1290 Grafton St.
Our Lady of Mercy (Maronite-Diocese of St. Maron of Brooklyn)
Church: 72 Mulberry St. – Catholic
Rectory: 74 Mulberry St.
Parish Hall: 72 Mulberry St.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel-St. Ann – Catholic
Church: 24 Mulberry t.
Rectory: 53 East Central St.
Parish Center: 28 Mulberry St
Our Lady of Perpetual Help - Catholic
508-757-0789
508-752-4287
508-754-3643
508-752-2964
508-797-4546
Church: 256 Hamilton St.
Rectory: 256 Hamilton St.
Our Lady of the Rosary - Catholic
Church: 25 Fales St.
Rectory: 23 Fales St.
Our Lady of Vilna (Vietnamese Masses) -Catholic
Church: 151 Sterling St.
Rectory: 153 Sterling St.
St. Andrew The Apostle - Catholic
Church: 5 Spaulding St.
Rectory: 16 Vineyard St.
Parish Hall: 5 Spaulding St.
St. Bernard - Catholic
Church: 228 Lincoln St.
508-752-4174
508-853-1640
508-752-1825
508-754-6057
508-752-4701
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Rectory: 236 Lincoln St.
St. Casimir - Catholic
Church: 41 Providence St.
Rectory: 41 Providence St.
St. Catherine of Sweden - Catholic
Church: 1 Wiser Ave.
Rectory: 3 Wiser Ave.
Parish Center: 5 Wiser Ave.
St. Charles Borromeo - Catholic
Church: 341 June St.
Rectory: 341 June St.
Parish Center: 341 June St.
St. Christopher - Catholic
Church: 950 West Boylston St.
Rectory: 950 West Boylston St.
St. George - Catholic
Church: 38 Brattle St.
508-791-3104
508-754-5142
508-752-1624
508-793-2187
508-799-4031
508-799-4031
508-853-1492
Rectory: 40 Brattle St.
St. Joan of Arc (Spanish Mass at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday)
Church: 570 Lincoln St.
Rectory: 570 Lincoln St.
St. John - Catholic
Church: 40 Temple St.
Rectory: 44 Temple St.
Islam Society of Greater Worcester
Buddhist
Zen Group First Unitarian Church
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508-853-0183
508-852-3232
508-756-7165
57 Laurel Street Worcester, MA
90 Main Street Worcester, MA
54

If You Have Children…
School
Children who are five years old should attend kindergarten and all children are required to attend school at the age of six. Public schools, which are regulated by the government, are free of charge and the location of your residence will determine which school your child will attend. Private schools charge a fee for each student. Please see http://profiles.doe.mass.edu/ for a listing of public and private schools in Massachusetts.
Childcare
Many families require childcare to meet their needs to balance family and work/school responsibilities. The first step in this process of choosing childcare is to know what your options are. The age of your child will determine what kinds of care are available to you. Your needs and those of your child will help determine the advantages and disadvantages of each option and will help you decide what is most appropriate for you and your family. Childcare is expensive and there is usually a waiting list for children to enter the program. You should look at different options and remember that the quality of care varies within each type of arrangement.
General questions to ask include:
 What are the hours and days of operation?
 What are the charges? (Hourly and weekly for in-home and family providers, weekly or monthly for centers or preschools)
 What are the enrollment policies, including the contract period?
 What is the philosophy of education/childcare?
 What is the staff- to- child ratio?
 What is the group size?
 What are the ages of the children?
 How is illness handled?
 How is discipline handled?
 Who provides snacks and meals?
Best resource to help you find childcare:
Massachusetts Office of Childcare Services- www.qualitychildcare.org
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55

Babytime! Is a weekly drop-in lap-sit series for birth through 16 months. It includes rhymes, chants, music, pictures, movement, and lots of fun. Each week’s
15-minute program is followed by an optional playtime for which the Worcester
Public Library provides toys and background music.
We call Babytime! A lap-sit program because each baby needs a lap! Each babyadult pair participates together. Adults help their babies with action rhymes, bounce them in time to chants, sing to/with them. Each baby must be accompanied by an adult, and siblings aren’t allowed to sit in.
Casual dressing (for both of you) is a good idea. We’ll be spending some time on the floor!
No registration is necessary for Babytime! Just drop in.
Please join us for many programs in this series. The more regularly you participate, the more fun it is.
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56

Junior/Senior High (diocesan)
144 Granite St., Worcester 01604
508-753-6371/Fax 508-831-1287
254 Still River Road, Still River
978-456-8877
425 Salisbury St., Worcester 01609
508-757-6200/Fax 508-757-7200
151 South St., Fitchburg 01420
978-343-7635/Fax 978-343-6579
45 Harvard Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420
978-342-3212/Fax 978-345-8067
378 Main St., Shrewsbury 01545
508-842-8934/Fax 508-842-3670
50 Richland St., Worcester 01610
508-753-1170/Fax 508-795-0560
781 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605
508-852-5555/Fax 508-852-7238
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P.O. Box 597, S Lancaster 01561
Langen Road, Lancaster 01523
978-365-4795
17 Grove St., Millbury 01527
508-865-5404/Fax 508-581-8974
Elementary
1220 Main St., Worcester 01603
508-752-5609/Fax 508-798-9634
99 Nichols Street, Gardner, MA 01440
978-632-8656/Fax 978-630-1433
53 Lynde St., Gardner 01440
978-632-0950/Fax 978-630-2448
213 Lancaster St., Leominster 01453
978-534-4770/Fax 978-466-1167
12 Day St., P.O. Box 818, Webster 01570
508-943-2735/Fax 508-94306215
123 Salem St., Fitchburg 01420
978-345-7785/Fax 978-342-5110
266 Main St. P.O Box 743, Northboro 01532
508-351-9905/Fax 508-393-2718
58

254 Summer St., Fitchburg 01420
978-342-1948/Fax 978-342-1153
35 Columbus St., Fitchburg 01420
978-343-3630/Fax 978-343-2671
47 Whitcomb St., Webster 01570
508-943-0378/Fax 508-949-0581
120 Main St., Leominster 01453
978-537-107/Fax 978-537-7420
40 Negus St., Webster 01570
508-943-0257/Fax 508-943-0257
128 Franklin St., Clinton 01510
978-365-3137/Fax 978-365-3380
16 Summit St., Shrewsbury 01545
508-842-1601/Fax 508-845-1535
50 Richland St., Worcester 01610
508-753-0484/Fax 508-767-1384
355 Grafton St., Worcester 01604
508-755-3209/Fax 508-770-1052
11 Pine St., Southbridge 01550
508-765-5991/Fax 508-765-0017
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365 Lindell Ave., Leominster 01453
978-537-4939/Fax 978-534-0347
11 East Main St.,Milford 01757
508-473-7303/Fax 508-478-4902
Our lady of the Valley Elementary
75 Mendon St., Uxbridge 01569
508-278-5851/Fax 508-278-0391
254 Still River Road, Still River 01467
978-456-8877
865 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01610
508-791-6496/Fax 508-770-0818
23 Edward St., Worcester 01605
508-753-3210/Fax 508-754-6050
Special Schools
77 Mulberry St., Leicester 01524
508-892-4707
Mercy Centre (Catholic Charities Program)
25 West Chester St., Worcester 01605
508-852-7165/Fax 508-856-9755
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60

Every parent or guardian who lives in this city during the school year and has custody of a child who has reached the age of five years shall place the child in regular attendance in a public or private school or private instruction. This responsibility for the parent/guardian continues until the child reaches the age of 18 years.
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61

Leominster Hospital ADCARE Hospital
107 Lincoln Street
Worcester, MA
Hospital Road
Leominster MA
508-799-7000 978-466-2000
Athol Memorial Hospital
2033 Main Street
Marlborough Hospital
57 Union Street
Athol, MA Marlborough, MA
978-249-3511 508-481-5000
Burbank Hospital
Nichols Road
Milford-Whitinsville Hospital
14 Prospect Street Milford MA
Fitchburg, MA 508-473-1190
978-343-5000
Umass Medical Health Care
201 Highland Street
Clinton MA
Nashoba Community Hospital
200 Groton Road
Ayer, MA
978-772-0200 978-772-0200
Fairlawn Rehabilitation Hospital Naukeag Hospital
189 May Street
Worcester, MA
216 Lake Road
Ashburnham, MA
508-872-5155 978-872-5155
MetroWest
115 Lincoln Street
Framingham, MA
508-798-1234
Harrington Memorial Hospital
100 South Street
Southbridge, MA
Street 508-765-9771
Henry Haywood Memorial Hospital
242 Green Street
Gardner, MA
978-632-3420
Hubbard Regional Hospital
340 Thompson Road
Webster, MA
508-943-2600
The Medical Center of Central
Massachusetts
Hahnemann: 281 Lincoln
Worcester, MA
508-792-8000
UMass Memorial: Belmont St.
Worcester, MA
508-793-6611
University Campus
55 Lake Ave North
Worcester, MA
508-856-0011
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Fact: The “international License” is not recognized in the state of
Massachusetts
Fact: All people moving to Massachusetts have 30 days in which to obtain a
Massachusetts Driver’s License.
All information regarding Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles can be found at www.state.ma.us/rmv
For those people who will be here temporarily (up to six months), a list of those countries that have reciprocal privileges is below. This means if you come from a country on this list, and have a valid driver’s license from that country, you do not need a Massachusetts Driver’s License. If your country is not on the list and you are here temporarily, you do need a Massachusetts Driver’s License.
Albania
Azerbaijan
Benin
Canada
Cuba
Algeria
Bahamas
Botswana
Central African
Republic
Cyprus
Argentina
Bangladesh
Brazil
Chile
Armenia
Barbados
Bulgaria
Columbia
D’Ivoire
Australia
Belgium
Byelorussia
Congo
Denmark
Austria
Belize
Cambodia
Costa Rico
Ecuador
France
Egypt
Gambia
Czech
Republic
El Salvador
Georgia
Estonia
Germany
Fiji
Ghana
Dominican
Republic
Finland
Greece
Grenada Guatemala Guyana Haiti Honduras
Hungary
Ivory Coast
Korea
Lithuania
Iceland
Jamaica
Kyrgyz Rep.
Luxembourg
India
Japan
Laos
Madagascar
Ireland
Jordan
Latvia
Malawi
Israel
Kazakhstan
Lebanon
Malaysia
Hong Kong (not including China)
Italy
Kazakh
Lesotho
Mali
Malta
Namibia
Panama
Portugal (inc
Portuguese
Territories
Sierra Leone
Mauritius Mexico Moldova
Netherlands &
Antilles and
Aruba
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea Paraguay
Nicaragua
Peru
Romania Russian Fed.
Rwanda
San Marino
Singapore Slovak Republic South Africa
Monaco
Niger
Philippines
Senegal
Morocco
Norway
Poland
Seychelles
Sri Lanka
Suriname Swaziland
Spain (inc.
African localities and provinces
Sweden Switzerland St. Lucia St. Vincent &
Grenadines
Syrian Arab
Republic
Trinidad
&Tobago
Taiwan
Tunisia
United
Kingdom
Uruguay
Western Samoa Zaire
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Tajikstan
Turkey
Uzbekistan
Zambia
Tanzania
Turkmenistan
Vatican City
Zimbabwe
Thailand
Uganda
Venezuela
Togo
Ukraine
Vietnam Republic
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Owning a car in Massachusetts is expensive. Car related expenses often exceed the price you pay for the car. When you buy a car you must purchase car insurance, register your car with the State of Massachusetts and have your car inspected. Before buying a used car you should have a mechanic examine the car. Massachusetts does have a “Buyer’s Right to Return Law” (Lemon Law), which allows a buyer to return the car for a full refund under certain conditions.
When you find a car you want to buy, be sure the car has a “title” (certificate of ownership). When you purchase the car, the previous owner must sign the title and give it to you in order to legally transfer ownership of the car to you. This usually requires a notary public to witness the signatures. The next step is to purchase auto insurance. You may look in the yellow pages of a local telephone book to find companies that sell auto insurance. The price of the insurance will depend on the age of the car, the make and style and the coverage you select. You should take the title and your driver’s license to the insurance company. For an additional fee some insurance companies will also register your car and get the license plates for you. If you register the car by yourself, you must bring proof of car insurance, the bill of sale, proof of payment of sales tax, and the title to the Registry of Motor Vehicles. Fees are involved, so it is best to check with the insurance company as to the fee amounts.
RENTING A CAR
Instead of purchasing a car, you may prefer to rent a car for occasional weekend excursions and trips outside the Worcester area. You can look in the yellow pages of local telephone books to find Automobile Renting and Leasing. You will need a driver’s license and a major credit card. Prices will vary between companies. You should purchase the insurance, unless your credit card company offers car insurance on rentals for being a member.
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Fact Sheet – Child Passenger Safety
Child Passenger Safety Recommendations
 The Massachusetts Law requires children to ride in child passenger restraints until they are five (5) years old and weigh 40 pounds
 Always follow manufacturer’s instructions when installing a child safety seat.
 Infants up to twenty (20) pounds and one (1) year old should ride in a rearfacing child safety seat.
 Children in a rear-facing child safety seat should never be placed in the front seat of a vehicle with passenger-side air bags. An inflating airbag striking a rear-facing child safety seat can result in death or severe injury.
 Children who weigh more than twenty (20) ponds and who are one (1) year of age or older may ride in a forward-facing child safety seat.
 Children between forty (40) and eighty (80) ponds and less than 4’9 tall should ride in a booster seat. A booster seat helps the seat belt fit correctly and safely, providing the child with more comfort and visibility.
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 Children 12 years old and under should sit in the rear seat whenever possible to reduce their risk of serious injury or death.
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CAR CARE
The American Automobile Association (AAA) provides automobile services at a very low cost such as towing, auto repair, referrals, discounts on repairs and insurance, travel information, maps, passport photos…to name a few. For more information call the number below.
25 Mountain Street East
Worcester MA 01606-1498
508-853-7000
Monday-Friday: 9 am-5 pm
Saturday: 9 am-1 pm
Sunday: All Branches Closed www.aaa.com
Note: Your best source of finding reliable and honest auto repair is to ask friends and/or colleagues.
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In order that you will be able to receive best credit and lower cost of car insurance in
Massachusetts, we strongly recommend that:
1.
You have a letter (in English) stating that you have a clean driving record for at least the last 6 years or however long the license has been active.
2.
You have a Foreign or International Driver’s License Number and the “Date of
License” first issued in that country.
If possible, you will need to provide a driver’s license, picture, and passport – but it is not necessary.
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Campus life in the United States, especially in urban areas, is sometimes perceived as dangerous by foreign students and their families. This perception is heightened by international media coverage of violent incidents, which, fortunately, occur very infrequently. Universities and colleges in the United States want to provide you with a safe and secure environment in which to pursue your academic and social goals.
How safe is the institution you have chosen? All colleges and universities publish an annual security report detailing campus security policies and procedures and presenting statistics on crime on campus and in the surrounding area. You can obtain your institution’s most recent report by contacting the Admissions Office.
“Better safe than sorry,” goes the American saying. No matter how safe your campus and community appear to be, you should acquaint yourself with your new environment by reading the safety information your institution provides. Upon arrival, begin orienting yourself:
 Familiarize yourself with your neighborhood and campus by walking around in the daylight.
 Ask fellow students or staff members about areas you should avoid at night.
 Do not walk alone at night.
 Note the address and telephone of your country’s nearest consulate or embassy.
 Locate the police station that serves your neighborhood.
 Locate the nearest fire-alarm box and learn how to report a fire.
 Identify the hospital emergency room nearest to your home and know what to do in case of an accident.
 Keep emergency numbers near your phone at home (911 is the general emergency number in the United States).
 Visit the international student office for further information.
911
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New England is one of the most beautiful areas in the United States. Mother Nature has graced this region with very obvious change of seasons. Winter ranges from fairly mild to extreme cold…an occurrence that can take place in the same day! Snow is a guarantee as the average temperature is 28 degrees Fahrenheit. Protective clothing is recommended; undergarments called “long johns,” warm trousers, shirt, sweater/sweatshirt, heavy weight socks and boots. Temperatures as low as –4* F with a wind chill factor of –40* F are typical for winters in New England.
Average Temperatures in winter
December High 37*F Low 2*F
January High 32*F Low 15*F
February High 36*F Low 18*F
The first day of spring is usually around the 21 st of March. Spring is the time of year when winter is ending yet summer has not yet begun. Before long the flowers will bloom and the air will begin to get warmer. A sweater, sweatshirt or light jacket is perfect for outside activity.
Average Temperatures in Spring
March High 45*F Low 28*F
April
May
High 59*F Low 37*F
High 71*F Low 4*F
In the northern half of the world, the first day of summer is usually around June 21 st and is the longest day of the year. The sounds of lawn mowers are everywhere, and everyone’s heading to the pool. It’s time for sunscreen and summer fun. Cool, comfortable clothing is the expected dress.
Average Temperatures in Summer
June
July
High 79*F Low 57*F
High 83*F Low 61*F
August High 81*F Low 60*F
The first day of fall is September 23 rd , children head back to school, the leaves begin to change color and drop from the trees, birds fly south and the warm breezes of summer give way to brisk winds that whisper the beginning of winter. Warmer clothing, long sleeves, sweaters and jackets are the desirable attire.
Average Temperatures in Fall
September High 73*F Low 50*F
October High 63*F Low 40*F
November High 49*F Low 32*F
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