Letter to our Students
Dear ELI Student,
Welcome to the English Language
Institute and the University of HoustonDowntown! We are pleased that you
chose to come to our program for your
English language training. We know
that you will benefit from your new
program of studies and that you are
really going to enjoy your time here in
Houston!
This handbook has important
information about the English Language
Institute, the University of HoustonDowntown, the city of Houston and
American culture. Please keep this
handbook in an accessible place
because it will be helpful to you. If you
have any questions or if you need any
additional information, please come to
the ELI Office and we will be happy to
help you.
University of Houston-Downtown
One Main Street
Houston, Texas 77002
English Language Institute
(713) 221-8047
International Student Office
(713) 221-8048
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ABOUT THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE
INSTITUTE (ELI)
UHD and ELI SERVICES
The English Language Institute helps
international students learn English
language skills and make cultural
adjustments to a new country. We focus on
your safety and comfort, your
understanding of the U.S. culture, your
enjoyment during your time with us, and
your fast, comprehensive mastery of
English. All of our services and programs
are designed with these goals in mind.
There are many services available for you
at the university. Here are some:
•UHD Student Health Center (if you
have UHD medical insurance)
•UHD Facilities (gym, library, cafeteria)
•UHD Counseling Center (mental health)
•UHD International Student Advisor
•UHD International Student Organization
•ELI Orientation
•ELI Language and Computer Labs
•ELI Activities and Parties
•ELI Fieldtrip and Tours
•ELI Scholarship
•ELI Letters and Transcripts
•ELI Morning Coffee Service
•ELI Free Friday Popcorn
The main program offered by the ELI is the
intensive English program, which
emphasizes English language training for
academic preparation. In this course, you
will be prepared to use the English
language in a way that is beneficial to your
later studies at a U.S. university. Many
professionals also find this course helpful
because its goal is the proper use of the
grammar, idioms, writing styles and
vocabulary commonly used by educated
speakers. However, some professionals
are more interested in speaking skills than
writing skills, so the ELI offers a choice of
Writing or Advanced Conversation at its
upper levels.
GETTING COMFORTABLE
Coming to a new country
can be a lot of fun! There
are many new and
interesting people to meet
and things to see and do.
But you will have a better
experience if you know
what to expect. Experts
agree that there is a pattern
involved in how new
students get settled. This
pattern has a name:
Students in levels Four through Seven
study in the morning from 9:00 to 1:00.
Students in levels Prep through Three
study in the afternoon from 1:00 to 5:00.
Many students worry about their TOEFL or
IELTS score. The main ELI program will
help prepare you for these tests. The ELI
also offers a short course in TOEFL
Preparation for an extra charge. The ELI
free laboratory has many software
programs for students to help themselves in
weak areas. This includesTOEFL
preparation software.
Cultural Adjustment Cycle
Here are the steps involved in this
cycle:
Instructors and administrators at the ELI
want you to learn English as quickly and as
well as possible. All efforts possible are
made to help you achieve your language
goals quickly and efficiently.
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comfortable. It is still difficult, but you can
survive. You do not feel so overwhelmed.
•Excitement -- You are happy and excited
to arrive in the U.S. and see so many new
things. This reaction lasts for a few weeks
or months.
•Full Adaptation -- At last, you can
function comfortably and easily in this new
culture. You feel more at home, and things
do not seem as foreign and strange as they
once did. Your language skills are better,
too! Your perseverance, patience and
tolerance have given you time to adjust,
and now your life is more complete.
•Frustration -- As you try to get
comfortable, you have difficulties coping
with the basics of everyday life. You get
frustrated. Everything is too foreign, too
complex. You start seeing all of the
differences between the U.S. and home.
The differences are usually negative. You
are not happy and you wonder if you made
a mistake in coming.
•Going Home -- You are looking forward
to going home, but it may not be as you
expect. In fact, some international students
say that going back home is the most
difficult part of their journey. Why? You
have changed. People at home may not
understand your experience or your
changes. You will have to adjust again. It
may be hard.
•Uneasy adaptation -- As you get more
used to the U.S., you learn more of what
you have to do to make yourself feel
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Here are some suggestions to
Improve your comfort level during
the Cultural Adjustment Cycle:
What You Should Know About U.S.
Culture
Time: Americans say, “Time is money.”
Being on time is important. It is impolite to
be late. Also, you may be left behind.
•Most importantly,
realize that what you
are feeling is normal.
All international
students go through
these feelings and
reactions. Do not let
this stop you.
•Negativity will only make things worse.
Try not to label things as bad. Instead,
notice that they are different. Give yourself
the time you need to get comfortable.
Hygiene: Personal cleanliness is important
in every country.
Americans consider
strong body odors
and strong fragrances
to be unpleasant and
rude.
Bathe and use
deodorant daily.
Wash your clothes
after each use. Go easy on perfumes.
•Get involved with people and activities you
like. Americans will be interested to hear
about your culture. Find some friends
among other students in your classes.
Remember, they are feeling the same
things you are. Student organizations at
school will help you make friends and get
involved in social activities. Sports can be
a good relief for tension. Try to stay busy.
You do not want to sit around alone and
feel depressed! Know that your frustrations
and discomfort will change with time.
Equality: Generally, Americans value
equality among people. Asking for special
treatment can be offensive. Expecting
special treatment can leave you feeling
frustrated and denied.
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Friendship: Americans are a friendly,
open people and you will make friends
here. However, it takes time to make
friends. You need to know that Americans
exhibit casual friendliness. They greet you
with a smile and friendly words. They may
casually suggest getting together
sometime. These are general expressions
of acceptance and interst, but may not be
meant literally, especially if no exact time is
suggested or agreed upon.
Physical Space:
Although Americans shake hands when
they meet, they generally do not touch one
another. They do not embrace, kiss one
another’s cheek, or stand close together.
Standing too close is considered rude or
threatening. On the other hand, standing
too far away indicates coldness or dislike.
Americans do not come to another’s house
without first agreeing to the meeting unless
they are close friends. Pushing someone
to meet may be viewed with suspicion.
Conversation: For Americans, it is like
tennis. First one person speaks, then the
second speaks, then the first, then the
second, and so on. Interruptions occur
between friends. When talking with a
person in authority, generally that person
speaks without interruption until they signal
that it is your turn. If you interrupt, you are
being rude and may not get what you want.
There is more chance of making a mistake
when the American involved is female.
When a female indicates disinterest, calling
her often or often being where she will be is
considered stalking and can result in legal
action taken.
Of course, making friends and even dating
is quite acceptable in American society. A
good way to meet Americans and make
friends is by joining student organizations
or volunteer organizations. The classroom
and the gym are also places where you can
meet Americans.
Negotiation: In general, Americans do not
negotiate. You may offend if you try to
negotiate. (Exception: do negotiate when
purchasing an automobile.) This is true for
all types of negotiation: money, grades,
broken rules, promotion, and so on.
Do not rush into dating until you are fairly
comfortable with the unspoken rules of the
culture. Things are not always as they
appear. Mistaken assumptions about
dating can lead to problems with the police,
so be careful, ask for advice, and read
pamphlets in the ELI Lab first.
Rules: Americans believe that rules are
made to help people. Rules are not like
guidelines; they are more like unwritten
laws. The best way to protect yourself and
avoid trouble is to know and follow the
rules. The same is true of laws.
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drinking alcoholic beverages. Do not drink
if you are under 21 years of age. Do not
use or sell illegal drugs. Do not carry illegal
drugs, alcoholic beverages or guns in your
car. The penalties are very serious. Also,
it is dangerous for you.
Federal and
State Laws
International
students, like all
Americans, are
expected to
know and obey
the law. There can be serious
consequences if you do not obey the law.
If you break the law, you will be treated in
the same way as an American. You will
have the right to a lawyer and a trial. If you
are found guilty of a crime while in the U.S.,
you may be sent back to your country and
lose your right to return to the United
States.
Drinking (Alcohol) Laws
You must be 21 or older
to buy or drink alcohol.
It is illegal to drive after
drinking alcohol.
Open containers of
alcohol (even beer) in your
car are illegal.
Ignorance of the Law
Illegal (Recreational) Drugs
Even though you
are from another
country, you are
expected to know
the laws. Not
knowing will not
protect you from
prosecution. If
you are not
certain whether
an action is legal or not, ask an ELI
staff member. If you have a legal
problem, hire a lawyer to help you.
Do not purchase, sell or use illegal
drugs. Drugs that may seem mild to you,
such as marijuana, are viewed like all other
illegal drugs in the eyes of the law. You
can pay a high fine. You can go to jail.
You can go to prison.
Basic Immigration Laws
The International Student Advisor provides
information you need to know about
immigration law. Report any change of
address. Attend school to stay in status.
Only work at a job on the university campus.
Other jobs are illegal.
Tobacco
Smoking is legal, but only in designated
smoking areas. Most public buildings are
“smoke free” which means you cannot
smoke there. This includes restaurants.
You may smoke outside but follow the
signs for designated smoking areas. Of
course, you may smoke in your own home.
Basic U.S. Laws
Many laws are the same in all countries:
(do not kill; do not steal). In the U.S., all
drivers need a driver’s license. Because
Driving While Intoxicated violations are very
serious, never drive when you have been
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However, a
policeman has the
authority in any
situation. You must
cooperate with
police officers. If a
police officer stops
you on the road or
arrests you, do not
resist. When
stopped while
driving, stay in your
car. Keep your
hands on the
steering wheel to
show they are
empty. Give the
policeman any
identifying information asked for. Be polite. Be
respectful. You have the right to ask why you
are being arrested or stopped and you have
the right not to speak until you have an
attorney present.
Legal Information
If you have a
problem which
requires legal
advice, you can
make an
appointment to
see a lawyer.
A fixed fee is charged to evaluate the problem
and suggest appropriate action. It is
recommended that you obtain an estimate in
writing if additional fees are involved. Legal
fees can rise very quickly if unexpected
problems occur.
Legal Line
The Houston Bar Association's public
service program, Legal
Line, is held on the first
and third Wednesday
of each month, from 5
p.m. to 9 p.m. The
public may call
volunteer lawyers at
713-759-1133. The
lawyers will answer
simple legal questions,
give brief legal advice
or refer the call to the
appropriate social service agency for
further assistance.
Bribes or Gifts of Money for a
Consideration
In many cultures, giving money to a person
in authority is the accepted way to achieve
a better outcome in a situation or to get
what you want. In some cultures, this is a
very open exchange. In other cultures,
everyone says it is wrong but still it is
regularly done and the unspoken
understanding is that it is okay. In the
United States, bribes are not acceptable. If
you offer a bribe to an officer of the law,
you will be arrested. If you try to bribe an
authority figure, such as the Director of the
ELI or a teacher, you may be Suspended
from the school. Of course, there are all
kinds of people. You may find someone
who will take a bribe, but you need to know
that this means you are dealing with
someone who is dishonest. Such a person
could as easily cheat or hurt you as take
your money. It is best to avoid trouble by
never offering a bribe.
Police Officers
American police officers serve and protect
the public. They can be very helpful.
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•Be polite and cooperative
•Display a serious intention to learn
•Follow the instructor’s direction and
advice
•Maintain an acceptable level of
personal hygiene
•Comply with all stated university
rules and regulations
ELI CLASSROOM CONDUCT
1. Arrive at class on time or early.
Three tardies count as an absence.
2. Purchase book within 3 class days of
the session’s start or you will not be
allowed to attend. Copying is illegal.
3. Do your own work. Cheating and
plagiarizing can result in zeros and
even level failure.
4. No electronics may be used in the
classroom (no cell phones,
dictionaries, laptops, or other
devices). Turn cell phones off.
5. Behavior that disrupts
instruction is not permitted.
UHD RULES OF CONDUCT
•Obey federal, state and municipal
laws.
•Obey all published university
policy.
•Provide true, honest information to
the ELI and to UHD.
•Meet your financial obligations.
•Use school equipment properly and
safely, and leave it at school.
•Cooperate fully with teaching,
administrative, disciplinary,
and other authorized activities.
•Act in ways that keep the university
community safe and healthy.
•Obey laws that prohibit alcoholic
beverages, narcotics, or
firearms on campus.
•Obey no-smoking rules inside all
buildings on campus.
•Meet all financial responsibilities to the
university. There are penalties for
failing to do so.
6. If you are having difficulty in a class,
make an appointment with the instructor
for help. Often, teachers will not
challenge your independence by
offering help until you ask for it. Your
progress in class is primarily your
responsibility. Take charge!
7. Students may be absent from classes a
total of 20 hours in a session.
Additional absences will result in level
failure. Absence in a single class of
more than 5 hours can result in failure;
absence of more than 10 hours in a
single class will result in failure.
ELI STUDENT
RESPONSIBILITIES
Life is much easier
when you know what
people expect of you.
•Attend classes regularly, on time
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8. When absent, ask your teacher for
missed assignments. Make up all work
missed.
9. Displays of temper, violence or bad
manners are not acceptable. Arguing
with an instructor during classtime is not
acceptable. Make an appointment if
you are unhappy about something.
ID photo is taken and the Identification card
is given to the student immediately at no
cost. Whenever the student pays for more
classes, the student gets the ID updated.
ELI Photograph Policy
The ELI takes many photographs of
students during activities. However,
students have the right to refuse to have
their photos displayed or published. When
you register, if you sign the Photo Release
form, you have given us permission to use
your photo in bulletin board displays, on
monitors and websites, in ads, and even in
videos. If you do not want your photo
displayed, do not sign the form. Anytime
someone is taking general photographs of
ELI students, you must remove yourself
from the field of view and also tell the
photographer that you do not want your
photo taken or displayed.
9. Report needs and problems to your
instructor. For additional help, visit your
Level Coordinator or the ELI Director.
Session Schedule
ELI STUDENT POLICIES
Intensive English sessions have 33 days of
in-class English instruction including final
tests. That generally
makes sessions six-and-ahalf weeks long, although
the schedule can change
due to scheduled holidays.
You can get a class
calendar from the ELI front
office. Classes meet four
hours a day, five days a week, in the
mornings for Levels Four through Seven,
and in the afternoons for Levels Prep
through Three. The ELI schedule can be
changed without notice if registration
warrants additional class times. The
computer laboratory is open on most classday afternoons.
FERPA
Under the Family Education Rights and
Privacy Act, students can review their
education records, request an amendment
of information believed to be misleading or
inaccurate, consent to disclosures of
personally identifiable information in
education records to a third party (with
some restrictions), and file a complaint
about alleged failure of the university to
comply with FERPA. See the ELI Director
to get a handout with full information about
the FERPA policy if you desire this
information, or visit the UHD Registrar for
more data.
University Identification Cards
University identification cards (ID cards)
allow student access to university facilities
such as the gym and the library. They can
also be used as a means of identification
outside of the university. Registered ELI
students show their payment receipt at
Student Activities on the second floor. An
Tuition and
Refunds
ELI tuition is
based upon
residency status.
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International students, whose parents do
not pay U.S. taxes, pay more than citizens
and residents. Tuition is higher for the
Business English course because it has
more hours of instruction. ELI classes are
sold by the session. A significant discount
applies for students who purchase a twosession block of classes. Late registration
is accepted, but students must pay a late
fee.
The ELI refund policy is included in ELI
registration materials. Refunds are based
upon number of class days attended. All
refunds are subject to a $60.00 processing
fee. You can get a copy of the policy from
the front office.
on the syllabus which is given to students
at the beginning of the class. Class rules
appear there, too. Teacher syllabi also
explain the teacher’s grading system.
Class Size
The average ELI class size is 13 students
and seldom exceeds 19 students.
Gatekeeper Testing
At the end of Levels 2, 4 and 6, the ELI
administers a Gatekeeper Test. This exam
tests all of the language skills you have
learned in your studies. A score of 70% is
required on this test in order to pass to the
next level. Even if you have passing
grades in your classes, you must have a
score of 70% or better on the Gatekeeper
in order to be promoted.
Placement Testing
You are given a diagnostic
test before entering the
ELI to evaluate your
proficiency in listening,
reading, grammar and
writing. You are placed in
the appropriate level from
Prep to Level Seven according to your
performance on these tests. Placement
tests at unusual times may be administered
under special circumstances for a fee.
Promotion
At the end of the session, you may be
promoted to the next level. This is
determined at leveling meetings, attended
by all the instructors at a given level. Your
instructors will discuss your
proficiency and progress for the
session to determine whether you
are ready to move on to the next
level or whether you should stay
at the same level for another
session. The Level Coordinator
completes your Student
Evaluation form with your grades,
your Gatekeeper test grade if it
applies to your level, and your
instructors’ comments for each
skill. This form is placed in your
Grading
Every student in the English
Language Institute receives a class
grade at the end of each session.
Your class grades are based on your
performance on
classroom tests, daily work and class
participation. Instructors indicate the
weight of various course assignments
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file, and on the day after the leveling
meeting.
Final Grades used on transcripts and on
Student Evaluation Forms use the following
grading system:
P+
P
IP
NP
NPA
W
awarded to the student who writes the best
essay. All students on the Honors List the
previous session may compete for this
scholarship.
Pass with Honors
Pass
In Progress (student has worked
hard but has not progressed
sufficiently to pass the level)
No Pass (student has not completed
assignments and does not pass to
the next level)
No Pass due to Absence; student
may be re-evaluated.
Withdrawal
Graduation
A small graduation
ceremony is held each
session for students
who have successfully
completed Level 7.
Students must achieve
a passing grade in all
four Level 7 classes to
graduate (no IP or NP grades).
You must have a minimum of 3 P's and 1 IP
in order to be promoted to the next level
(and a passing Gatekeeper score if
appropriate). However, if you already
received a IP during the past session and
get an IP in the same skill area, you will not
pass. (Once a student has failed a level,
the process begins over again.) If you
receive an NP in any class, you will not be
promoted to the next level.
Recommendation
Graduates from the ELI’s Level 7 may
attend credit classes at UHD without a
TOEFL score if recommended by the ELI.
(Residents and citizens have no TOEFL
requirement, so do not need
recommendation.) Eligible students must
have taken Writing in Levels 6 and 7, must
have passed all of their level 7 classes,
must have submitted a Recommendation
Application at the end of the fourth week of
the session and must have passed the Exit
exam in the sixth week of classes. The test
results,
Transcripts
Transcripts of all of your ELI work are
available (with 24-hour notice) for a fee of
$5.00. Ask at the front desk.
Academic Recognition
Class grades are used to determine your
scholastic average. Students with three P+
and one P grade are placed on the Honors
List, and students with 4 P+ grades are
listed in the Special Honors section of the
Honors List.
along with successful graduation from Level
7, determine readiness to begin academic
work at UHD. You must take the ELI Exit
test while you are enrolled in Level 7. It is
not available to an ELI graduate after
graduation.
ELI Scholarship in Excellence
The ELI honors one student
each university semester
with the ELI Scholarship in
Excellence. This $200.00
reduction in tuition is
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disciplinary action are present. In such
cases, you will be placed on Disciplinary
Probation immediately. If your behavior
does not improve, your study will be
terminated. The disciplinary action will be
reflected in your file and on any SEVIS
documentation.
Student Attendance Policy
Students are required to come to class on a
regular basis. Chronic absence of F-1
students is reportable to Immigration.
The ElLI allows you 20 free hours of
absence (although all work missed must be
made up). When you exceed 5 absences
from any one class, you may fail that class
if the instructor so chooses. At the tenth
absence, you will fail. If absent, you are
required to make up any work missed. If
you miss an instructor’s test or had an
assignment to turn in, your grade will be
governed by that instructor’s make-up
policies as stated in the instructor’s
syllabus.
If you fail the same level twice, you will be
placed on Academic Probation. If you fail
the same level for the third time, you will be
placed on Academic Suspension, which
means you may not return to the ELI for
twelve months.
Communication
The ELI communicates with students in
several ways. The most important way is
by email. You are asked to provide an
email address, and all important school
information will be sent to you at that
address. Let us know if it changes.
ELI instructors report absences as a
record-keeping means of assuring the
immigration service that a student is
attending full-time and is in status as a
result. They also report tardies. A "tardy"
means being late for class. Three tardies
constitute an absence.
Some information is posted to the TV
monitors in the hall near the ELI door.
Check the monitors once a day for any
reminders.
You will receive warnings from the ELI by
email if your get three class absences.
That is your warning that your absences
are becoming excessive. After your fifth
class absence, you are on your own. Be
careful! Absences are serious and most
often the reason students fail their level.
The ELI may send you notes, memos or
letters through your class instructor, or the
Director may ask to see you after class.
You may communicate with the ELI by
coming to the front office, making an
appointment with the Director, or using
email.
Disciplinary and Academic
Probation/Suspension Policy
If you violate the rules
of conduct of the
English Language
Institute or the
University of HoustonDowntown, or
demonstrate that your
primary purpose is not
to study, you may face disciplinary action.
The Director of the English Language
Institute reserves the right to refuse
admission to any student when grounds for
Problems and Complaints
If you need help or have a
problem at school, speak to
your teacher after class. If
you still need help, speak to
your Level Coordinator. If the
problem cannot be resolved,
the ELI Director will decide or, in extreme
cases, send you to the Campus Relations
and Student Conduct officer.
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Personal Counseling
Sometimes, life is difficult and problems
seem overwhelming. You may be too tired,
very depressed or
unable to function. You
may feel extremely sad
or homesick. Trained
counselors can help
you. If you would like to
speak to a UHD
counselor, go to the
UHD Counseling Center
next to the Student
Health Center on floor 4.
1. The lab is designed for self-help. You
may ask your instructor or the Lab
Coordinator what materials to use to
solve weaknesses in your language
learning.
2. Materials cannot be checked out.
However, you may use a large array of
computer software to support your
English language learning.
3. The copying of material is a violation of
copyright law and is not permitted.
4. Equipment problems are reported to the
lab assistant or instructor. Students
should not fix equipment.
5. You may not eat and drink in the lab.
6. You will lose all lab privileges if you load
anything onto the computers, either
from a disk or the Internet.
7. The lab is a place for English study.
Visiting inappropriate sites (such as
pornography sites) will result in the loss
of your lab privileges.
8. From 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., lower level
students may use the lab. From 1:00 to
5:00 p.m., upper level students may use
the lab. Computers may only be used
for English study and occasional email.
9. Ask for permission before you
use the ELI printer. Large print
outputs are not allowed.
10. Always clean up after yourself when
you are ready to leave the lab. Put
away all materials you have used and
throw away any garbage.
University Credit
ELI graduates who take at least 12 credit
hours successfully at UHD will receive an
additional 3 hours of elective credit in
American Studies. Contact the ELI for a
letter.
Weather Closings
Sometimes Houston
has storms or
flooding. UHD may
close due to severe
weather. An
announcement is
made on the radio, on television (Channels
2, 11, and 13) and on the UHD website,
www.uhd.edu. Do not assume that UHD
is closed unless you hear or read one of
these announcements. Only if the school
closes is your absence excused.
Laboratory Policy
The ELI Lab Coordinator manages both ELI
laboratories (computer labs and language
lab) and sets policies for use of lab facilities
and equipment. Laboratory rules are
designed to make your lab time effective
and pleasant.
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IMMIGRATION
The Immigration Customs Enforcement,
known as ICE, is an agency of the U.S.
Department of Homeland Security. It is
responsible for approving all petitions
I-94 Form
The I-94 form or Record of Arrival and
Departure is stapled into your passport
upon entering the U.S. It is a very
important document, on which the date of
arrival is stamped. In the lower right-hand
corner, the expiration date appears. For F1 students, the form
I-94 is valid for D/S (Duration of Stay). The
form I-94 also contains an admission
number in the upper left-hand corner. This
is your permanent identification number,
which must be used in all communication
with the INS.
presented by you in matters related to legal
status. All schools are required to comply
with immigration law.
UHD International Student Office
The International Student Office is located
on the third floor. All immigration and
naturalization forms relating to your studies
will be provided to you by the International
Admissions Office. You should direct any
concerns or questions regarding
immigration matters to this office.
I-765 Form Application for Employment
Authorization
This form must be used by F-1 or M-1 visa
holders to request
 Permission for emergency offcampus employment
 Permission for Practical Training
SEVIS I-20 Form or Certificate of
Eligibility Form
An I-20 is a document issued by a school
after the applicant has met
all admission requirements. You must
enter the school that has admitted you. If
you wish to transfer immediately from ELI,
a $200.00 administrative fee will be
assessed.
I-538 Form
The I-538 form is used as supporting
documentation for Form I-765.
I-539 Form
The I-539 form must be used to request
 permission to extend temporary stay
in the U.S.
 permission to change from one nonimmigrant status to a different nonimmigrant status
14
I-20 Form
completed the admissions process, the new
school will issue you an I-20 form.
The I-20 form is the document you receive
from a school that allows you to apply for
an F-1 visa. It is sent to
you when your application
for that school is
accepted. If your I-20
expires while you are
taking classes, you must
extend it in order to
remain in status.
You must have INS approval to transfer to
another school. If the transfer is on the
same level –
undergraduate
program to
undergraduate
program – you
obtain an I-20
form from the
new school and bring it to the foreign
student advisor of the school you are
transferring from. The advisor will then
notify the INS and the new school of the
intended transfer. You must present your I20 I.D. form to the student advisor at the
new school after the notification has been
made.
Visas
If you plan to study in the U.S., you should
enter the country with a valid F-1 (student)
visa. The F-2 visa is for immediate family
members who
accompany you.
Presently, visitors
with B visas are
only allowed to
attend schools on
a part-time and
temporary basis. A person on an F-2 visa
is treated similarly. Changing from a B visa
or F-2 visa to an F-1 visa requires that you
leave the country and re-enter on an F-1
visa. There may be a waiting period.
If the transfer is on a new level – from
undergraduate to graduate – you must
obtain an I-20 form, complete an I-539 form
for transfer and extension of visa, and
submit these papers to the INS along with
the I-94 form, the I-20 I.D. form and a small
fee.
There are several other types of visas
commonly used by students. They are the
J-1and J-2 visas, the A-1 and A-2 visas, the
E-1 and E-2 visas, the H-1 and H-2 visas,
the H1B and the H-4 visas. If you hold one
of these visas, you may attend school in the
U.S. for as long as your visa is valid.
Vacations
The transfer must be completed before you
attend the new school.
ELI students are only allowed to take
vacations in the summer sessions.
School Transfers
If you intend to transfer to another school,
the foreign student advisor at the school
you are transferring from must complete a
foreign student advisor report. This report,
verifying your F-1 status, is sent to the
foreign student advisor at the school you
are transferring to. After receipt of this
report, and after you have satisfactorily
You may spend your vacation time in the
U.S. or abroad. It is important for all
students on an F-1 visa to talk with the
International Student Admissions
Coordinator before leaving on vacation.
15
Vacationing Outside the U.S.
When you re-enter and present the I-20
form to the authorities, a new I-94 form
showing length of stay is issued. If you
have been visiting Mexico, Canada, or the
Caribbean for less than thirty days, you are
generally allowed to retain your old I-94.
When you leave the U.S. temporarily during
the course of your studies, you need to
have
your
I-20
form
sign
ed
by
your
forei
gn
student advisor. You need to request the
signature at least one week before leaving.
Your advisor will need to know the exact
date of departure and return. If you are
planning to visit a country other than your
home country, you should get a visa (or
whatever travel documents that country
requires) from the proper authorities. You
must present the I-20 form to the U.S.
Immigration upon re-entering the U.S. If
you are going to your home country, all you
need to do is present the form to the U.S.
officials upon re-entry. There are three
exceptions to this:
Immigration Rules for F-1 Students
To keep your student status, you MUST:
 Tell us your new address within 10
days of moving.
 Keep a valid passport at all times.
 Go to the school that ICE gave you
permission to go to.
 File an official immigration transfer
at the International Student
Admissions Office when you change
schools.
 Go to school full time. Do not take
breaks without permission.
 Do not work except at school.
 Get written permission marked on
your I-20 before you leave the US.
 Get a new I-20 when you go from
ELI to credit classes.
 Extend your program at the
International Student Admissions
Office if your English program takes
longer than the date on your I-20.
1) If you obtained an
F-1 visa in the U.S.,
you should go to the
consular agency
abroad and have the
stamp showing your
status (F-1) and the date of validity placed
in your valid passport;
2) If your passport has fewer than six
months remaining before the expiration
date, you should have it renewed before
returning to the U.S.
Income Tax Filing
3) If the visa in your passport has expired,
you must have it renewed at the American
Consulate in the country you are visiting,
unless you are visiting the Caribbean,
Mexico, or Canada.
International
students in the U.S. who visit one of these
areas for a period less than 30 days are not
required to have a visa to re-enter the U.S.
All international F-1 students are required
to file an IRS Form 8843, even if they made
no money at all in the U.S., by June 15.
The university library has the form. All
international F-1 students who made any
income in the U.S., even if only a
scholarship, must file a Form 1040 by April
15, also in the library.
16
ELI are required to carry UHD student
medical insurance.
Library Use
ELI students may
use the
University of
HoustonDowntown
W. I. Dykes
Library which is
located on the 4th
and 5th floors. Students must have a valid
university identification card with them in
order to check out books.
With UHD insurance you may use the UHD
Student Health Center for any medical
problem. Claim forms and insurance cards
are available at the ELI office. Students file
a claim form in order to be reimbursed by
the insurance company for medical costs.
Public Libraries
Insurance
cards will be given to you at the beginning
of each session or two-session block.
Students holding insurance purchased
through UHD will be given a copy of the
insurance policy.
Front office staff can
answer basic
questions. In
general, students
must pay a
deductible for each
illness or injury. However, if the student
gets a referral from the UHD Student
Health Center, there is no deductible
charged. To request your payment from
the insurance company, keep all your
receipts for medical bills and prescribed
medicine. Obtain a claim form from the ELI
office. Complete the claim form and send it
with your medical bills to the insurance
company. (It is important to keep a
photocopy of everything you send.)
Additional information on the medical policy
is available at the ELI front desk.
Houston has a beautiful, modern central
library and many smaller branches
throughout the city. Books, periodicals,
tapes, records and films are available to
the public.
You may obtain a library card free of
charge by presenting identification
showing your name and Houston
address. To find the branch library in your
neighborhood, look in the business
telephone directory under "City
Government Offices." The main library is
located downtown at 500 McKinney Ave.
The telephone number is 713-224-5441.
MEDICAL CARE
Dental care is expensive in
the U.S. The ELI does not
offer university dental
insurance, but you can find
some private dental
insurance companies
online at www.dentalinsurance-4.com.
Insurance
Medical care in
the United States
is very expensive.
All international
students at the
17
with you, if you have it, because the
insurance should pay a large amount of the
bill. Remember, you cannot be hospitalized
without providing proof of medical
insurance or without paying a large amount
of cash.
Medical Care Costs
Medical care in the U.S. is very expensive.
The average hospital room costs $2,000.00
or more per day. This price does not
include the doctor's fees, medicine, nurses,
and tests. One day in the hospital can
easily cost $15,000.00 or even more. Most
hospitals require medical insurance or a
large cash payment before you receive
medical treatment. Prescribed drugs are
also very expensive in the U.S. Your
insurance will not cover the full cost, and
drugs are as high as $200.00 per dose.
In case of a minor emergency (a high fever,
a bad earache, a deep cut, etc.) you may
not need to go to the hospital. There are
small medical clinics throughout the city.
Listings of medical clinics can be found in
the yellow pages of
the telephone
directory.
Finding a Doctor
A partial list of
medical clinics and
hospitals around
the Houston area is provided for your use.
This does not constitute a recommendation,
but is only a listing of available clinics for
your convenience in the case of an
emergency.
If you are in need of a
personal physician,
the Harris County
Medical Society (713790-1838) will give
you the names of
physicians in different
areas of the city.
UHD’s Student
Health Center can
also provide you with
a list of doctors. You can also check the
UHD website. Under Student Affairs, click
Student Health Services, and then click the
Links to Community Health Services and
Health Topics. Here you will find
suggestions for many health problems,
including dental and eye problems.
Clinics
Call the clinic you choose before you go in
to be certain of their latest address and
clinic hours. Ask what their payment
requirements are.
6692 Southwest Freeway at Hillcroft
713-783-1913
2204A FM 1960 West-- Corum North
Shopping Center
281-893-6415
Major and Minor Emergencies
235 West 20th at Yale
713-880-0887
10705 Gulf Freeway
at Edgebrook -Gulfbrook Plaza
713-943-7682
In
case of an off-campus emergency, you
should go to the emergency room of the
nearest hospital or to the medical clinic in
your neighborhood. You need to take
information regarding medical insurance
Hospitals
Downtown:
St. Joseph's Hospital
18
1919 LaBranch
713-757-1000
clinic close to where you live, call 713-7949267.
Texas Medical Center Area:
Ben Taub General Hospital
1502 Taub Loop 713-791-3867
Eye Care
The University of
Houston College of
Optometry has a
clinic where you
can obtain a
comprehensive,
two-hour
examination for a
very low fee. You can also purchase
eyeglasses and contact lenses at the
dispensary at a discount. The College of
Optometry is located at 4900 Calhoun,
Entrance No. 2. To make an appointment,
call 713-743-7547.
The Methodist Hospital
6565 Fannin 713-790-3311
Hermann Hospital
1203 Ross Sterling Ave. 713-797-3867
St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital
720 Bertner 713-791-2011
West:
Memorial City General Hospital
920 Frostwood 713-932-3000
The Hermann Eye Center Clinic at
Hermann Hospital (Jones Pavilion), 1203
Ross Sterling, offers eye examinations at
approximately 20% less than at private
clinics. You may call 713-797-1777 to
make an appointment.
Southwest:
Sharpstown General Hospital
6700 Tarnef 713-774-7611
Memorial Hospital
7600 Beechnut 713-776-5000
Dental Care
Westbury Hospital
5556 Gasmer 713-729-1111
Dental care in the U.S. is also very
expensive. One of the following services
may help you
obtain dental care
at a reduced cost.
North:
Citizens General Hospital
7407 North Freeway 713-691-3531
Northeast:
Omni Hospital Medical Center
8241 Homestead 713-631-1550
The University of
Texas Dental
Clinic (713-7924145), located at
6516 John Freeman Blvd., provides free
examinations. However, a limited number
of patients are accepted because it is a
dental school. If you are chosen as a
patient, you are required to pay only for the
material used. If you are in need of a lot of
dental work, your chances of being
selected may be higher.
Pasadena:
Pasadena Bayshore Medical Center
4000 Spencer Hwy. 713-944-6666
Immunization for Children
If you have children, the City of Houston
Health Department offers free
immunizations while the children are of
school age. For information regarding a
19
Dental care at a reduced cost is also
available through the San Jose Clinic at
301 Hamilton (713-228-9411). The clinic
requires you to provide documents to prove
that your income is low. Although this is
inconvenient, you benefit by receiving a
significant discount for dental work.
passport in a safe place. It is wise to keep
a copy of your passport in a safe place, too.
University of Houston-Downtown ID
If you are able to pay regular dental fees,
the Houston District Dental Society (713790-9690) provides a referral service for
dentists in all areas of
Houston.
You can have a UHD student ID made at
the Information Center, 3rd floor. The card
is free although a replacement for a lost
card will cost a small fee. To get the card,
show your receipt for ELI classes. The
UHD ID is required when you wish to use
the gymnasium or the library. Also, there
are often discounts you can receive from
businesses in the Houston community if
you have proof that you are a student, so
this card can be useful.
Hotlines
Emergency: 911
City non-emergency: 311
Rape hotline: 713-528-7273
AIDS hotline: 1(800)232-4636
Crisis Intervention: 713-468-5463
(for drug abuse, alcoholism,
depression, suicide, etc.)
Women’s Center: 713-528-6798
Domestic Violence: 713-528-2121
Legal Line: 713-759-1133
Traffic accident: 713-884-3131
Department of Public Safety ID and
Texas Driver License
The Department
of Public Safety
issues both photo
IDs and driver
licenses for a
reasonable fee.
You will need to
show your
passport (if you
are an international student) or your
residency card and birth certificate (if you
are a resident). Driver's licenses can be
obtained after both a written and a driving
test are passed. For information, call 281517-1333. There are several Department
of Public Safety offices in Houston for your
convenience. Local offices are listed in the
blue-lined pages at the front of the
telephone Business White Pages. Look in
the section titled Government Offices –
State and then under Department of Public
Safety.
Identification Cards
It is very important in the U.S. to have a
photo identification card. You will find it
very difficult to cash a check without one; in
fact, in some places you may need two. A
passport is one source of identification;
however, you can obtain other types of
identification cards easily.
Passport
The strongest identification you can show is
your passport. It is a valuable document,
and you should not
carry it with you
unless you know
you will need it.
Make a copy of
your passport to
carry. Keep your
20
Social Security Card
Post Oak Terminal
You will need a social security card if you
work on campus. The International Student
office must issue you a letter for permission
to get the card. Social security cards
issued to foreign, temporary residents do
not provide any retirement benefits.
Additional information can be obtained by
calling 1-800-772-1213 or by writing to:
Medical Center
Richmond and
Loop 610
Main Street and
Holcomb
For further information, call:
713-523-8888.
Metro Bus to the Airport
Social Security Administration
P.O. Box 4819
Houston, Texas 77210
The least expensive means of
transportation to and from Intercontinental
Airport is by Metro Bus 102-IAH-Express.
The cost is $2.25 one way. Bus stops in
town to take you to the airport are at
Calhoun and Travis, LaBranch and Travis,
and Prairie and Travis. City buses stop in
the airport terminals to pick up passengers.
Local offices are listed in the blue-lined
pages at the front of the telephone
Business White Pages. Look in the section
titled U.S. Government Offices and then
under Social Security Administration.
Airport Pick-up Service
A private business in town offers an airport
pick-up service to and from the airport.
Advance notice is required. Contact them
for prices. Contact email:
airportwelcome@yahoo.com.
TRANSPORTATION
Airport Service
Transportation to and from Intercontinental
Airport costs $19.00 one way and is
available every 30 minutes. Transportation
to and from Hobby Airport costs $14.00 and
is available every 30 minutes. You should
plan on being at the airport service terminal
two hours before your plane leaves to allow
enough time. You may get to the airports
from any one of the following terminals:
Downtown
Greenway Plaza
Buses and the Train (Light Rail)
Public transportation is available in Houston
through the Metropolitan Transit Authority.
Buses serve 66% of Harris County
including Houston and the NASA/Clear
Lake area. The Light Rail train costs the
same amount as a bus, and you can
transfer to and from it just like you can from
a bus. The one-way local fare is $1.25.
Other types of passes can save you
money. Within the downtown area, the
Green bus is free. Looking at a bus map
will help you see the different routes
Hyatt Regency at
1200 Louisiana
Buffalo Speedway
and Highway 59
21
Automobile Insurance
available. Bus riders get the Q card, which
allows them to put an amount of money into
their account, then use it by inserting the
card in the pay slots. When the money
runs out, more can be deposited into the
account. Metro transit maps are located at
the Downtown Transit Center on Main
Street. For additional bus information, call
713-635-4000. Monthly bus passes
offering a discount are available in the
Cashier's Office on the third floor.
Each driver in the state of
Texas must carry proof of
liability insurance. This is
insurance to cover damage
to other people and the
property of others in case you are at fault in
an accident. You will always need to have
with you a Texas automobile insurance
identification card. This is sent to you by
your insurance company. Failure to have
the card may result in an expensive ticket.
Failure to have insurance may result in an
expensive ticket and/or jail time.
Taxicabs
Taxicab fares are expensive in the U.S. and
we give a 15% tip to the driver. To save
money, take a bus or find a friend to drive
you whenever possible. If you have to take
a taxi, the Yellow Pages of the phone book
gives listings of taxicab companies.
State Inspection Sticker
Inside your car's front windshield, on the
left, there is a sticker with a large printed
number. This number indicates the month
in which the car safety inspection is
required. The lights, brakes, tires, horn and
other basic features must operate for the
car to pass the test. Car emissions
(exhaust) must meet certain environmental
standards. If you do not obtain a new
inspection sticker before the old sticker
expires, you may be fined by the police.
Automobiles
Before you begin driving an automobile, it is
important to be aware of your
responsibilities in the state of Texas.
Buying an Automobile: Car Title and
License Plates
Use caution when you buy a car, especially
a used one. When you do, be sure to
obtain a bill of sale and the car title. Go to
the Tax Assessor/ Collector's Office in
order to transfer and register the car in your
name. At that time you will obtain license
plates for your car. Renew these annually.
Notice the month of expiration on the
renewal sticker on inside of your
windshield. Remember to purchase a new
renewal sticker before it expires, or you
may get a traffic ticket. The central office of
the Tax Assessor/Collector is downtown at
1001 Preston (713-224-1919). There are
other offices throughout the city.
The information below will help you, but
remember that ignorance of the law is not
considered a valid excuse.
Texas Driver License
When you drive a car or motorcycle, you
are required to show proof of a driver
license. This is obtained through the Texas
Department of Public Safety. (See
Identification Cards of this handbook for
additional information.)
22
Accidents and Traffic Tickets
Student Parking
Students may purchase a parking permit to
use the UHD Student Parking Lot. Several
lots, located within five blocks of the
university, are open during regular weekday
university hours. Security attendants patrol
the lots at all times, and a shuttle bus
service transports you to and from the lots
at regular ten-minute intervals. A map of
the lots and information regarding
automobile registration and parking fees
are available at the Parking Office on the
third floor, Room 354N.
If you have an automobile accident, you are
required to stop at the scene. However, if
you are on a freeway, you must move your
car off of the road if at all possible. Be sure
to obtain the other driver's name, address,
phone number, driver's license number,
license plate number, and insurance policy
number. Houston police officers cannot
come to the scene of all accidents, so if
there are no injuries, you do not need to
call the police. However, you do need to go
to the nearest Police Substation to report
the accident. This report is required by
insurance companies. On the other hand, if
someone is hurt, call the Houston Police
immediately at 713-247-4072.
Jaywalking
Students approaching the university on foot
or walking from the parking lots should be
careful not to cross the street at some place
other than a legal intersection. Unrestricted
crossing can be dangerous. Crossing
streets or train tracks must occur at marked
intersections. You can receive a very
expensive ticket for crossing illegally,
(which is called jaywalking), and/or you
may be injured.
Be careful! If you get a traffic ticket, you
may receive a letter from a lawyer offering
to represent you in court. This is only an
advertisement. Most people do not need a
lawyer for a traffic violation, so ask at the
ELI office before you agree to pay a
lawyer’s fee.
HOUSING, UTILITIES & POSTAL
SYSTEM
Housing Information
Defensive Driving Classes
If you take the
eight hour
defensive
driving class,
you will
receive a
good discount
on your automobile insurance rates for a
period of three years. Ask your insurance
agent for more information.
All students who attend the University of
Houston-Downtown live off campus. We do
not book housing. We offer a list of
alternative housing facilities, but we do not
recommend the housing here as being
superior to any other housing in the city.
Get the list at the front desk.
23
Homestay
Apartment Locators/Realtors
At Classic American Homestay,
live with an American family; private
bedroom and a private or shared bathroom
and all necessary linens; continental
breakfast and dinner provided daily.
There are many apartment
locators and realtors in the
Houston area. Many of these
services are free of charge.
When you want to contact one
of these services, be prepared
to tell them a price range, a
geographical location (mileage
you want to stay within), whether
you need bus transportation, and whether
you want furnished or unfurnished housing.
The ELI can provide you with a partial list of
apartment locators.
Renting an Apartment
Public Utilities
The ELI has an apartment booklet to help
you find a comfortable place to live. Come
by and ask to see it. In order to rent an
apartment, you must usually do the
following:
Most apartments require you to pay for your
own utilities – especially electricity and gas.
Your apartment manager can give you
utilities contacts for electricity, gas and
water.
Telephone
1. Present several
forms of
identification
including a
social security
card (see the
Identification Card section of this
handbook for more information.)
2. Provide a letter of financial support if
you do not have a credit rating.
3. Provide a deposit. The deposit is
returned to you if you meet the
requirements of the lease.
4. Sign a lease or contract, which requires
you to live there for a certain period of
time (six months to one year) or forfeit
the deposit and possibly rent.
Local and long distance telephone service
is provided by a number of companies, for
example AT&T. You can also purchase a
cell phone and
service. On all
telephone and cell
phone service, be
prepared to pay a
deposit.
Postal Service
If you are an ELI student and do not have a
home address here in the U.S., you may
get mail at the ELI by using this address:
Your Name
English Language Institute
University of Houston-Downtown
One Main Street
Houston, Texas 77002
U.S.A.
The majority of apartments in Houston are
rented unfurnished; however, it is possible
to rent furniture from various companies for
a reasonable amount. See the ELI housing
list for some examples.
Come in person to get your mail. It is not
possible to take a friend's mail.
24
U.S. Mailing Address
or go to one of their offices. For example,
one office is at 901Main Street, telephone
713-659-3933.
In order to send and receive mail in the
U.S., the following address format is used:
Fax Number
Your name
Your street address
Your city, state and zip code
The ELI’s fax number is 713-221-8546.
You may receive faxes through this
number. Faxes can be sent from the UHD
Library of Copy Center for a fee.
Name
Street Address, Apartment
City, State Zip Code
MONETARY INFORMATION
Post Offices
Until you have
obtained the
proper
identification to
open a bank
account, it is recommended that you buy
traveler's checks or use a debit card from
your bank in your home country.
Ask your apartment manager or neighbor
for the location of the nearest postal station.
The Blue Pages of the Greater Houston
Business and Government Telephone
Directory under United States Post Offices
gives a listing of local post offices as well.
Zip code information is obtained at any post
office. The central Post Office is located
downtown at 401 Franklin Street
Opening a Checking Account
The cost of mailing letters and packages
outside the U.S. varies. Aerogrammes can
be bought at any post office. They are the
cheapest way of sending mail abroad.
When you first
arrive in Houston,
you may wish to
open a checking
account to deposit
your money. This
type of account will allow you to pay your
bills and purchases by check. You must
keep records to balance the account since
high fees are charged for an overdrawn
account. Remember that initial deposits
may take as much as six weeks to clear
your home bank and be ready for your use.
Change of Address
Before moving from one residence to
another in the United States, complete a
change of address card. You
may obtain one at any post
office. This card will allow the
post office to forward any mail
to your new address should
preventing the loss of mail.
Opening a Savings Account
Telegrams
When you first arrive in Houston, you may wish
to open a savings account to deposit your
money. This account will earn money according
to current interest rates. However, it is a good
idea to keep the sum of your first month's
expenses at hand. This is because the bank
may not let you take out any money for four to
six weeks. In Houston it may be better to open
a savings account in a small neighborhood
To send a telegram, a mailgram, a night
letter (night letters are the least expensive),
or a money order, call
Western Union
1-800-325-6000
25
bank, which may have fewer restrictions than a
large bank. In order to open a savings or
checking account, you normally have to show
two photo identification cards and possibly a
social security card.
Money Orders
If you need to send or receive a sum of money
by mail, it should be sent in the form of a
personal check or money order. Money orders
can be purchased at banks, post offices and
larger neighborhood grocery stores. Never
send cash in the mail!
911: Call this telephone number in case of
an emergency. If you use a cell phone, find
out what the emergency call number is for
your service.
Strangers: Be careful with strangers. Do
not give them your name, address or other
personal information. Do not become very
involved with them. Do not go anywhere
with them.
Valuables & Possessions: In public
areas such as airports, libraries, and clubs,
keep all of your possessions with you. Do
not leave them unattended.
Credit and Debit Cards
On credit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard and
Discover, you charge purchases on the card
and pay at the end of the month or according to
a monthly payment schedule. Many
businesses also offer their own credit cards (for
example, Sears or Foleys).
You use the debit card (which comes from your
bank) in the same way that you would use a
check, to purchase an item and have the
purchase price immediately deducted from your
checking account balance.
A Word of Warning: Be careful! It is easy
to get into debt with a credit card or to lose
track of how much money is in your
checking account with a debit card. Keep
good records and balance your bank
statement every month to be certain you
know the state of your financial health.
Money: Do NOT carry a lot of money. Use
checks or credit cards whenever possible.
If you need to carry money, keep it hidden
in a secure place.
Parking:
Choose your parking space carefully.
Always park near the main stream of traffic.
The end of a row is ideal. If it is night, park
near a source of light. Do
not park near bushes or suspicious-looking
people. When you reach your car, look in
the back seat before you get in and lock the
doors immediately after you get in.
SAFETY IN HOUSTON
Security while Shopping: You need to be
careful when you are shopping. Do not
leave your purse,
your backpack or
packages on the
counter
unattended. If
you pay with a
credit card, be
sure you get the
correct credit card
Every big city in the world has some
problems with crime. The United States is
no different. You can be reasonably safe
and comfortable in any U.S. city if you are
careful and think before you do certain
things.
These few precautions listed below will help
you remain safe and secure in Houston.
26
back from the sales clerk. Keep your copy
of the receipt – do not throw it in a nearby
trash can. If you have more shopping to
do, put your purchases in the trunk of your
car, not in the back seat where they can be
seen.
there is no one there to
help you. In the unlikely
event that you feel
threatened, shout for
help, run away, or
surrender your
valuables. Do not fight
back.
Internet Shopping: If you shop on the
internet, be careful to use only secure sites
from reputable companies when giving
personal information. If you are not certain,
you can look the company up in the Better
Business Bureau records on site. Go to
www.bbb.org online or call 713-341-6167
for the Houston BBB.
Identity Theft: Identity theft occurs when
someone uses your personal information
such as your name, Social Security
number, credit card number or other
identifying information, without your
permission to commit fraud or other crimes.
Automated Teller Machines:
Computer-operated twenty-four hour bank
teller machines are extremely convenient
but can also
be dangerous
places. Your
best
protection is
to do your
banking
during normal
daylight hours. If you must go to a teller
machine at night, be very cautious. Take a
friend.
Although there is no method for
guaranteeing that identity theft will never
happen to you, the Better Business Bureau
offers some tips that can help you minimize
your risk:
Walking at Night: If you need to walk at
night, walk on streets where there are
plenty of people. Walk
with friends. Avoid
parked cars and other
large objects. They may
be used as hiding places.
If you see people loitering
on the street, walk in the
other direction. Do not
respond to strangers who try to talk to you
or call you to come over to them. Stay
away from parks and abandoned buildings
at night.

Carry only the cards you actually
need. Minimize the identification
information and the number of cards
you carry in your wallet or purse. Do
not carry your Social Security card
unless you need it.

Cut up old or expired credit cards.
Close all inactive credit card and
bank accounts.
For your ATM card, choose a unique
Personal Identification Number (PIN).
Memorize it.
Being Followed: If you think you are
being followed, walk or drive immediately to
the nearest police office, police officer, or
lighted, populated place and report the
problem. Do not go home, especially if
27

Keep personal information in a safe
place.

Give your Social Security number
only when absolutely necessary.

Do not give out personal
information.

Compare your ATM receipts and
cashed checks with your periodic
bank statements.
skills. Therefore, it is not a good idea to
give personal or sensitive information
through emails.

Shred credit card statements, bank
statements and pre-approved credit
offers.

Decrease the number of unsolicited
credit card applications that you
receive.

Order a copy of your credit report
once every year.
Enjoying Houston
You have come to an exciting city for
your English study. Houstonians are
friendly and cosmopolitan. You will find
many instances of Southern hospitality
here. You can also find almost any
ethnic restaurant or grocery you want.
Internet Security
Houston hosts many activities and
events throughout the year, in addition
to offering the standard entertainments
of a large metropolitan center. To learn
more about what is going on, look
through a copy of the Houston Press
magazine, available on many
newsstands, or go the internet site
http://houstonsidewalk.com for a
listing of upcoming events and great
things to do in Houston.
If you contract with an internet service
provider, make certain that you are
aware of all the charges involved. Be
certain that you do not use long
distance to connect to your provider or
you will receive very high telephone
bills.
If you use a home computer, make
certain that you have good computer
virus protection. Emails and the
internet (through downloads and
interactive sites) are notorious ways to
contract a virus and crash your hard
drive.
Whatever you do, do not spend your
time sitting in your room. There are
many things to see and do, from nearby
NASA to the island resort of Galveston.
Texas is a wonderful state for
vacations, from the Big Bend mountain
area in South Texas to the famous Hill
Country. Two popular vacation cities
are San Antonio and Austin.
Also make certain that you do not give
out personal information about yourself
over the internet unless you know the
person to whom you are releasing
information. Many crimes begin with
internet contact.
So have fun! If you let yourself get
involved in the activities of Houston and
Texas, you are going to have a great
time and wonderful memories.
Know that your correspondence is not
private and may be viewed by other
people who have the necessary computer
28
APPENDICES
Appendix 1 Measures
MEASURES, WEIGHTS,
TEMPERATURE
Liquid Weight
To convert milliliters to ounces, multiply
the number of milliliters by .034. To
convert liters to quarts, multiply the
number of quarts by 1.057.
Linear Measure
Linear measure in the U.S. is calculated
in inches, feet, yards and miles. To
convert centimeters to inches, multiply
the number of centimeters by .39 inches.
To convert inches to centimeters,
multiply the number of inches
by 2.54.
2.54 centimeters = 1 inch
30.48 centimeters = 1 foot (12 inches)
5.44 centimeters = 1 yard (3 feet)
1.00 meter = 39.14 inches
29.573 milliliters = 1 ounce
0.946 liters = 1 quart ( 32 ounces)
3.785 liters = 1 gallon (64 ounces)
2 cups = 1 pint (16 ounces)
2 pints = 1 quart (32 ounces)
4 cups = 1 quart
4 quarts = 1 gallon
To convert kilometers to miles, multiply
the number of kilometers by .621. To
convert miles to kilometers, multiply the
number of miles by 1.61.
1 kilometer = 5/8 mile
1 mile = 1 3/5 kilometers
Temperature
The Fahrenheit system is used to read
temperature in the U.S. The following
formulas are used to convert Fahrenheit
to Centigrade or vise versa:
F = 32 + (9/5) C or C = 5/9 (F-32)
Dry Weight
Fahrenheit˚
0
15
25
32
50
65
80
95
Weight in the U.S. is measured in
pounds and ounces. To convert grams to
ounces, multiply the number of grams
by . 03527. To convert kilos to pounds,
multiply the number of kilos by 2.2046.
28 grams = 1 ounce
450 grams = 1 pound (16 ounces )
100 grams = 1 kilo (2.2 pounds)
29
Centigrade˚
-18
-10
-4
0
10
18
27
35
Appendix 2 Sizes
Appendix 3 Holidays
CLOTHING SIZES
AMERICAN HOLIDAYS
Clothing Sizes
January 1
Celebration of the new year on New Year’s
Eve, December 31. New Year’s Day is spent
visiting family and friends.
Women
Women's sizes fall into 3 categories:
Junior sizes are for the younger,
smaller and thinner figure.
Sizes: 3
11
5
13
7
15
January 15 Martin Luther King's
Birthday
The birthday of an American civil rights
leader who fought for the equal rights of
African Americans.
9
Misses sizes are for a more mature
figured women.
Sizes: 6
14
8
16
10
18
May 30 Memorial Day
Americans honor servicemen who were
killed on duty in war times.
12
July 4 Independence Day
On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of
Independence made the U.S. independent
from Great Britain. Picnics, parades,
parties and fireworks are typical celebrations.
Women's sizes are designed for
women of a larger build.
1
Sizes: 14 2
1
22 2
1
16 2
1
24 2
1
18 2
1
20 2
1
262
September
Labor Day
This holiday honors the labor force.
Picnics and beach outings are popular.
Women's sizes are determined by
bust and hip measurements.
Fourth Thursday
of November
Thanksgiving
The first European settlers in the 1600's
celebrated their first harvest with a feast
and gave God thanks. We do the same on
this day. The meal usually includes turkey
and dressing, vegetables, cranberry sauce,
and pumpkin pie.
Shoe sizes for women begin at 5 and
go to 12. An average-length foot is
size 8. Shoes come in narrow, medium,
wide and extra wide widths.
Men
Shirt sizes are measured by the
number of inches around the neck
and by sleeve length. Trousers are
measured by waist and *inseam sizes
in inches; shorts are measured by
waist size.
*Inseam – inside seam
December 25
Christmas
This Christian holiday celebrates the birth
of Jesus Christ. People sing Christmas
carols, decorate a Christmas tree, and
exchange cards and gifts. Children believe
that Santa Claus brings them gifts on
Christmas morning if they have been "good."
Many parties are given with plenty of typical
foods and drink.
Men’s shoe sizes begin at 7 and go to
size 14. Size 9 is an average-length
foot. Shoes come in medium, wide,
and extra side widths.
30
Appendix 4 Houston Facts
INTERESTING FACTS
Weather Conditions
About Texas
The weather in Houston is generally
hot and humid from May through
September. Winters are generally mild,
with a few cold months. Snow is
unlikely but rain is plentiful.
State Flag: Red, white and blue with
one star on the blue background. Thus,
Texas is called the "Lone Star State."
State Flower: The Bluebonnet - In the
spring you can see these blue, wild
flowers in bloom along the major
highways leaving the city.
There are four, severe weather
conditions in Houston that everyone
needs to be prepared for:
thunderstorms, tornadoes, tropical
storms and hurricanes. So that these
weather systems to do not take you by
surprise, it is a good idea to listen to
weather reports in the evenings and
early mornings. Houston can have local
flooding when there is a lot of rainfall.
State Bird: The Mockingbird, who
sings the songs of many other birds
in a long recitation several times a day.
Typical Foods: Barbecue, chili, fried
chicken, cole slaw, chicken fried
steak, grilled steak, pecan pie.
The University of Houston-Downtown
may close due to severe weather. An
announcement is made on the radio,
on television, and on the university’s
website. Do not assume that the
university is closed unless you hear or
read one of these announcements.
About Houston
Two brothers, August and John Allen,
founded Houston on August 30, 1836.
They paid over $1.40 an acre for 6,642
acres. The city was named after
General Sam Houston, who was
commander of the Texan Army. This
army won independence from Mexico
at the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836.
Sam Houston later became the first
President of the Republic of Texas.
From 1837 through 1840, Houston
was the capital of the Republic.
Newspapers
Houston has one daily newspaper with
home delivery service -- The Houston
Chronicle To start service, call
713-220-7211. There are many ethnic
newspapers.
The discovery of oil at Spindletop in
1901 and the opening of the Ship
Channel in 1914 helped the petroleum
industry grow. In the 1960's Houston
became the space capital in addition to
being an energy capital. Since 1970,
Houston has grown into a business,
research, and engineering capital.
Two free papers of interest:
 The Greensheet is helpful when
looking for an apartment and
buying or selling items.
 The Houston Press is a good
source of information on special
events and entertainment
The population of Houston is
approximately 6,000,000.
31
Appendix Six
Family
Education Rights and Privacy Act
consent when: the disclosure is to
school officials who have been
determined to have legitimate
educational interests as set forth in the
institution's annual notification of rights
to students; the student is seeking or
intending to enroll in another school; the
disclosure is to state or local
educational authorities auditing or
enforcing Federal or State supported
education programs or enforcing
Federal laws which relate to those
programs; the disclosure is to the
parents of a student who is a dependent
for income tax purposes; the disclosure
is in connection with determining
eligibility, amounts, and terms for
financial aid or enforcing the terms and
conditions of financial aid; the
disclosure is pursuant to a lawfully
issued court order or subpoena; or the
information disclosed has been
appropriately designated as directory
information by the school.
Complaints of alleged violations
may be addressed to:
Schools must generally give
students attending a postsecondary
institution access to their education
records, an opportunity to seek to have
the records amended, and some control
over the disclosure of information from
the records.
Schools must provide a student
with an opportunity to inspect and
review his or her education records
within 45 days of the receipt of a
request, provide a student with copies
of education records or otherwise make
the records available to the student if
the student, and remove the names and
other personally identifiable information
about other students that may be
included in the student's education
records.
Schools must consider a request
from a student to amend inaccurate or
misleading information in the student's
education records, offer the student a
hearing on the matter if it decides not to
amend the records in accordance with
the request, and offer the student a right
to place a statement to be kept and
disclosed with the record if as a result of
the hearing the school still decides not
to amend the record.
A school is not required to
consider requests for amendment under
FERPA that seek to change a grade or
disciplinary decision or seek to change
the opinions or reflections of a school
official or other person reflected in an
education record.
Schools must have a student's
consent prior to the disclosure of
education records and ensure that the
consent is signed and dated and states
the purpose of the disclosure. A school
MAY disclose education records without
Family Policy Compliance Office
US Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5920
Go to
www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guide/fpco/ferpa
/students.html for information on
complaints and filing.
32
Appendix Six
UHD ELI Refund Policy
*Please note:
a student who finishes the
first session but does not stay for
the second session of the block
receives NO REFUND. The ELI will
apply the money to the student’s new
ELI tuition (if the student returns later to
the ELI) for twelve months from the
date of withdrawal.
The English Language Institute has
limited refund opportunities. No refunds
are made of the $60.00 application fee to
the International Student Admissions
office. No refunds are made of medical
insurance premiums. No refunds are
made on textbooks purchased from the
university’s bookstore. All ELI tuition
and fees refunds carry a $60.00
processing fee. Students must withdraw
officially to be eligible. Tuition and fees
refunds are made according to the
schedule below.
STUDENTS PAYING FOR A SINGLE
SESSION:
Withdrawal Date
Refund
Before arrival
100% less $60.00 fee
100% less $60.00 fee
Before the session begins
100% less $60.00 fee
100% less $60.00 fee
Within 5 class days of the first day
of the session
70% less $60.00 fee
After the 5th class day of the session,
there is NO REFUND
70% less $60.00 fee
0%
STUDENTS PAYING FOR A TWOSESSION, DISCOUNTED BLOCK:*
Withdrawal Date
Refund
Before arrival
100% less $60.00 fee
Before the first session of the selected
block begins
100% less $60.00 fee
Within 5 class days of the first day of
classes for the first session of the block
80% less $60.00 fee
100% less $60.00 fee
100% less $60.00 fee
Within 10 class days of the first day of
classes for the first session of the block
60% less $60.00 fee
After 10 class days of the first session
has passed, there is NO REFUND.
60% less $60.00 fee
0%
33
UHD Telephone Numbers
UHD Information
713-221-8000
English Language Institute
713-221-8047
International Student Admissions
713-221-8048
Emergency
713-221-8065
Police Escort for Parking
713-221-8065
Parking Office
713-221-8127
Bookstore
713-221-8025
Student Health Center
713-221-8137
UHD Library
713-221-8182
34