Letter to our Students

Dear ELI Student,

Welcome to the English Language Institute and the University of Houston-Downtown! 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 Houston-Downtown, 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-DowntownOne 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)

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.

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.

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.

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.

UHD and ELI SERVICES

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

GETTING COMFORTABLE

Cultural Adjustment Cycle

Here are the steps involved in this cycle:

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:

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•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.

•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.

•Uneasy adaptation -- As you get more used to the U.S., you learn more of what you have to do to make yourself feel

comfortable. It is still difficult, but you can survive. You do not feel so overwhelmed.

•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.

•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.

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Here are some suggestions to Improve your comfort level duringthe Cultural Adjustment Cycle:

•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.

•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.

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.

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.

Equality: Generally, Americans value equality among people. Asking for special treatment can be offensive. Expecting

•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.

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special treatment can leave you feeling frustrated and denied.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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. 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.

Ignorance of the Law

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.

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 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.

Drinking (Alcohol) Laws

Illegal (Recreational) Drugs

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.

an action is legal or not, ask an ELI staff member. If you have a legal problem, hire a lawyer to help you.

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

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.

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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.

Legal Information

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.

Police Officers

American police officers serve and protect the public. They can be very helpful.

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

However, a policeman has the authority in any situation. You must cooperate with police officers. If apolice officer stopsyou 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.

If you have a problem which requires legal advice, you can make an appointment to see a lawyer.

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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.

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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.

•Attend classes regularly, on time

•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.

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.

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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.

9. Report needs and problems to your instructor. For additional help, visit your Level Coordinator or the ELI Director.

ELI STUDENT POLICIES

FERPAUnder 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

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.

Session Schedule

Intensive English sessions have 33 days of in-class English instruction including final

tests. That generally makes sessions six-and-a-half 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 class-day afternoons.

Tuition and Refunds

ELI tuition is based upon residency status. International

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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 two-session 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.

Class SizeThe average ELI class size is 13 students and seldom exceeds 19 students.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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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 + Pass with HonorsP PassIP In Progress (student has worked

hard but has not progressed sufficiently to pass the level)

NP No Pass (student has not completed assignments and does not pass to the next level)

NPA No Pass due to Absence; student may be re-evaluated.

W Withdrawal

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.

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.

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

awarded to the student who writes the best essay. All students on the Honors List the previous session may compete for this scholarship.

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).

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,

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.

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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.

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.

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.

Disciplinary and Academic Probation/Suspension Policy

If you violate the rules of conduct of the English Language Institute or the University of Houston-Downtown, 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

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.

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.

Some information is posted to the TV monitors in the hall near the ELI door. Check the monitors once a day for any reminders.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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

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.

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-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 F-1 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.

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 off-campus employment

Permission for Practical Training

I-538 FormThe 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 non-immigrant status to a different non-immigrant status

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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.

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.

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.

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

completed the admissions process, the new school will issue you an I-20 form.

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 I-20 I.D. form to the student advisor at the new school after the notification has been made.

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.

The transfer must be completed before you attend the new school.

Vacations

ELI students are only allowed to take vacations in the summer sessions.

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.

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Vacationing Outside the U.S.

When you leave the U.S. temporarily during the course of your studies, you need to

have your I-20 form

signed by your foreign 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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

Income Tax Filing

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.Library Use

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ELI students may use the University of Houston-Downtown 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.

Public Libraries

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

InsuranceMedical care in the United States is very expensive. All international students at the

ELI are required to carry UHD student medical insurance.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

Finding a Doctor

If you are in need of a personal physician, the Harris County Medical Society (713-790-1838) 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.

Major and Minor Emergencies

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

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.

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.

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.

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 Hillcroft713-783-1913

2204A FM 1960 West-- Corum North Shopping Center 281-893-6415

235 West 20th at Yale713-880-0887

10705 Gulf Freeway at Edgebrook -- Gulfbrook Plaza 713-943-7682

Hospitals

Downtown:St. Joseph's Hospital

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1919 LaBranch 713-757-1000

Texas Medical Center Area:Ben Taub General Hospital 1502 Taub Loop 713-791-3867

The Methodist Hospital6565 Fannin 713-790-3311

Hermann Hospital1203 Ross Sterling Ave. 713-797-3867

St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital720 Bertner 713-791-2011

West:Memorial City General Hospital920 Frostwood 713-932-3000

Southwest:Sharpstown General Hospital6700 Tarnef 713-774-7611

Memorial Hospital7600 Beechnut 713-776-5000

Westbury Hospital5556 Gasmer 713-729-1111

North:Citizens General Hospital7407 North Freeway 713-691-3531

Northeast: Omni Hospital Medical Center8241 Homestead 713-631-1550

Pasadena:Pasadena Bayshore Medical Center4000 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 clinic close to where you live, call 713-794-9267.

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 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.

Dental Care

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.

The University of Texas Dental Clinic (713-792-4145), 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.

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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.

If you are able to pay regular dental fees, the Houston District Dental Society (713-790-9690) provides a referral service for dentists in all areas of Houston.

Hotlines

Emergency: 911City non-emergency: 311Rape hotline: 713-528-7273AIDS hotline: 1(800)232-4636Crisis Intervention: 713-468-5463 (for drug abuse, alcoholism, depression, suicide, etc.)Women’s Center: 713-528-6798Domestic Violence: 713-528-2121Legal Line: 713-759-1133Traffic accident: 713-884-3131

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.

PassportThe 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 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

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.

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 281-517-1333. 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 –

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State and then under Department of Public Safety.Social Security Card

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:

Social Security AdministrationP.O. Box 4819

Houston, Texas 77210

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.

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 Hyatt Regency at 1200 Louisiana

Greenway Plaza Buffalo Speedway and Highway 59

Post Oak Terminal Richmond and Loop 610

Medical Center Main Street and Holcomb

For further information, call:713-523-8888.

Metro Bus to the Airport

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.

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.

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

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Green bus is free. Looking at a bus map will help you see the different routes 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.

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.

Automobiles

Before you begin driving an automobile, it is important to be aware of your responsibilities in the state of Texas.

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.)

Automobile Insurance

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.

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.

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.

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Accidents and Traffic Tickets

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

HOUSING, UTILITIES & POSTAL SYSTEM

Housing 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

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superior to any other housing in the city. Get the list at the front desk.

Homestay

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.

Renting an Apartment

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:

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.

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.

Apartment Locators/Realtors

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.

Public Utilities

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

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 NameEnglish Language InstituteUniversity of Houston-DowntownOne Main StreetHouston, Texas 77002U.S.A.

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Come in person to get your mail. It is not possible to take a friend's mail.U.S. Mailing Address

In order to send and receive mail in the U.S., the following address format is used:

Post Offices

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

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.

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.

Telegrams

To send a telegram, a mailgram, a night letter (night letters are the least expensive), or a money order, call

Western Union1-800-325-6000

or go to one of their offices. For example, one office is at 901Main Street, telephone 713-659-3933.

Fax Number

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.

MONETARY INFORMATION

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.

Opening a Checking Account

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.

Opening a Savings Account

Your nameYour street addressYour city, state and zip code

Name Street Address, Apartment City, State Zip Code

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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 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!

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.

SAFETY IN HOUSTON

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.

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.

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

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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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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:

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.

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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.

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.

Internet Security

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.

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.

Know that your correspondence is not private and may be viewed by other people who have the necessary computer skills. Therefore, it is not a good idea to give personal or sensitive information through emails.

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.

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.

Whatever you do, do not spend your time sitting in your room. There are

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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.

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.

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APPENDICES

Appendix 1 Measures

MEASURES, WEIGHTS, TEMPERATURE

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 inchesby 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

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

Dry Weight

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)

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.

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

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)

Fahrenheit˚ Centigrade˚ 0 -18 15 -10 25 -4 32 0 50 10 65 18 80 27 95 35

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Appendix 2 Sizes Appendix 3 Holidays CLOTHING SIZES

Clothing SizesWomen Women's sizes fall into 3 categories:

Junior sizes are for the younger, smaller and thinner figure.

Sizes: 3 5 7 911 13 15

Misses sizes are for a more mature figured women.

Sizes: 6 8 10 12 14 16 18

Women's sizes are designed for women of a larger build.

Sizes: 14 16 18 20 22 24 26

Women's sizes are determined by bust and hip measurements.

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.

MenShirt 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

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.

AMERICAN HOLIDAYS

January 1 Celebration of the new year on New Year’s Eve, December 31. New Year’s Day is spent visiting family and friends.

January 15 Martin Luther King's Birthday

The birthday of an American civil rights leader who fought for the equal rights of African Americans.

May 30 Memorial Day Americans honor servicemen who were killed on duty in war times.

July 4 Independence DayOn July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence made the U.S. independent from Great Britain. Picnics, parades, parties and fireworks are typical celebrations.

September Labor DayThis holiday honors the labor force. Picnics and beach outings are popular.

Fourth Thursday of November ThanksgivingThe first European settlers in the 1600'scelebrated 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.

December 25 ChristmasThis 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.

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Appendix 4 Houston FactsINTERESTING FACTS

About Texas 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.

State Bird: The Mockingbird, whosings 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.

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.

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.

The population of Houston is approximately 6,000,000.

Weather Conditions

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.

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 andearly mornings. Houston can have local flooding when there is a lot of rainfall.

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.

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.

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

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Appendix Six Family Education Rights and Privacy Act

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

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:

Family Policy Compliance OfficeUS Department of Education400 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.

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Appendix SixUHD ELI Refund Policy

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 arrival100% less $60.00 fee

100% less $60.00 feeBefore the session begins100% less $60.00 fee

100% less $60.00 feeWithin 5 class days of the first dayof the session

70% less $60.00 fee70% less $60.00 fee

After the 5th class day of the session,there is NO REFUND

0%

STUDENTS PAYING FOR A TWO-SESSION, DISCOUNTED BLOCK:*

Withdrawal Date Refund

Before arrival100% less $60.00 fee

100% less $60.00 feeBefore the first session of the selectedblock begins

100% less $60.00 fee100% less $60.00 fee

Within 5 class days of the first day ofclasses for the first session of the block

80% less $60.00 fee

Within 10 class days of the first day ofclasses for the first session of the block

60% less $60.00 fee60% less $60.00 fee

After 10 class days of the first session has passed, there is NO REFUND.

0%

*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.

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UHD Telephone Numbers

UHD Information 713-221-8000

English Language Institute713-221-8047

International Student Admissions 713-221-8048

Emergency713-221-8065

Police Escort for Parking 713-221-8065

Parking Office713-221-8127

Bookstore713-221-8025

Student Health Center 713-221-8137

UHD Library 713-221-8182

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