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International students and future residents of the Reno International House, often have similar questions regarding their stay and options for housing. Below are some of them. We hope these FAQs help answer your concerns and questions.
Look further below for frequently asked questions about life in the USA. |
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how do i reserve a room?
Steps to obtain a housing space:
How long are the lease terms?
Each house manager has different lengths they ask their residents to stay. Most houses require you to stay a minimum of one school semester (based on the University of Nevada, Reno schedule), which is approximately 5 months long
Do you require people of a certain faith to live in the Reno International House?
We are not a religious organization. While many of our volunteers come from local Jesus-oriented churches, members do not have to show interest or be involved in religious activities to live in the home. We promote a community of mutual understanding, sharing of one another's faith, and celebrating the religious and cultural diversity in our homes. We strive to have a place of inclusion, honor and respect.
Can a guest stay with me when visiting Reno?
Most of our bedrooms are designed for individual leases (or matched with another individual roommate). We allow short-term guests. Please ask us for specific guest policies for each home.
Do you offer month-to-month living options?
Living terms are 5-month, 10-month or 12-month stay for most rooms. There are sometimes month-to-month options available for a higher rate, after a term has started, if space is available. Also, some of our homestay families and volunteer-partner runned homes have their own minimum stay requirements, which may be shorter.
How are the houses kept clean?
For rooming houses, there is periodic professional deep cleaning in each home. We have strict cleaning expectations, especially of the kitchen. If a member consistently does not clean, they cannot cook, and at times, we have asked them to leave the home. In addition, each member is included in a weekly chores schedule for simple minor cleaning. Although we provide some cleaning service, and offer a schedule of cleaning chores for members to work together on, if you are expecting a constant spotless clean environment, the Reno International House may not be a suitable environment for you.
Do you have private apartments?
Yes, we have a limited number of studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments. Please apply early to be on the waiting list. When they become available, they are quickly filled.
Are utilities included?
All rooming house membership rates include electricity/power, gas, water, sewer, trash removal and wifi internet, with certain seasonal limits on power use. Some apartments include the utilities, and some do not. If you need to setup utilities, we can assist you in that if you need.
Can my family live in a bedroom?
All bedrooms in the community houses are for single occupancy, unless set up as a roommate option. Families or multiple people will be recommended towards an apartment, typically a 1-bedroom or 2-bedroom apartment.
How far in advance should I give notice to move-out?
For our community homes, we require a minimum of 60 days of notice to move-out, on month-to-month living terms. So, in essence, lease terms are always 2-months living requirement.
Do you offer English Help?
We encourage community, friendships and shared activities together. These are naturally excellent ways to learn English through everyday activities. Also, our staff and volunteers are trained to assist international students and immigrants with understanding emails, offers and adjustment to life in Reno.
Do I pay my homestay family directy
Yes, unless the family has made an arrangement with the Reno International House, most homestay international students pay their family / host directly.
Can I live with a homestay family until a room at a community home opens up?
Yes, you can arrange that with your homestay family. Please note that we ask that residents plan to rent a room from their host a minimum of three months.
Once they apply, Does the International House sends more information about the Home Location?
It depends on if there is a space or match. If there is, either information about an available home, apartment or host family may be provided. If not, there may be more questions asked by email.
I want to know more information about the host family. How?
Submitting a contact form on the website does not commit you to any housing or living with a family. It simply starts the process. If you want to live with a homestay host, more information (location, name, about the home and hosts) will be emailed to your questions, before you have a chance to contact them. This gives you a choice to decide.
How does International House select Homestay Hosts?
Hosts that are close to a bus transportation line, or the college are given priority. Some hosts are single seniors, some are families with grown kids. There is much variety. But before they can be connected, the Reno International House evaluates their fit, to make sure the room, house and stay are generally clean and safe, and the host is fit to house an international person.
I'm worried about what if it's scam and I don't have a place to stay…
I totally understand. In fact, some international students who have lived in the International House mention they felt the same way before they arrived in Reno. However, we recently added contacts and reputations by former residents or members of our community, feel free to contact us. You can also contact TMCC, NNIC (Northern Nevada International Center), International Friends of Reno and UNR and verify if they have heard of the Reno International House. We often cooperate with them for many housing needs.
As for being aware of scams, if you are checking for housing on Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist and the internet in general, always ask the person listing the property to provide references and proof they have the ability to rent out that space. Check reviews. Check social media. And if you still have concerns or questions, please fill out our Find Housing contact form, and one of our housing advocates will give you their opinion of housing you may have seen elsewhere. Our housing advocate service is free. How's it like around the house?
For Reno International House managed properties, you can always check pictures on Photos and Videos Page. One of the International Houses is located one street away from the UNR campus, and it'll take 30 seconds to get to the school for UNR students. There are restaurants, a pharmacy, a bank, and a big park with basketball and tennis courts within walking distance. It's mostly quiet and peaceful, but you will have fun hearing sounds when UNR holds events. Some of the partner apartments and homestay families also have photos upon request to them.
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FAQs - Language
Are there slang people use daily?
Millions of words are not in the textbook, and new words are generated constantly. You will encounter these millions of aliens in your first 2-3 months, but you don't need to be afraid of them: Make a list and turn it into a great opportunity to learn natural English (slang)!
How can I overcome afraid of speaking English?
Have you felt your mother language suddenly improved one day you woke up? Likewise, it will be hard to visualize your growth in English even though you come to the U.S. However, you must never forget that you're brave just because you decided to jump into an adventure into the unknown. If you keep forcing yourself to expose English daily, you will see a big jump in the very near future.
How do I fix Accents?
Push yourself to go meet people. Don't spend all your time studying at your desk. Take a break. Talk to local people. You don't have to correct your accent. Don't try to be American. The biggest problem is that you hesitate to talk because of your accent. Be confident and proud of your unique accent. Embrace your accent because that is your gift!!
FAQs - Transportation
How to get a bus?
It should be the same way you get it in your country. Go to the nearest bus stop and wait for the bus. They have a time schedule but don't expect it will come on time. It can come earlier, later, or sometimes skipped… The bus apps, ex, NextBus, and Transit, will show you the live schedule; but the best way is always to get one earlier bus and get to the bus stop earlier.
How much will it cost to get a car?
It will depend on what purpose you will use it for, but you might want to expect more than $3,000 at minimum (for a used car). Facebook and some websites (Edmunds, Claigslist, Cars.com...) will help to find your ideal car.
Do I need a car?
You can still survive without a car, but it's 100% true that it will be convenient if you have one. International House organizes grocery shopping once a week, so you are welcome to use this opportunity as well. Do not buy a car until you see an actual one unless you have a reliable connection to it.
Life in the USA
What should I consider to decide on insurance?
Not all people will need to use their insurance, but you are better off not being stingy with it because no one knows what will happen. The insurance's primary purposes will be robbery, damage, and medical bills (COVID application is recommended). If you have insurance that will cover incidents here in the U.S., you may waive your school insurance (with my understanding, TMCC will not waive, but UNR does.)
Do I have to change the range to U.S. on the phone setting?
There are some apps you cannot use unless you change a range on the phone setting and vice versa. One thing that you have to be careful with is that shift can delete data on some apps. From my personal experience, all songs on my apple music were gone.
I need to get items made in my home country!!! (food, makeup,…)
Go to the internet and Amazon, and you'll find whatever you need! There are many global stores in Reno, so you might be able to find the items you are looking for there. Also, another local store like Costco can be one of the options because they keep following global trends and updating their items from many countries.
Am I better at learning basic cooking before? (A. lower your hurdle of foods)
Yes, Yes, Yes! Two reasons; first, you can make yourself a good meal. To battle in unfamiliar places, being healthy is super important. American foods are good, but some people call them SAD (Standard American Diet). Second, you can bring your home country's recipe to your friends. Your own meal tells people who you are and which country you are from. Also, you are better to have lower your food hurdle and being open to even weird meals in your foreign countries to enjoy your life in the U.S. ten times more.
Where can I make friends?
International house holds Saturday dinner every week, so you can chat with people from various countries and locals while having a good dinner. A campus job and clubs will also give you many chances to make friends. Since people in the club or on the job are in similar situations and schedules in most cases, it might go easier. Once you found a community, it will expand your network more and more.
I want to know an example schedule for one school day!
- 6:30 Wake up
- 7:00 Ready for school; have breakfast, clean my room, check email…
- 7:30 Get a bus to school
- 8:00 First morning class starts
- 9:30 Do assignments and prepare for the next class
- 11:30 Second class starts
- 1:00 Lunchtime
- 1:30 Campus job
- 5:00 Work out at the gym
- 6:30 Get home & dinner time
- 8:00 Start assignments
- 11:30 Free time
- 12:00 Go to bed
- 7:00 Ready for school; have breakfast, clean my room, check email…
- 7:30 Get a bus to school
- 8:00 First morning class starts
- 9:30 Do assignments and prepare for the next class
- 11:30 Second class starts
- 1:00 Lunchtime
- 1:30 Campus job
- 5:00 Work out at the gym
- 6:30 Get home & dinner time
- 8:00 Start assignments
- 11:30 Free time
- 12:00 Go to bed
How and when should make a Bank account?
I recommend making your own Bank account ASAP. The first time when I used my account was to receive a scholarship because a transaction between my school and the account in my country possibly caused extra charges or issues. You can also use it when you start working. It is required, so you have to make your own bank account until then. However, the most helpful way was when I needed to send my friends money because they commonly dislike receiving cash, and it will cost a certain amount of transaction fees every time you send your friends money from your country. Creating your bank account in the U.S. is relatively easy. Bring yourself with your identifications (passport, Visa, I-20, anything that can prove your address in the U.S.), and they will guide you until you complete all processes.
Can I use a Credit card from my home country?
If you use a VISA card, it is more likely to be valid in the U.S. as well, but you have to check the card company before you come.
What if I miss my family or friends and get homesick?
How often you go back to your home country is totally up to you. Some people do it every long break, and some don't even once before graduating. You can have a video call with your family and friends, but the best solution is to create a comfortable community around you. For example, a regular habit (like doing something weekly) will help you maintain emotional stability, which makes you comfortable living. I personally suggest having your favorite restaurant or place to visit so you can go back there when you feel depressed.
What social media are popular in the U.S.?
Many people text with their number, but Instagram and Snapchat are also popular in the U.S. Next one would be Facebook Messenger. You might want to look through American text abbreviations before starting to text with your friends, so you will not be confused by their cryptogram.
How to write the address?
I promise you will have to write your address a million times once you start your new life here, but don't worry, it's very simple.
Street, Town, State, Zip code (for example, 1120 Evans Ave Reno, NV 89512)
Street, Town, State, Zip code (for example, 1120 Evans Ave Reno, NV 89512)
What is a Security deposit for?
Most landlords require this amount of money to be paid, to "secure" your space. Often times, most of it is refundable after you leave. It give assurance to the landlord that you indeed will move in and fulfill your duty to live there according to the lease agreement. It gives you, the tenant, assurance that you will have a place to live, and it won't be rented out to someone else. Typically it is equal to one-month's rent, but sometimes it can be more or less.
Life in Reno
what clothes do they need to bring? (Weather)
Reno is in the mountains. It has a big temperature gap in a year, so you need to prepare many layers for winter and thin clothes for summer. In summer, it's very hot but not humid. People usually bring a layer because A.C. is sometimes too much inside, like schools, restaurants, and a mall. A nice jacket is essential in winter, and you might want to have a beanie, muffler, and globes. Also, each day has a big change between night and day temperature. Prepare with layers of clothes. Be ready for snow!
What events does Reno have?
There are so many! Reno, the biggest little city in the world, is an eventful place. Many casinos here have some events for holidays, downtown. Here are some of them:
- All winter (December-April): Ski and Snowboard season
- Reno River Festival - May
- Reno Rodeo - June
- Independence Day - July 4th
- Artown - All July
- Hot August Nights - early August
- Burning Man - Late August / Early September
- Rib Cookoff - Late August / Early September
- Balloon Races - September
- Airshow Reno Air Races - September
- Street Vibrations - September
- Italian Festival - October
- December - Many Christmas events
- All winter (December-April): Ski and Snowboard season
- Reno River Festival - May
- Reno Rodeo - June
- Independence Day - July 4th
- Artown - All July
- Hot August Nights - early August
- Burning Man - Late August / Early September
- Rib Cookoff - Late August / Early September
- Balloon Races - September
- Airshow Reno Air Races - September
- Street Vibrations - September
- Italian Festival - October
- December - Many Christmas events
What is affordable rent? How to decide on the place?
Average monthly rent is between $700 and $1200, but it can be lower and higher depending on what type of housing you're looking for. You need to consider price, location, term, deposit, utility, roommate, and owners… A housing search takes a long time and is sometimes very stressful, but that is why we are here to help you out! International House members know about Reno well because with living for a long time or for their whole life. Also, I love to help to find the best housing for you with my experiences as an international student struggling with the housing search. Check me out, Kazuma, on the Our Team page.
Culture
What is important to maintain personal areas? ex when to share common spaces
Don't overthink. As long as you take care of others, it should not be a big issue. You sometimes have to respect others’ differences in terms of culture and personality, but I believe these are also advantages that we can gain by studying abroad.
How do I call people? (I feel weird to call them their first name)
In most cases, people give you their nickname if they have a preferred way to be called. For example, some professors don't like to be called their name with Mr. or Professor. Instead, they prefer to be called by their first name even though they are much older than you. The best solution is to ask them how you can call them.
I'm struggling with understanding humor or jokes… ->classic famous American drama movies
Did you have a T.V. show that you were into so badly when you were small? It is fun to talk about it with your friends and remember the old time. Likewise, many jokes and humor come from T.V. shows or ads. Also, people often talk about topics from TikTok and Instagram, so you definitely want to check them to help the conversation.
Jobs
How to get a job?
The international services or career center at your school will typically guide you until you are in a job. You can find an on-campus job on Handshake or an outside job on LinkedIn or Indeed. A nice cover letter and resume, which takes some time to complete, are required to apply for a job, and you probably need Interview practice before your first-round interview.
What are OPT and CPT?
During OPT (Optional Practical Training) is provided to international students every time they obtain a degree; they have a limited period work Visa in the U.S. for a year. You have unlimited hours for a full-time job as long as it relates to your degree.
- CPT (Curricular Practical Training) provides international students with paid internship positions while they are still in school. You can select either a full-time (more than 40 hours/week) or part-time (less than 40 hours/week) position. If you are planning OPT after graduation, you have to be careful with CPT because if you worked over certain hours in a certain period, you possibly would not be able to apply for OPT.
- CPT (Curricular Practical Training) provides international students with paid internship positions while they are still in school. You can select either a full-time (more than 40 hours/week) or part-time (less than 40 hours/week) position. If you are planning OPT after graduation, you have to be careful with CPT because if you worked over certain hours in a certain period, you possibly would not be able to apply for OPT.
Can I work on campus? What jobs do they have?
Yes, you can. Full-time international students can work up to 20 hours/per week in an academic semester and up to 40 hours/per week in a break semester. Available jobs are constantly updated on the job board, so keep always your eyes on it! You'll see various jobs, such as receptionists, librarians, admissions, cashers, vending machines, I.T… Almost all of the departments are hiring, so you explore and find one that fits you best.
School
How to interact with professors?
Don't be afraid of talking to them, be friendly but with respect! Most international students have a hard time understanding and catching up with the class. That is why you have to interact with the professor and ask tons of questions until you understand. They like seeing people participating in their class actively. (You don't worry about your grade as long as you have a good relationship with your professor.)
What can we ask International advisers?
Your questions can be academic, personal, life, financial… pretty much anything you want. They are licensed advisers for international students, so they will at least try to help you out with whatever you need their support with. I usually see them before each semester starts to ensure I'm on the right track to completing my degree. They are always very busy, and you will need to make an appointment with them; however, if you have good networking with them, you can expect an earlier response from them.
How to register for classes?
Check the catalog on the school's website to figure out which classes you need to take in a semester to finish your degree in 2 years or 4 years. The next step is to go to your mypage on the school's website and choose available classes which fit your schedule. Finally, you make a payment and are good to go. One-on-one with your academic advisors will remove your stresses, but if you are still struggling with getting into classes or contacting your advisors, you can always reach out to one of International Houses' staff or to me, Kazuma, on the Our Team page.
How much does tuition exactly cost?
It significantly differs based on what you study, so I recommend you just trust whatever amount that school's website shows. However, it is also true that many students, including me, are paying way over what they expected because there are always unexpected payments (insurance, tax, deposits, etc.). So, unfortunately, it's hard to calculate the exact amount of expenses you will owe, but if you really like, we can definitely connect you with a student in a similar situation.
