PSU International Student Handbook 2012-13

8/17/2019 PSU International Student Handbook 2012-13

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InternationalStudent Handbook2012-2013

View online at:http://issuu.com/psuintlstudentscholarservices/docs/psu_international_student_handbook_2012-13


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Table of Contents Page

Welcome Message 5

Contact Details 6

Academic Studies 7●

Academic Conduct 7Misconduct 7Plagiarism 8Academic Advising 8Academic Help 9Your Academic Status 10

● Academic Standing 10Grades 10Grade Point Average 11Types of Academic Standing 11

● Registration and Records 12Adding Classes 12

Dropping/Withdrawing from Classes 12Enrollment Verification 13Student Records 13Student ID Cards 14PSU OneCard 14

● Tuition and Fees 14How to Pay Tuition and Fees 14PSU Tuition and Fees Payment Policy 15Tuition Refund Policy 15

● Scholarships and Awards 15● Academic Calendar 17

Code of Conduct 18Academic Misconduct 18Behavioral Misconduct 18Housing Issues 19How the Conduct Process Works 19Hostile Environment and Harassment 20Alcohol Policy 20Smoking Policy 21Weapons Policy 21

Cultural Adjustment 22The Adjustment Experience 22Stages of the Cultural Adjustment Process 22

Steps that will help you through the Cultural Adjustment Process 23International Student Life Team Support 24

Email, Banking and Telephone Options 25 PSU Email Accounts 25● Banking 25

Checking/Savings Accounts 25Credit Cards 25


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Telephones 26● Cell Phones 26● Computers 27● Software & Technology 27

Employment Options 28● On Campus Employment 28● Off Campus Employment 29

Curricular Practical Training 29

Optional Practical Training 30Economic Hardship 30Academic Training 31

● Getting a Social Security Number 31

Entertainment, Activities, Religious Centers and Shopping 32● Art and Cultural Events 32● Festivals 33● Parks and Gardens 34● Religious Centers 36● Restaurants and Groceries 36● Shopping 39

Shopping Malls 39Furniture 39Textbooks 40

● Sports and Recreation 41● Outdoor Activities 41● Weekend Getaways 42

Getting to Know the Campus 44Important PSU Buildings 45 Places of Interest on Campus 47Family Resources 48Recycle and ReUse at PSU 49

Health Insurance 50PSU’s Student Coverage 50Health Insurance Waiver 51Fees, Coverage Requirements and Deadlines 52

Housing 54 ● PSU Residence Halls 54

First Year Experience Housing 55Non First Year Furnished Rooms 56Global Village 56Meal Plans 57

●

Other Housing Options 57University Pointe at College Station 57College Housing Northwest 59Host Family (Short-term and Long-term) 59

● Short-term, Temporary, or Emergency Housing 59● Off-Campus Housing 61


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Immigration Regulations 62● Responsibilities of International Students 62

Credit and Enrollment Requirements 62Co-Enrollment 63Additional Requirements 63Grace Period 64F-1 Students and F-2 Dependents 64J-1 Students and J-2 Dependents 65

● Immigration Documents 65

Passport 65I-94 Card 65I-20 66DS-2019 66

● Immigrations Transfer Process 66● Travel 67

Safety 70Personal Safety Tips 70Personal Possessions 71Personal Boundaries 71

Reporting Options 71Support Services 72Emergency Services

Transportation 74TriMet 74Student FlexPass Program 74Car Rental 75Bicycles 76

Glossary 77

Special ThanksWe would like to thank the PSU Iranian Student Association (ISA) for sharing information andmaterials which have been used in this handbook.

Cover ImagesImages by PSU international students including Vu Tran and Khalil Alfuraih.

DisclaimerAll information contained within this document was correct on September 1st, 2012. For the most

up to date version of this document, please see our website:http:/www./oia.pdx.edu/intl_students/orientation.


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Welcome to Portland State University (PSU)

We extend a special welcome to all new international students at PSU. As aninternational student, you have a unique opportunity to expand and share your cultural,social, and academic experiences.

We encourage you to come in to the Office of International Student and ScholarServices (ISSS)* with any questions you may have. Not only can we provide importantinformation about your immigration status, but we can also answer questions about PSU,the city of Portland and the surrounding area.

Our office is located in:

East Hall, Room 101632 SW Hall Street (Corner of Broadway Ave. and Hall St.)

[email protected]

http://www.oia.pdx.edu

The International Student Lounge is located in East Hall, Room 122.

International Student & Scholar Services wishes you a successful and memorable

time at PSU.

*see glossary for definition


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Office of International Student and Scholar Services Staff Directory

Call 503-725 + extension

Name Position Email Extensio

Brandt, David Visiting Scholar Advisor (J-1) [email protected] x8596

Bower, Jamie Graduate Assistant for ISSS [email protected] x4094

Braun, Paul International Student Life Assistant [email protected] x8569

Davis, Joshua International Student & SEVIS Advisor [email protected] x4050

Gindlesperger, Anna International Student Life Advisor [email protected] x9766

Harris, Paula International Student Advisor [email protected] x5503

Kanaan, Kanaan Middle Eastern Student Advisor [email protected] x4101

Kenney, Sarah International Student Life Advisor [email protected] x5943

Luther, Christina Associate Director & Advisor, ISSS [email protected] x5468

McLaughlin, Megan International Student Advisor [email protected] x4197

Miller, Michele IELP & ESL Student Advisor [email protected] x8126

Montejo, Pilar IELP International Student Advisor [email protected] x2441

Nilenders, Eve International Faculty Advisor [email protected] x5075

Townley, Jill Associate Director, Int’l Student Life [email protected] x8563

Turay, Mike Program Assistant [email protected] x4094

VanDyck, Judy Director, ISSS [email protected] x4878


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Academic Studies

Learning how to operate in a new academic situation is a challenge, and doing so in adifferent culture and in another language can be especially challenging. In manycultures, there is a great difference in status between students and professors. Students

listen quietly, not questioning what the professor says. In the U.S., it is acceptable forstudents to ask questions and discuss topics with the professor. You are expected tocome to class on time, to notify your professor ahead of time if you will be absent, andto participate. During your first class, your professors will give you a syllabus, whichlists office hours, and when and how they can be contacted. If you have a problem withthe material presented in class, it is expected that you will see the professor duringoffice hours and ask for help. The syllabus also tells when assignments are due.

The dress code is informal in U.S. classrooms. Smoking is not permitted in classrooms oruniversity offices. Some professors permit students to have food and beverages in theclassroom.

(Reprinted from Ohio State University International Student Handbook)

Academic Conduct

Americans value originality and individual achievement. These valuesare reflected in the rules of academic honesty, and thus, students are

evaluated academically on their own original work. What constitutesacademic honesty varies from culture to culture, and it is important to

understand the rules of academic conduct at PSU.

Academic Misconduct (Cheating)In many cultures, it is common for students to collaborate on papersand projects. In the U.S. it is against the rules to do so, unless the

professor states that the paper or project is to be worked on ingroups. PSU defines academic misconduct as any of the following

behaviors:

Violating course rules as stated in the course syllabus (this includes gettingassistance from or providing assistance to another student or students on aproject or paper).

Providing or receiving information during quizzes and examinations. Falsifying, fabricating, or dishonest reporting of research results. Taking the place of another student or enlisting another student to take your place

in an examination. Altering grades or marks by the student in an effort to change the earned grade Plagiarizing.


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PlagiarismIn the U.S., ideas are considered the property of their author. It is considered stealingto use the ideas of another in a paper or presentation without giving credit to the authorof the idea.

Types of plagiarism include: Word-for-word copying of someone else’s work without attributing the source

(this would include using the words of an author or another student withoutindicating that they are not your own). Changing a few words of someone else’s work but not acknowledging that the

ideas are not your own. When using the ideas of another person, give thatperson’s name and the publication where the ideas were published. If you haveany questions about this, contact your instructor.

(Reprinted from Ohio State University International Student Handbook)

Academic AdvisingThe goal of PSU's academic advising services is to assist you in

understanding the following:

Both the requirements for graduation and the university'sinstitutional policies.

What campus resources are available. The value of activities outside the classroom. The balance between your responsibilities and those of

the university.

PSU believes that academic advising should be a part of your entire academic career,

beginning with your pre-admissions contacts with the university and with InternationalStudent Orientation, and that you should have frequent contact with advisors during theentire time you attend PSU.

Academic advising, provided by both professional advisors and faculty advisors, willassist you with the following:

Exploration of personal life goals. Exploration of career and academic goals (including graduation and professional

programs). Integration of personal, academic, and career goals. Selection of general education options, degree, and major or program of study

Selection and scheduling of courses. Understanding university policies and regulations. Information about and referral to university resources and services.


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Undergraduate and transfer students should visit an academic advisor in theirdepartment. If you are an undergraduate student and you are thinking about changingyour major, you should visit Advising & Career Services:

Advising & Career ServicesUniversity Services Building, Room 402

[email protected]

http://www.pdx.edu/uasc

Graduate students are assigned an academic advisor within their graduatedepartment. Graduate students should also become familiar with the Office of GraduateStudies which is the principal resource for student’s graduate programs:

Office of Graduate StudiesExtended Studies Building (XSB), Room 184

[email protected]

http://www.pdx.edu/ogs/

Academic HelpA variety of resources exist on campus to provide students with direct academicassistance. In addition to the office hours of their professors, there is also a Math Lab,the Writing Center and the Learning Center. Students can use these resources toreceive help with specific assignments, general concepts or ideas, preparing for tests,conforming to the different stylistic guidelines (e.g., MLA, Chicago, APA), and a variety ofdifferent subject-specific assistance.

More information can be found at the following websites or under the following numbers:

Math Computer LabFariborz Maseeh Dept. of Mathematics and Statistics,

Neuberger, Room 465

Math TutoringNeuberger Hall, Atrium outside of Room 334

http://www.mth.pdx.edu (With tutoring schedule)503-725-3621

Learning Center

Millar Library, Second Floorhttp://www.pdx.edu/tutoring/

503-725-4448

Writing CenterCramer Hall, Room 188

http://www.writingcenter.pdx.edu503-725-3570


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Graduating is not always as simple as it may appear to be. There are three sets ofrequirements for a baccalaureate degree at PSU:

General education (University Studies or the Honors Program).

Degree (Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Music).

Major requirements.

For a graduate degree, students should consult with their academic advisor to find outabout their graduate degree requirements. It is important that you stay in touch withyour academic advisor to ensure that you meet the requirements for each of these areasor you may find that you have to spend additional time studying at PSU. This, in turn,could jeopardize your immigration status.

Your Academic StatusInternational students must maintain full-time status (a minimum of 12 credit hours forundergraduate students and a minimum of 9 credit hours for graduate students in everyterm enrolled). If you choose to WITHDRAW from a course or change the grading optionto AUDIT, you MUST consult with your international student advisor prior to doing so.Reducing your credit load to less than full time may place you out of status with theUnited States Citizens and Immigration Services (USCIS)*. Failure to maintain theproper number of credits may also result in you having to abandon your studiesand return to your home country.

Do not take too many classes. Give yourself time to adjust to the U.S., to PSU, and toyour classes. Taking too many classes can result in you receiving low grades andincreasing your stress level. Taking too many classes may also endanger your academicstanding and admission to professional programs. Listen to your academic and

international student advisors.

Academic Standing

GradesEnd of term grades are available on the Wednesday following finalsweek. Students may view grades and print grade reports using thePSU Information System called https://my.pdx.edu* online.

Calculating your Grade Point Average (GPA)*Each letter grade corresponds to a numeric value on a scale from 0.0 to4.0, in which A corresponds to 4.0. A student’s academic success for a quarteris measured cumulatively, which is computed by dividing the total number of pointsearned by the total number of credits taken. Under specific circumstances, letters suchas: I (incomplete); W (Withdraw); X (No basis for grade); P (Pass); and NP (No Pass)may appear in grade reports. These letters are not grades and are not included in thecalculation of the cumulative GPA.



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Grade Scale

Grade Points

A 4.00

A-

3.67

B+ 3.33

B 3.00

B- 2.67

C+ 2.33

C 2.00

C- 1.67

D+ 1.33

D 1.00

F 0.00

Types of Academic Standing

Good Academic Standing

Course hours are completed with a satisfactory grade point average required for aspecific year of college so that the student is making satisfactory progress.

Academic WarningA notice that your grades are below the academic requirements. The minimumuniversity grade point average is 2.0 (higher for some majors) for graduation with abaccalaureate degree and 3.0 for a graduate degree.

Academic ProbationAn enrollment restriction as a result of poor grades. If you are placed on academicprobation, be certain to consult your international student advisor.

Academic DisqualificationA suspension from the university due to academic difficulties. If you are placed onacademic probation, you will be automatically disqualified at the end of the followingquarter after the warning if you have not raised your GPA.

Please note: In case of academic warning, probation, disqualification/suspension,consult ISSS. For additional information on warning levels and GPA requirements, seethe PSU Bulletin or consult your major department.


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Office HoursEach instructor and professor has regularly scheduled office hours each week. Duringthis time, students can meet with their professors to discuss course work, ask questions,or get to know their professor. Professors often recommend that students schedule timeto see them within their office hours. Information on office hours will be available in thecourse syllabus for each class or by contacting the professor or the department office.

Registration and Records

All new international students are eligible toregister for their first term of classes onlinebefore International Student Orientation.

For all registration periods following their initialterm of enrollment at PSU, students will registeron their own. Students can register for classesduring the pre-term registration period and may

make changes to their registration until after theterm begins. Pre-term registration dates areprioritized according to student class standings,which are determined by the number of credits astudent has earned.It is important for students to be aware of the available dates for registration, as well asdeadlines for adding and dropping classes, making grade changes, withdrawing fromclasses, refund percentages and other policies. You can find these dates in the PSUStudent Handbook, or online at: http://www.pdx.edu/registration/calendar or on page17 of this handbook.

If you are unsure which classes to register for, please schedule an appointment with

your academic advisor.

Student Identification Number (PSU ID Number)PSU assigns each student an ID number which will be used during your studies at PSU.Your PSU ID number will be a 9-digit number beginning with the number 9.

Adding ClassesA student who has registered and wishes to add a course may do so in the first twoweeks of the quarter. If you want to add a class after the first week, you must go to theRegistration windows in Neuberger Hall Lobby and complete a Special Registration Form.

Dropping/Withdrawing from ClassesClasses may be dropped during the first four weeks of the quarter online. If you wish todrop a class after this time, you must get permission from the academic departmentdelivering the class. The department will stamp or sign the Special Registration Form,which can be obtained at the Registrar’s Office.


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After you have this form filled out by the academic department, you will need to take itto the Registration window in Neuberger Hall Lobby.

You must get permission from an international student advisor if you want or need todrop below full time enrollment.

You can find out more information on paying fees on the Business Affairs website:http://www.pdx.edu/bao/payments

Please note: If you do not officially drop a class that you do not attend, or if youreceive an X grade, you will fail the class, be charged for the class and you will beexpected to pay the fees. You may also violate your student status because this coursemay not be counted as part of your full time course load. Be sure to check your termcalendar in the Bulletin for deadline dates.

Enrollment VerificationIf you need to provide verification of enrollment, you may obtain this at the registrationwindows. Often, this is necessary for health and car insurance, scholarships, loans, andemployers. If the verification does not have to be signed by a university official, astudent can print their schedule from the web. Some students may also require thisverification in the form of a status letter. These may be requested from ISSS by fillingout a Student Request Form. Status letter requests take about three to five businessdays to process, so please plan accordingly.

Student RecordsThe Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)* gives domestic and internationalstudents certain rights with respect to their educational records. These include the rightto consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’srecords, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. FERPA

authorizes the university to make public disclosure, upon request, of student directoryinformation. Student directory information includes the student’s name, address,telephone number, e-mail address, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received,number of credits earned, and the fact of enrollment, including whether the student isenrolled full-time or part-time.

Students may request nondisclosure of student directory information by specifyingnondisclosure, in writing, to:

The Office of Admissions, Records, and Financial AidPortland State University, PO Box 751

Portland, OR, 97207-0751

Due to FERPA regulations, the university cannot release information to parents andfamily; therefore it is always important to keep them up to date on your academic andliving situations. International students should be aware that the Patriot Act givesspecial permission to employees of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)*. Attheir request, university officials are required to release information to HomelandSecurity about any F-1 or J-1 students who are currently studying at or have previouslystudied at PSU.



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Student ID CardsIf you are enrolled in one or more credits at PSU, you are eligible for a student ID cardwhich can be used to access many services on campus and in the community. To get anID card, students must go to the Neuberger Hall ID Windows and have a photo taken. A$15 fee is then charged to your account.

A valid ID can be used on campus for building and parking access, the library, computer

labs, athletic events and gym facilities. Off campus, the ID can be used for discountedmovie ticket, museum passes, the Japanese Gardens and for Symphony tickets, andother places that accept student ID cards.

PSU OneCardPSU students also have an ID card called the PSU. Higher One distributes universityrefunds to you onto the card. You can choose to have the funds deposited to a freeOneAccount checking account, transferred to an existing bank account, or have a papercheck mailed to you. If you choose to open a OneAccount checking account, you canuse your ID card as a debit card off campus wherever MasterCard is accepted.

Manage your OneCard online at:https://psuone.higheroneaccount.com/

The Higher One institution does not have any physical branches in Portland, soif an issue arises (fraud, card theft, overdraft fees, etc.) it must be resolvedover the phone.

For further information about ID cards, please contact:

ID Services, Neuberger Hall Lobby503-725-8333

http://www.pdx.edu/bao/id-card-services

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees are determined by the Oregon StateUniversity System (OUS) Board of Higher Education and aresubject to change. Each year, the Offices of Admissions andISSS determines how much money international students willneed for tuition, fees and other normal living expenses. For

more information on tuition and fees see:http://www.pdx.edu/registration/tuition.html


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How to Pay Tuition and FeesYou have three options for paying your tuition and fees:1. Online: You can pay using the PSU Information System at:https://my.pdx.edu

There is a $50.00 fee if you use a visa card. You can pay with an e-Check if you have a checking account (separate bank fees

may apply).

MasterCard, American Express and Discover have a service charge of 2.75% If you open a PSU one account you can pay through that, free of charge.

2. U.S. mail: You can send a check in the mail.3. In person: You can visit the cashier’s windows in the Neuberger Hall lobby and payusing cash or check. (Please note: during the first several weeks of each term, lines canbe very long.)

Tuition and Fees Payment PolicyOregon University System and Portland State University policies require payment oftuition, housing and fees by the 10th of every month. If payment is not received,interest and billing fees will be applied on the billing statement on the 15th of themonth. Students who cannot meet fee payment deadlines may choose the RevolvingCharge Account Plan.

For more information on the payment policy see:http://www.pdx.edu/bao/payments

Students are financially responsible for all classes for which they are registered prior tothe second week of each term. Students who discover that they cannot attend mustcancel their registration prior to the second week of each term to avoid financialobligation.

Tuition Refund Policy

Students receive a: 100% refund for courses dropped before the second week of the term.

70% refund for courses dropped in the second week of the term.

40% refund for courses dropped in the third week of the term.

20% refund for courses dropped in the fourth week of the term.

For more information on tuition refunds see:http://www.pdx.edu/bao/tuition-refunds

Scholarships and Awards

ISSS administers three scholarships that are available toqualified F-1 and J-1 students:

● International Student Retention Scholarship.● International Cultural Service Program Scholarship.● Keith Morden Memorial Scholarship.

Please go to: http://www.oia.pdx.edu/intl_students/scholarships for more information.


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Portland State University 2012-2013 Academic Calendar

2012-2013Important Datesto Remember

Fall Term’12 Winter Term’13 Spring Term’13

Class scheduleavailable

April 30th October 22nd February 4th

Pre-termregistrationbegins

May 14th November 5th February 18th

Classes begin September 24th January 7th April 1st Last day to applyfor undergraduatedegree

September 28th

For Wintergraduation

January 11th

For Springgraduation

April 5th

For Summergraduation

Last day of 100%refund fordropped classes*

September 30th January 13th April 7th

Last day to addclasses

September 30th January 13th April 7th

Period for 70%refund fordropped classes

October 1st-7th January 14th-20th April 8th-14th

Last day addclasses (withspecial approval)

October 5th January 18th April 12th

Last day to dropclasses without aW

October 7th January 20th April 14th

40% refund fordropped classes,

W is recorded

October 8th-14th January 21st-27th April 15th-21st

20% refund fordropped classes,W is recorded

October 15th-21st January 28th-February 3rd

April 22nd-28th

Last day towithdraw fromclasses with a W

November 11th February 24th May 19th

Last day tochange gradingoption

November 11th February 24th May 19th

Classes End December 2nd March 17th June 9th

Final Exams Week December 3

rd

-8

th

March 18

th

-23

rd

June 10

th

-15

th

Grades postedonline

December 12th March 27th June 19th

Holidays(University isclosed)

November 12th,22nd & 23rd

January 21st May 27th

You MUST speak to an Immigration Advisor in East Hall, Room 101 before youdrop a class.


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Code of Conduct

All Portland State University Students are bound by the Code of StudentConduct and Responsibility.

The University supports the right of all people to live and learn in a safe and respectfulenvironment that promotes free speech. The student conduct code is designed toprotect the freedoms and fundamental rights of all members of the Universitycommunity. The Code applies to all students and activities at the University, during anyUniversity event (regardless of location) and to off-campus conduct that is connected tothe University.

Academic MisconductIn the Code of Conduct, Academic Misconduct isdefined as the act of knowingly or intentionallytaking credit for the work of another person. Thisincludes cheating, plagiarism (such as word for wordcopying, using borrowed words or phrases from anoriginal text, or paraphrasing another writer'sideas), buying or selling course assignments andperforming academic assignments (including testsand exams) for other people.

It is also against the rules to give the University false information (in the form of forgedor altered University documents and records) or knowingly failing to provide requiredinformation to the University.

If your professor discovers that you have cheated or plagiarized an assignment they cangive you a failing grade and they will report you to the Director of Conduct.

Behavioral MisconductA quick list of things you should not do on the Portland State University campus:

● Bring weapons like knives or guns to campus.● Bring, sell or use drugs like marijuana on campus.● Harm or threaten to harm other people on campus.● Stalk or harass other students, faculty or staff.

○ Stalking is defined in the code as repeatedly following another person orrepeatedly sending electronic (like emails) or telephonic (like texts or phone

calls) communication after you have been told to stop.○ Basically, if someone asks you to stop a certain behavior – just stop! If you

have concerns about the request to stop the behavior, ask a trusted advisorwhat you should do.

● Sexually harass or assault other students, faculty or staff.○ This piece of the code is taken very seriously by the University. The

consequences for these actions can be very severe.


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○ Again, if someone asks you to stop a certain behavior – stop right away! Ifyou have concerns about the request to stop the behavior, ask a trustedadvisor what you should do.

● Drink or carry alcohol on campus (if you are under 21 years old).● Sell or give alcohol to other people who are under 21 years old.● Smoke cigarettes in non-smoking areas.● Illegally download movies, music or programs from the Internet using the

University computer systems.

Housing IssuesIf you live in University Housing you must also follow the rules found in the Standards ofResidence, which you can find on the Housing website: http://www.pdx.edu/housing

How the Conduct Process Works● The Complaint: Anyone can submit a written complaint to the Director of

Conduct alleging that a student has broken a rule in the Code of Conduct. TheDirector of Conduct reviews the complaint and decides whether to move forwardwith an investigation.

The Email: If he decides to investigate the complaint, the Director of Conduct willsend an email to your PSU email address. This email describes the complaint andrequests a meeting to investigate the matter.

The Meeting: You are required to participate in the meeting. During the meetingyou have the opportunity to talk about the situation. The Director of Conduct hasthe right to decide whether you are responsible or not without your participation.

Sometimes, the Director of Conduct will decide that someone else should hear thecomplaint. This may be a different Conduct Officer, or it may be the StudentConduct Committee.

The Decision: After the meeting the Director of Conduct will send you his

decision via email to your PSU email address. If you are found responsible youwill be assigned sanctions, which are assignments you must complete by a certaindeadline. If you are found responsible you may also be assigned a conduct fee.This fee will be charged to your PSU student account.

The Sanctions: Assigned sanctions can include mediation, monetary restitution,an educational assignment such as researching and writing a paper, disciplinaryprobation, and even suspension or expulsion from the University. If you do notcomplete the sanction by the assigned deadline a hold will be placed on yourstudent account which prevents you from registering for classes or droppingclasses online. It can also prevent you from requesting transcripts from theUniversity when you leave PSU.

If you have any questions about the Student Code of Conduct, please contact the Officeof the Dean of Student Life. You can reach the office by phone at 503-725- 4422, byemail at: [email protected] or by visiting the office in SMSU, Room 433.

Please note: These Code highlights are for your convenience only. The full Code ofStudent Conduct and Responsibility is available at:http://www.pdx.edu/dos/ psu-student-code-conduct


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Hostile Environment and HarassmentA work or learning environment is “hostile” when unwelcome verbal, non-verbal orphysical behavior of a prohibited nature is severe and pervasive enough to unreasonablyinterfere with an employee’s work or a student’s learning, or creates an intimidating,hostile or offensive environment to a “reasonable person.” The hostile environmentstandard focuses on the “poisoning” of a work or learning environment rather than ontangible actions directed against a person. An employer, teacher, co-worker, vendor, orfellow student can create a hostile environment. Individuals holding positions of

authority are responsible for ensuring that employees or students do not create a hostileenvironment. A single incident or a few incidents may not necessarily rise to the level ofillegal harassment; however, a single extreme incident could constitute prohibiteddiscrimination or harassment. Each matter needs to be evaluated individually.If severe and pervasive enough to interfere with work or learning, the following types ofconduct may create a hostile environment:

Jokes or insults. Flirting. Comments about a person’s body or sex life. Sexually degrading comments. Repeated invitations for dates.

Abusive language directed at a person because of his or her belonging to aprotected class.

Sexually crude hand gestures, leering at the body, sexually suggestive winking,standing too close.

Display of posters, cartoons, etc. regarding sexually suggestive themes, race,religion, etc.

Pornography. Sexually suggestive “gifts.” Stalking behavior. Touching, hugging, kissing, or patting. Intentional and repeated brushing or bumping against a person’s body.

Restraining or blocking a person’s movement.

Some behaviors, which may be acceptable in certain contexts, are inappropriate in theworkplace or classroom, particularly if an objection is expressed. Whether or not thebehavior is contrary to law or university policy depends upon the circumstances of eachcase.

Taken from http://www.ohsu.edu/aaeo/investigation/hostile_environment.html

For Campus Public Safety Office Information, go to:http://www.pdx.edu/cpso/safety-security

For policies, go to: http://www.pdx.edu/fadm/internal-management-directives

Alcohol Policy The PSU campus has been designated “Drug free” and only under certain

circumstances is the consumption of alcohol permitted. The possession, sale,manufacture or distribution of any controlled substance is illegal under both stateand federal laws. Such laws are strictly enforced by the Campus Public SafetyOffice.


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Violators are subject to University disciplinary action, criminal prosecution, fineand imprisonment. It is unlawful to sell, furnish or provide alcohol to a personunder the age of 21. The possession of alcohol by anyone under 21 years of agein a public place or a place open to the public is illegal. It is also a violation of thePSU Alcohol Policy for anyone to consume or possess alcohol in any public orprivate area of campus without prior University approval. Organizations or groupsviolating alcohol/substance policies or laws may be subject to sanctions by theUniversity.

The State of Oregon sets 21 as the minimum age to purchase or possess anyalcoholic beverage. Specific ordinances regarding violations of alcohol laws,including driving while intoxicated, are available from the Campus Public SafetyOffice. Effective January 1, 1990, a package of state laws was passed regardingalcohol. They include the following: Minor in possession – any attempt to purchase by a person under 21 years is a

violation (up to $250 fine). Providing liquor to a minor – Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in prison and

a fine, plus restitution and community service). Mandatory minimums: 1st conviction is $350; 2nd conviction is $1,000; 3rd or

subsequent conviction is $1,000 and 30 days imprisonment. For the purposes of the Oregon DUII statutes, for a person under 21 years of

age, any amount of alcohol in the blood constitutes being under the influenceof intoxicating liquor (Class A misdemeanor: penalty of up to 1 year and$2,500 fine, and suspension or revocation of driving privileges).

o A violation of any law regarding alcohol is also a violation of theUniversity's Student Code of Conduct and will be treated as a separatedisciplinary matter by the University.

Smoking Policy No tobacco products are sold on campus. Smoking is to be prohibited within 25 feet of doors, windows

that open and air intakes or any other covered area. Urban Plaza is smoke-free, which includes all open space

between the College of Urban & Public Affairs and the Academic& Student Recreation Center.

Smoking is also prohibited in any area of University Housing, includingentryways.

Weapons Policy The policy of the Oregon University System is that the possession of weapons,

including firearms, is prohibited on all property owned or controlled by the OregonUniversity System.

Students, faculty, staff, and guests of PSU may not bring weapons, includingfirearms, onto University owned or controlled property. Students who violate thisprohibition will be subject to appropriate discipline through the Student ConductCode process. Similarly, faculty or staff members who violate this prohibition willbe subject to appropriate discipline through the applicable employee disciplineprocess.


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Cultural Adjustment

The Adjustment ExperienceWhen you decided to study in the U.S.,you may have anticipated that some

adjustments would have to be made withrespect to differences in climate, food,time, and culture. The culturaladjustment process is not an easy orcomfortable one, but it can be anextremely productive and rewardingexperience. It may take several monthsto feel comfortable in your newenvironment. Many people attain newlevels of self-awareness, personal growth,and gain a new understanding of their own cultures in addition to that of the newcountry. Although everyone goes through some adjustment process, it is important to

remember that the experience is different for each of us!

Stages of the Cultural Adjustment Process

Stage 1: You may experience general anxiety combined with a great deal of excitement.There are many details to keep you busy. Often, you find there is no real time to sitdown and think during the first few weeks in a new place. When the excitement wearsoff, you may feel very emotional.

Stage 2: When the initial excitement fades, you may feel a lot of frustration and become

tired of operating in English. It may seem to take forever to accomplish something thatonce took you a very short time. You may miss friends and family back home and haveless energy and tolerance than usual. Changes may occur in your eating and sleepinghabits. This is a time you need to pay extra attention to your health. It is important toremember that this is a normal and expected part of the cultural adjustment process.

Stage 3: A greater sense of regularity now becomes noticeable. During this time, youmay find that you laugh at the mistakes that irritated you only a few weeks ago. Youmay also find that information is more easily absorbed, and your energy level is higher.

Stage 4: The final stage is a sense of ease in the new culture. You have a betterunderstanding of how the culture works, and parts of it may even begin to feelcomfortable.


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Steps that will help you through the Cultural Adjustment Process:

Be aware of the cultural adjustment process. Realize that it is natural to miss yourfamily, friends, and home. Talk about these feelings with someone you feel comfortable

with, or someone who has experienced the same feelings in the past.

Spend time with people from your home country or other internationalstudents. There are many international student organizations that you can join to meetnew friends.

Find an American to be a cultural informant for you to gain insights into Americanculture. Also, try asking several different Americans the same question. The differencesand similarities in answers may surprise you.

Stay busy. Get involved in activities, but also continue hobbies and sports that you

enjoy in your home country.

Maintain your sense of humor. Anyone who has lived in another culture has funnyand/or embarrassing stories. You are not alone. Laughing at these situations can easethe tension.

Keep realistic expectations. It may take longer to accomplish tasks in a new culture,a new academic environment, and a new language.


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Remain open minded, flexible, and adaptable. You will find things that do not makesense. Remember that you are experiencing these events through your particularcultural lens. It will take some time before you can see through an American lens.

Remember that being in a new culture can be confusing. It is often difficult to

figure things out on your own, so ask questions.

Communicate with your professors at PSU. In many cultures students do not talk to

professors, but here, in the United States, it is extremely important to talk to yourprofessors. If you do not understand an assignment, are going to miss a class, or areunable to hand in an assignment, talk to your professors. The only way they can makeinformed decisions about your class work is if you inform them. If you feeluncomfortable speaking with them directly, you can speak to an advisor in ISSS.

International Student Life Team Support

The International Student Life Team exists to support students during their time at PSU.If you are having any adjustment issues, you can visit the International Student Lounge,

East Hall, Room 122, Monday-Friday, 1-4pm and speak with an advisor.

The International Student Life Team organizes many events and activities which you canget involved in to help you meet new people and learn more about Portland. Allinternational students receive two communications each week which contain importantinformation about upcoming trips, events and activities. Be sure to check your PSUemail regularly to ensure you stay up to date with what is happening on and off campus.


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Email, Banking and TelephoneOptions

PSU Email Accounts

PSU offers free email accounts to all students. Studentsm u s t use the account not only for the email service, butalso for accessing student accounts and information on classregistration, financial aid, and Desire2Learn (D2L)*. ISSSonly sends emails to student’s PSU email accounts.Forwarding emails to an outside email account is not reliable, sobe sure to check your PSU email regularly. If you havequestions regarding your email account, D2L account or access tomy.pdx.edu please contact the Office of Information Technology at:[email protected] or 503-725-4357.

Banking

Checking/Savings AccountsOpening a checking and/or savings account is a good way to keepyour money safe whilst you are in the U.S. Basic information will beasked of you to prevent fraud. A Social Security Number (SSN)*should not be required to open an account. If you have any

questions about opening an account, please contact the InternationalStudent Life Team in East Hall, Room 122.

Credit CardsIn order to apply for a credit card, a credit history and SSN are needed. A good credithistory is a requirement for many financial affairs like attaining good interest rates onloans, but unfortunately new students usually do not have a credit history in the U.S..To build a good credit history, it is recommended not to purchase more than half of yourcredit line each month and to pay the balance on due dates.

Things to look for when selecting a bank:

Amount of branches and ATMs/cash points in the area. Online banking system. Student benefits.

Banks around campus include Wells Fargo, Chase, Bank of America, U.S. Bank, andUmpqua.



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Telephones

There are many different phone companies which provide land line service inside your

home or apartment. Often phone companies offer packages (bundles of phone service,

wireless service, cable TV service, etc.) for lower prices than you would

pay if you signed up for each service separately. Be very careful,

though, when entering into such agreements, as most “good deals”

require a year or longer commitment. A phone company will charge an

initial installation fee (about $60.00), and there will also be monthly

fees (depending upon services, they can be $20-$50). For general

plans, you will not be charged for local calls you make from your

home, but you will usually be charged for “long distance” calls.

Please note: Long distance often means outside the greater Portland area!

As cell phones become more popular, there are fewer and fewer public phones, but thosethat do exist are mostly still coin-operated rather than card-operated. Phones can be

found in public places and a local call is usually $0.50 and you can talk for an unlimitedperiod of time.

The phone company publishes telephone books for every town. Most people who receivetelephone services are listed alphabetically in the telephone books. If you would preferto not be listed, you need to tell the phone company this when you sign up for service.

Local information or directory assistance can be obtained by dialing 411. Check the frontof the phone book for area codes and tips on how to find long-distance numbers. Thereis a charge for 411 calls.

Please note:Oregon uses a system of 10-digits. In the Portland area, you must dial

the area code (503) or (971) before dialing the phone number. All calls with the areacode (541) are considered long distance.

Cell Phones

There are various cell phone providers in the area whose plans and pricesvary. Provides include Verizon, AT&T, Sprint and Virgin Mobile.

The best way to find what you are looking for is to go into a store and seewhat they have to offer. Remember to shop around before you decide on a particularprovider.

Please note: Prepaid services are not as common in the U.S. as they are in othercountries.


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Computers

Many computer manufacturers offer discounts to students which can be obtained byconfirming your PSU e-mail account through their website or logging into yourmy.pdx.edu account in the store. This is a great way to cut costs! Some of thecompanies that offer this discounted pricing are: Dell:

http://premier.dell.com/portal/messages.aspx?c=US&l=en&s=hied&cs=RC1233169 Apple: http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/findyourschool Lenovo:

http://shop.lenovo.com/SEUILibrary/controller/e/portlandstate/StdAffinityPortal/en_US/StdAffinity:Home?home=portlandstate&affinity=portlandstate&menu-id=products

HP:http://hp.force.com/external/pdx?client=pdx&schoolSearchPin=AP7607&jumpid=ex_r329_app_psu_012711&aoid=82120

Software & Technology

Many software and technology companies also offer discounts on their products forstudents. Popular programs that are available include Microsoft Office and AdobeIllustrator. One website that includes these programs and several other is TechHeadwhich you can access here: http://techhead.org/highered/


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Employment Options

On-Campus Employment

On-campus employment is granted to full-time students as long as itdoes not interfere with the student’s program of study or delaygraduation.

New international students are eligible to work on-campus as soon asthey report to the Office of International Student and ScholarServices (ISSS), but no sooner than 30 days prior to their first termof study. Transfer students may work on campus as soon as PSU hasissued them an I-20.

Permission must be obtained from ISSS before beginning work. At your request, ISSSwill review your eligibility and then issue a letter authorizing you to work on campus. Ifyou do not already have one, you will need to present this letter (along with a letter ofoffer from your employer) to the Social Security Administration Office to obtain a SocialSecurity Number (See SSN section on page 31 for more details).

The PSU Human Resources Office will also need to see your on campus employmentauthorization letter. The office is located at:

PSU Human Resources OfficeMarket Center Building (MCB)

1600 SW 4th Avenue, Suite 518

Federal regulations limit your on-campus employment to 20 hours per week whileclasses are in session. In your annual vacation term, you may work full time (40 hoursper week) on campus even if you choose to take classes. If you work more than 20hours in one week (outside of your vacation term), you are working illegally.

On-campus jobs are posted on Career Connect:https://portland.experience.com/er/security/login.jsp


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International students are not eligible for “work study” positions on campus.If you would like assistance writing you resume or a cover letter, please contact Advising& Career Services (contact details below).

Located within Advising & Career Services, the StudentEmployment Office posts hundreds of part-time jobs, many ofwhich are degree related. Please note that you MAY NOT workoff-campus without prior authorization from ISSS and/orUSCIS.For more information contact:

Advising & Career ServicesUniversity Services Building (USB), Room 402

503-725-4613 [email protected]

http://www.pdx.edu/careers

Off Campus Employment

Students with F-1 Visa Status

Practical TrainingPractical training is employment in a student’s major field of study. You are eligible forpractical training if you have been a full-time enrolled student for one academic year and

are in F-1 status. There are two types of practical training: Curricular (CPT) andOptional (OPT).

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)*In order to be eligible for CPT, you must be in F-1 status and have been enrolled for 9consecutive months, unless you are enrolled in a graduate program which requires thatall students in your program begin an internship earlier within the first academic year ofthe program. This exemption currently applies only to programs in the Graduate Schoolof Social Work and the Graduate School of Education.

CPT must be related to your field of study. This type of practical training can be an

internship, cooperative education, practicum, or professional experience listed as acourse in your curriculum. It may be full-time or part-time employment and must becredit bearing. Additionally, the credit you earn for doing CPT must count toward thecompletion of your degree. Because CPT credit must be degree related, you may onlyuse CPT before you have met your degree requirements.

Please note: If you complete a total of 12 months of full-time CPT, you are not eligiblefor any period of Optional Practical Training (OPT). Part-time CPT does not affect astudent's eligibility for OPT.



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Authorization for CPT is obtained from ISSS. You must submit your CPT application toEH 101 at least ten business days prior to your employment start date and you maynot begin working until you have been authorized. If you start working before youare authorized, or if you fail to request a timely extension, you are consideredto be working illegally.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)*Optional Practical Training (OPT) enables international students to gain valuable workexperience related to their fields of study. F-1 students are eligible for up to 12 monthsof full-time employment authorization for each HIGHER level of education completed(i.e. Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD). Applications are filed with ISSS, but it is U.S.Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that approves the applications. While OPTis not employer specific, OPT work must be related to the field of study for thedegree program listed on the I-20.

International students who wish to gain OPT authorization must demonstrate that theyare in valid F-1 status, which means that they must have been enrolled full time for a fullacademic year prior to the OPT start date.

Some Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) students may apply for a 17-month extension. Please visit the ISSS office or attend an OPT/CPT workshop, heldthroughout the academic year (http://www.oia.pdx.edu/isss) for more informationabout:

Pre-completion vs. Post-completion OPT. Application timing (at least three months before you plan to start working). Starting OPT / Travel while on OPT (it is not advised that anyone travel before

they get approved for OPT).

Unemployment during OPT period.

Economic HardshipOff-Campus Employment Authorization can be granted based upon severe economichardship if you are in good academic standing, carry a full-time course load, and havebeen in F-1 status for nine consecutive months. Economic Hardship authorization allowsstudents to work off campus in any job for up to 20 hours per week during the term andfull time during the annual vacation term.

Severe economic hardship is a situation caused by unforeseen circumstances beyondyour control. This may include a loss of tuition waiver, loss of on campus employment,substantial fluctuation in the value of currency or the exchange rate from your homecountry, unexpected changes in the financial condition of your source of support, medicalbills, or other substantial and unexpected expenses. An increase in tuition does notconstitute an unforeseen economic need. Please see your international studentadvisor for more information.



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Students with J1 Visa StatusEmployment authorization for J-1 students takes the form of a letter from ISSS. J-1students may work on campus just as F-1 students may, however most J-1 studentschoose to work off campus if at all. To do so, Academic Training must be authorized.

Academic Training (AT)

Students with J-1 status are eligible for Academic Training (AT). AT is a term used bythe United States Department of State to describe employment in the student’s majorfield of study. This training may be done at a company or an organization and eitherbefore or after completion of studies. To be eligible, you must find work that is directlyrelated to your field of study as indicated on your DS-2019 form, and you must be a full-time student in good academic standing. Authorization for academic training is providedby ISSS. Please see your international student advisor for more information about theapproval process. Employment can only begin after you have received authorizationfrom ISSS.

Getting a Social Security Number (SSN)

To be employed in the U.S., you must have a Social Security Card. You can apply for acard at any Social Security office. Please be sure to bring:

An employment authorization letter and offer letter from your supervisor. Passport. I-94 Departure Card (white card from Customs). DS-2019 or I-20 certificate of eligibility form.

Be sure to get your receipt as this is your only proof of employment eligibility until youreceive your card in the mail. Make sure you provide the Social Security Office with avalid mailing address on your application.

Social Security Office Locations:1538 SW Yamhill

Portland, OR, 97205(Closest location to PSU)

211 NE Schuyler StPortland, OR, 97212

17421 SE McLoughlin BlvdMilwaukie, OR, 97267

11975 SW 2nd StBeaverton, OR, 97005

You can also find a list of Social Security Administration Offices here:http://www.ssa.gov


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Entertainment, Activities, ReligiousCenters and Shopping

Arts and Cultural Events

Colored Pencils Art and Culture NightColored Pencils is an event celebrating new Portland, withtraditional culinary arts, and an extraordinary mix of fine andperforming artists. http://www.coloredpencilsart.com/

First ThursdayThe art galleries in downtown Portland invite you to join themon the first Thursday of every month for an evening of freeart, music, food, and drinks. Walk from gallery to gallery to

view all of the art exhibits; hours are generally 6pm-9pm and during the warmer

months, you will find more galleries participating.http://www.firstthursdayportland.com/

Last ThursdayOn the last Thursday of every month there is a street fair on NE Alberta Street that takesplace in galleries and shops during the winter months, and outside during warmermonths, with tables set up by local artisans and traveling merchants along the sidewalk.Street performers and food carts also participate in the street fair. Last Thursday beginsin the early evening and goes late into the evening.http://www.lastthursdayonalberta.com/

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is a scientific, educational, andcultural resource center dedicated to improving the public’s understanding of science andtechnology. OMSI makes science exciting and relevant through exhibits, programs, andexperiences that are presented in an entertaining and participatory fashion.http://www.omsi.edu/home

The Oregon Ballet TheatreThe Oregon Ballet Theatre performs five programs a year at thePortland Center for the Performing Arts. http://www.obt.org/

The Portland Art Museum (PAM)

The oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest houses more than112,000 square feet of galleries, reflecting the history of art fromancient times to the present. There is a permanent collection ofEuropean and American art, as well as a fine collection of Englishsilver. Admission varies for individuals, but there is an annual membership special forstudents for $12/year and children 17 and under enter free.http://www.portlandartmuseum.org/


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Country Specific FestivalsEach year, Portland has a number of country specific festivals including the GreekFestivals, Italian Festival, Polish Festival, and the Mexican Festival.http://www.travelportland.com/

Musicfest NWIn September, over 250 bands featuring all music genres perform at

various places around Portland. http://www.musicfestnw.com/

Portland Jazz FestivalPDX Jazz is dedicated to bringing world class jazz to the Pacific

Northwest. The Portland Jazz Festival is an annual, multi-venueseries of more than 120 jazz events presented each February withinthe downtown area of Portland. http://pdxjazz.com/

Portland Rose Festival & ParadeThe Portland Rose Festival is an annual event held in early June at Tom McCallWaterfront Park and there is family entertainment with a carnival atmosphere. Thehighlight of the 11-day event is the nationally-known Grand Floral Parade, the second

largest all floral parade in North America. Other Rose Festival features include dragonboat races, the Starlight Parade, Fleet Week, fireworks, and music. http://www.rosefestival.org/

Safeway Waterfront Blues FestivalHeld right on the waterfront, the four day Waterfront Blues Festival brings people fromall over the state (as well as boaters) the hear some of the best blues bands from allover the world and watch the fireworks on the Fourth of July. Proceeds go to the OregonFood Bank: http://www.waterfrontbluesfest.com/

Parks and Gardens

Forest ParkForest Park (1505 NW 23rd Avenue) is composed of5,000 acres and is the largest urban park in the nation.The park has over 74 miles of hiking, jogging, mountainbiking, and equestrian trails.http://forestparkconservancy.org/

Governor Tom McCall Waterfront ParkWaterfront Park (Naito Pkwy between SW Harrison Street & NW Glisan Street) runs

along the west bank of the Willamette River in downtown Portland and was named forformer Governor Tom McCall, who proposed creating the public park. Waterfront Parkhosts many of Portland’s large festivals, concerts and events, including the Rose Festival.The park is also a great place for jogging, cycling and people watching. Severallandmarks are located in Waterfront Park. On warm days, children can play in theSalmon Street Springs fountain’s changing water patterns.


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International Rose Test GardenThe International Rose Test Garden (400 Southwest Kingston Avenue) was established in1915 and is the oldest official test garden in the world. Visitors can see over 8,000different roses and a great view of Portland’s skyline and Mt. Hood.http://www.rosegardenstore.org/

Jamison SquareThe Portland Streetcar stops just across the street from Jamison Square (810 NW 11th

Avenue) in the Pearl District, one of Portland’s trendiest neighborhoods. The squareboasts four totem sculptures designed by Kenny Scharf, play structures and a fountain.

Japanese GardenThe Garden (611 SW Kingston Avenue) is located in the west hills, directly above theRose Gardens in Washington Park. Many people consider it the most authentic JapaneseGarden outside of Japan. The 5.5 acre garden has five traditional gardens and theserene tea garden was actually built in Japan. http://www.japanesegarden.com/

Mount Tabor ParkMt. Tabor (SE 60th and Salmon Street) is a volcanic cinder cone named by PlymptonKelly after Mt. Tabor in Israel. The park has gently curving parkways, numerous walkingtrails, and a nursery yard that showcases native plants. The Park includes basketballcourts, picnic areas, play areas, restrooms, dog off-leash area, horseshoe pit, paths—paved and unpaved, tennis courts, volleyball court, and more. The park offers a greatview of the city at sunset.

North and South Park BlocksThe North Park Blocks (SW Park Avenue from Salmon Street to Jackson Street) werededicated to Portland in 1869 and it is one of the oldest parks in the city. The 2.43-acrepark includes statues, playgrounds and restrooms. The South Park Blocks are adjacentto PSU and stretch across twelve city blocks into downtown Portland. The South ParkBlocks are considered to be the cultural district of the city and include the Oregon

Symphony, the Portland Art Museum, the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, and the OregonBallet Theater.

Portland Classical Chinese GardenThe beautiful Classical Chinese Garden (239 NW Everett Street) is an authentic Suzhou-style garden designed and constructed by architects and artisans from China. Thegarden is a balance of walkways, pavilions and exquisite plant life that offers a view intoChinese culture, history and way of thinking. http://www.portlandchinesegarden.org/

Vera Katz East bank EsplanadeThe East bank Esplanade (SE Water Ave & Hawthorne Boulevard) is 1.5 miles long,extending north from the Hawthorne Bridge, past the Morrison and Burnside Bridges, tothe Steel Bridge with connections to eastside neighborhoods as well as across the riverto Tom McCall Waterfront Park. It has the longest floating walkway of its kind in theU.S. Markers along the walkway explain the history of the area.


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Washington ParkWashington Park is one of Oregon's oldest parks that was acquired in 1871. It is afavorite of Portlanders and visitors alike. Included in this 129.5-acre park areplaygrounds, restrooms, picnic areas, hiking trails, several tennis courts, and a soccerfield. The park features a central fountain, known as the Chiming Fountain and severalstatues of notable Oregonians of the past, including a memorial to Lewis and Clark.Located within the park is the International Rose Test Garden, Japanese Garden, HoytArboretum, Oregon Zoo, and Oregon Children’s Museum.

http://www.washingtonparkpdx.org/

Religious Centers

Below is a list of some of the many religious centers in the Portland Metro area. You canfind many more using the Google search engine: http://www.google.com

Baha’i Faith: 8720 North Ivanhoe St, 503- 289-6331

Bilal Masjid: 4115 Southwest 160th Avenue Beaverton, 503-591-7233

Congregation Beth Israel (Jewish): 1972 Northwest Flanders St, 503-222-1069

First Baptist Church: 909 SW 11th Ave, 503-227-0041

First United Methodist Church: 1838 SW Jefferson St , 503-228-3195

Iranian Church: 6550 SE Alexander St, Hillsboro, 503-818-1321

Islamic Center of Portland: 6940 SW Hall Blvd, Beaverton, 503-526-9305

Mahasiddha Buddhist Center: 3635 SW Hood Ave, 503-233-6747

Saint James Lutheran Church: 1315 SW Park Ave , 503-227-2439

Saint Mary’s Catholic Cathedral: 1716 NW Davis St , 503-228-4397

Restaurants and Groceries

Portland has restaurants which offer food from all over the world. Using the searchengine Google: http://www.google.com you can type in a specific type of cuisinefollowed by the word “Portland” will generate a number of restaurants and a map to helpyou locate them.

The food carts scattered around the city are a must and offer foods from all over theworld—find Food Carts Portland on Facebook at:http://www.facebook.com/FoodCartsPortland to get the most up-to-date information onfood cart happenings.


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Below is a list of restaurants in Portland that offer cuisine from different regions.

African E'njoni Café: 910 North Killingsworth Street, 503-286-1401 Horn of Africa: 5237 NE Martin Luther King Blvd, 503-331‐9844 Mummy’s: 622 SW Columbia St, 503-224‐7465 Queen of Sheba Ethiopian Restaurant: 2413 NE Martin Luther King Blvd, 503-287-

6302

Brazilian Brazil Grill Restaurant: 1201 SW 12th Ave, 503-222‐0002

Caribbean Pambiche: 2811 NE Glisan Street, 503-233-0511 XV: 15 SW 2nd Ave, 503-790-9090

European Cuisine Alexis (Greek): 215 W Burnside St, 503-224‐8577 Berlin Inn Restaurant & Bakery (German): 3131 SE 12th Avenue, 503-236-6761 Grandpa’s Café (Polish): 3832 North Interstate (Polish Hall basement)

Patanegra: 1818 NW 23rd Place, 503-227-7282 Rheinlander German Restaurant: 5035 NE Sandy Blvd, 503-288‐5503 Toro Bravo: 120 NE Russell St, 503-281-4464 Two Brothers Cafe And Grill (Croatian): 829 Southeast Cesar Chavez Blvd, 503-

232-3424 4-4-2 Soccer Bar: 1739 SE Hawthorne Blvd, 503-238-3693

Indian Cuisine East India Co. Grill & Bar: 821 SW 11th Ave, 503-227‐8815 Swagat Indian Cuisine: 2074 NW Lovejoy St, 503-227‐4300 Tandoor Indian Kitchen: 406 SW Oak St, 503-243‐7777

Vindalho: 2038 SE Clinton Street, 503-467-4550

Middle Eastern Cuisine Abu-Rasheed Lebanese: 1921 Southwest 6th Avenue, 503-274-4412 Hoda’s Middle Eastern Cuisine: 3401 SE Belmont St, 503-236‐8325 Nicholas: 318 Southeast Grand Avenue, 503-235-5123


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Grocery Shopping

We advise you to shop at major grocery stores rather than small convenience stores, asthe larger stores offer less expensive products.

The two largest grocery stores closest to PSU are:

Safeway 1030 SW Jefferson St

Portland, 97201

Fred Meyer 100 NW 20th AvePortland, 97209

If you are shopping at Fred Meyer or Safeway, do your shopping during the weekend,preferably Sunday, as the sales are at their highest on fresh products. Check localnewspapers and your mailbox for coupons as well.

The large chain stores normally offer free rewards card. Signing up for a rewards cardoften enable you to get discounts on certain items, so it is definitely worth going to theCustomer Service Desk and signing up for a card.

If you are looking for items that you can use to prepare foods from your home country,you should look in the phone book under “grocers-retail” for small specialty stores, orusing the Google search engine. Some of these stores are:

African International Food Market: 922 N Killingsworth St., Portland, 97217

An Dong (Chinese): 5441 SE Powell Blvd., Portland, 97206

Bazaar (Pakistani/Indian/Middle Eastern Market Place): 10255 SW Canyon Rd, Beaverton, 97005

Dashen International Groceries: 3022 NE Glisan St., Portland, 97232

Paldo World (Korean): 3975 SW 114th Ave., Beaverton, 97005

Roman Russian Food Store: 6911 SE Foster Road, Portland, 97206

Uwajimaya (Japanese):10500 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy, Beaverton 97005

Natural and organic foods can be found at:

Food Front Cooperative Grocery: 2375 NW Thurman, Portland, 97210

New Seasons: 1954 SE Division St., Portland, 97202

Whole Foods Market: 2825 E Burnside, Portland, 97214


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Shopping

The city of Portland will not disappoint those who arelooking for the typical American experience of shopping in amall. The closest mall, Pioneer Place, is located downtown, just a 5-10 minute walk from campus, or two stops on theMax train. The Lloyd Center is another mall just across the

Willamette River. You can get there by taking the Max(Portland’s rail line) from downtown. The Lloyd Center alsohas two movie theaters.

Shopping Malls

Lloyd Center2201 Lloyd Center / Broadway District in Northeast Portland

http://www.lloydcentermall.com/

Pioneer Place700 SW 5th Ave / Downtown in Southwest Portland

http://www.pioneerplace.com/

Washington Square9585 SW Washington Square Rd / Outer Southwest Portland

http://www.shopwashingtonsquare.com/

You may choose to buy second-hand clothes at one of Portland’s many thrift shops.These stores sell things that are used. In the last few years, there has been a growingtrend for college students to buy clothes in second-hand stores. Sometimes the items

they sell are very good, and you can buy them for much less than if they were new.Look in the Yellow Pages under the heading Second Hand Stores and Thrift Shops to findone near you. Some of these stores sell items that were donated. When these itemsare sold, the money is used to help people who are hungry or homeless.

Furniture

Furniture can be purchased or rented. A number of companies rent furniture in thePortland area. Look in the Yellow Pages under Furniture Renting & Leasing. Call aroundto compare prices. You may also contact FOCUS. FOCUS is a community coalition ofnon-profit organizations, churches, campus ministries and individuals in the Portlandmetropolitan area that provides support and services for international students and

scholars of all cultures and beliefs. For FOCUS contact information; please go to:http://www.focuspsu.com

There are many different ways to find beds, mattresses, rugs, desks, chairs, and kitchenequipment. A lot of furniture items may be found on: http://www.craigslist.org.


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Textbooks

Textbooks are available from the PSU Bookstore, located at:

Portland State Bookstore1715 SW 5th Avenue Portland, OR 97201

503-226-2631

http://www.portlandstatebookstore.com/

The easiest way to purchase textbooks is at the PSU Bookstore, where new and usedbooks are for sale. Full refunds are given for returned books during a short time at thebeginning of each term. SAVE YOUR RECEIPTS for proof of purchase when returningbooks. Your used books may be sold back for a percentage of the price paid at the endof each term. The bookstore also has a textbook rental program. Ask for details at thePSU bookstore.

Another location to get books (usually for a lower price) is at is Cedric’s University BookExchange, located at:

Cedric’s University Book Exchange:1510 SW 6th Ave

Portland, OR 97201

http://www.half.com/ and http://www.amazon.com/ are among the most popularwebsites to obtain the least expensive books in various conditions (brand new, like new,

used, to very used) and you can sell them after you are done using them.

Ask your fellow classmates and friends to share books or buy them for a used price.This is an inexpensive and convenient way to obtain textbooks.

Please note: Graduate students often need to use textbooks for projects or thesiswriting. It is a good idea to keep your books until you graduate.

Summit LibraryAn easy way to get books that are not available at PSU’s Millar Library is to use theSummit Libraries or Interlibrary Loan (ILLiad). Books requested through Summit usuallyarrive at the PSU library within three to five days and are available to loan for six weeks;students can scan or copy the pages that they will need before they return it. Ask alibrarian to show you how to do this the first time and you should have no problem doingit yourself afterwards (you will need to put in your last name and PSU ID number).

Please note: Interlibrary Loan cannot be used for textbooks.


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Sports & Recreation

Support PSU Sport TeamsPSU has many sports teams which you can support including basketball, football, andsoccer. Admittance to any of the PSU sporting events is free for students with a validstudent ID. Attending these sporting events can be a great way to connect with other

students and get a taste of Portland State culture. For more information, please go to:http://www.goviks.com/index.aspx

Intramural SportsThe Portland State Student Recreation Center offers a variety of intramural sports teamsthat you are able to join or create a new team to compete against other Portland Statestudents. These teams usually have a small fee associated with them and you playagainst other students from the university. For more information on intramurals pleasego to the intramural website at: http://www.pdx.edu/recreation/intramurals

BasketballPortland loves basketball and they love the Portland Trailblazers. Home games are heldat the Rose Garden and ticket prices vary depending on the team they are playing, butmay be purchased for $15 or less at times. http://www.nba.com/blazers.com/blazers

GolfThere are over 60 public and private golf courses in the Portland metro area. Severalare well-known championship courses; a good site for more information on courses andrates is: http://www.oregongolf.com/destination/portland.htm

SoccerThe Portland Timbers Soccer team plays at the newly renovated

PGE Park. The Timbers became a part of Major League Soccer(MLS) in 2011, joining the top professional soccer league in theU.S. and Canada. http://www.portlandtimbers.com/

Outdoor Activities

Bicycle PathsCycling is a favorite sport in the Northwest, especially inPortland, which features hundreds of miles of bike lanesand trails. A list of trails, maps, workshops, and more can

be found at the Bicycle Transportation Alliance:http://btaoregon.org/


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CampgroundsIf you are ready to explore Oregon’s natural beauty, sleep under the starry night sky andsing around a campfire, then it’s time to go camping! There are more than 50 parkswith year-round and seasonal campgrounds in the Oregon state park system. Half ofOregon’s state park campgrounds accept campsite reservations and the other half arefirst-come, first-served. http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/PARKS/index.shtml

Skiing and Snowboarding

Mt. Hood’s naturally rugged terrain offers skiers some of the best skiing in the PacificNorthwest. A little more than an hour’s drive away, Mt. Hood is the premiere skiingdestination for Portlanders. The ski season lasts from November through February andcan run longer if the weather dictates. Mt. Hood’s three most popular ski resorts areMeadows, Timberline Lodge Ski Resort and Ski Bowl.

Meadows: Meadows has one of the longest vertical drops in the country as well asfive high-speed express lifts. The sports learning center helps guests get the mostout of their winter snow activities. http://www.skihood.com/

Ski Bowl: Some of the steepest downhill ski runs can be found at Ski Bowl, which alsohas snow-tubing, a summer adventure park and the nation’s largest night ski area.http://www.skibowl.com/

Timberline Lodge: Timberline's Palmer Snowfield, at 8,500 feet above sea level, offersskiing year-round for those at the intermediate to advanced level. Four high-speedquads as well as other lifts serving all levels of ability keep skiers moving to thevarious ski runs on the mountain. Timberline also offers 71 rooms at the historic and

picturesque lodge. http://www.timberlinelodge.com/

Wind SurfingThe 25-40 mile per hour winds that blow down theColumbia River Gorge make it the perfect place to go forworld-class windsurfing. Hood River, Oregon, sixty mileseast of Portland on Interstate 84, is considered to be the

windsurfing and kite boarding capital of the world. Even ifyou are not a windsurfer, the beautiful scenery alone is agood reason to visit this part of Oregon. Closer to Portlandin the Columbia River Gorge, Rooster Rock State Park is apopular destination for windsurfers in winter as well assummer. Rooster Rock also has one of the largestswimming beaches near Portland and is designated as anude beach. http://www.oregon.com/windsurfing

Weekend Getaways

Columbia River GorgeThe picturesque Columbia River Gorge is a river canyon that separates Oregon andWashington states. It is 80 miles in length and in some areas the black basalt cliffs areup to 4,000 feet deep. It is one of the most scenic naturally preserved areas in UnitedStates. There are 77 waterfalls on the Oregon side of the Gorge including MultnomahFalls, the second-highest year-round waterfall in the U.S. Hiking, mountain biking andwind-surfing are popular sports that are enjoyed in the Columbia River Gorge.


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Mount St HelensOn a clear day, a drive to Mt. St. Helens makes a great day trip from Portland. Thesnow-covered Mt. St. Helens looks like a giant ice-cream cone in the distant sky. Thefamous volcano erupted on May 18th, 1980 and remnants of the devastation can still beseen today.

Multnomah FallsLocated 30 miles east of Portland on Larch Mountain, Multnomah Falls is one of the mostspectacular sights in the scenic Columbia River Gorge. A hiking trail leads across BensonBridge, which is located between the upper and lower falls. In winter, the frozenwaterfall is breathtakingly beautiful. Built in 1925, Multnomah Falls Lodge is a day lodgeonly, which offers a full service restaurant serving northwest cuisine as well as a loungeand bar, snack bar, and a gift shop. http://www.multnomahfallslodge.com/

Oregon Coast BeachesThe North Oregon coast beaches are within two hours driving time from Portland. Thespectacular coastline has much to offer its visitors with breathtaking views of unspoiledbeaches, sand dunes and rocky cliffs, along with miles of hiking trails. Although thenorth coast waters are too cold for most people to swim, wet-suit surfing is popular onsome beaches. http://visittheoregoncoast.com/

Photo by Hao Nguyen.


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Getting to Know the PSU Campus

To interact with the campus map, visit: http://www.fap.pdx.edu/floorplans/


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Academic and Student Recreation Center (ASRC)SW 5th/6th and Harrison

All facilities free for students at PSU, outdoor equipment rental for minimum fees.

Millar LibraryPark Blocks and Harrison

Group study rooms for two to ten people, quiet floors, unlimited number of take-homebooks, computer labs, comics section, coffee stand, and much more.

Peter Stott CenterPark Blocks and Hall/College St

Home to Viking Athletics and the physical education coursesoffered through the School of Community Health.


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Places of Interest on Campus

Campus Recreation Center (ASRC)This is a place to make new friends, meet old ones and release some of that tensionfrom reading all those textbooks: http://www.pdx.edu/recreation/

The facility includes a two-court gymnasium, a 1/11 mile, three lane running track, a

synthetic floor gymnasium equipped with dasher boards for floor hockey and indoorsoccer, a large cardiovascular and weight training facility, two multi-purpose groupfitness suites, an aquatic complex including a lap pool and whirlpool spa, locker rooms,bouldering wall, and work space for student clubs and intramurals. There are fitnessclasses, expanded intramurals (so you can find people to play with), aquaticsprograms, and opportunities to learn how to really get outdoors.

You can visit the Outdoor Program on the other side of the building (see below) whereyou can sign up for either a day of relaxation or an intensive skills-developmentseminar in exploring the wild side of Oregon. Free for students with PSU ID.

Food For Thought Café (FFT)Located in the basement of Smith, FFT provides inexpensive food, coffee, dessert, aplace to study, and occasionally hosts events and musical acts. For more information,go to: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Food-for-Thought-Cafe/147701107092

Women’s Resource Center (WRC) Located in the Montgomery Hall Basement. Lounge is open to everyone.

For more information, go to http://www.pdx.edu/wrc/

Queer Resource Center (QRC) Located in Smith Memorial Student Union, Room 458. Offers confidential advising to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and

questioning students. Offers safe sex supplies. Lounge is open to everyone.

For more information, go to http://www.qrc.pdx.edu/


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Health Insurance

All F-1 and J-1 international students and their families at PSU are required by law to

carry health insurance for the duration of their studies. Healthcare in the U.S. is veryexpensive and this is intended to protect you from serious financial hardship. It is your responsibility to comply with insurance requirements by checking your studentbill for insurance fees each term or meeting all of the requirements for a waiver. Thisincludes vacation terms, thesis and dissertation research periods, internshiptraining periods, etc., whether you are enrolled or not, as long as you are on avalid PSU I-20 or DS-2019.

PSU’s Student Healthcare Coverage

PSU’s required insurance coverage and fees consist oftwo parts:

Health Service Fee – $119 per term included inyour tuition when taking 5 or more in-loadcredits. Allows students access to the Center for Student Health and Counseling(SHAC), a primary health care clinic on campus for all PSU students enrolled in 5or more in-load credits. This clinic includes many services such as: StudentHealth, Counseling, Testing, and Dental services. This fee may not be waived.

Health Insurance Plan – $560 per term. This is a $100,000 major medicalhealth insurance plan to cover your medical needs while a student. $560 per termcharged 3 times per year (Fall term, Winter term, Spring/Summer Combination).

This fee will show as a separate line item on your tuition bill. This fee can bewaived if you meet specific criteria (see below).

For information about the benefits provided by this student health insurance plan, pleaseview the 2012-13 PSU Health Insurance Brochure. You can find out all about the HealthInsurance Plan and SHAC services at: http://www.pdx.edu/shac

If you need to purchase insurance for your dependents, or weekly coverage if you arrivein the U.S. before or after the term dates, are involved in OPT (Optional Practical

Training) or are an International Scholar please call our Broker, Wells Fargo StudentInsurance Services (WFIS) at (800) 853-5899. It is the student’s responsibility to re-enroll their dependents each term directly through WFIS with a credit card.


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Special Circumstances for Waiver of the PSU Health Insurance Plan Fees for health insurance will appear on your stude