Hampshire College

On behalf of Hampshire College, I would like to take this opportunity to extend a warm welcome to our community. Many of us at Hampshire have been planning for your arrival, and arranging orientation programs that will help you get acquainted with the college and the neighboring areas.

All international students on an F-1 or J-1 visa are required to attend the International Student Orientation, which will take place August 31-September 2, 2009. In order to participate in this mandatory program, please make plans to arrive on Sunday, August 30, 2009. Students will not be allowed to move into their rooms before August 30. Should you need accommodations prior to this date, please refer to http: //newstudents.hampshire.edu for information on local hotels. 

The purpose of orientation is to give you an opportunity to get settled in your new “home away from home,” and to meet people who are here to support and assist you during your time at Hampshire. You will also have the opportunity to attend to necessary preparations, such as filling out employment paperwork, taking care of visa-related procedures, etc. You will find this time before general orientation very useful for meeting your needs as an international student. The most exciting part of this program is the opportunity to meet other new international students, as well as the returning international students who will serve as leaders for International Student Orientation. These students will be a valuable resource for information about Hampshire College and can help you prepare for a fun and successful start here.

You will receive a postal mailing with visa application information, forms, and pre-arrival information. If you do not receive this mailing, please contact me. 

The following forms are due by July 24:

• Contact Info/Arrival Form (see left link) - REQUIRED
• Host Family Program (see left link) - optional
• Peer Mentorship Program (see left link) - optional

I am delighted that you have chosen Hampshire for your education. If you have questions or concerns during the summer, please feel free to contact me via e-mail, telephone, fax, or regular mail. The International Student Orientation leaders will also be in touch with you over the summer to introduce themselves and help answer any questions you might have.

I look forward to meeting you!

Sincerely,

Melissa Scheid Frantz
Director, Multicultural and International Student Services