May 8th OISS Newsletter

We hope your experience studying at UST has been rewarding, both academically and personally. Spring is a busy time as you finish classes and get ready to return home. We wanted to remind you of (1) some important items to take care of before leaving and (2) some tips on packing up your things.

1. Update information and close accounts:

Change your address with the university. Undergraduate students can do this at the Registrar's Office; graduate students should contact their academic program.
Change your address with OISS as well. You can do this by changing your address in Murphy Online.
Close your campus mailbox if you have one. Re-direct your mail to your home address.
Cancel subscriptions, telephone service, utilities, etc. if you live off-campus.
Close bank accounts and/or have monthly statements cancelled or sent on-line.
Turn in any library books or items on loan from the University.
If you live on-campus, contact Telecommunications to arrange for your final bill.
Make sure your student account is paid in full. You can check your account on-line or in person at the Business Office. NOTE: If you owe the university money you will not be able to receive copies of your transcript or your diploma if you completed a degree here.
If you need a transcript of your coursework at St. Thomas, please make arrangements with OISS to request copies of your transcript after your fall grades have been posted in May. If you complete a transcript request (available in OISS) and leave it with Deborah or Nico, they will turn it in for you after grades are posted.

2. Packing Now, its time to start packing up the memories… and all the items you’ve collected over your time here.

First, check with your airline. Most international flights will allow 2 suitcases, weighing 50 lbs, or 23 kilos. Some airlines will allow heavier suitcases (weighing up to 70 lbs.) for an additional cost (generally about $50). There are also strict guidelines on suitcase dimensions and so it is important to follow with these regulations.
Donate your items. If you have small household appliances or bed linens that you’d like to donate for international students next year, please bring them to OISS’s Borrowing Closet. We have limited storage so please bring items in boxes.
Send packages home.
- USPS. The US Post Office generally has the most affordable international shipping rates. There are several different options depending upon delivery time.
  o Economy (Surface) Parcel. The most affordable option, however this will usually take between 4 - 6 weeks.
  o Airmail. This is more expensive than parcel, but generally only takes 4- 10 days.
  o Global Express. The fastest delivery, prices are accordingly more expensive.