New Students Dear Brothers & Sisters, The Muslim Student Association takes this opportunity to welcome you to The University of Arizona! We pray that your stay in Tucson becomes memorable and successful. As incoming students, we realize that you may have queries and for this purpose we intend to provide you with some important information listed below. For further questions please do not hesitate to contact us via e-mail. http://www.ictucson.com What IS this place? Welcome to the Sonoran desert! Located in Tucson Arizona, The University of Arizona is labeled home of the wildcats. Tucson provides a combination of attractions from arts and culture to outdoor adventures for the various members of its community.
Now what? OK. So now you are finally here, after applying, getting accepted, traveling all the way and now you are asking yourself what are you supposed to do? For those of you that are international students, to begin with, it is important that you attend the MANDATORY orientation program sponsored by the international student programs and services. "Orientation" is the process of becoming familiar with new surroundings and learning about a new environment. In view of the fact that international students are not only beginning a new educational program, but often for the first time experiencing a whole new culture, it is particularly important that you are guided through this process with experienced staff and student leaders. To facilitate this process, The University of Arizona arranges student orientations before the start of the semester. Please refer to your particular category to find out when YOU have to attend your orientation. You should have the following documents when you attend the orientation:
I missed the orientation! What am I going to do? Is this the end of the world? No. Not really. If you miss the new student orientation, it is imperative that you meet with an international student advisor as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment, the International Student Programs and Services can be reached at 520-621-4627.
Where am I going to live? One of the most important questions you would have asked yourself upon your arrival. To help you in finding a place, the Muslim Student Association will post your information and requirements on their website and circulate it on their listserv if you e-mail us with your information at ehab@email.arizona.edu In addition to this, you may refer to the following links to assist you in finding reasonable accommodation:
Off-Campus Housing: www.union.arizona.edu/programs/csa/ On-Campus Housing: www.life.arizona.edu
Tucson Desert Weather: What's the weather like in Tucson? Something you should consider before you spend all your cash on ski boots and frost bite kits. The weather in Tucson is mostly dry and warm. It is a good idea to carry a lot of t-shirts and light tracks/pants along with a couple of pairs of sandals. For the Winter season, you may want to have pairs of sneakers, jeans, pants, a good jacket (rain and moisture resistant), sweatshirts and a beanie (a small brimless cap). When the weather changes, you will find these items useful. In addition to this, be sure to drink a lot of water and wear a hat to protect you from the daily Tucson heat. You don't want to wake up in the Campus Health Center suffering from dehydration!
Where can I eat? Alright, here's something we all look forward to. Good food! For a list of restaurants and grocery outlets of Halal (islamicly permissible) goods, please refer to the following information:
Caravan Groceries 2817 N Country Club Rd. Tucson, AZ 85716 (520) 323-6808
Turks Cafe 3520 E Grant Rd. Tucson, AZ (520) 325-3737 2545 E Speedway Suit #125 Tucson, AZ 85716 (520) 319-2559
Sultan Palace 943 E University Blvd
What else do I need to know? After attending the orientation a lot of your unanswered questions will have answers. Other basic guidelines have been provided for you above. Shall you require any other assistance, please e-mail the officers and God willing we will try to help you to the best of our ability. Once again, we welcome you to the Muslim community in Tucson. May God shower His blessings upon you.
The University of Arizona |
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