INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK - Macalester College

MACALESTER COLLEGE 

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT 

HANDBOOK 

2012-2013 

International Student Programs 

1600 Grand Ave. St Paul, MN 55105 

651-696-6992 (tel) 

651-696-6806 (fax)

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

General Information 

Welcome to Macalester 

Macalester College Academic Calendar 2012-2013 

Pre-Orientation For International Students—PO4IS 

ISP Programming Schedule 2012—2013 

Macalester College International Students 

Staff Who Work Directly With International Students 


Before Your Arrival At Macalester 

Checklist Of Things To Do 

Getting Prepared Before You Leave Home 

Arrival And Thereafter 

Getting To Macalester 

After You Arrive... 

Planning Your First Year On Campus 

Health And Wellness 

Macalester Health & Wellness Center 

Off-Campus Resources 

U.S. And Macalester Cultures 

Culture Shock 

Mac Customs 

Minnesota Laws And Macalester Policies 

U.S. Government F-1 And J-1 Student Regulations 

Immigration Status 

Removal; Taxes 

Travel Outside The United States During Academic Vacations 

Employment 

Social Security Number, Drivers License/Identification Cards 

When Things Go Wrong Or Make You Angry 

Four-Year Interaction With Governmental Agencies 

The Liberal Arts Education 

Basic Info 

International Education-Academic Life 

Campus Life 

Campus Resources 

Student Organizations 

Information About Minnesota 

Getting Around And Finding Things To Do In The Twin Cities 

When You Have To Go Shopping 

Weather, How To Write A Check, Measurement Conversions 

Glossary Of Useful College Terms 

Acknowledgments 

Appendix– What Are They Doing After Graduation? 

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April 2012 

Dear International Student: 

On behalf of the International Student Programs Department, I’d like to welcome you to 

Macalester College. We’ve all been looking forward to your arrival, and to facilitating a 

positive educational experience with you until you graduate. 

As the Director of International Student Programs, I’m available on a regular basis during 

your stay at Macalester to provide information and assistance to you in dealing with federal 

and state regulations affecting international students (e.g., immigration, visa, tax), as well 

as supporting you academically, culturally, and personally. Within a few weeks of your arrival, 

I’ll schedule an appointment for us to get together and chat about any concerns you 

have and allow us to understand each other better. 

Our office provides diverse opportunities to you including orientation, a mentor program, a 

host family program, and a myriad of educational programs on topics such as employment 

options, health concerns, the arts, understanding the community, cultural and global issues. 

Please visit us. It’s even okay if you come to see me when something good happens to 

you and not simply during crisis. In fact, I sometimes enjoy visits when I hear good news 

more than problems. In all sincerity, there are few things I enjoy as much as meeting 

new students. I hope to assist you in becoming an active participant and leader in various 

international programs and events. 

The International Student Handbook (ISH) provides you with general information about the 

campus and special interests of international students. Please give us feedback on how to 

improve it next year. Also, please consult the College Catalog and the Student Handbook 

online for more detailed information about academic and community life. 

Best Regards, 

Aaron C. Colhapp 

Director of International Student Programs 

3

Macalester College Academic Calendar 

2012-2013 

Fall Semester - 2012 

Pre-Orientation for International Students Tues – Fri Aug 28-31 

Residence Halls Open for new International Students Tues- Wed Aug 28-29 

New Student Orientation Fri – Tues Aug 31-Sep 4 

Labor Day Mon Sep 3 

Classes Begin Wed Sep 5 

Last Day to Register/Validate Fri Sept 14 

Last Day to Add/Drop a Class Fri Sept 14 

Fall Break Thurs - Sun Oct 25– 28 

Last Day to Withdraw From a Class Fri Nov 9 

Spring 2013 Registration Mon - Fri Nov 12-30 

Thanksgiving Break Thurs - Sun Nov 22-25 

Classes End Tues Dec 11 

Study Day Wed Dec 12 

Final Exams Thurs - Mon Dec 13-17 

Residence Halls Close at 12 noon Tues Dec 18 

Spring Semester - 2013 

Residence Halls Open at 9 a.m. Sat Jan 26 

Classes Begin Mon Jan 28 

Fall 2012 Incompletes Due Mon Jan 28 

Last Day to Register/Validate Fri Feb 8 

Last Day to Add/Drop a Class Fri Feb 8 

Spring Break Sat - Sun Mar 16-24 

Last Day to Withdraw From a Class Fri Apr 5 

Fall 2013 Registration Mon - Fri Apr 22-May 3 

Classes End Tues May 7 

Study Day Wed May 8 

Final Exams Thurs - Mon May 9-13 

Residence Halls Close at 12 noon Tues May 14 

Baccalaureate/Commencement Sat May 18 

(Residence Halls Close for Seniors on Sun, 5/19, 12 noon) 

* For Arts & Events, Athletic Events, Library Hours/Events, Student Organization Events 

and Alumni Events calendars, visit the following website: 

http://events.macalester.edu/ 

4

Pre-Orientation for International Students 

PO4IS 2012 

Tuesday, August 28 

· Airport pick ups by Mentors (complete online arrival form) 

· Check into dorms, obtain student ID 

· Shopping if needed 

Wednesday, August 29 

· Airport pick ups until 4 p.m. 

· Check into dorms, obtain student ID 

· Shopping if needed 

· Open bank account (bank representatives will be on campus) 

9:00—11:00 a.m. Initial Ametrica Project Meeting (Markim Hall, Davis Ct) 

Ametrica participants only 

11:00—11:30 a.m. Ametrica Project Meeting (Markim Hall, Davis Ct) 

Domestic Ametrica participants will continue 

1:00—2:00 p.m. Preseason Welcome Session International and Ametrica 

Students and Families (Weyerhaeuser Chapel) 

7:00 p.m. Introductions of ISP staff, Mentors and You 

(Campus Center, JBD Lecture Hall) 

Mentor Mediation I: The Foundation 

Thursday, August 30 

7:30 a.m. Bus leaves for Social Security Office (77 Macalester St) 

9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Government regulations paperwork session 


· Complete employment and tax documentation (W4, I-9) 

10:30 a.m. - noon Aaron Colhapp, Director of International Student 

Programs (Campus Center, JBD Lecture Hall) 

· Immigration and other laws affecting international students 

· Cultural adjustment: the student experience, America, academics, 

finances, health, and other Q & A 

Noon - 1:00 p.m. Lunch with Mentors 

1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Mentor Mediation II: Adjusting to Academic Life in the 

US 

2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Mentor Mediation III: Sex and Drugs 

5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Dinner with Mentors 

6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Sarcasm 101: an Introduction to Humor in America 


Friday, August 31 

8:00 - 12:00 p.m. Drop-off 

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ISP Programming Schedule 2012-2013 

SEPTEMBER 

5 (Wed) Ice Cream Social (Kagin) 

8 (Sat) Host Family Welcome Reception (Olin Rice) 

11 (Tue) Senior Info Session (Davis Ct) 

13 (Thu) Country Spotlight on: Costa Rica 

Ametrica Project (Davis Ct) 

15 (Sat) Minneapolis Institute of Art 

20 (Thu) Ametrica Project (Davis Ct) 

27 (Thu) Country Spotlight on: Zimbabwe 

Ametrica Project (Davis Ct) 

28 (Fri) Internships and Resumes (Kagin) 

29 (Sat) Winter Clothes Fashion Show (Weyerhaeuser) 

OCTOBER 

4 (Thu) Ametrica Project (Davis Ct) 

5 (Fri) Choosing Majors 

18 (Thu) Country Spotlight on: Brazil 

Ametrica Project 

19 (Fri) Mentors End-of-Program /Senior Dinner (Kagin) 

25-28 (Thu-Sun) Fall Break 

NOVEMBER 

8 (Thu) Country Spotlight on: Pakistan 

9 (Fri) Orchestra Hall 

FEBRUARY 

13 (Wed) Senior OPT Session (Davis Ct) 

14 (Thu) Country Spotlight on: YOUR COUNTRY? 

16 (Sat) Host Family Potluck (Olin Rice) 


MARCH 



To sign up for the Country Spotlight Program, go to 

http://www.macalester.edu/isp/programs/countryspotlight/ 

6

Macalester College International Students 

by Country of Citizenship 

2011-12 (233 students representing 75 countries) 

Albania 3 

Argentina 1 

Austria 1 

Bangladesh 1 

Belarus 1 

Bosnia-Herz 2 

Brazil 2 

Bulgaria 1 

Burma (Myanmar) 

1 

Cambodia 2 

Canada 6 

China 56 

Colombia 1 

Costa Rica 1 

Croatia 7 

Cyprus 1 

Czech Rep 1 

Denmark 2 

Argentina 

Australia 

Austria 

Bangladesh 

Bosnia & Herzegovina 

Brazil 

Bulgaria 

Burundi 

Cambodia 

Canada 

Chile 

China 

Costa Rica 

Croatia 

Cyprus 

Denmark 

Estonia 

Ethiopia 

Ecuador 3 

Egypt 1 

Ethiopia 7 

Finland 2 

France 2 

Georgia 1 

Germany 2 

Ghana 5 

Hong Kong 3 

India 9 

Israel 1 

Italy 2 

Jamaica 8 

Japan 3 

Jordan 1 

Kenya 2 

Latvia 2 

Lithuania 2 

Macedonia 2 

7 

Madagascar 1 

Malaysia 2 

Maldives 1 

Mauritius 2 

Mexico 2 

Montenegro 1 

Morocco 1 

Nepal 1 

Netherlands 3 

Niger 1 

Nigeria 1 

Norway 5 

Pakistan 3 

Paraguay 3 

Philippines 1 

Portugal 1 

Romania 1 

Russia 3 

Senegal 2 

Accepted Macalester International Students* 

by Country of Citizenship, Fall 2012 

(256 new students representing 73 countries) 

Finland 

France 

Georgia 

Germany 

Ghana 

Greece 

Guatemala 

Hong Kong 

India 

Indonesia 

Israel 

Italy 

Jamaica 

Japan 

Jordan 

Kazakhstan 

Kenya 

Korea 

Lebanon 

Lesotho 

Lithuania 

Malaysia 

Mexico 

Montenegro 

Morocco 

Netherlands 

Nicaragua 

Nigeria 

Norway 

Pakistan 

Paraguay 

Philippines 

Portugal 

Russia 

Senegal 

Serbia 

Sierra Leone 

Singapore 

Serbia 4 

Sierra Leone 1 

Singapore 3 

South Africa 1 

South Korea 11 

Spain 1 

Sri Lanka 1 

Sudan 1 

Swaziland 3 

Sweden 5 

Taiwan 2 

Tajikistan 2 

Tanzania 3 

Thailand 1 

Trinidad Tobago1 

Turkey 2 

United Kingdom 2 

Vietnam 5 

Zimbabwe 2 

South Africa 

Swaziland 

Sweden 

Taiwan 

Tanzania 

Thailand 

Tibet 

Trinidad & Tobago 

Tunisia 

Turkey 

Uganda 

Ukraine 

United Kingdom 

Uruguay 

Switzerland 

Venezuela 

Vietnam 

* This listing indicates the countries of the accepted students and does not necessarily 

represent those who have deposited and are coming. We expect 60 int’l students to 

arrive in the fall.

Staff who work directly with International Students 

Before you arrive: 

Steven Colee Director of International and Transfer Admissions 

Margaret Brudzinski International Admissions Assistant 

Now and after you arrive: 

Aaron Colhapp Director of International Student Programs (colhapp@macalester.edu) 

When you arrive at Macalester, among the first people you meet will probably be Aaron 

Colhapp, the International Student Programs Director. He is responsible for providing information, 

advice, assistance and referrals to international students about academic, immigration, 

cultural, financial, and personal matters. Aaron is available for individual appointments 

and walk-ins (coming in to see him without an appointment), and organizes informational 

meetings and educational programs throughout the year. His office is in the Kagin 

Commons. If you want to meet with Aaron, call him at x6078 or email him at 

colhapp@macalester.edu. Or set up an appointment by using Google Calendar: click Calendar 

at the top left on Macalester Google mail. Once you are in Google Calendar, type his 

name or email in ‘other calendars’ toward the bottom-left. Click his name once since it 

should now be in your other calendars. You will see busy and free spaces. Drag your cursor 

over your desired time in a free spot and click. Type in what is the event (e.g., YourName/ 

Aaron) and -VERY IMPORTANTLY- click ‘edit event details’ (you are actually putting something 

on your calendar not Aaron’s). Once you are in the edit event details area, on the far 

right you can add guests. Add Aaron’s name/email and then send the invitation. 

Nienke Wijnia International Student Programs Department Coordinator 

(nwijnia@macalester.edu) 

Nienke coordinates the Friendship Host Family Program and is capable of handling most 

issues when Aaron is unavailable including government regulation issues. 

Bruce Gawtry Immigration Specialist (bgawtry@macalester.edu) 

Bruce assists with advising and counseling international students regarding visa regulations. 

Student Staff: 

Amy Janett (US, ‘14) Program Assistant 

Anja Crowder (US, Germany, ‘13) Ametrica Czar 

Annie Gavin (US, ‘15) Program Assistant 

Emily Horecki (US, ‘15) Program Assistant 

John Sankara (Kenya, ‘15) Summer Program Assistant 

Rohin Borpujari (India, ‘14) Program Assistant 

Yulun Li (China, ‘14) Program Assistant 

Amy, Anja, Annie, Emily, John, Rohin and Yulun assist with all programming in the ISP Office. 

They also coordinate programs such as newsletters, tax tutoring and websites. They 

are tremendous liaisons between international students and the International Student Programs 

Office. 

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The International Student and Ametrica Mentors for Fall 2012 are: 

Anissa Abdel-Jelil (Mauritania/US, ‘15) 

Cerisa Obern (US, ‘13) 

Emma Cederlund (Sweden, ‘15) 

Erin Newton (Turkey/US, ‘14) 

John Sankara (Kenya, ‘15) 

Kwame Fynn (Ghana, ‘13) 

Leia Cozier (Trinidad and Tobago, ‘15) 

Lydia Brosnahan (US, ‘13) 

Nick Skenderian (US, ‘13) 

Mentors serve as peer advisors to freshmen international students. For more information 

on the role of mentors see the next page. 

9

International Student Programs / ISP 

International Student Programs at Macalester serves the educational and personal development 

needs of its diverse international student body. This involves integrating international 

students into all aspects of college life, helping them participate in and contribute 

to Macalester's high quality liberal arts education, and assisting them to apply 

their learning to their own lives and cultural contexts. This also means helping create 

an intellectually and culturally supportive environment among students, faculty and 

staff, and assisting the College and the community gain from the presence of students 

from different countries and cultures. 

International Student Programs carries out the U.S. government-mandated functions 

that allow Macalester to issue documents for international students to attend the College. 

This function includes assisting international students in maintaining their legal 

status and access to resources and opportunities allowed by U.S. law. 

Goals of International Student Programs: 

� excellence in academic achievement 

� effectiveness in interpersonal relations across cultures 

� group and task effectiveness across cultures 

� retention, graduation and continued involvement with Macalester 

� successful re-integration and application of the Macalester education in home countries 

and cultures (or application and further adaptation of this education in the 

United States) 

International Student Programs is located in Kagin Commons, room 122, on the first 

floor. Hours are 8:30—4:30, Monday through Friday. 

ISP Mentors 


Kagin Commons, room 122 (first floor) 

Phone: (651)-696-6992 

Fax: (651)-696-6806 

www.macalester.edu/isp/ 

Find us on Facebook 

International Student Programs selects returning U.S. and international students to serve 

as mentors to incoming international students. You will meet them during orientation and 

consult with them regularly throughout the semester. Your mentors will provide you with a 

student’s perspective on both academic and personal life at Macalester. Their job is to help 

you feel comfortable at Macalester and answer your questions about policies and procedures 

related to life in the residence halls, campus facilities, registration and academic procedures, 

as well as questions about U.S. culture and off-campus opportunities in the Twin 

Cities Metro community. 

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Mentors work closely with the International Student Programs staff to organize 

informational, cultural, and educational discussions of interest to new students. 

For more information, go to http://www.macalester.edu/isp/mentors.html 

Ametrica Project 

The Ametrica Project brings domestic and international students together to promote the 

development of greater intercultural sensitivity by looking at the world through different 

lenses. Facilitated by the Department of International Student Programs, this out-ofclassroom 

program is both theoretical and experiential. Ametrica explores diverse cultural 

similarities and differences. Each student in the program (whether international or 

domestic) will work in small groups (4-6) with an ISP mentor. The ISP mentors will 

facilitate weekly programs in conjunction with Macalester faculty and administration. Topics 

explored will include, but not be limited to family, politics, religion, economics, health, race 

and love. 

Ideally, the participants will be made up of an equal number of international and US 

students. Participants will build valuable international relationships through Ametrica, 

which can be a critical stepping-stone for the rest of your experiences during and after your 

time at Macalester College. 

Apply for this on the ISP website: http://www.macalester.edu/isp/ametrica.html 

Host Family Program 

The Friends of Macalester International Students (FoMIS) Host Family Program enables 

international students to interact with people in the Twin Cities community. It gives 

international students an opportunity to meet people in the U.S. and helps both hosts and 

the students learn about different cultures and perspectives. The hosts in the program are 

either individuals or families. Some live in the neighborhoods around Macalester, others are 

graduates of Macalester, live in Minneapolis, or live in suburbs of the Twin Cities 

Metropolitan area. The group of hosts is very diverse, ranging from recent college 

graduates, families with young children or teenage/college age children, to retired 

individuals and couples. There are approximately 200 international students and 180 host 

families involved in the program. Students start the program the fall semester of their first 

year. At the end of the first year, they have the choice to continue or discontinue their 

involvement in the program. It is possible for upperclassmen to join the program during a 

fall semester, should they decide, later on, that they would like to be involved in the 

program. 

Your host(s) may invite you to visit their home and participate in numerous activities that 

provide opportunities to learn about the way of life in the U.S. and to make friends with 

people in the community. Your host(s), however, are not expected to help you with 

problems such as, for example, finding a place to stay during the academic year or 

vacation periods, financial needs or difficulties, legal matters, any kind of immigration 

matters, or serious medical or personal problems. 

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The four main expectations of students in this program are designed to help you make 

your relationship with your host(s) as fulfilling as possible. These expectations are: 

� Make and respond to phone calls and invitations 

� Spend time either on or off-campus with your host family on a regular basis 

� Share your perspectives and ideas with your host family 

� Be open to ideas, activities, styles, and customs of your host 

There are many intrinsic rewards that come from relationships with community members 

in another culture. In this program, we hope you will not only discover new valuable 

friends, but that you will also expand your knowledge of a different culture – its 

communities, its history and its people. 

Applications at: http://www.macalester.edu/isp/hostfamily.html 

Country Spotlight Program 

The Country Spotlight Program is meant to educate the Macalester community about some 

of the countries international students come from. The countries that we have focused on 

are those represented by the first-year international students. The spotlighted country's 

flag is up all week, table tents with information and fun 'who-would-have-known' facts are 

displayed, local food is served in Cafe Mac on Tuesdays, and a presentation by students 

from the particular country takes place on Thursdays. 

To sign up for Spring 2013, go to: 

http://www.macalester.edu/isp/countryspotlightform.html 

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Before your Arrival at Macalester... 

Checklist of things to do 

Obtain a valid passport. 

Obtain a student (F-1) or exchange visitor (J-1) visa from the U.S. embassy/consulate. 

Note: Canadian students do not need a student visa. 

Bring copies of your admission letter, financial documents, previous 

schools transcripts, medical prescriptions. 

Do a money wire transfer to pay tuition, room and board. 

Return Student Employment Application form by June 30th. Very important!! 

Submit registration form electronically on the Orientation website by 

June 30th. 

Get a physical exam and return the Health History Form to the Health 

& Wellness Center by August 1. (Mailed separately by the Health & 

Wellness Center). 

Read the information on the Host Family Program and, if you wish to 

join, complete the online form at: www.macalester.edu/isp/hfstudent.html 

Read the information on the Ametrica Project and, if you wish to join, 

sign up online at: http://www.macalester.edu/isp/Ametrica.html 

Make travel plans to arrive on August 28th or 29th and complete 

online “Arrival Form” from the “New Student” page of the International 

Student Programs web page at: www.macalester.edu/isp/arrivalform.html 

Please notify us if you have any questions that must be answered before 

you leave home. You can contact International Student Programs 

either by phone at +(651) 696-6992, by fax at +(651) 696- 

6806 or at intlstudent@macalester.edu. 

If, for any reason, you do not plan to attend Macalester this fall semester, 

please inform us immediately. 

13

Getting prepared before you leave Home 

Visa and Immigration Regulations 

Before leaving your country, obtain a passport from your government and a (student) visa 

from a United States embassy or consulate. The U.S. Immigration statute stipulates that 

anyone applying for a student visa must establish to the satisfaction of the consular officer, 

at the time of application for a visa, that he/she is entitled to nonimmigrant status, i.e. 

that he/she is not intending to immigrate to the U.S. In addition, the statute states that, 

in order to receive a student visa, applicants must have a residence in a foreign country 

(generally their country of origin) which they have no intention of abandoning after entering 

the U.S. Thus, when applying for a student visa, it is well advised to prepare carefully 

for the consular interview and to anticipate, as far as it is possible, questions which you 

will be asked concerning economic, social, and/or family ties that will compel you to return 

after your studies in the U.S. are completed. To prepare for the interview, you should 

carefully assemble available documents establishing economic, social, and family ties and 

prepare to discuss them with the consular officer without hesitation or uncertainty. 

Documentation of your economic ties to your parents must certainly be presented. 

Checklist 

Get Passport 

Obtain Form I-20 from Macalester 

Obtain Form I-901 (https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.jsp) 

(Macalester should have paid for this in advance) 

Bring Form I-20 to U.S. Consulate/Embassy to apply for visa. (Note: Canadian students 

do no need a student visa) 

Bring documents from Consulate/Embassy with you to your Immigration port-of- 

entry in the United States 

Contact Aaron Colhapp (colhapp@macalester.edu) immediately if you have a 

problem 

Steps to follow when applying for a student visa: 

1. If you do not have a passport, you must obtain one from the appropriate office of 

your government in your country. The passport must be valid at least six (6) 

months into the future at all times. 

2. Carefully read all information on the SEVIS I-20 (or DS-2019 if a J) document; 

especially page two (2) which explains your legal responsibilities as an F-1 student 

while you are in the U.S. 

3. Sign page one (1). 

4. Macalester will pay the $200 SEVIS I-901 fee and send you a receipt to bring to 

your visa appointment. See https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.jsp 

5. With your passport, SEVIS I-20 and SEVIS fee receipt if applicable, go to the 

nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country. Most US Consulates require 

that you make an appointment. The U.S. Consular Officer will review your papers. 

Upon approval and in most cases, after a visa Security Clearance, the US Consulate 

will issue an F-1 Student visa (a visa is a passport page-sized sticker with your personal 

visa information on it. Note: it will be invalid if you mark or write on it.) permitting 

you to enter the U.S. for the purpose of studying at Macalester College. 

. 

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6. When you arrive in the U.S. you will be required to present your passport (with a 

valid F-1 visa), your SEVIS I-20, I-901 receipt, and a completed Form I-94 

(Arrival/Departure Record) to a U.S. Immigration Inspector at the port of entry. 

Form I-94 is obtained during your flight or upon arrival to the U.S. 

7. The Inspector will stamp your SEVIS I-20 form, I-94 card and passport and return 

all these to you. Both documents are important because they indicate how long 

you may legally remain in the U.S. All students should receive D/S (Duration of 

Status) meaning you may remain in the U.S. as long as you are pursuing a full 

course of study and have a valid SEVIS I-20 document. 

Transfer Students 

If you are in the U.S. as an F-1 student and wish to transfer to Macalester College, you 

must do the following: 

� Be a bona fide F-1 nonimmigrant student 

� Have been pursuing a full course of study at the college or secondary school you 

were last attending immediately preceding the transfer (or the last term preceding 

a vacation) 

� Intend to pursue a full course of study at the school you wish to transfer to, and 

be financially able to attend Macalester College 

An F-1 student who wishes to transfer from one U. S. high school, college or university to 

another, or moves to another level of education (e.g., high school to Macalester), must 

have his or her international student advisor release you from the SEVIS web based immigration 

system to the specific school where you intend to enroll. Please contact the 

Macalester International Student Programs Director to better understand the process. 

Attendance at another college during the summer months does not require permission to 

transfer if the student intends to return to classes at Macalester in the fall. 

Some tips: 

Applying for visas has always been a task that one should take very seriously. Today, 

this is true more than ever before. There are numerous security checks with government 

agencies often including the Department of Homeland Security, the FBI, the CIA, and the 

State Department. In the year 2005, three accepted Macalester students who were approved 

for visas had security checks that took over twelve weeks! Today, student visas 

are supposed to be the priority at consulates and embassies over all other visas, but 

problems still exist. Lastly, Consulates have discretion to deny visas. These can always 

be appealed (even though they may tell you that they cannot), but can cause serious inconveniences, 

even to the point of differing enrollment for a year. 

APPLY FOR YOUR VISA AS SOON AS POSSIBLE! 

For more information about studying in the United States, go to 

http://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/ 

15

Hopefully, I have gotten your attention with real-life examples. With this said, let me 

assure you that if you go to the U.S. Consulate prepared, you should have little or no 

problem receiving your visa. Of students who are denied visas, 99 percent are denied 

because of a law called 214b. This law basically says that a student visa applicant has the 

responsibility to prove that he or she has sufficient economic, social and family ties, which 

will compel him or her to return home after studies in the U.S. are completed. Prepare 

documents to prove you have economic, social and family ties. Often, you won’t need to 

provide all of the documentation, but keep it with you in a file or folder in the event that 

you have an interview. Demonstrating that you are prepared is an indicator that you are a 

bona fide student. Most likely, you will need to provide documentation of economic ties 

with your family. You should also prepare to discuss with the Consular Officer specifically 

how you intend to utilize your Macalester College education upon returning home. It’s not 

a bad idea to rehearse this before the interview itself. 

The Consulate will require the applicant to show credible documentary evidence that you 

have enough readily available funds to meet all expenses for the first year of study. The 

amount you will need to show is that which is listed as “Item 8a – Student’s personal 

funds” on the Form I-20 which the Admissions Office sent you. Generally, you should 

either bring in a bank draft for the amount on Item 8a or show funds in U.S. Dollars that 

are already deposited in a bank in the U.S. or have been transferred to the College. 

One last piece of advice for you is that when dealing with U.S. Consular Officers and 

Immigration (Customs and Border Protection) Officers at the port of entry - show them 

great respect. They have incredible power with regard to your life. Try to politely and 

respectfully look them in the eye, and answer all of their questions. Short answers are 

best. If you are referred for a secondary inspection, remain calm and cooperative even if 

you have to wait a long time. Often it is just a routine system referral for clarification when 

more information is needed to make a decision and you will be fine if you answer further 

questions clearly and concisely. Immigration and Consular Officers repeatedly say 

that small talk is a red flag (i.e., they believe the applicant may be hiding something). 

When it goes smoothly – all is well. When it does not, it is a great headache. 

Required Health Information 

In order to provide you with adequate medical care, the Health & Wellness Center at Macalester 

must have your Health History Form. Please return your completed health history 

form by August 1, 2012. 

Macalester College and the State of Minnesota require proof that you have had the following 

immunizations and tests, as well as a recent physical exam in order to be enrolled for 

the 2012-2013 academic year: 

1) Measles (rubella) immunization after 15 months of age. 

2) Mumps immunization after 12 months of age. 

3) German measles (rubella) immunization after 12 months of age or MMR after 15 

months of age. 

4) Tdap Booster within the past ten years. 

Note: Upon arrival at Macalester, as part of orientation activities, you will be required to 

get a Tuberculin Skin (Tuberculosis) test completed. 

16

Health Insurance 

Medical insurance is compulsory for all Macalester students and must adequately cover 

your costs in case of accident and illness. Macalester has an insurance plan for students, 

and should you choose this plan, the cost of medical insurance is automatically billed to 

your account after registration/validation at Macalester. The insurance plan provided by 

Macalester provides up to $90,000.00. Further information about medical insurance will be 

mailed to you later and provided during orientation. If you are covered by another insurance 

plan, you should “waive out” online from the Aetna Student Health Plan by providing 

the information to include the name and address of your insurance company, your policy 

number and coverage dates when you go online. Be sure to always carry a copy of your 

insurance card with you. 

Dental work and eye examinations should be done before you come to Macalester. These 

are not covered by medical insurance and are very expensive in the U.S.; the cost will 

probably be far less in your country. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring an extra 

pair in case of loss or accidental breakage. Suggestion: bring a month’s supply and a doctor’s 

prescription for any medication that you take regularly. If you have any special 

health problems (i.e. allergies), bring information from your physician. The Health & Wellness 

Center can assist you in finding medical specialists in the area. 

The Health & Wellness Center strongly advises students to check any existing policies that 

they may be covered under to determine if they will be adequately covered while at Macalester. 

This is particularly important for mental health coverage which tends to have more 

limitations. The policy under Aetna waives the pre-existing condition component for mental 

health. This policy also covers a wide range of treatment options (excluding most dental 

and optical) – students are encouraged to refer to their copy of the policy information. 

All Macalester students are required to show proof of their personal/family health insurance 

coverage for 2012-13 or they are billed for the insurance offered by the college, Aetna Student 

Health Insurance (www.aetnastudenthealth.com). 

ALL STUDENTS (new & returning) MUST EITHER WAIVE OUT OR ACCEPT THE POLICY ON- 

LINE BETWEEN JULY 1 AND AUGUST 15, 2012. Simply go to the Aetna Student Health web 

site (www.aetnastudenthealth.com), select "Student", click on "find your school", then type 

in "Macalester". The cost to purchase the Aetna Student Health Insurance Plan for 2012- 

13 is yet to be determined. You will be receiving further information at a later date. If you 

elect the plan or fail to waive enrollment, the charge will be billed to your tuition bill 

through the Student Accounts Office. To have these charges removed, the waiver must be 

completed on line by August 15, 2012. Students are only able to add to these policies after 

September 1, 2012 if they submit evidence that they are no longer covered by their 

previous policy. All students who enroll for this insurance will be given an insurance card 

with their policy number on it. If you are treated off campus, you may have your health 

care provider directly submit claims to Aetna; on campus, if you incur a cost (medicine, lab 

work, immunizations) you may request a form to send to Aetna – your student account will 

be billed directly by the Health & Wellness Center. If you have questions regarding health 

insurance, how claims are submitted, etc., contact Sue Rothenbacher in the Health & Wellness 

Center for assistance (rothenbacher@macalester.edu). 

17

Checklist Health Services 

Send in health history/physical/immunization form by 8/1/12 (by 7/15/12 if an athlete) 

– make arrangements to get meningococcal, Hepatitis B, varicella, DTaP and/or 

HPV immunizations before coming to campus – bring or send copy of updated immunization 

records to Macalester 

accident and health policies! 

ularly. 

18 

8/15/12 – review both the 

– see suggested list on web page 

health care needs (e.g. allergy shots, mental health, physical therapy, etc.) 

are not covered by medical insurance and are very expensive in the U.S.; the cost will 

probably be far less in your country. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring an extra 

pair in case of loss or accidental breakage. 

– discuss how you will share information regarding 

health care needs, treatment and billing. Information about students 

who are 18 or over cannot be shared with parents without written consent 

of the student. Work this out now to avoid confusion (especially 

around bills) later! Students remember – the bills will be in your 

name!

Finances 

Become familiar with currency exchange procedures. Difficulties and delays frequently 

occur in the transfer of funds from overseas to the U.S., so bring enough money to cover 

your initial school supplies and expenses. Transfer of funds may take several weeks or 

months, and clearance of checks or bank drafts is time-consuming. Nevertheless, we 

recommend transfer of funds when involving large quantities of money. 

If your home government or institution is providing funding for you, be sure to arrange a 

specific process with them for transferring money to you or to Macalester for payment of 

your tuition. Also, let International Student Programs and the Students Accounts Office 

know the contact name and institution in order to facilitate the transfer. International wire 

transfers are done via S.W.I.F.T. 

For security purposes we can’t give out the S.W.I.F.T Address, so 

please contact Student Accounts at + 651-696-6161 or 

studentaccts@macalester.edu 

Do not carry large sums of cash. The safest and most convenient way to carry money is in 

the form of traveler’s checks. You will have no problem exchanging them, or recovering 

them if lost or stolen. We will help you open a bank account during orientation. Be 

practical about your finances. Plan for how you will finance your entire education at 

Macalester, not only your first year. Remember that in addition to tuition, room and 

board, and insurance costs, you will need funds for travel, books, clothing and recreation. 

You must also plan for your summer/winter vacation living and traveling expenses as they 

are not included in your financial aid award. Be aware of your personal finances! ATMs 

(Automatic Teller Machines) can charge up to $2.00 for conducting transactions. 

If you overdraw on your checking account, you will be fined for that withdrawal 

and for every day that your balance is below $0. If you write a check that bounces, 

you will be fined. You have to pay a monthly fee (usually around $10/month) to maintain 

a savings account. Money disappears fast! 

Your 3 main choices for banks are Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank and University Bank, as they 

conveniently have ATMs on campus. 

19

What to Bring... 

Sheets, blankets, and pillows are not provided by the College. You can bring 

them with you (note that the bed size is 192cm x 84cm), or, when you first arrive, you 

will have time to shop for bedding, items for your room, and anything else you need. 

There will be shopping trips during orientation in order to facilitate this. We also suggest 

that you bring items from home that you cannot easily buy here, should you have 

space to bring them, such as: music typical of your country; pictures of your country, 

home, friends and family; books, DVDs of your country; special musical instruments, 

clothing, crafts and games representative of your country. These items will be useful if 

you make cultural presentations at Macalester or at elementary schools in the Twin Cities 

area. Also, if you plan on bringing any electrical items, please also bring an adaptor 

that converts into the US Voltage of 110 V, as these could be very expensive here. 

If you wish to send trunks or packages to the U.S. before your arrival, you may address 

them to: 

Be sure to purchase insurance against loss or damage for any packages you send to the 

U.S. 

Transfer Credit 

If you might be eligible for transfer credit from schools that you have previously attended, 

please bring original or certified copies of your transcripts or certificates with you. 

You could receive up to 20 Credits, and secure an early registration time. 

Travel Suggestions 

Your Name 

Macalester College 


C/o: Aaron Colhapp 

1600 Grand Avenue 

Saint Paul, MN 55105 U.S.A. 

While traveling, feel free to ask people for help or advice. Airports and bus stations in 

large cities often have a Travelers Assistance Desk which will be very willing to help 

you. 

Tips are not included in the price of a meal in a restaurant and are usually 15% of the 

bill. Porters or bellboys usually receive $1-2. It would be helpful to bring small change 

for these small expenses. Taxi drivers also usually receive a 15% tip in addition to the 

basic fare. If you take a taxi to Macalester from the airport, you can expect to pay 

about $20. 

Remember to watch your luggage and belongings at all times in the airports and bus 

stations. Be sure your baggage is clearly labeled and tagged to your final airport destinations 

, and keep a list of the contents of the bags. It is wise to put your name and 

address inside your bags as well as on the luggage tags on the outside. If your baggage 

is lost, immediately report it to an airline official. Overweight charges on airlines 

are expensive, so pack lightly. 

20

Arrival and Thereafter… 

��..Getting to Macalester 

The Minneapolis/Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is located about 10-15 minutes 

from the College. We will be happy to meet you at the airport, bus or train station if 

you let us know ahead of time. We’ll be carrying a Macalester College sign so that you 

can easily recognize us. 

Please fill out International Student Transportation Pick-up Reply Form at 

http://www.macalester.edu/isp/newstudents/arrivalform/ 

Please notify the International Student Programs staff of any last minute changes. 

If you have any difficulty finding us at the airport, bus or train station, call International 

Student Programs at (651) 696-6992. 

New international students may move into the residence halls on Tuesday, 

August 28th and Wednesday, August 29th without extra charge. We encourage 

you to arrive and move in on August 28th in the evening or August 29th in the morning, 

so you can rest from your trip and unpack. On August 30th and 31st you are required to 

attend a mandatory pre-orientation for international students (PO4IS). 

Unavoidable early Arrival 

The College has NO housing for students arriving earlier than Tuesday, August 28th. 

Please make your own hotel or motel arrangements should you have to arrive earlier. 

Some inexpensive possibilities near campus are: 

Days Inn Midway 

1964 University Avenue 

Saint Paul, MN 55104 

(651) 645-8681 

www.daysinn.com/SaintPaul 

Discount with Mac Student ID or other 

proof of your being a student 

Chatsworth Bed and Breakfast 

984 Ashland Avenue 

Saint Paul, MN 55105 

(651) 227-4288 

www.chatsworth-bb.com 

10% discount with Mac Student ID or other 

proof of your being a student 

There are also many hotels and motels available in the vicinity of the Minneapolis/St. 

Paul International Airport and the Mall of America. You can find information on these 

hotels upon arrival at the airport or at http://minneapolis.airporthotelguide.com. In addition, 

you can call toll-free at 1-888-532-5115 to make reservations. 

For more accommodations information look at the Macalester Admissions website at: 

http://www.macalester.edu/about/maps/accommodations/ 

21

After you Arrive… 

CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO DO UPON ARRIVAL: 

At the immigration port of entry, sign your I-20 and present it with your 

passport to the immigration officer. 

Be sure to get your I-20 and your I-94 (Arrival/Departure card) stamped 

before leaving the immigration area. 

Come to the International Student Programs office to get checked into 

your Residential Hall room. 

Obtain Social Security card (if you are employed on-campus), Macalester 

ID, and Minnesota ID (optional). 

Attend PO4IS and all new student orientations. Bring passport, I-20 

and other immigration documents to the international student orientation. 

Open a bank account. 

Put passport, I-20 and other important documents in a safe place and 

don’t carry them with you unless you travel. 

...your first stop should be International Student Programs (located in Kagin Commons) 

where you will receive your room keys and an information packet. This information 

will include the following: 

* Pre-Orientation for International Students schedule 

* A dining hall schedule 

* Campus and public bus maps 

Orientation 

All international students newly enrolled at Macalester College are required to attend a 

special pre-orientation program which officially begins at 7 p.m. Wednesday evening, August 

29th (it is a good idea for you to arrive in time to attend informal orientation activities 

on that day as well). 

In short again, you can expect pre-orientation to include greetings by Macalester staff 

and faculty members; information sessions on immigration regulations, the nature of a 

liberal arts education and academic studies at Macalester; a discussion about U.S. academic 

and cultural environments; and campus resources. 

After the Pre-Orientation for International Students you will join the general orientation 

with all new Macalester students on Friday, August 31st. You can expect this general orientation 

to include academic advising, placement testing, book discussions, library tours, 

city and campus tours, shopping trips, receptions, financial aid information, information 

on extra-curricular activities, and social events. As you can see from this partial listing, 

orientation activities are a mixture of academic and social events, both serious, but enjoyable. 

22

Planning your First Year on Campus 

Winter and Spring Breaks 

The time period between Fall Semester and Spring Semester is called Winter Break. The 

residence halls are closed from 12:00 noon on Tuesday December 18, 2012 until 

9:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 26, 2013 but you can leave your belongings in your 

room. 

Only those students engaged in academic endeavors which result in Macalester credit, or 

who are participating on an athletic team, or who are international students with home 

countries outside North America, or students required by College departments for student 

employment, will be allowed to live in campus housing during January. These students will 

be allowed to move back into the residential halls starting at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, 

January 2nd, 2013. There will be no additional charge for room and board for the students 

living on campus at this time. 

You should begin to plan now for what you will be doing during Winter Break. 

During Spring Break (March 16-24, 2013), the residence halls will remain open, but there 

will be no food service. You should budget $75-100 for food. 

Employment 

F-1 Visa Students 

You are not eligible for off-campus employment in the U.S. until you have been a fulltime 

student in the U.S. for 9 months, and then only with special authorization. You are 

eligible to work 20 hours a week or less on-campus as soon as you arrive at Macalester if 

you receive student employment as part of your financial aid award. If you are going to 

work on-campus, please check with the International Student Programs first. 

J-1 Visa Students 

You are eligible to work on- or off-campus, depending on your sponsoring agency’s requirements. 

Any on- or off-campus job must be authorized by your sponsor prior to engaging 

in work. Be sure to contact your advisor from your sponsoring agency about authorization. 

23

Climate and Clothing 

Minnesota has four distinct seasons, all of which require different types of clothing. You 

will be arriving at the end of summer, typically a pleasant time of year, although it can get 

as hot as 90ºF (32ºC) and humid. Fall (autumn) days are cool and often rainy. Winter 

must be taken very seriously as the temperatures can drop as low as -5 to -20ºF 

(-20 to -30ºC). After winter, the cool temperatures of spring, 32 to 55ºF (0 to 10ºC), 

seem almost balmy! On page 75 is a chart that gives some indication of what weather you 

can expect in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area (Latitude: 44 degrees, 53 minutes north; 

Longitude: 93 degrees, 13 minutes west). 

January is the coldest month in Minnesota, which you will be able to avoid if you go home 

during winter break. If, however, you stay in Minnesota, be prepared for extreme cold. 

Winter is also very long and it is very important to have adequate clothing to keep warm. 

Buying appropriate clothing for all these temperatures may seem intimidating, but it is not 

very difficult. Students tend to dress very informally, with the most common attire for 

both men and women being a pair of blue jeans, a shirt, a sweater and a backpack (to carry 

books, etc). You will probably want to bring some dress clothes and/or ethnic dress for 

special occasions. Beyond these recommendations, reserve some money to buy clothes 

after you arrive in the U.S. You may need to buy a warm winter coat ($50-200), sturdy 

boots ($25-75), mittens ($10), a scarf ($10), sweaters ($20-100), turtlenecks ($10-$20) 

and long underwear ($15) for winter, and T-shirts ($10-20) for summer. All prices in U.S. 

dollars are approximate (see page 75 for more detailed weather info). 

Mail 

You will be assigned a personal post office box after you register for classes. Your mailing 

address: 

Your Name 

Macalester College 

1600 Grand Avenue 

St. Paul, MN 55105 

USA 

Telephones 

Upon your request, a residence hall room may be set up with a voice landline, 

telephone, or voice mail account at no additional cost with local calling 

service. Resident halls and houses also have telephones in common 

areas with local calling service.. The only charge will be for long distance 

and International Direct Dialing phone calls. There are many websites that 

offer calling cards for this purpose, www.callingcards.com is a good place 

to look. And with Skype’s free software you can chat away with free Skype-to-Skype calls 

and never worry about cost, time or distance. 

Personal Property Insurance 

Students are encouraged to purchase personal property insurance to protect themselves 

against theft, fire, water damage, or vandalism of items such as stereos, cameras, calculators, 

and personal computers. For more information, contact Residential Life at x6215. 

24

Health and Wellness 

Macalester Health & Wellness Center 

Office: 651.696.6275 

www.macalester.edu/health 

health@macalester.edu 

Health & Wellness is an important part of the student experience at the college. We 

provide health care, short term counseling and consultation, and health education. 

Students may call or stop by for appointments. The office is open weekdays – drop-in 

appointments are available on a limited basis for both medical and counseling. There are 

no fees for office visits at Health & Wellness Center (including visits/care provided by 

physician, registered nurse, nurse practitioners, visiting psychiatrist, licensed 

psychologists, mental health counselors, certified health educator). Students are billed for 

immunizations, lab tests, and medications – a charge is posted on their Macalester student 

account unless they pay for it at time of service. Students may receive a billing statement 

to submit to their insurance company for reimbursement. Appointments with the massage 

therapist are offered at a subsided rate, payable at the time of scheduling. A more detailed 

description of services offered at Macalester Health & Wellness Center is provided at 

www.macalester.edu/health. 

Emergency Services 

Macalester's Health & Wellness Center staff realizes that emergencies do not always occur 

during conveniently during office hours! The following are some key off-hours emergency 

resources available to students on and off-campus. 

FOR LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCIES, CALL 911! 

On Campus Resources: 

Macalester insurance policy for international students does 

not cover preventive medication or treatment, treatment for 

pre-existing conditions (any health problems that you had 

before you got the insurance), nor most dental or opticalrelated 

costs. If you have questions about the insurance 

policy, please look though the insurance brochure that will 

be mailed to you or talk to the Health & Wellness Center. 

Macalester Security (651-696) 6555 

Be prepared give your name, describe the situation and provide contact info Security can 

also connect you with other campus response personnel. Security is the best place to start 

for issues of personal safety. 

Your RA/CA or the RA/CA on duty 

Telephone numbers are posted on the door of your residence hall office. RA/CA's have 

special training to deal with personal and community concerns. 

Resident Hall Director on duty 

There is always an RHD on duty - contact information is posted on the doors of all 

residence hall offices. If you can't reach the RA/CA on duty in your hall or Security, contact 

the RHD on duty. 

25

Off Campus Resources 

Sexual Offense Services 651-643-3006 

Regions Hospital - Emergency Room 651-254-5000 

640 Jackson Street, St. Paul, MN 

For both medical and mental health emergencies 

Crisis Connection 612-379-6363 

A 24 hr crisis line with trained counselors. 

Hennepin Regional Poison Center 

24-hour phone consults with pharmacists certified and trained in poison information 

1.800.222.1222 

HOW TO DECIDE IF IT IS A LIFE-THREATENING CONDITION 

Examples of life-threatening conditions include: 

� Difficulty breathing 

� Major injury (e.g. open chest wound with trouble breathing; spinal or neck injury 

with loss of responsiveness 

� Unconscious or minimally responsive (e.g. drug or alcohol overdose) 

� Convulsion that will not stop 

Call 911 if any of the above conditions are present! 

Paying for Emergency Visits: Macalester College does not cover visits to the Emergency 

Room, they are billed to your insurance company - family or Macalester insurance 

(Aetna Student Health). 

URGENT CONDITIONS 

Urgent Care facilities are to be utilized when Macalester Health Services is closed and you 

believe the medical condition is severe enough that it cannot wait until our clinic opens 

again. If the Urgent Care facility is not open, contact an emergency room at one of the 

hospitals. 

Examples of Urgent Conditions: 

� Severe pain (chest, abdomen, head or ear), especially with fever 

� Asthma (when not responding to usual medication) 

� Urinary infection 

� Possible fracture or dislocation 

� Laceration (a cut requiring stitches) 

� Major bee sting reaction - hives, wheezing, or swelling (e.g. 

whole arm or leg swells) 

� Prolonged (24 hrs.) of vomiting/diarrhea - dehydration concern 

� Persistent thoughts about committing harm to self or others 

What to do: 

Call the Urgent Care center/Emergency Room first 

As soon as you arrive, indicate why you think it's urgent 

State the main problem first 

Report any past experience with the problem 

Bring any medications you have taken for the problem 

26

After Hours Medical Resources 

The odds are good that at some point during the year you will feel REALLY sick over the 

weekend or at night when the Macalester Health & Wellness Center is closed. Who can 

you call to get some advice and help you determine if you need to be seen by a doctor? 

Where can you go to be seen outside of an emergency room? Where is an emergency 

room? 

First determine - "how urgent is it?" Most of the time, symptoms indicate that you can 

probably wait until a provider is open or go to urgent care and you will not need to go to 

the Emergency Room. While the ER is THE place to go for life-threatening emergencies or 

middle of the night urgent situations, students are encouraged to consider other options 

first. A visit to an ER for non-urgent situations can translate into many hours in the waiting 

room and hundreds of dollars. 

Note: If you have Aetna Student Health Insurance through Macalester, you are eligible to 

call their 24/7 Informed Health Line at 1-800-556-1555. It is staffed by registered 

nurses who will be able to provide information and recommend general options. This is a 

national center - they will not be familiar with local resources. 

Urgent Conditions: Urgent care facilities are to be utilized when Macalester Health & 

Wellness Center is closed and you believe the medical condition is severe enough that it 

cannot wait until our clinic opens again. 

Local urgent care options 

You should call ahead to clarify that your insurance will be accepted and, particularly in 

the case of influenza symptoms or other communicable disease concerns, if they have 

special instructions. 

Fairview Urgent Care 

2155 Ford Parkway 


651.696.5070 

Hours: M-F 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. 

Sat 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. 

Sun 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. 

Closed holidays 

The clinic is located in the Highland Village area south of campus (about 2 

miles). 

Directions via Google maps 

Aspen Care Clinic 

1020 Bandana Blvd. 

St. Paul, MN 

651-641-7000 (Clinic) 

Hours: M-F 8 am -5pm, 

Urgent Care 651-641-7021 

Hours: M-F 8 am-10pm 

Sat., Sun., holidays 9am-5pm 


27

Roseville Now Care (Walk-in, first come first served basis only) 

1955 West County Road B2 at Prior Avenue 

Roseville, MN 

651-635-0054 

Hours: M-F 8am-9pm Sat. and Sun. 9-5 


Somewhat more limited in services (reproductive health only) but just up Snelling Avenue 

about 2/3 mile is 

Family Tree Clinic 

1619 Dayton Avenue 


651.645.0478 

Emergency Contraception Resources press #1 

Hours: M&W 8:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 

T&Th 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

Sat 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 

Further away is a 

Minute Clinic, about a 15-20 minute drive by car. 

CVS Pharmacy 

4241 Johnny Cake Road 

Eagan, MN 

651.688.7041 

Hours: M-F 8:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. 

Sat 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. 

Sun 10:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. 

The clinic sees common concerns such as sore throats, bladder infections, etc. Check the 

web page for more details and directions to the site, as well as insurance information. 


Local general care physicians 

Parkway Family Physicians 

721 Snelling 


(651)-690-1311 


Family Health Services 

1540 Randolph Ave. 


651-699-8333 


28 

Mac-Groveland Health East 

870 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104 

(651)-642-1668 

Dentist 

Open Cities Health Center 

Dental, Mental and Medical Care 

409 North Dunlap Street, St.Paul 

651-290-9200 

http://www.ochealthcenter.com/

Hospitals 

These are the hospitals closest to Macalester - all have emergency rooms: 

Regions Hospital - Emergency Room 


St. Paul, MN 

651-254-5000 

For both medical and mental health 

emergencies 


St. Joseph's Hospital 

69 West Exchange Street 

St. Paul MN 55102 

651.232.3000 


United Hospital 

333 North Smith Avenue 


651.241.8000 


Websites 

If you are so inclined, reference some of the self-care provided at a reputable web site 

such the one at the Mayo Clinic - www.mayoclinic.com . 

Calling 911 

In case of a life-threatening emergency, call 911 ! Remember, this is not for sore throats, 

nausea, light fever - unless you are concerned that it is indicative of a more severe, lifethreatening 

situation. If you call 911 from a cell phone while on campus, be sure to call 

Security at x6555 as well to let them know so that they can assist the ambulance. There 

is no charge for the EMT's to come but if you are transported in an ambulance, there is a 

significant fee that your insurance may/may not cover, depending upon your insurance. 

But if it is an emergency, call! 

Transportation 

If you need to get treatment and do not have transportation, 

contact your RA/CA, the Hall Director on duty, or Security. 

Macalester has taxi cab vouchers that can be given to students 

for just such urgent situations. The charge for the cab 

will then be put on your student 

account. Of course, you 

can always call a cab yourself 

or take the bus. 

29

After Hours Mental Health Emergencies 

Macalester College Health & Wellness Center offers emergency counseling services for 

students during office hours whenever school is in session. After hours, if you are having 

thoughts of harming yourself or are feeling dangerously out of control, you have several 

resources available to you. If residing on campus, we recommend you first contact your 

RA/CA or RHD who can help you determine the best option and facilitate your decision. 

The Crisis Connection (612.379.6363) is a 24-hour crisis line when simply talking with a 

trained counselor can help. Finally, consider going to the nearest emergency room or calling 

911. The closest emergency room to campus is at Regions Hospital (651.254.1000), 

located at 640 Jackson Street in downtown St. Paul. 

Here are some other steps you can take to help manage times of distress: 

* Identify the specific source or distress and write down and review positive strategies 

for responding to it. 

* Talk with a trusted family member, mentor, or friend. 

* Engage in activities that help you feel better (e.g. listening to relaxing music, exercise, 

go for a walk, journal, or do a relaxation exercise). 

Crisis Connection 

Minneapolis, MN 55419 

24-hr crisis counseling by telephone 

612.379.6363 

Ramsey County Mental Health 

Crisis Program 

1919 University Ave, Suite 200, St. 

Paul, MN 

24-hr outreach & telephone services 

651.266.7900 

Acute Psychiatric Services 

Hennepin County Medical Center 

701 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 

Crisis intervention phone service for 

assessment, information, and referral 

for psychiatric emergencies for 

Hennepin County residents. 24-hr 

walk-in crisis intervention and treatment 

of behavioral emergencies. 

612.873.3161 

Suicide Hotline 612.873.2222 

Walk-In Counseling Center 

2421 Chicago Avenue South 

Minneapolis, MN 

Confidential and professional short-term or one-time 

basis counseling. M,W, F from 1p.m.-3 p.m. and M- 

TH from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Services are free. 

612.870.0565 

Regions Hospital 


Persons may present at the Emergency Center for 

crisis counseling, psychiatric assessment and possible 

admission for inpatient services. Call in advance 

of arrival when possible. 

Crisis Program Phone Number: 

651.254.1000 

Sexual Offense Services (S.O.S.) 

1619 Dayton Avenue 

St. Paul, MN 

Provides direct services to victims of sexual assault 

including individual counseling as well as 24-hour 

information, referral, crisis phone service and hospital 

outreach and advocacy. 

651.643.3006 

30

U.S. and Macalester Cultures 

Culture Shock! The term sounds horrible. For some, culture shock is horrible. However, 

most of you will adjust just fine to life in the Twin Cities, MN, USA. In this section, 

we’ll discuss things to make the adjustment process easier. This will include the cultural 

adjustment process most international students experience overseas; hints which make 

adapting easier, and comparing American values with those of other cultures. 

The International Student Experience at Macalester College 

Whenever one travels into a new culture, they go through unique experiences. The 

graph below shows some of the changes your emotions may experience while you attend 

Mac. Some of you have gone through a few of these phases already, others may 

be going through them for a second time, and for many of you, this is all new. 

The International Student: A Graphic of Emotional Intensity 

The Pre-departure Phase describes the preparatory period before traveling. It is what 

you go through in your home country before you leave for St. Paul. This includes your 

decision to leave home, choosing Macalester, preparing for the sojourn, and, among 

other things, worrying about your family, boyfriend or girlfriend. You will probably experience 

a gradual increase in your emotional excitement level. This phase ends as you 

leave home. 

The Orientation Phase begins with your early experiences at Macalester. Some call 

this phase the Spectator or Honeymoon Phase because you often feel like a spectator in 

this phase and it can be a lot of fun. You will experience a lot of changes in emotions. 

Sometimes things will seem unbelievable. You may look at Americans as if you are 

looking at aliens because of their different cultural patterns. Generally, you are very 

alert through this phase, but also very passive - like a spectator. 

31

The Getting Involved Phase begins when you no longer can be passive and must start 

getting involved with everyday life. For most, it starts when school begins. You must 

make friends in class, speak with professors, deal with roommates, wash your clothes and 

understand American slang - to name just a few adjustments. At first, you may feel a 

sense of frustration because you need to make a lot of adjustments. This phase is different 

from the Orientation Phase because instead of avoiding unpleasant situations, you see 

them as challenges to be overcome. The emotional intensity differs from person to person 

more in this phase than in any other phase. During the Getting Involved Phase cultures 

first begin to clash. The amount of value differences, and the means for which one handles 

these cross-cultural battles is very important in how easy or difficult the Getting Involved 

Phase is to complete. Flexible people will only have small adjustments whereas 

others will feel as if they are riding a roller coaster because of all of the highs and lows. 

Towards the end of this phase, one will experience a personality or identity crisis; perhaps 

a feeling that you may not belong in either your native culture or the American culture. 

People in this phase also experience feelings that all of life is determined by culture. At this 

point, you move into the next stage. 

The Shock Phase strikes people who are both successful and unsuccessful in their initial 

efforts to adapt. Very few people who pass through this phase actually recognize that they 

are in it. Even people who have gotten along great with Americans and American culture 

find themselves in short depressions and lethargic but cannot identify the reason why. Below 

are some characteristics of the Shock Phase: 

� Preoccupations with personal cleanliness 

� Easily angered 

� Feel that Americans’ helpful suggestions are actually rude criticisms 

� Not studying English 

� More frequent use of four-letter words which start with F or S 

� Feeling lonely 

� Difficulty in communicating with other 

� Desire to be around people from your home country but not wanting others to 

see you in your depressed state 

� Too much time to feel sorry for yourself 

Hopefully sooner than later you begin to adjust. Often this happens at the end of the semester 

or beginning of the new semester. At this time you enter the new stage. 

The Adaptation Phase begins when you start to identify with others and you no longer 

feel that the Twin Cities or Macalester is foreign to you. Identifying with others in the 

Macalester International Organization (MIO), or friends in your major, or people at a nearby 

coffee shop, can be the point of entry into this phase. You feel firmly adapted when 

you feel that American friends accept you as an important member of the group. You feel 

as if you are part of the Mac community and not someone still trying to enter it. It is 

sometimes unknowingly marked by changes in the way you dress, walk, and act around 

others. You will still probably have short experiences in which you feel you are in 

the Shock Phase, but these will most likely be short. This phase is a long phase. It 

ends with your re-entry into your home country. 

The Re-entry Phase begins when you arrive home. Almost everyone expects it to be 

easy and are very excited. Unfortunately the changes you have gone through are so great 

that the expectations of easily adapting to life in Cochabamba, Kuala Lumpur, Accra, Nicosia, 

Bratislava, Kathmandu - your home - is very difficult and you will go through these 

phases again. Generally much quicker but also much more intensely. Good Luck. 

32

Hints to Adapting to a Foreign Culture 

It is never easy adapting to a foreign culture. Below are some tips on adapting: 

Tolerance for ambiguity 

Low goal/task orientation 

Open-mindedness 

Non-judgementalness 

Empathy/communicativeness 

Flexibility/adaptability 

Curiosity 

Sense of humor 

Warmth in human relationships 

Motivation 

Self-reliance 

Strong sense of self 

Tolerance for differences 

Perceptiveness 

Ability to fail 

33 

Sometimes these are hard to 

achieve when you are not 

feeling so well, but if you 

keep them in mind it may 

make the process easier. 

U.S. Values 

Americans, like people all over the world, have their own set of values. Some of these 

may be different from yours and some may be the same. Nevertheless, you will need to 

adapt to them. One important thing to remember when learning about values is that they 

are perceived to be true even if they are not in reality. Below is a list of values developed 

by Robert Kohls. How do they compare with your country’s values? 

U.S. Values Another’s Values 

Personal control over the Fate/Destiny 

environment/responsibility 

Change seen as natural and positive Stability/Tradition 

Time and its control Human interaction 

Equality/Fairness Hierarchy/Rank/Status 

Individualism/Independence Group’s welfare/Dependence 

Self-help/Initiative Birthright inheritance 

Competition Cooperation 

Future Orientation Past Orientation 

Action/Work Orientation Being Orientation 

Informality Formality

Mac Customs 

The following description of Mac customs and behaviors is only a generalization; 

this information, although helpful, should be used as a guide and not as a prescription. 

One of the most helpful ways for anyone to learn about customs and behavior 

is by observing others and asking questions. 

It is important to realize attitudes and customs vary from person to person. Some of 

the following topics are delicate and may present the greatest cultural challenge for international 

students. Keep in mind that what follows are descriptions of general patterns 

of behavior. 

Clothing 

At Macalester, and on most U.S. campuses, students dress very informally. The most 

common attire (for both men and women) is a pair of blue jeans, a shirt, a sweater, and 

a small backpack. Student also dress informally off-campus, even when they attend 

social events such as athletics events and movies. In spite of this informality, however, 

a great many U.S. students enjoying dressing up, especially if they are going out to a 

restaurant or to a dance. *This is only a generalization 

It is important to allocate enough money for warm winter clothing as winter must be 

taken very seriously in Minnesota, where the temperature sometimes drops to -30ºF 

(-34ºC). 

Conversation 

Casual conversation between U.S. Americans can sometimes be confusing. For example, 

“How are you?” does not necessarily mean that the person asking wants to know 

how you are feeling. Most likely, what the person means is “Good morning” or “Hello.” 

In response, you may simply smile, nod, and say, “Fine, thank you. How are you?” 

Phrases said when departing can be equally confusing. For instance, “See you later,” 

“Drop by sometime,” or “Let’s get together sometime” are often meant as a friendly 

goodbye, rather than an actual invitation. When in doubt, do not be too shy to clarify 

whether it is an invitation or not. *This is only a generalization 

Social Space 

Some cultures tend to have a much closer conversational distance than does U.S. culture. 

As a result, an international person may literally back a North American across 

the room, each just unconsciously trying to maintain a comfortable distance. These 

subtle but important means of nonverbal communication can lead to the stereotype of 

particular foreign nationalities as forward and abrasive and North Americans as cold and 

distant. Conversely, the opposite may be perceived by students from a culture having a 

greater conversational distance than that of North Americans. 

Just as with conversational distance, personal space may differ across cultures. When 

North Americans are not acquainted with each other or when they are in public settings, 

they tend to stand or sit apart. For example, in an elevator, Americans will keep their 

distance unless crowding forces them together. The same is true in a bus where people 

sit one per seat until additional passengers force them to double up. In both of these 

examples, North Americans “hold themselves in,” having been taught from early childhood 

to avoid bodily contact with strangers. *This is only a generalization 

34

Hygiene 

Caring for one’s body is based on deeply held personal and cultural ideas. People in the 

U.S. generally believe it important to control the odors a body naturally produces. Additionally, 

Americans are uncomfortable talking about issues of hygiene, though they may 

believe that their perceptions of appropriate hygiene are understood. It is important, 

whether you are interacting with Americans, or with other international students, to 

consider how you react and are being reacted to with regard to differing perspectives on 

hygiene. *This is only a generalization 

(adapted from American Ways by Gary Althen, Intercultural Press, 1988) 

Telephoning 

Except in emergencies, it is best not to call anyone off-campus (i.e. a professor, host 

family, or employment supervisor) before 9:00 a.m. and after 9:30 p.m. On-campus, 

the rules are more relaxed since students tend to stay up late. *This is only a generalization 

Friendship 

Friendship between U.S. and international students may be confusing since definitions 

and expectations of friendships may differ from one culture to another. 

In the U.S., for example, friendships may seem to develop more quickly and be more 

casual than in many other cultures. You may be struck by how warm and friendly people 

seem from the start. You may soon observe, however, that while Americans seem 

warm at a first meeting, they may later seem remote or “superficial.” It often appears 

to some international students that U.S. students are too busy to take the time to get to 

know other people well. Upon closer examination, visitors may notice that North Americans 

tend to be private, keeping their personal thoughts and feelings to themselves. 

One explanation for this behavior may be that Americans have been taught to idealize 

independence and avoid becoming too dependent on other people and allowing others 

to become dependent on them. 

It is important to remember, however, that these are generalizations and there are 

many exceptions to them. Some Americans are eager to devote the time and energy 

necessary to develop close friendships and will talk openly with their friends about personal 

matters. *This is only a generalization 

(adapted from American Ways by Gary Althen, Intercultural Press, 1988) 

Romantic and Non-Romantic Relationships 

At Macalester, relationships between male and female students are so complex that 

they are difficult to describe in a few paragraphs. Nonetheless, a few general comments 

might help since international students sometimes find that U.S. dating customs differ 

from the ones to which they are accustomed. 

Much of the social life at Macalester centers around campus life and events. Students 

study and eat meals together, go to special lectures, movies, or attend sports events 

together, and non-romantic friendships between men and women are common. Since 

few students have much money, many split the costs of dates equally. Men still tend to 

initiate invitations to dances, films or other evening events, but such invitations are also 

suggested by women. *This is only a generalization 

35

Though it is common for men and women to do things together in non-dating relationships, 

it can sometimes be difficult to determine what constitutes a dating relationship. 

Terminology and extent of physical contact vary greatly. Terms such as going out can 

mean with or without romantic intent; hooking up often indicates some degree of sexual 

activity, generally without serious romantic intent, dating or being together signify romantic 

intent, in various degrees of seriousness. 

The amount of physical contact between men and women varies as well. In U.S. culture, 

the greatest amount of public touching occurs between men and women. There is 

less between heterosexual female friends and practically none among heterosexual 

men. It is not uncommon to see students of the opposite sex, who do not have an intimate 

relationship, hugging or holding hands. 

In the U.S. and at Macalester, people’s attitudes towards sexual relationships have become 

more permissive. The decision whether or not to establish a sexual relationship 

rests with the individuals involved. Students often feel free to talk about sex-related 

subjects and engage in sexual relationships. Homosexuals, usually referred to as gay if 

they are male and lesbian if they are female, have become much more willing than in 

the past to openly acknowledge their sexual orientation. Gay, lesbian and bi-sexual students 

are accepted and respected on campus. Yet, despite permissiveness regarding 

types of relationships and sexual behaviors, not everything has changed. International 

students will still find individuals and communities where traditional ideas about malefemale 

relationships are prevalent. It can be difficult and confusing to make assumptions 

about relationships and dating. Generally, it is a good idea to observe carefully 

and ask questions of your mentors, R.A.’s and other students and advisors if you are 

unsure. (adapted from American Ways, by Gary Althen, Intercultural Press, 1988) 

If you have any questions or concerns about relationships, you may talk to your mentors 

about them. Remember, your mentors are there to help you adjust to life at Macalester. 

*This is only a generalization 

Informality among Americans 

The emphasis on individual identity, responsibility and tolerance produces a considerable 

degree of informality in dress, relationships, between people, and methods of communications. 

In some cases, Americans’ informal conduct can give the impression that 

they are promiscuous. Indeed, American culture does not perceive scanty costumes 

and public displays of affection as an indication of loose morals, although, in some situations, 

they may be viewed as exhibiting poor taste. A great deal of flexibility to express 

oneself is permitted as long as it does not infringe on the rights and comforts of 

others. *This is only a generalization 

Invitations 

Invitations are usually informal and most often verbal, but specify a time and place. For 

example: “Will you come over Tuesday evening at 8:00?” If you say “yes,” it is important 

that you keep the appointment. A casual verbal invitation such as “come and 

see me sometime” or “drop in” is usually given with the understanding that you will call 

and make more specific plans before coming over. If you receive a written invitation 

that says RSVP, you should respond by letter or phone, telling your host whether or not 

you plan to attend. *This is only a generalization 

36

Use of names 

A few tips of name usage follow: 

First names are more readily used in the U.S. than in other countries. It is all right to 

use the first name of someone approximately your same age and status, or someone 

younger. It is appropriate to inquire if the person prefers to be called by his or her first 

name if you are unsure. 

A woman or man older than yourself, including a professor, is often addressed as Dr., 

Ms., Miss, Mrs., or Mr. until the individual requests that you use his or her first name or 

until you get to know the individual better. 

Men and women will be confused if you use Dr., Ms., Miss, Mrs., or Mr. with a first 

name, as is the custom in some other countries. Ordinarily, Dr., Ms., Miss, Mrs., and 

Mr. are used only with a person’s family name. 

Some U.S. women prefer the form of address “Ms.” (pronounced as Miz). Ms. is used 

for both single and married women and replaces Miss and Mrs. Ms. is also an acceptable 

form of address if you do not know whether a woman is single or married. 

*This is only a generalization 

Handshaking 

Men usually shake hands at the time of their first meeting. Men and women also often 

shake hands. Women often do not shake hands with each other. *This is only a generalization 

Concept of Time 

The commonly used concept of time at Macalester, and indeed in much of the Western 

world, is that of time as linear, meaning that there is eternal progress towards an infinitely 

distant end of time. North Americans are usually time-conscious, and being on 

time is very important. When an appointment is made, you are expected to arrive within 

five minutes of the appointed time. If you have an appointment with your advisor at 

10:30 a.m., for example, you should arrive at 10:30 a.m. or a little before. If a bus is 

scheduled to stop at 10:20 a.m., be at the bus stop five minutes early because the bus 

may arrive a few minutes early or late. Life in the U.S. may seem rushed at first to the 

international student. *This is only a generalization 

Being asked Questions 

Macalester students are curious people. They will ask a lot of questions. Some of their 

questions may appear ridiculous, uninformed and elementary, but try to be patient in 

answering them. You may be the first foreign national of a particular country whom 

they have met, and they will probably have very little understanding of life in your culture. 

Most Macalester students are sincerely interested in learning more about you and 

your culture and, in return, will welcome any questions you might ask them about the 

U.S. or their home country. *This is only a generalization 

(Excerpted and adapted from “Social Relations in the United States,” Margaret D. Pusch, 

University of Pittsburgh, The Asian Student Orientation Handbook, 1977-78). 

37

Minnesota Laws and Macalester Policies 

A lot of what follows in this section is 

also contained within the Macalester College Student 

Handbook that you will also be receiving. To avoid 

redundancy, this section has thus been made shorter than in 

previous years’ International Student Handbooks. 

It is important to know these rules as they apply to you. And remember, 

what you decide to do is your decision, but you will ultimately 

take the responsibility. Please refer to the Macalester College 

Student Handbook for more information; it is meant to 

supplement what is contained here.* 

*This section deals only with Alcohol/Drug and Sexual Harassment/Violence. There are regulations on other 

forms of harassment at Macalester, for which you may refer to the Macalester College Student Handbook. 

Drugs and Alcohol 

Drugs, except those sold in pharmacies or prescribed by a doctor, are illegal in the United 

States. In Minnesota, alcohol may not be consumed by people under 21 years of age. 

This does not mean that students at Macalester do not take drugs or do not drink. Some 

do, and can get into trouble with the police who may arrest them, with the Immigration 

officials who may deport them (if they are international students), or with the school authorities 

who may suspend them. Various mentor group activities will discuss the realities 

of drug and alcohol use at Macalester. The consequences of breaking rules and regulations 

concerning drugs and alcohol, especially for international students, are severe. 

For a complete discussion of Macalester’s alcohol policy, see the Macalester College Student 

Handbook. 

In general, Minnesota State Law does not allow persons under the age of 21 years to purchase 

or possess (with intent to consume) any alcoholic beverages, nor does it allow for 

alcoholic beverages to be sold, furnished or given to someone under that age of 21. By 

law, establishments require legal proof of age, by a Minnesota ID card or another country’s 

passport, in order to serve alcoholic beverages. These laws may vary greatly from 

your accustomed practices or home country laws. Yet, as an international student, you 

should know the laws and their consequences, as you will be held responsible for them. 

Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence 

Definitions and acceptance of sexual harassment and sexual violence vary greatly across 

cultures. Therefore, it is very important for international students to understand the 

meanings of these terms, and to understand the consequences of behaviors that are perceived 

as sexually harassing or violent. 

Sexual harassment and violence are not only violations of individual rights and dignity, 

but erode the values that are important to the College community, and thus will not be 

tolerated at Macalester. The College attempts to create and maintain a positive living, 

working and learning environment in which community members are aware of and respect 

the rights of others and in which individuals taken responsibility for their actions. 

38

Sexual harassment and violence are not only violations of Macalester’s policies, but also 

can be prosecuted by Minnesota and U.S. law. Prosecution of these offenses has strong 

implications for international students’ statuses. 

Sexual Harassment 

Sexual harassment involves a wide range of verbal and non-verbal behaviors which impose 

unwelcome attention on an individual that is unacceptable. Sexual harassment can 

involve instructors and students, supervisors and students, students and students, and 

other relationships among colleagues or peers. 

Sexual Violence 

Sexual violence is any unwelcomed sexual contact to which there has been no consent at 

the time of the activity. Lack of consent means that a person has not said “yes” to the 

sexual activity, like instances when he/she is unable to give informed consent because of 

sleep or influence by alcohol and other drugs. Sexual violence can occur against both 

males and females. It may be perpetrated by an assailant, as in the case of acquaintance/date 

rape; sexual violence is unacceptable regardless of the relationship between 

the victim and the attacker. 

Actions to combat sexual harassment: 

In the U.S., various methods are used by people to combat sexual harassment. If you are 

uncertain about taking action, see the Director of International Student Programs, the Associate 

Dean of Students, or a counselor. 

� Tell someone! You have a right not to be harassed, and sometimes support is needed 

before the message can be communicated to the alleged harasser. 

� Say NO and make it clear that the behavior is unacceptable; ignoring a situation will 

not make it go away. 

� Write a letter identifying the offending behavior, explaining your feelings, and requesting 

the behavior stop. Keep a copy. 

� Keep records of what has happened, where, and witnesses. 

� Place harassing phone calls on your voice mail storage. 

� If the harassment does not stop, get help. Contact a College Grievance Officer, the 

Associate Dean of Students, your supervisor, your department chair, your advisor or 

hall director. 

Protect Yourself !! 

€ Know your sexual intentions and limits. 

€ Communicate your limits firmly and directly. 

€ Know your alcohol limits. 

€ Pay attention to what is happening around you. 

€ Avoid vulnerable situations. 

€ Trust your intuition. 

€ Say so if you feel threatened – and get out of the situation however possible. 

€ Support your friends – if a friend asks you to leave a party because he/she is 

uncomfortable, help your friend out. 

€ Attend gatherings with a large group or with friends 

€ Do not walk alone at night. 

39

If you have been sexually assaulted: 

X Go to a safe place; your first thought should be to take care of yourself. 

X Talk to someone: your roommate, you RA, the counseling center, campus security (they 

can help you contact the police), the Director of ISP. 

X Do not disturb any evidence: do not shower, douche, wash your clothing, comb your 

hair. 

X Go to a medical facility for an exam, transmitted disease check, pregnancy test, and to 

deal with injuries. A medical exam is important for your health and will be very important 

if you decide to press criminal charges. Regions Hospital (651-254-5000) is best equipped 

to do an evidentiary exam. The evidentiary and follow-up exams are free at Regions. 

X Take care of yourself. The Sexual Offense Service has a crisis line for support, the 

Counseling Center can be contacted, and the Dean of Students Office can provide support 

and help you decide whether to contact your family, take time off from school, and any 

other options available. 

It is highly encouraged to report any incident of sexual assault as this allows the 

College to assist the victim. 

Resources 

On-Campus 

Campus Security x6555 

(they will help you contact the police) 

Health & Wellness Center x6275 

ResLife Office x6215 

Dean of Students x6220 

Associate Dean of Students x6136 

Safe Walk Program x6699 

40 

Off-Campus 

Sexual Offense Services 

(651)643-3006 (24-hour 

crisis line) 

St. Paul Police Department 

Emergency: 911 

Non-emergency: (651)291-1111 

Regions Hospital 

Emergency: (651)254-5000 

Information: (651)254-3456 

http://www.macalester.edu/sexualassault/

U.S. Government 

F-1 and J-1 Student Regulations 

Who are International Students? 

All Macalester College students who are neither citizens nor permanent residents of the 

United States are categorized as “international students,” regardless of their visa classification 

by the United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS, www.uscis.gov), 

United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE, www.ice.gov), United States 

Customs and Border Protection (CBP, www.cbp.gov) and Department of State 

(www.state.gov). Additionally, Macalester College considers an “international student” to 

be someone who has spent time living and/or studying in another country, regardless of 

citizenship and visa status. It is the responsibility of each international student to become 

familiar with the regulations which apply to his/her particular visa status. Students 

should consult the International Student Programs Director (Aaron Colhapp) if questions 

or problems regarding immigration matters arise. 

US immigration regulations bring great restrictions and consequences for non-immigrants 

who do not enter the U.S. in lawful status and who do not maintain their lawful status. 

Therefore, it is of utmost importance that you enter the U.S. with the proper F-1 or J-1 

visa and documentation, and remain in legal status for the duration of your time at Macalester. 

The various aspects of maintaining status are defined in the following sections. 

Immigration Status 

U.S. Laws and Regulations: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security regulates the 

activities of “non-immigrants” in the U.S., including international students. One of the duties 

of the ISP Director at Macalester is to advise international students on how to remain 

in compliance with immigration rules and regulations. 

F-1 Student Status: The most common immigration status, the “F-1,” is obtained on the 

basis of a Form I-20 issued by the college upon admission. An F-1 student is admitted to 

the U.S. for the purpose of attending a specific school and must take a full course load 

every semester. 

J-1 Exchange Visitor: The J-1 Exchange Visitor classification is used by professors, researchers, 

students, trainees, and others who come to the United States for educational or 

training purposes under the sponsorship and supervision of a designated agency. J-1 visa 

holders must carry out the program described on the DS-2019 issued by the sponsor to 

obtain the visa. 

Immigrant/Permanent Resident: Some students hold an immigrant status, technically 

referred to as “permanent resident.” This status allows the person to remain in the country 

permanently and is the first step toward acquiring citizenship. 

Study Program Requirements 

An F-1 student must register for a minimum of 12 semester hours and he/she must be enrolled 

every semester that they are in the U.S. J-1 visa holders must comply with the requirements 

set by their sponsoring agency. Immigrant/permanent residents have no special 

course load requirements other than those imposed by the College. 

41

Removal (aka Deportation) 

Removal is the expulsion of aliens who have been granted entry into the U.S. The following 

grounds for removal have been stated in very general terms, but will give you an idea 

of how strict the immigration rules are: 

� Failure to comply with the conditions of your visa/status (unauthorized employment, 

failure to attend classes and to maintain full time student status). 

� Conviction of crime after entry, examples of which are crimes of violence, moral 

turpitude, narcotics-related crimes (including marijuana abuse). Although there are 

provisions for some criminal convictions, there is no exception made for a narcot- 

ics or marijuana offense – mere possession of marijuana can lead to deporta- 

tion. 

� Unlawful entry. 

� Prostitution, or connection to this practice. 

� False Documents. 

Taxes 

Most international students on F-1 visas who work on-campus are required to pay taxes 

to the State of Minnesota and to the U.S. government. Taxes will be withheld from your 

Macalester paychecks. Social Security taxes are not withheld from your pay, however. 

In January, the payroll office will mail you your W-2 (Wage and Tax Statement) and 

1042-S (Report of Scholarship; this only goes to students with taxable grant aid). Students 

will be required to file income tax forms by April 15th and some students, as a result, 

will receive a tax refund from the U.S. government for the taxes they have overpaid. 

Other student may have to pay taxes if their total income is higher than the withholding 

Even if you will not be working in the U.S., you will still have to file a 

tax return at the end of the fiscal year, in April. When you receive 

your tax forms in the mail (W-2, 1042-S, etc) DO NOT THROW 

THEM AWAY as they are necessary for filing your tax return! 

International Student Programs issues you a password so you can access 

online taxes to file federal taxes. Additionally, ISP holds tax tutoring 

sessions during office hours in March and April to help you complete 

your state and other returns. At tax tutoring sessions, you will be required 

to bring your federal tax form (printed out from the online software), 

W-2 and 1042-S forms (and any other pertinent forms you may 

have received in the mail), your passport and U.S. visa, your I-20, and 

your Social Security Number. It generally does not take more than 30 

minutes to an hour to finish completing your return, and the earlier you 

get it done to send in, the better! 

42

Travel outside the United States 

during Academic Vacations 

Please be advised not to leave the United States without the proper I-20 documentation 

necessary for re-entry. J-1 visa holders should contact their sponsors to obtain travel authorization. 

If you leave for longer than five months and do not continue your enrollment 

at Macalester (with a leave of absence), you must have a new I-20 issued in order to reenter. 

Check with International Student Programs for study abroad exceptions. 

Important Documents 

Passport 

Your passport is the basic international document which identifies you as a citizen of your 

country. The spelling of your name given in your passport should be used for all records 

while you are in the United States. The name spelling on your visa will be used on your I- 

20 record. 

If you need to extend the validity of your passport, contact your nearest consulate or embassy 

for instruction and procedures. ISP can provide you with a letter of recommendation 

stating that you are a registered student, if such a document is required by your government. 

Always keep a copy of your passport in a safe place, and use the copy to provide 

documentation if you send it in for renewal. 

Passport Do’s and Don’ts 

Do: 

� Sign your passport; it is not valid unless it has been signed by the bearer. 

� Fill in the information required on the inside front cover of the passport. In the case 

of accident or other circumstances, it may be necessary to contact a designate 

agent or the next of kin. 

� Register your passport if you mail it while abroad. 

� Check the expiration date of your passport before you travel. Obtain a new one if 

needed (i.e. U.S. law requires passports from many countries to be renewed six 

months before the expiration date). 

� Check the visa requirements of all countries you plan to visit and obtain necessary 

visas from the appropriate foreign consular representatives. Check state.gov for a 

list of foreign embassies and consulates in the US. 

� Keep a copy of your biographical, visa and other information pages. 

Do Not: 

� Lend your passport for use by a friend or stranger. Remember that it is an official 

government document for use only by the person to whom it is issued. 

� Use your passport as collateral or pledge. 

� Alter, insert, or overwrite any information or entry in the passport. If a change is 

necessary, it must be made officially by authorized government agents. 

� Pack your passport in your luggage. When traveling, keep it readily available, but 

safe. 

� Tear or substitute pages in your passport. 

Need to contact your consulate or embassy in the U.S.? 

Find their contact information at http://www.state.gov/s/cpr/rls/dpl/32122.htm 

43

Visa 

A U.S. visa is a passport page-sized sticker in your passport. It is used for entry into the 

U.S. and can only be obtained from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate outside the U.S. The visa 

indicates what status you have upon entry to the U.S., as well as the date of issuance and 

expiration. After you enter the U.S., the visa is unimportant unless you leave and wish to 

re-enter. If you plan to travel outside the U.S., and your visa has expired, you should contact 

Aaron, the ISP Director, to obtain an I-20 to use to apply for a new visa. Never write 

Form I-94 

When you enter the U.S., an immigration inspector (CBP Officer) determines how long you 

may stay in the U.S. Your Form I-94 is stamped when you are admitted. The I-94 name 

spelling must match the passport and visa name spelling exactly. This information is written 

on the I-94 form and placed with your passport. This form contains two valuable pieces 

of information and must not be lost; the vital information is the eleven digit admission 

number in the upper portion and the Duration of Status (D/S) in the right hand corner. The 

Form I-94 is not a visa – it is an Arrival-Departure Record only. Always keep a photocopy 

of both sides of the Departure section you receive on admittance. 

Web references for further travel and status information: 

www.dhs.gov : Department of Homeland Security 

www.uscis.gov : Citizenship and Immigration Service 

www.cbp.gov : Customs and Border protection 

www.ice.gov : Immigration and Customs Enforcement 

Employment 

International students in the United States in F-1 status may not accept off-campus employment 

unless they receive authorization from immigration. Working without authorization, 

being one of the most serious violations of visa status, can result in you having to return 

home to obtain a new visa. It can also result in immediate deportation. Please talk to 

the ISP Director if you have any questions about employment authorization. 

On-Campus Employment 

On-campus employment is considered a form of financial aid. Students authorized to work 

on campus by the financial aid office may do so without any special immigration work authorization, 

but are governed by the following immigration rules: 

� Employment is performed on the school’s premises, or considered student employment 

by the Financial Aid Office. 

� Employment must not exceed 20 hours per week when school is in session. 

� Employment may be full-time when school is not is session if the student is both eligible 

and intends to register for the next term. 

� Students may not be employed on campus after completion of their studies (unless doing 

this under the terms for Optional Practical Training) 

Off-Campus Employment – General Eligibility 

To be eligible for any of the options listed below, you must currently be on an F-1 visa and 

have studied at least nine months in the United States at a higher education institution on 

a valid non-immigrant visa (e.g. F, J, H, E, L, M). 

44

Curricular Practical Training (CPT): CPT is the employment authorization used for an 

internship in which you receive academic credit. 

Limits: Authorization is for up to one year and it is renewable. Authorization allows you to 

work 20 hours or less while school is in session and full time during the breaks (i.e. 

between semesters, summer and spring). One year or more of full time CPT, in total, 

cancels OPT – see below. 

Optional Practical Training (OPT): Students generally apply to begin OPT after 

graduation. This authorization allows you Students generally apply about 90 days early to 

begin OPT after graduation. This authorization allows you to work in your field of study. 

Limits: You may work up to one year full-time. However, if you file for H1-B (temporary 

worker) status, capgap extensions may be available. Also STEM extensions for 17 months 

are available, if qualified in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics fields 

of study. Generally, OPT must be completed within 14 months of your graduation. 

The time needed to complete the authorization process for optional practical training is 

approximately 80 days, so plan in advance! Brochures explaining the application process 

are available at International Student Programs. 

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT 

Student Employment Eligibility 

With the passage of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, every employer in 

the United States must now check the legal status of all employees, including student 

employees, hired after November 6, 1986, or face the threat of criminal penalties. All new 

employees must complete a one-page form, called the I-9 which asks for their name, 

address, date of birth and Social Security number. Employees must also check whether 

they are U.S. citizens or are authorized to work in the United States. Then the employees 

must provide documents that prove identity and eligibility to work in this country. 

Employers must certify that they have seen the employee's documents and must keep a 

copy of each employee's I-9 on file. 

Finding a Job 

For their first year of Student Employment, students are placed by the Student 

Employment Office in available positions. These placements are the result of matching a 

department's job requirements to the student's skills, abilities and experience indicated on 

the financial aid "Application for Student Employment" form. 

However, due to the limited number of openings, it is sometimes difficult to place students 

in their first choice of job or department. Normally, the majority of new student employees 

are placed in departments employing the largest number of students – Facilities 

Management, Food Service, and the Library. However, should there be any openings left 

after the upper class students have completed their job searches, first-year and transfer 

students may be placed in these other departments. 

After the first year of employment, students are responsible for their own placement. 

Every spring students are able to participate in a job search. This self-placement process 

informally continues up to late summer, at which time first-year and transfer students 

are placed in open positions. 

Macalester's job search process parallels the outside work world and offers students the 

opportunity to discover the variety of campus positions available, to compare them, and 

to participate in interviews. 

45

It also creates the opportunity for students and departments to meet their needs for the 

academic year in a competitive manner by becoming directly involved in the placement 

process. 

Even those students who wish to remain in their present positions must re-apply and be 

re-hired online each year. If students are planning to be off campus during the spring, because 

the job search is web-based, students are able to apply and be hired for jobs for the 

next academic year in exactly the same manner as those students who are on campus. 

Students who do not have a student employment award as a part of their financial aid 

package may request a Student Employment Authorization form in the beginning of the 

school year in order to begin their search. (see section for non-aid students) 

Changing Jobs 

On occasion, a student employee and his/her supervisor mutually agree to terminate the 

employment relationship. This may be referred to as a no-fault release. These releases are 

also referred to as full releases. The most common reasons are scheduling conflicts or obtainment 

of off-campus employment. 

These should be readily apparent before or early in the semester and releases should be 

handled quickly so those positions can become available for students without job assignments. 

Because students' work assignments/placements are for the entire academic year, 

these releases are not expected to occur after the first two weeks of the semester. 

The no-fault policy is as follows: 

� Releases must be mutually agreed upon by the employee and the supervisor and 

the release form must be signed by both parties. 

� Students who wish to formally apply for another posted work study job must inform 

their supervisor of their intent to apply. 

� It must be understood that the supervisor is not required to release a student, and 

in many cases is not able to release the student. 

� A supervisor may require a student to find a replacement prior to signing a release. 

� Signed release forms are to be forwarded to the Student Employment Office. 

A partial release may be approved under certain circumstances. A partial release would 

allow a student to work in two departments simultaneously. Both partial and full releases 

require the signature of both supervisors and the student on the Release Form. 

Pay Rates 

Macalester College uses a job classification process is to ensure that all student employees 

are being paid equally while working in similar positions. To ensure equality, all positions 

have a written job description available online. When a new position is created, Student 

Employment determines the tier level and pay rates in accordance with comparable positions 

in other departments and tier guidelines. For more information on Pay Rates and 

Classifications go to Payroll FAQ. 

Students are paid monthly according to the 2012-2013 Bi-Weekly Payroll Schedule. First 

year students generally work 11 hours to reach their maximum student employment 

award. 

46

Student Employee Responsibilities 

In addition to providing students with financial assistance and skill development, Student 

Employment will help students learn some of the basic responsibilities associated with employment. 

This important part of career development can be enhanced by any job, whether 

it is on or off campus. 

Student employees will assume normal employee responsibilities as follows: 

� Complete a Federal I-9 form which verifies identity and eligibility to legally work in 

the United States. 

� Complete a W-4 (Federal Withholding Tax Form) in the Student Employment Office 

before you begin working on campus for first time. 

� Participate in a Job Search (after first year). 

� Report promptly to your work site and supervisor. 

� Become familiar with job duties, quality, and quantity of work expected. 

� Adhere to the mutually agreed upon work schedule. 

� Submit your timesheet to your supervisor by the first of each month. 

� Keep your supervisor informed of any schedule deviation. 

� Report all on-the-job injuries or illnesses promptly to your supervisor. 

� Maintain good work performance. 

� Complete the appointment period, not to exceed your total award nor work beyond 

the appointment period. 

� Participate in the employee performance evaluations. 

� Notify the Student Employment Office if you are planning to work at special campus 

events (Alumni Weekend, Commencement, etc.). 

Summer Employment 

The Summer Employment Program is administered by the Student Employment Office for 

the months of June, July and August. Employment may be full-time or part-time. 

Off-Campus Student Employment (OCSE) 

Through the off-campus work program, students with financial aid work awards are able to 

earn their award through a community service work experience. Federal guidelines restrict 

placements to non-profit, non-partisan and non-religious organizations. 

The program's policies are as follows: 

� Only students with work awards may participate. 

� Only sophomores, juniors and seniors are eligible. 

� Students should plan on earning their entire annual award at an off-campus site. 

� The program currently can accommodate approximately 35 students per year. 

� There are no funds for summer participation. 

� Because funding is limited, students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. 

For further information and application materials contact the Civic Engagement Center, 

located at the Institute for Global Citizenship. 

47

Resident Assistant Policy 

If you are planning to be a Resident Assistant (RA) and you have student employment as 

of your financial aid package, please note that your RA position is your student employment 

award. This position is the ONLY student employment position you will be able to 

work on campus. There are no exceptions to this policy for the following reasons: 

The Residential Life job description requires spending 15-20 hours of work per week; federal 

regulations prohibit student from working more than 20 hours per week; you will be 

receiving higher compensation than other areas of student employment, so your aid award 

will have a higher proportion of work in it; if you were to have any additional work, it 

could change your financial aid eligibility adversely. 

Non-Aid Student Employment (otherwise known as ‘No-need student employment’). 

The student employment program exists to help financially needy students. The only time 

a student can be employed who does not demonstrate financial need is if the position is a 

Tier II or Tier III job and requires a higher or specific skill. An example of an approved noneed 

position is a preceptor. A preceptor has to have taken and received a specific grade in 

the course they are precepting in and must also carry a specific GPA. This type of position 

could be filled by either a financial aid or no-need student. Policy is, that even in a no-need 

available position, given equally qualified candidates, that the position would go to the financial 

aid candidate based on the factor that there is a known need. 

Jobs that any student can be easily trained to perform are graded Tier I, or do not require 

higher or specific skills. These types of jobs are only available to financial need 

students. No exceptions. 

There are also some jobs on campus, for example, Facilities Management and Café Mac 

that have all Tier II and Tier III jobs, but these jobs do not require higher or specific 

skills and are therefore only available to financial need students. 

For more information go to the Student Employment website at 

http://www.macalester.edu/studentemployment/ 

48

Social Security Number 

In order to be employed at Macalester or anywhere in the U.S., students must have a 

valid U.S. government-issued Social Security number. A Social Security card is necessary 

in order to be employed in the U.S., but it is only valid for employment if you (as an F-1) 

student have employment authorization granted by the Immigration Service or ISP (see 

previous sections on Off-Campus Employment and Practical Training). Students who have 

been granted permission to work are not required to pay Social Security taxes. 

The application process will occur at Macalester during the Pre-Orientation for International 

Students. Make sure to bring: 

� I-20 (or DS-2019) 

� I-94 (Arrival/Departure card in your passport), 

� Passport 

� Completed SS-5 Form 

� Supervisor and DSO Attestations Form which can be found at 

http://www.macalester.edu/isp/documents/SSform.pdf 

If you need to organize getting your own Social Security Number, or have other problems/questions, 

Twin Cities residents must use the Social Security Card Center, located 

at 1811 Chicago Avenue, Suite 2, Minneapolis, MN. Please see their website for directions. 

Drivers License / Identification Cards (I.D.) 

As an international student, you have at least two forms of picture 

identification – your passport and your Macalester student I.D. card. 

We recommend that you also get a Minnesota I.D. card or a Minnesota 

driver’s license. These two, which look identical except for the 

title, are the standard forms of identification here and are usually 

required when making financial transactions, especially when writing 

checks, and at some other times, such as when an age check is necessary 

(i.e. purchase of cigarettes and alcohol, restricted movies at 

the cinema). 

Every Minnesota resident who operates any motor vehicle (car, truck, motorcycle) must 

have a driver’s license. The operation of an automobile without a valid operator’s license 

is illegal, punishable by fine and sometimes by jail sentence. It is also illegal to permit 

another person who has no valid license to drive an automobile. Every driver must become 

familiar with the Minnesota Vehicle Code. This covers traffic and safety rules, laws, 

rules of the road, allowable speed limits, and road signs and symbols. Operator’s licenses 

may be obtained by passing an examination on Minnesota driving laws and a driving test 

on the road. 

49

Applications may be made, and information obtained from: 

Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) 

Telephone: (651) 297-2005 www.mndriveinfo.org 

WRITTEN TESTING ONLY: 

Town Square Building (located downtown on the street level of the Town Square Building) 

445 Minnesota Street 


651-639-4057 

Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. for applications (driver’s license and I.D. cards) 

8 a.m. – 3:45 p.m. for written test driver’s license 

Bring: 

� Passport 

� I-20 

� Social Security Card or official Macalester transcript from the Registrar 

� $12 (price subject to change) for instruction permit after passing (permit not necessary 

if you have a foreign license— translated into English if necessary—and you are over 19 

years of age) 

TO SCHEDULE A ROAD TEST 

go to www.mndriveinfo.org or call 651-284-1000 

To get a MINNESOTA I.D. CARD, you need to bring: 

� Passport 

� Social Security Card or official Macalester transcript from the Registrar 

� I-20 (or DS2019) 

� $18 fee (price subject to change) 

You can look at the webpage for Minnesota’s Department of Public Safety for more specific 

information: www.dps.state.mn.us/dvs/ 

Car Insurance and Accidents 

The Minnesota No-Fault Automobile Insurance Act requires that every motor vehicle which 

is operated in Minnesota be covered by proper no fault and liability insurance coverage. 

Under this law, insurance companies must offer insurance coverage which provides for the 

payment of basic economic loss benefits resulting from injury or death regardless of the 

fault of the insured. 

A driver of a motor vehicle must carry evidence of insurance in his/her immediate possession. 

The operator must present the evidence to a law enforcement officer upon request. 

A driver involved in any accident should seek advice at once. At the time of the accident, 

someone should be asked to telephone for police assistance. The police will arrange for 

tow trucks and ambulance if they are needed. Be sure to write down the name, address, 

phone number, car license plate number, and automobile insurance company of any other 

persons/cars involved in the accident. At the very least, the police will require that you fill 

out a written report within five days following the accident. Do not leave the scene of an 

accident until told to do so by the police. Notify your insurance company immediately. 

50

When Things make you ANGRY..@!#$% 

There will probably be times when something will happen that will annoy you. These 

things may be completely normal to American culture, yet will take some adjusting to. In 

advance warning, here are some things you may encounter that may prove to make you 

(slightly) angry. 

You will have to pay taxes. Probably not after your first year at Mac, but once the big 

bucks start rolling in with a summer internship or job (if you earn over $3000 in a year, 

including work-study), you will have to pay some money to the U.S. government (but not 

a lot, so don’t worry). 

You may feel like there is a lot of bureaucracy in American culture, both at and outside of 

Macalester. The way people treat each other may seem different to you, such as disrespectful 

or shallow. It takes time to understand how other people think and to get used to 

their culture. 

When Things go WRONG... 

◊ Got really sick and need to go to the hospital? 

◊ Got caught by the police doing something unadvisable? 

◊ Got into trouble at Macalester? 

◊ Got charged $2,000 for income taxes when you should have gotten money back? 

It could happen to you... 

Although not frequent, it is possible for things to go wrong for international students, and 

the consequences can be different from those faced by domestic students. The best thing 

to do if something goes wrong is to talk to Aaron Colhapp, Director of International Student 

Programs, who will be able to advise you on the best plan of action to follow. 

51

The Liberal Arts Education—Basic Info 

A liberal arts education is synonymous with a well-rounded education; it is highly regarded 

as beneficial for the overall intellectual and interpersonal development of students, 

and for attaining the variety of skills necessary to live and work in an everchanging 

global society. At Macalester, students must take a certain number of credit 

hours in the various distribution areas: social sciences, natural sciences and mathematics, 

humanities and fine arts, international and domestic diversity, in order to gain a liberal 

arts education. International students are sometimes surprised and dismayed 

when they are required to take courses that they feel are unrelated to their fields of 

specialization as most educational systems around the world emphasize specialization 

rather than a liberal arts education. A lot of information concerning academic life 

can be found in the Student Handbook, especially on more specific and formal 

situations, such as academic policies. For further details on any topic, please 

consult the Student Handbook (which you will receive during orientation after 

arrival at Macalester). 

Academic Advisors 

Academic advisors are faculty members who are ready to help you plan your academic 

program and make you think about personal and career goals so that you plan a program 

of study which will enable you to achieve those goals. The instructor of your firstyear 

course is typically assigned to be your advisor, but if need be, you can change your 

advisor by requesting another professor to act as your new advisor. Your advisor’s signature 

is necessary on certain forms such as your registration form and your major 

plan. Your advisor is knowledgeable about general education requirements and uses 

test scores, grades, and discussions with you to assist in academic advising. All discussions 

and records are confidential. 

Academic advisors are available to provide academic advising to students throughout 

the academic year. Two advising weeks, one in each semester, have been designated 

to correspond with registration periods. You should, however, see your advisor more 

often than once a semester and develop a good working relationship with him/her to set 

academic goals, discuss your academic progress/grades, plan a major, select internships, 

discuss study away options, etc. You may change your advisor as you see fit, but 

remember to first discuss this with your current advisor and the one you plan to take 

on. 

College Catalog 

The College Catalog is an important guide to your education at Macalester College. It 

contains a thorough description of graduation and curriculum requirements, including 

majors, minors, cores, and honors in the various disciplines. It also gives a description 

of each course offered by all the departments, along with the semester they are offered. 

College Catalogs are typically available at the Registrar’s Office or in the Admissions Office. 

53

Student Course Load 

Students usually enroll in four courses during each of the fall and spring semesters. 

Registration for credit overload (18 semester hours or more) is made by application to 

the Registrar and costs an additional $ 2,270 per credit (this fee is subject to change). 

Approval is normally granted to students in good academic standing who have no incomplete 

courses. International students are required to take at least 12 credits per 

semester in order to fulfill the requirements for F-1 and J-1 student visa status. 

English as a Second Language 

There are no ESL courses offered at Macalester College. However, if you feel (or if a 

professor or advisor recommends) you could benefit from additional language work, 

there are courses available at the other ACTC schools with whom we are associated. 

Consult the ACTC site for more information. Another good resource is the MAX Center. 

Grading 

Macalester’s grading system uses the letter grades A, B, C, D, NC and a notation of plus 

or minus (i.e. A-, B+). An “A” is the best grade; “B” is very good; “C” is average; “D” is 

the lowest passing grade, except for courses in a student’s major field of study, where 

students must earn a C- or better to pass. “NC” means “no credit” and indicates failure 

for the course. 

Students are encouraged to read carefully the information on grading options in the current 

College Catalog. Note particularly the limitations of S/D/NC grades. The S/D/NC 

option was established to allow students to take a course without the pressure of earning 

a regular letter grade. When students select a grading option of S/D/NC, they forego 

the possibility of receiving an A, B, or other grade. 

The Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated by the Registrar’s Office. Each grade is 

assigned a point value, as follows: 

Grade A A- B+ B B- C+ C C- D+ D D- NC 

Points 4.0 3.7 3.3 3.0 2.7 2.3 2.0 1.7 1.3 1.0 0.7 0.0 

The GPA is calculated by dividing the total grade points by the number of courses attempted 

on the regular grading system. Courses taken on S/D/NC grading option 

(pass/ fail), or courses with a grade of W (withdrawal), will not figure in the GPA. 

Transferred courses and grades are not included in the GPA. 

How Classes are Conducted 

Classes at Macalester are usually small and informal. Teachers and students dress casually 

and the general atmosphere in the class is relaxed. Professors encourage questions 

about concepts and ideas which students either do not understand or disagree 

with. In small classes, professors may expect discussion and questions by everyone in 

the class. Sometimes part of the grade is based on class participation. 

54

Following are descriptions of the different kinds of classes you may take at Macalester: 

Lectures: The most common method of instruction is the classroom lecture. Lectures 

are supplemented by classroom discussion (especially in small classes), by reading assignments 

in textbooks or library books, and periodic written assignments. It is important 

that you contribute to discussion in the classroom as at Macalester this is 

viewed as a healthy sign of interest, attention, and independent thinking. In many classes 

your grade will be determined in part by your contribution to class discussion. 

When the class is too large to permit questions and discussion, or if for some reason 

you do not have the opportunity to raise questions, you may see your teacher privately 

during his/her office hours or make an appointment for another convenient hour, to discuss 

any questions you may have. Teachers usually announce their office hours at the 

first meeting of the class, and often will have them written on the class syllabus. Students 

are often required to prepare presentations based on both their independent 

reading or research, and class readings. So, please make use of this opportunity. 

Laboratories (usually referred to as Labs): Many courses require work in a laboratory, 

where theory learned in the classroom is applied to practical problems. 

The work assigned in classes, most commonly paper and exams, varies by class. Some 

of the primary types of work are outlined on the following page. 

Term Papers: In many courses you will be required to write a comprehensive paper 

based on study or research you have done in the library or laboratory. Your teacher will 

usually assign such a paper in the early part of the course. You are expected to work 

on it during the term and submit it near the end. The grade you will receive on the paper 

may carry significant weight in determining your grade for the course. Both in 

preparation of term papers and in doing class assignments, you are likely to use the library 

more than you have in the past. It is important, therefore, to learn how the library 

is organized. The Macalester College library has trained employees who are happy 

to answer your questions about its organization, the location of books, reference materials, 

periodicals and so on. 

Examinations: Nearly every class has a final exam at the end of the term (more generally 

referred to as a semester) and many also give a midterm exam. Additional tests 

or quizzes may be given with some frequency, or even without notice, although this is 

rare. All examinations are designed to assure that students are doing the work assigned, 

and to measure how much they are learning. There are two general types: 

Objective examinations test one’s knowledge of particular facts. You may experience 

some difficulty with objective exams, not because you do not know the subject, but because 

you are unfamiliar with the format of the questions or because you cannot distinguish 

subtle differences in meaning. Objective exams generally consist of the following 

five kinds of questions: multiple choice, matching, true or false, identification, blanks. 

Subjective examinations, often called essay questions, require students to compose a 

full response to a question or statement. This kind of examination tests students’ ability 

to synthesize, organize and communicate their knowledge of a particular subject. This 

kind of examination is sometimes given as a take-home exam. You are usually given a 

deadline by which to complete a take-home exam outside of the classroom. Often, you 

can use your books and notes, but you cannot get help from other people. If you have 

any questions about what kinds of help your professor will allow, please ask him/her. 

55

Standards of Academic Conduct 

Academic honesty is expected of Macalester students. Academic standards and practices 

are influenced by culture. What is considered appropriate academic behavior in 

your home country might be different from what is appropriate in the United States. 

Therefore, it is important that you understand U.S. standards and practices. Not meeting 

the standards can result in charges of academic dishonesty and possible expulsion from 

Macalester. 

The U.S. definition of academic honesty is based on the cultural values of individualism, 

fairness, the idea that individuals must think and work independently, and a strong value 

on original thinking, creativity, and invention. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not 

necessarily limited to, cheating on assignments and examinations; plagiarizing, representing 

as your own work any part of work done by another; or unauthorized use of library or 

computer materials. 

It is common in many countries for students to study and work together to prepare for exams. 

This is okay in the United States as well. However, once in the classroom, students 

are on their own. Students cannot copy or discuss answers with each other during an exam. 

It is important in the U.S. education system that each student be evaluated individually 

on his or her own work. 

Cheating is defined as copying someone else’s work or taking prohibited information or 

tools to an exam. Plagiarism is defined as copying the work of someone else and not naming 

them as your source. In the United States, this will be perceived as an attempt by you 

to utilize the ideas or words of another person as your own. Plagiarism is one of the most 

serious violations of academic conduct standards in the U.S. It can ruin your academic career. 

Of course, when you are writing a paper, you research many sources and then present 

or summarize other people’s ideas. But you must name your sources and identify 

them when you are using their words and ideas. This also applies to the work of other students. 

Discussing ideas for a paper with friends is okay but it is not acceptable to hand in 

papers that are the same as your friends’ or to let someone else write your paper for you, 

even though the ideas are yours. 

(“Standards of Academic Conduct” was taken from The University of Minnesota International 

Student Handbook, 1994). 

Academic Probation 

At the end of every semester, the Director of Academic Programs and the Academic Standing 

Committee review the grades received by each student and the number of courses 

passed. If students have taken fewer than the number of courses required, or if their 

grades includes D’s and No Credits, they will be placed on probation for one semester and 

expected to improve their academic records according to the written terms set forth by the 

Committee. 

If students do not succeed in improving their academic record after the semester, they 

may be placed on a one-semester required leave of absence. This situation is particularly 

serious for international students who cannot travel outside the U.S. or work in the U.S. 

unless they are in good academic standing at Macalester. 

56

Therefore, international students should maintain a 2.0 GPA at all times to avoid being 

placed on academic probation and to comply with visa regulations. If an international 

student is not maintaining a satisfactory GPA, a visit to the Director of International Student 

Programs (Aaron) for suggestions and advice would be helpful. 

See the Macalester College Student Handbook for more details regarding the above information. 

Leaves of Absence 

The Macalester College Student Handbook provides comprehensive information regarding 

the procedures for taking a leave of absence from your studies at the College. If an international 

student chooses to take a leave of absence, special regulations apply. First, 

an international student on an F-1 or J-1 student visa must be taking a full load of courses 

each semester during their studies in the U.S. If you take a leave of absence and 

therefore do not take a full course load during a regular semester, you must either leave 

the U.S., change status (to something other than a student status), or enroll at another 

institution full-time on your I-20 or DS-2019. In either case, additional considerations 

must be made. If you leave the U.S. for longer than five months, a new I-20 must be 

issued for your re-entry. In the event that you do not have a valid visa when you leave 

the country, there is no guarantee that the U.S. embassy will issue another student visa 

for re-entry, even with a new I-20. If you choose to stay in the U.S. and change your 

visa status, be aware that an adjustment to student status again at the time you wish to 

resume your studies is not guaranteed, and the process can take a few months. 

Strategies for Success 

To succeed in the U.S. academic system, you will need to learn how it is organized and 

how it works. You should also try to understand some of the fundamental values that 

underlie the education system. Listed below are some suggestions to keep in mind as 

you prepare to register and begin your studies. You will learn more of the informal rules 

for academic success as you undertake courses and have the opportunity to talk with advanced 

students in your field of study. The more you discuss such topics with experienced 

students, the sooner you will be able to develop an understanding of how your academic 

department functions. 

Examine Your Expectations 

Keep in mind that you will need a period of adjustment to a new academic system before 

you will be able to evidence the best of your ability. Sometimes, international students 

in this country earn lower grades than their U.S. counterparts during their first term. 

Then, as the newcomers’ English and knowledge of the system improves, so do their 

grades. Do not be discouraged if, despite your best efforts, your first term’s work here is 

not outstanding. 

57

Select Your Courses Wisely 

Especially during your first term, do not take more than the usual load of courses 

(generally four classes). Make sure you have a combination of more demanding and less 

demanding courses, rather than only difficult ones requiring unusually heavy amounts of 

work. When arranging your course schedule, consult not only with your academic advisor, 

but also with experienced students familiar with available courses and professors. 

You may be tempted to take more courses than you need in an effort to earn your degree 

sooner. The usual result of taking too many courses is discouragement and poor academic 

performance. 

Work Hard From The Start 

It is not possible in the U.S. system of higher education to wait until halfway through the 

term to begin studying. If you do not begin on the first day of classes, you are likely to 

experience increasing difficulty and fall behind. 

Talk With Your Professors 

Professors expect students to ask questions in class or immediately after it. They also 

expect students to consult them in their offices when there are problems. If you are not 

doing well and you do not see the professor about the situation, he or she is to assume 

that you are not really interested in the class. In other words, most professors will evaluate 

the attitude of a student as negative or at best indifferent if the student never raises 

questions either in class or out of it. If at any time you feel unsure of what is expected of 

you in a class or are troubled by some aspect of the work, ask the professor and some of 

your fellow students about it. If, at first, you don’t feel comfortable addressing the professor, 

many classes have preceptors who are upper class students that can help you 

with questions or a problem. 

Open Your Mind To The Values Of The System 

From your experience in other academic systems, you have developed certain assumptions 

about the purposes and methods of education and about the way your field of interest 

should be studied. For example, you may assume that it is important to be able to 

memorize large quantities of information, or that the way to study your field is to concentrate 

on a very limited aspect of it in great depth. At Macalester, on the other hand, you 

may find that memorizing material is considered less important than synthesizing ideas 

from a variety of sources, and that a field of study can be approached by contemplating 

the works of a variety of scholars from different disciplines. It is important for you to realize 

that differences of this kind exist between the educational systems of the U.S. and 

other countries, and that in order for you to be academically successful, you will have to 

adjust your thinking. Whether or not you personally accept the values of the system 

here, you will have to work in accordance with them while you are here. 

58

International Education — Academic Life 

As an international student at Macalester, you are an important part of this institution’s 

efforts to further internationalize the campus. Macalester’s internationalism is defined by 

this challenge: to create an ambience that requires our students and faculty to bring together 

the eternal quest for self-knowledge, constitutive of liberal education and the growing 

trans-nationalization of human life. Internationalism at Macalester aspires to produce 

students confident in who they are, cognizant of the preciousness of creative intelligence, 

skillful in analyzing and understanding complex problems and willing to assume leadership 

in a multi-civilization yet trans-nationalizing world. The following programs and activities 

are among the key elements of Macalester’s internationalism: 

� International Student Programs serves the educational and personal development 

needs of its diverse international student body. 

� The International Center, responsible for study abroad programs, as well as for faculty 

development and programs for visiting international faculty, serves as the focal point of 

many international education activities on campus. 

� A significant percentage of the student body are international students and from as 

broad a representation of cultures and regions as possible. 

� An academically rigorous interdisciplinary International Studies major. 

� Area studies majors including: African Studies; American Studies; Asian Studies; German 

Studies; Latin American Studies; Russian, Central and East European Studies; African 

American Studies; Comparative North American Studies. 

� Majors in five foreign languages and in linguistics, as well as language houses for students 

of French, German, Japanese, Russian, Chinese and Spanish. 

� The Macalester International Roundtable, a yearly intellectual seminar that focuses on 

one critical theme of global interest that is addressed by a renowned keynote speaker 

(prominent past speakers have been, for example, Edward Said, Rashid Khalidi and Coco 

Fusco) and other leading scholars, all of whom deliver commissioned papers that are 

discussed by the Macalester faculty and students. 

� On-going international student orientation by means of workshops focused on international 

and cross-cultural topics. 

� Special courses offered by visiting international faculty under the auspices of the Macalester 

Visiting International Faculty Program, Hubert H. Humphrey Professorship and 

the Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Program. 

� Study Abroad Programs and Off-Campus Study opportunities within the U.S. Study 

abroad is allowed for all international students, however, you will only receive financial 

aid if your major has a mandatory study abroad component. International Students 

who major in International Studies may not use financial aid to study abroad except on 

Macalester's "Perspectives on Globalization" program at Leiden University College in 

The Hague, The Netherlands. 

59

International students are eligible to study abroad, or off-campus in the United States, 

though with serious limitations on their use of financial aid. As a general rule, only international 

students whose major requires study abroad -- with the important exception of 

International Studies -- may use their financial aid for off-campus study. 

The approved majors that require study abroad are: Anthropology, Asian Studies, Biology 

with Added Emphasis in International Issues, Chinese, Classics, French and Francophone 

Studies, German, Hispanic Studies, International Studies, Japanese, Latin American 

Studies, and Russian. International students who major in International Studies 

may not use financial aid to study abroad except on Macalester's "Perspectives on Globalization" 

program at Leiden University College in The Hague, The Netherlands. 

You can find a great deal of information at the Macalester International Center web site, 

www.macalester.edu/internationalcenter/. At that site you will also want to consult the 

Handbook for Off-Campus Study, where the college's policies about programs, eligibility, 

and financial aid are set forth. Paul Nelson, International Center Director, and Rachel 

Kamagne-Jones, Study Abroad Advisor, will be happy to meet with you to talk about all 

aspects of off-campus study. Please call the International Center at x6310 to make an 

appointment. 

60

Campus Life 

Campus Housing 

During their first and second years at Macalester students are required to live oncampus 

in residence halls and must take their meals in the Macalester dining commons 

(Café Mac). Residential Life, located on the second floor of the Ruth Stricker Dayton 

Campus Center, is responsible for the student housing program at Macalester. 

What kind of housing is available? 

There are eight residence halls on campus, each of them having distinct features corresponding 

to the living styles of their residents. 

� co-ed or single sex floors, quiet floors 

� seven language houses on campus (German, Spanish, French, Japanese, Russian, 

and Hebrew houses) 

� six other houses where students can reside and which are located in different parts 

of the campus (The Cultural House, The Veggie Co-op, etc). 

What kinds of rooms are available? 

Most are double occupancy although there are single, triple and quad rooms on campus. 

How can I get help if I don’t know how things work? 

Adjusting to dorm life can be tough, especially when you feel that there is no one whom 

you can ask for help, or feel that your questions are stupid. Your mentors and Residence 

Hall Assistants (RA’s) are people that you can turn to for such help. For example, 

perhaps you are having problems finding out how to get hot water in the showers in 

your dorm. Ask someone for help. 

What if, for some serious reason, I am not satisfied with my room or residence 

hall? 

It is possible, due to serious reasons, to change your room or residence hall. You 

should talk to your hall director or somebody from residential life if you are not satisfied 

with the place where you live; they will be ready to help you. 

What about breaks? 

During Winter Break, the residence halls are closed to all students from 12:00 noon on 

Tuesday, December 18, 2012 until 9:00 a.m. Saturday, January 26, 2013 but you can 

leave your belongings in your room. It is very important that you make your own 

arrangements for where to live during the period that the dorms are closed. 

Under certain circumstances, students may stay in the dorms during January. You 

should plan now for what you will be doing during Winter Break and arrange staying in 

your residence hall with Residential Life as early as possible. During Spring Break, 

March 16-24, 2013, the residence halls will remain open, but there will be no food service. 

Visit Residential Life website on residence halls at http://www.macalester.edu/reslife/ 

61

IMPORTANT 

December 18, 2012: Residence halls close at noon 

January 26, 2013: Residence halls open to all students 

(International Students may move back in the first week of January) 

Off Campus Housing 

Residential Life maintains a list of off-campus housing available in the College area for 

students who are interested. There are numerous other sources that you can use to find 

suitable off-campus housing. The St. Paul Pioneer Press, Grand Gazette, and the Highland 

Villager are St. Paul publications that list housing opportunities. You can also look 

for listings on the bulletin boards at the library, in the Campus Center, and around campus. 

Reading the daily Macalester bulletin, the Today, and talking to other students who 

live off-campus is also a way to get a feel for what housing is available and perhaps even 

move into a house or apartment that another student is leaving. Finally, you can look on 

the internet using such sites as http://apartmentsearch.com. 

Once you’ve decided you’re serious about living off-campus and 

have found a place where you want to live, it is important to know 

the following information. A lease is a binding legal contract between 

you and the property owner, or landlord. When you sign a 

lease, you are obliged to pay the landlord monthly rent for the duration 

of the lease. Most leases are for 9 or 12 months, and it is 

usually very difficult to break or alter a lease. Therefore, before 

you sign you should be reasonably sure that you can live with your 

decision for the duration of your lease. Never sign a lease unless 

you are completely satisfied with the apartment and surrounding 

property. Sign only when you understand all the terms of the 

lease. 

With permission from your landlord (you should discuss this with your landlord before 

signing a lease), you may be allowed to find a tenant to take your place for the remainder 

of your contract, or during winter and summer vacations should you decide to travel. 

If you sublease your apartment or house to other tenants, however, you probably will remain 

responsible for their actions. 

When you sign a lease, you will typically be required to pay a security deposit, usually 

equivalent to at least one month’s rent, as well as the rent for the first month. The security 

deposit will be returned to you when you move out, provided you leave the apartment 

in good condition. In addition, you may incur expenses that you would not incur on 

campus. For example, most apartments come equipped with basic appliances such as 

stove and refrigerator, but you may need to purchase or rent a bed and other furniture, 

as well as kitchen equipment, a telephone, and other items. Also, you will probably be 

responsible for paying the cost of your telephone deposit and utilities: water, electricity, 

and gas. The utility companies may require you to pay a deposit before service is activated. 

These deposits will be refunded to you or credited to your account when you terminate 

your service, provided you have paid all of your bills. 

(partially excerpted from NAFSA’s International Student Handbook, 1996). 

62

Campus Resources 

A “Who’s Who” of Campus Services 

For a more complete listing, with links, of all the Administrative Offices, go to 

http://www.macalester.edu/admin.html 

Campus Programs 

Plans and co-ordinates campus events, 

ranging from cultural to educational, 

especially for students. 

Career Development Center (CDC) 

Equipped with resources and personnel 

to help students learn about various 

career options and aid them with individual 

job searches. 

Center for Religious and Spiritual 

Life 

Coordinates religious activities for the 

Macalester community, often involving 

other religious communities within the 

Twin Cities. 

Civic Engagement Center (CEC) 

Organizes service and volunteer opportunities 

for students. 

Dean of Students 

Concerned with the general welfare and 

collegiate life of all students. 

DeWitt Wallace Library 

Provides study room and provision for 

new information technologies, as well 

as extensive book and periodical collection. 

Financial Aid Office 

Provides information and services concerning 

financial aid and scholarships 

Phone: x6297 

Hours: Mon, Wed, Fri 8:00 a.m. - 4:30p.m. 

Tue, Thurs 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. 

Location:Campus Center, Room 239 

http://www.macalester.edu/campusprograms 

Phone: x6384 

Hours: Mon - Fri 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 

Location: Kagin Commons, first floor 

http://www.macalester.edu/cdc/ 

Phone: x6298 

Location: Weyerhaeuser Chapel 

http://www.macalester.edu/religiouslife/ 

Phone: x6040 

Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 

Location: Institute for Global Citizenship 

http://www.macalester.edu/cec/ 

Phone: x6220 


Location: Weyerhaeuser, Room 119 

http://www.macalester.edu/deanofstudents/ 

Phone: x6610 

Hours: Mon – Thurs 8:00 a.m. - 1 a.m. 

Fri 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 

Sat 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 

Sun 11:00 a.m. to midnight 

http://www.macalester.edu/library/ 

Phone: x6214 


(office closed from noon - 1 p.m.) 

Location: Weyerhaeuser, Lower Level 

http://www.macalester.edu/financialaid/ 

63

Health & Wellness Center 

Provides some medical care, support for 

individuals with disabilities, counseling and 

health promotion to Macalester students. 

Information Technology Services 

Manages the computing, network and telecommunications 

resources for all Macalester 

students, faculty and staff. 

Internship Program 

Provides web-based listings of hundreds of 

internships for students; assists students 

with arranging internships. 

The MAX Center 

Exists to help students achieve academically. 

Staff counselors and tutors are 

available for help in a variety of areas. 

Formerly called The Learning Center 

Media Services 

Provides professional educational media 

support to the Macalester academic program. 

Department of Multicultural Life (DML) 

Works to integrate the ethos and values of 

historically under-represented peoples, discourses, 

thoughts and ideas as a catalyst 

for transforming the traditional ways of 

doing the work of the College into a more 

inclusive model. 

Payroll Office 

Issues student employment paychecks 

Registrar 

Records students’ academic records; facilitates 

registration (of classes). 

Phone: x6275 

Hours: Mon , Fri 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 

Wed 12:30 p.m. — 4:30 p.m. 

Tues , Thurs 9 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

Location: Leonard Center 

http://www.macalester.edu/health/ 

Phone: x6138 

Help Desk:x6525 

Location: Humanities, Room 307 

http://www.macalester.edu/its/ 

Phone: x6128 



http://www.macalester.edu/internships/ 

Phone: x6121 


Sun – Thurs 7:00 p.m. - 10 p.m. 


http://www.macalester.edu/max/ 

Phone: x6377 

Hours: Mon – Thurs 8:00 a.m.– 10:00 p.m. 

Fri 8:00 a.m.—4:30 p.m. 

Sun 7:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. 

Location: Humanities, fourth floor 

http://www.macalester.edu/mediaservices/ 

Phone: x6243 


http://www.macalester.edu/multiculturalism/ 

Phone: x6561 

Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Location: 77 Macalester, Room 201d 

http://www.macalester.edu/payroll/ 

Phone: x6200 


Location: 77 Macalester, Room 101 

http://www.macalester.edu/registrar/ 

64

Residential Life 

Manages student housing and board oncampus. 

Safety and Security Department 

Here to ensure your happiness and safety. 

Call for help if you’re in trouble. 

Student Accounts Office/Cashier 

Records students’ accounts; bills students 

when necessary. 

Student Employment 

Coordinates student employment. 

Phone: x6215 


Location: Campus Center Room 241 

http://www.macalester.edu/reslife/ 

Phone: x6278 

24 hour line: x6555 


Location: Janet Wallace Music Building, 

Lower Level 

http://www.macalester.edu/security/ 

Phone: x6161 

Hours: Mon—Fri 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Location: 77 Macalester Street, Room 102 

http://www.macalester.edu/studentaccounts/ 

Phone: x6280 

Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m 

Location: 77 Macalester 

http://www.macalester.edu/ 

studentemployment/ 

There are several ways that you can find telephone numbers of people, departments 

and offices on campus: 

� Directory on the Macalester webpage 

� Dialing x6777: Macalester’s electronic directory 

� Dialing x6000: Macalester Switchboard operator, whom you can ask to connect 

you to any department or office. 

65

Student Organizations 

There is a veritable plethora of student organizations at Macalester. Listed below are some 

of the major ones that have an international focus. For those with websites, only brief descriptions 

are included, please look to listed websites for more information. A more complete 

listing of all Macalester student organizations that have websites can be found, at 

http://www.macalester.edu/directory/studentorganizations/. The regular student handbook 

should also contain additional information on student organizations. At the beginning 

of the fall semester, all Macalester student organizations put up stalls during the Student 

Organization Fair. Keep your eyes out for this event and attend as it is the ideal time to 

join any student organization. 

Adelante! 

Adelante! is dedicated to increasing awareness and appreciation of U.S. Latina/o, Chicana/o 

and Latin American culture, politics and society at Macalester. The group addresses 

local and global issues concerning Latina/os and encourages participation by all individuals 

both on campus and in the surrounding Twin Cities community. Adelante! welcomes anyone 

who has a strong commitment to Latino issues. 

Afrika! 

Afrika! is a student organization committed to nourishing cultural, intellectual, political and 

economic awareness of the African continent by the Macalester community. Afrika! 

achieves its objectives through hosting various cultural functions, giving presentations and 

inviting African Scholars and performers to Macalester. Afrika! is open to anyone interested 

in issues concerning the African Continent. http://www.macalester.edu/afrika/ 

Amnesty International 

Amnesty International works to raise awareness of human rights issues in the community. 

Student members write letters to governmental officials, organize events and bring speakers 

to campus. 

Asian Student Alliance (ASA) 

ASA is an organization designed and directed towards the interests and needs of the Asian 

students at Macalester. However, membership is open to everyone. ASA hopes to provide 

a supportive and interactive community, which appreciates the diversity and similarities of 

its members, and their cultures while raising awareness internally and externally. 

Black Liberation Affairs Committee (BLAC) 

BLAC seeks to foster a greater understanding of the issues and ideas that touch members 

of the African Diaspora through cultural, political and social programs. 

Caribbean Students Association (CSA) 

CSA provides support to students of Caribbean origin or heritage and exists to strengthen 

and explore the Caribbean presence on campus and to share this knowledge and identity 

with others http://www.macalester.edu/csa/ 

Chinese Culture Club (CCC) 

Europa 

Europa represents European students at Macalester, promotes European culture and increases 

awareness of European issues by providing an opportunity for those interested of 

any origin to actively participate in organizing cultural, educational and social events for 

the entire community. 

66

Mac Christian Fellowship (MCF) 

A group whose purpose is to help Christians grow in their faith and to be witnesses of 

God’s love. http://www.macalester.edu/mcf/ 

Mac Jewish Organization (MJO) 

MJO is an interdenominational group that plans events surrounding the Jewish holidays as 

well as cultural, volunteer and entertainment activities. MJO has open Shabbat services 

and dinners twice a month, and their big events include High Holiday services, Sukkot, the 

Hanukkah Party and a Passover Seder. 

Mac Korean Student Association (Mac KSA) 

Mac KSA aims to educate Macalester community about Korean history, culture and politics, 

including awareness about North Korea through LiNK. Mac KSA encourages civic engagement 

through volunteering at institutions that work with Korean adoptees and Korean diasporas. 

Macalester Association for Sub-Continental Ethnic and Cultural Awareness 

(MASECA) 

A group for students from all over the Asian subcontinent to get together, have fun, and 

share their culture with anyone interested. 

Macalester College Student Government (MCSG) 

Facilitates campus activity through chartering, budgeting and overseeing (loosely of 

course) of student organizations. http://www.macalester.edu/mcsg/ 

Macalester International Organization (MIO) 

The representative body for Macalester’s international student population. All registered 

international students are automatically members of MIO but U.S. students are highly 

encouraged to become involved in the organization as well. 

Macalester Model United Nations (Mac MUN) 

MUN is a student-run organization designed to promote international understanding, 

awareness of international issues, and peaceful conflict resolution in the context of the 

United Nations. These goals are achieved through education, research, debate, community 

outreach, and diplomatic simulations and conferences which involve parliamentary procedures, 

developing/improving speaking skills, and hands-on experience with diplomatic negotiations 

and conflict resolutions. http://www.macalester.edu/mun/ 

Mac Muslim Student Association (MSA) 

MSA provides a safe space for Muslim students to come together and talk about religion 

and beliefs. We also welcome non-Muslims as members and try to hold events to inform 

campus of Islamic related issues. We also celebrate Islamic-religious occasions and holidays. 

Macalester Peace and Justice Committee (MPJC) 

An organization interested in social change, political justice, and related endeavors as they 

relate to life on campus, in the community and in the world. 

Maction 

Maction, the only student-run community service organization on campus, plans one-time 

service events that facilitate service between the community and Macalester students. 

Events include: Halloween Party, International Kidsfest, the Double-Deal Auction, dinner 

discussions and van trips to service opportunities. 

67

Middle Eastern Student Association (MESA) 

MESA aims to support students of Middle Eastern descent, heritage or association, to foster 

appreciation of Middle Eastern cultures and to raise awareness of issues and concerns important 

to Middle Eastern people on the Macalester campus. The organization is open to all 

those interested in the peoples, places and cultures of the region. 

http://sites.google.com/a/macalester.edu/mesa/home 

Ua Ke (Hmong Student Organization) 

Ua Ke, which in the Hmong community means “together”. This name will eliminate any assumptions 

of exclusion on membership, participation, and support because it implies the 

importance of a unified community, regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, disability, 

age or sexual orientation. Our goal is to inform the Macalester community of Hmong 

history, people and culture, raise awareness and to reach out to the local Hmong community 

in the Twin Cities. 

68

Information about Minnesota 

Macalester College is located in Saint Paul, the capital city of Minnesota and across the Mississippi 

River from Minneapolis. The two cities have been nicknamed the “Twin Cities.” The 

Twin Cities Metropolitan area has a population of approximately 3 million and that of the 

entire state of Minnesota is 4.9 million. Minnesota is the 12th largest state in the U.S. by 

area and the 20th most populous state in the U.S. Minnesota was admitted as the 32nd 

state to join the Union on May 11, 1858. The state name is named after the Minnesota 

River, which is believed to originate from a Native American word meaning “sky-tinted water”. 

The state has gained the nickname of “the Land of 10,000 Lakes” due to its abundance 

of natural lakes, which in fact number over 15,000. The largest freshwater lake in 

the world, Lake Superior, lies on the eastern part of the state. The Mississippi River also 

flows through the southeastern region of Minnesota, and is actually only about 10 minutes 

walking distance away from Macalester. The state is also known as “the North Star State” 

and “the Gopher State.” This Midwestern State borders 4 other states: Iowa, North Dakota, 

South Dakota and Wisconsin. Minnesota, and especially the Twin Cities Metropolitan 

area, has much ethnic diversity, including large populations of Latinos/Hispanics, Hmong, 

Somalis and Vietnamese. 

Minnesota has been home to many distinguished individuals who have entertained, innovated, 

governed and helped shaped the history of the United States. A few of these notable 

people are: 

Bob Dylan (1941 - ) – Songwriter and singer whose songs of protest made him a hero to 

the civil-rights and student movements of the 1960s. 

Ethan (1957 - ) and Joel (1954 - ) Coen – From St. Louis Park, MN, this filmmaking 

duo is known for their films with complex plots and bizarre characters, such as The Big Lebowski, 

Fargo and No Country for Old Men 

F. Scott Fitzgerald (1896 - 1940) – Author, known for his novels The Great Gatsby and 

Tender Is the Night 

Judy Garland (1922 - 1969) – Hollywood Actress and Singer 

Hubert H. Humphrey (1911 - 1978) – U. S. senator and vice president of the U. S. 

(1965 - 1969); Democratic candidate for president, 1968. 

Jessica Lange (1949 - ) – Hollywood Actress 

Sinclair Lewis (1885 - 1951) – Author and winner of the Nobel Prize for literature; 

wrote novels such as Babbitt, Elmer Gantry, and Main Street 

Charles H. Mayo (1865 - 1939) and William J. Mayo (1861 - 1939) – Physicians who 

founded the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota 

John Sargent Pillsbury (1828 – 1901) – Food products business leader: a leader in 

flour milling, he helped found the family company in Minneapolis in 1872 

Charles M. Schulz (1922 – 2000) – “Peanuts” Cartoonist 

Walter Frederick Mondale (1928 - ) – 42nd Vice President of the United States (1977 - 

1980); Democratic candidate for president of the United States in 1984; Mac Alumnus 

Prince Roger Nelson, aka Prince (1958 - ) – Singer 

Josh Hartnett (1978- ) - Actor 

Charles A Lindbergh (1902-1974) - 20th century’s first hero. first solo transatlantic flyer 

and Pulitzer prize winner for ‘Memoirs of Famous Flight’ 

Winona Ryder (1971 - ) - Actress (Named after the city she was born in) 

Jean Paul Getty (1892-1976) - American Oil Executive and Financier 

For more information on Minnesota and the Twin Cities Metropolitan area, look at: 

http://www.exploreminnesota.com 

http://www.twincities.com 

http://www.visitsaintpaul.com 

69

Taking the bus... 

Getting around the Twin Cities... 

go to www.metrotransit.org 

Click on the words Transit Information on the Metro-transit homepage and you will be able 

to access all bus route schedules, plan trips (i.e. which bus to take to get to a certain 

place, how much time a bus ride will take, etc), and find out what bus routes are in your 

area by zooming in on larger system maps. 

How long does it take to get to (by bus)… (by car) 

MSP International Airport 20 minutes 10 minutes 

The Mall of America 30 minutes 13 minutes 

Rosedale 23 minutes 10 minutes 

Midway 7 minutes 3 minutes 

Downtown Minneapolis 40 minutes 12 minutes 

To figure out which bus to take and the bus schedule, go to the Information Desk 

at the Campus Center. 

Bus fares 

local fare - $1.75 ($2.25 during rush hour) 

express fare - $2.25 ($3 during rush hour) 

rush hour: Mon-Fri 6:00 - 9:00 a.m. & 3:00 - 6:30 p.m. 

Subsidized Metro Transit passes are available at the Info Desk in the Campus Center. 

What is there to do? 

Lots! You can hang out at one of the many lakes in the Twin Cities area, visit the art museums, 

catch a concert or some other live performance, go shopping, eat out at one of the 

many ethnic restaurants, attend an event like a parade or festival. It won’t take long for 

you to find activities you enjoy, and identify new activities that aren’t listed here. 

70

Some Popular Things To Do... 

Artsy Film Cinemas 

Landmark Lagoon Cinema 1320 Lagoon Ave., Mpls. (612)825-6006 

Oak Street Cinema 309 Oak Street SE, Mpls. (612)331-3134 

www.mnfilmarts.org 

Riverview Theatre 3800 42nd Ave. S, Mpls. (612)729-7369 

www.riverviewtheatre.com 

Uptown Theatre 2906 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. (612)825-6006 

Music 

Artist’s Quarter 408 St. Peter Street, St. Paul (651)292-1359 

www.artistquarter.com 

First Avenue 701 First Ave.N, Mpls. (612)338-8388 

www.firstavenue.com 

Orchestra Hall 1111 Nicollet Mall, Mpls. (952)371-5656 

www.minnesotaorchestra.org/ 

Ordway Center 345 Washington Street, St. Paul (651)224-4222 

www.ordway.org 

Target Center 600 First Avenue North, Mpls. (612)673-0900 

www.targetcenter.com 

Theater 

Fitzgerald Theater 10 E. Exchange St., St. Paul (651)290-1221 

http://fitzgeraldtheater.publicradio.org/ 

Guthrie Theater 725 Vineland Place, Mpls. (612)377-2224 

www.guthrietheater.org 

State and Orpheum Theaters 

805 Hennepin Ave. and 910 Hennepin Ave Mpls., 

www.hennepintheatredistrict.org 

Art 

Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum 333 East River Rd., Mpls. (612)625-9494 

www.weisman.umn.edu 

Intermedia Arts 2822 Lyndale Ave S, Mpls. (612)871-4444 

www.intermediaarts.org 

Minneapolis Institute of Arts 2400 Third Ave. South, Mpls. (612)870-3131 

www.artsmia.org 

Walker Art Center 1750 Hennepin Ave. Mpls. (612)375-7600 

www.walkerart.org 

71 

Campus Programs sells 

discount tickets (at the 

Information desk on 

the first floor of the 

Campus Center) for 

certain cinemas, theatres, 

and other events.

Mall of America www.mallofamerica.com/ 

Nicollet Mall (downtown Minneapolis) 

Uptown Minneapolis area 

Rosedale Center (Roseville) www.myrosedale.com 

Minnesota Timberwolves Game @ Target Center (Basketball) 

www.nba.com/timberwolves 

Twins Game (Baseball) 

There are daily ticket specials to see this World Championship baseball team 

www.twins.mlb.com 

Vikings Game @ Metrodome (Football) 

Show your purple pride by cheering for our professional football team! 

www.vikings.com 

The Minnesota Wild Hockey Team 

wild.nhl.com 

AMC Mall of America 60 East Broadway, Bloomington (952)777-3456 

Block E-15 600 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis (651)338-5900 

Grandview Theatre 1830 Grand Ave., St. Paul (651)698-3344 

Highland Theatre 760 S Cleveland Ave., St. Paul (651)698-3085 

AMC Rosedale 14 850 Rosedale Center, Roseville, (651)604-9344 

To look for movie times, go to www.moviefone.com and type in your zip code (55105) 

An excellent source of information on what is going on in the Twin Cities is the City Pages, 

a free weekly newspaper from most coffee shops and in the Campus Center. The City Pages 

lists current shows, reviews restaurants by category, features artists from or in the Twin 

Cities, etc. You can also go to www.citypages.com or to www.twincities.com to check up 

on the scene. 

72

Recommended Restaurants in the Twin Cities 

Asian 

Pad Thai Grand Thai $ 651-690-1393 1600 Grand Ave., St. Paul MN 55105 

Mai Village Vietnamese $ 651-290-2585 394 University Ave. W., St. Paul MN 55103 

Quang Pastry & 

Deli 

Vietnamese $ 612-870-4739 2719 Nicollet Ave., Mpls MN 55408 

Peninsula Malaysian $-$$ 612-871-8282 2608 Nicollet Ave. S. Mpls MN 55408 

Fuji Ya Japanese $$ 612-871-4055 600 W Lake St. Mpls MN 55408 

Yummy Cheng Chinese $ 612-870-8000 2450 Nicollet Ave. Mpls MN 

Hong Kong Noodle Hong Kong $ 612-379-9472 901 Washington Ave. SE, Mpls MN 55414 

Big Bowl Asian Fusion $ 651-636-7173 1705 Highway 36 W. Roseville MN 55113 

Everest on Grand Tibetan/Nepali $ 651-696-1666 1278 Grand Ave., St. Paul MN 55105 

Jerusalem’s Restaurant 

Middle Eastern $ 612-871-8883 1518 Nicollet Ave., Mpls MN 55403 

Crescent Moon Afghanistan $ 612-782-0169 2339 Central Ave. NE Mpls MN 55418 

African 

Fasika Ethiopian $ 651-646-4747 510 Snelling Ave N., St. Paul MN 55104 

Barbary Fig African, Mediterranean 

$$` 651-290-2085 720 Grand Av St. Paul MN 55105 

European 

Loring Pasta Bar Italian $-$$ 612-378-4849 327 14th Ave. SE Mpls MN 55414 

Kramarczuk East European $ 612-379-3018 215 E Hennepin Ave, Mpls MN 55401 

Christos Greek $-$$ 612-871-2111 2632 Nicollet Ave Mpls MN 55408 

Pierre’s Bistro French $$ 612-928-0582 2221 W 50th St. Mpls MN 55419 

D’Amico & Sons Italian $-$$ 651-227-9933 975 Grand Avenue St. Paul MN 55105 

American 

Famous Daves BBQ Rib $-$$ 612-822-9900 3001 Hennepin Ave Mpls, MN 55408 

Green Mill Pizzas $-$$ 651-698-0353 1342 Grand Ave St. Paul MN 55105 

Cafe Latte Cafe, Dessert $ 651-224-5687 850 Grand Avenue St. Paul MN 55105 

73

When You Have To Go Shopping… 

...For Things You Really Need... 

Target (at Midway) 

Pharmacy & Optician Available 

1300 University Ave., St. Paul, MN 55104 

Phone: (651) 642-1146 

http://www.target.com/ 

Walgreens 

1585 Randolph Ave., St. Paul, MN 55105 

Phone: (651) 698-6502 

http://www.walgreens.com/ 

WalMart (at Midway) 

1450 University Ave. 


Phone: (651) 644-0020 

http://www.walmart.com/ 

Rainbow Foods (at Midway) 


Phone: (651) 644-4321 

http://www.rainbowfoods.com/ 

Cub Foods (at Midway) 


Phone: (651) 646-1003 

http://www.cubfoods.com/ 

Kowalski’s (east on Grand) 

1261 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105 

Phone: (651) 698 - 3366 

http://www.kowalskis.com/ 

Whole Foods (west on Grand) 

30 Fairview Avenue S, St.Paul, MN 55105 

Phone: (651) 690-0197 

http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com 

74 

Kinko’s (intersection of Snelling and Grand) 

58 Snelling Avenue S, St. Paul, MN 55105 

Phone: (651) 699-9671 

http://www.kinkos.com/ 

Office Max (at Midway) 

1490 W. University Avenue 


Phone: (651) 659-9020 

http://www.officemax.com/ 

Mall of America (Bloomington) 

60 East Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425 

www.mallofamerica.com 

Nicollet Mall (downtown Minneapolis) 

Nicollet Avenue (12 blocks of mall!) 

Minneapolis, MN 55612 

Rosedale Center (Roseville) 

10 Rosedale Center 

Roseville, MN 55113 

http://www.myrosedale.com/ 

BestBuy (Roseville) 

1643 County Road B2 

Roseville, MN 55113 

Phone: (651) 746-0538 

http://www.bestbuy.com/

Month Average 

high 

(ºF/ºC) 

Saint Paul Weather 

Average 

Low 

(ºF/ºC) 

Mean Record High Record Low 

January 22/ -6 4/-16 13/-11 59/15 (1944) -34/-37 (1970) 

February 29/-2 12/-11 20/-7 64/18 -33/-36 (1899) 

March 41/5 23/-5 32/0 83/28 (1986 -32/-36 (1962) 

April 57/14 36/2 47/8 95/35 (1980) 2/-17 (1962) 

May 79/23 70/21 59/15 106/41 (1934) 18/-8 (1967) 

June 83/28 79/26 68/20 104/40 (1934) 33/1 (1945) 

July 83/28 80/27 73/23 108/42 (1936) 43/6 (1972) 

August 80/27 71/22 71/22 103/39 (1947) 39/4 (1967) 

September 71/22 51/11 61/16 Source: 104/40 http://www.weather.com/ 

(1931) 26/-3 (1974) 

weather/climatology/monthly/55105 

October 58/14 39/4 49/9 90/32 (1997) 10/-12 (1925) 

November 40/4 25/-4 33/1 77/25 (1933) -17/-27 (1964) 

December 26/-3 11/-12 19/-7 52/17 (1982) -29/-34 (1983) 

Conversion ºF to ºC 

First subtract 32 from the temperature measurement, then divide by 1.8. 

Conversion ºC to ºF 

Multiply the temperature measurement by 1.8 and then add 32. 

75

1¢ 

Penny 

American Coins and How to Write a Check 

5¢ 

Nickel 

10¢ 

Dime 

Pay attention to the following: 

25¢ 

Quarter 

76 

There are specific terms by which one 

refers to American coins, as is indicated 

to the left. The quarter can 

have different designs on the backside 

(the side with the eagle) that 

represent the fifty American states. 

There are also half dollar (50¢) and 

dollar coins but these are not commonly 

used. 

� The amount written numerically: it should read, "$200.50” 

� The amount written in words: it should read "Two Hundred and 50/100". Many 

people will then draw a line to the preprinted "Dollars" to discourage alteration. If the 

check were for $201.59, it would be written, "Two Hundred One and 59/100".

Electric Current 

The standard U.S. current it 110 volts, 60 cycles alternating current (A.C.). Appliances 

running on 220-240 volts will not work in the U.S. Most appliance or hardware 

stores in metropolitan areas carry current-conversion kits that will work on appliances. 

You may also bring such voltage converters from home. 

Clothing & Shoe Size 

Women’s Clothing 

Japanese 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 

American 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 

British 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 

Continental 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 

Collar Sizes, Men’s Shirts 

Japanese 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 

American 14 14.5 15 15.5 16 16.5 17 

British 14 14.5 15 15.5 16 16.5 17 

Continental 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 

Men’s Suits, Overcoats, and Sweaters 

Japanese S M L LL 

American 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 

British 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 

Continental 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 

Women’s Shoes 

Japanese 23 23.5 24 24.5 25 25.5 26 

American 6 6.5 7 7.5 8 8.5 9 

British 4.5 5 5.5 6 6.5 7 7.5 

Continental 36 37 38 38 38 39 40 

Men’s Shoes 

Japanese 24.5 26 27.5 28 29 

American 5.5 6.5 7.5 8.5 9.5 10.5 11.5 

British 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 

Continental 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 

77

Measurement Conversions 

Length 

1 millimeter (mm) = 0.0397 inch 

1 centimeter (cm) = 10 mm = 0.3937 inch 

1 meter (m) = 100 cm = 1.0936 yard 

1 kilometer (km) = 1000 m = 0.6214 mile 

1 inch (in) = 25.4 mm 

1 foot (ft) = 12 in = 0.3048 m 

1 yard (yd) = 3 ft = 0.9144 m 

Volume/Capacity 

1 liter (l) = 0.2642 US gallon 

1 US dry pint = 0.5506 l 

1 US bushel = 64 US dry pints = 35.239 

1 US liquid pint = 0.4732 l 

1 US gallon = 8 US liquid pints = 3.7854 

Mass (Weight) 

1 gram (g) = 0.0353 ounces 

1 kilogram (kg) = 1000 g = 2.2046 pounds 

1 tonne (t) = 1000 kg = 1.1023short tons 

1 tonne = 0.9842 long ton 

1 ounce (oz) = 437.5 grains = 28.350 g 

1 pound (lb) = 16 oz = 0.4536 kg 

1 short cwt = 100 lb = 45.359 kg 

1 long cwt = 112 lb = 50.802 kg 

1 short ton = 2000 lb = 0.9072 t 

78

Glossary of useful College Terms 

Academic Advisor: A faculty member who guides a student in his/her course selection. 

Academic Year: The period of time during which formal instruction is offered, lasting from 

September to May. The period from June through August is not generally 

considered part of the academic year, even if summer sessions are held. 

Alumni: Those who have graduated from an institution. 

Audio-Visual (AV): Equipment like tape recorders and film or slide projectors can be borrowed 

from this department. 

Audit: To attend a course for purposes of attaining information only and not to 

receive a grade. No credit is given for an audit. Consult the college catalog 

for the procedures to follow to register for an audit. 

Bachelors Degree: A degree awarded by a four year college or university. 

Bursar: The person to whom a student pays tuition and fees. 

(Academic) Calendar: The formal schedule of academic year events. Includes examination 

periods, registration periods, and school holidays. 

Call Number: The code on each library book that separates the books by field. 

Campus: The physical grounds and buildings of the institution. 

Career Development The CDC helps students and alumni find employment and graduate schools. 

Center (CDC): They also have a resource library which is available to anyone. 

Catalog: A book describing an institution’s courses, regulations, fees, tuition, faculty, 

location, entrance and other academic requirements, scholarship and 

financial aid information. 

Chaplain: Macalester’s chaplain is an ordained Presbyterian minister. Worship services 

are held regularly at Weyerhaeuser Memorial Chapel for students who 

choose to go. 

Class: This word has several definitions. It can refer to a course of instruction (i.e. 

English class); it can refer to a group of students taking a particular course 

together (i.e. a class of English students); or it can mean all the students 

who are in the same year of study (i.e. the first year class). 

CLICNet: The electronic card catalog of Macalester’s library collection that can be 

found on-line. CLICNet is also connected to the libraries of five other 

schools, known as the ACTC Consortium – Augsburg, Bethel, Hamline, St. 

Catherine and St. Thomas) so that students have access to more information. 

Commencement: The ceremonies held upon completion of a student’s studies. Also 

called graduation. 

Conditional Admission: Colleges might accept some students who do not meet admission standards 

on the condition that they meet those standards soon after they enroll (for 

example, students may be told they need to attain a higher level of English 

proficiency). 

79

Consortium: Colleges which have joined together to make their courses available to all 

students. 

Counselor: Professional psychologist trained to serve persons experiencing academic, 

interpersonal or psychological problems. Free and confidential counseling 

sessions are available at the Health & Wellness Center. 

Credit: A unit (generally numerical) given to students who have successfully completed 

a course. A student must earn 136 semester hours before 

he/she will be allowed to graduate. 

Credit by Macalester will allow students to gain credits without taking a course if they 

Examination: are successful in passing an examination which covers material presented in 

the course. 

Curriculum: The course of study offered. 

Dean of Students: The Dean, Jim Hoppe, is responsible for student affairs at the College. 

Dormitory (Dorm) 

(Residence Hall) A building on campus used to house students. 

Drop/Add: Dropping a class or changing classes during the term. See the handbook for 

specific information regarding drop/add procedures. 

Elective: A course students may choose to take which is not part of the required 

curriculum. 

Exam schedule: Final exam periods are listed in front of the fall class schedule in the publication 

of the ACTC schedule and can be found at the registrar’s link on the 

Macalester website. An updated schedule is sent out about two months be 

fore “finals” each semester. 

Faculty: The group of professors and instructors who make up the teaching staff of an 

institution. 

First Year Student/ Freshman: An undergraduate student in his/her first full academic year. May 

also be used to classify a student in the first year of high school. 

Full Course Load: The minimum number of courses a student must take to be considered a fulltime 

student. International students must take three courses per term to be 

considered full-time. Most students take four courses per term. 

Grade: Grade refers to the letter given to evaluate a student’s performance on an 

assignment, examination, or the entire course. 

Grade-Point Average An average grade (numerical) which is derived from a formula which takes 

(GPA) into account grades received and the number of credit hours for each course 

taken. 

Graduate: Graduate can refer to the level of study beyond the baccalaureate. Graduate 

can also refer to a person who has successfully completed high school or 

college. Finally, graduate may be used as a verb to describe the act of 

receiving a high school or college diploma. 

Graduation: See Commencement. 

80

Hall Director: The Hall Director is responsible for the residence halls. Each dormitory has 

its own Hall Director who oversees the dormitory, works with the R.A.s (see 

R.A.) to plan events and handles problems that are too big for the R.A.s to 

manage (this is rare). 

Health & Wellness Center: Medical assistance and a variety of wellness resources are available 

at the Health & Wellness Center. 

Humanities: The branch of learning which constitutes the backbone of the liberal arts education. 

The Humanities include languages, history, literature, and philosophy. 

IGC: The Institute of Global Citizenship promotes learning, scholarship, and 

service focused on civic engagement and global leadership locally, 

nationally, and internationally. 

International Student Programs Director: A staff member (Aaron Colhapp) who is qualified to counsel 

international students on visa and immigration rules, as well as a wide range 

of cultural and personal matters (i.e. adjusting to life in the U.S.). 

Junior: An undergraduate student in his/her third full year of college. May also be 

used to classify a student in the third year of high school. 

Leave of Absence: A leave of absence is granted for a specific period of time to any student who 

applies to leave Macalester for personal reasons or for the purpose of at 

tending another institution. Refer to the College Catalog and to the Associate 

Dean of Student’s Office. 

Leonard Center: The building containing the athletic facilities, including a swimming pool, 

basketball and racquetball courts, an indoor track, and a weight room. 

Loan(s): Money borrowed but required to be repaid within a specific time period. 

Macalester College M.C.S.G. controls funds for student organizations and publications and also 

Student Government represents the student body when the administration makes decisions. 

(M.C.S.G.): Elections for M.C.S.G. are held about twice a year. 

Mac Weekly: The college newspaper which comes out on Fridays. 

Major: The field or subject which a student has chosen as his or her principal area of 

study, i.e. mathematics, economics, anthropology, biology, art, French. 

Students may have more than one major. 

Max Center: This center serves students who experience difficulty with their studies or 

desire to improve their study skills and habits. The Max Center works with 

students on a one-to-one basis or in groups on subjects such as concentra 

tion, note-taking, effective study methods, test taking (multiple choice, T-F, 

essay), and time management. 

Minor: A subject or field which a student has chosen as an area of study secondary 

to his/her major. 

“PC” (Politically A loosely defined, somewhat sarcastic term which refers to popular political 

Correct): thought at Macalester. Most of the students are politically liberal but are 

open to listening to and discussing issues with other points of view. This can 

be a good way to clarify your beliefs as well as spark discussion. 

81

Petition: A method by which students may request a change in academic rules and 

policies, for example changing an NC to a drop or to a W (withdraw), or 

adding a course after the determined deadline. It is wise to consult with 

your academic advisor first. 

Preceptor: A student who helps a professor plan, teach, and grade a course for credit. 

Often, the preceptor has already taken the course before and helps the 

students in the class with their assignments. 

Prerequisite: A course which a student must complete before being permitted to enroll in 

another course. 

Provost: The person in charge of academic affairs. 

Quiz: Short test, sometimes given without advance notice. 

Registrar: The person at the college or university who is responsible for student 

enrollment (and academic) records. Consult with Registrar Jayne Niemi 

about transferring credits from other institutions. 

Registration: The process of choosing a program of courses for the semester and having it 

approved that occurs each term. 

Requirements: Courses that must be taken in order to graduate with a particular major or 

degree. 

Reserve: When a book is on reserve, it means that the book cannot be removed from 

the Library, and generally can only be borrowed for a short period of time. 

This is usually done when the library has only a few copies of a book that is 

required reading for a particular course. 

Resident Assistant A student who lives in the residence hall and is available to help residents 

(RA): with living arrangements and other school-related questions. 

RSVP: This term, meaning “please respond,” is often listed on invitations. Tell the 

host/hostess if you can or cannot attend the event, so they can prepare for it 

adequately. 

Scholarship: Also called a grant; this money does not have to be repaid (loans must be 

repaid). Scholarships for international students are generally based on financial 

need as well as academic merit. 

Semester: One of the two terms (grading periods) in an academic year. A semester 

usually lasts from thirteen to fifteen weeks. 

Senior: An undergraduate student is his/her fourth full year of college. Can also be 

used to designate a student in the last year of high school. 

Social Security A number assigned by the United States government to U.S. citizens. This 

Number (SSN): number is also required for all international students who wish to work in the 

U.S. Many application forms request that students list their SSN or SS card, 

which may then become a form of at student identification number. 

Sophomore: An undergraduate student in his/her second full academic year. Can also be 

used to designate a student in the second year of high school. 

82

S.P.O. [noun] Student Post Office box. Student receive mail in their S.P.O., located in the 

lower level or “spo” [verb] of the Campus Center. This word (“spo”) is also 

used as a verb, i.e. I’ll spo it to you (I’ll send it to your student p.o. box). 

Syllabus: A course outline prepared for students by the professor. 

Take-Home Exam: These are like homework; students are given a question or a number of 

questions to answer within a specific number of days. To justify the length of 

time afforded, a high quality of work is expected. As with term papers, all 

non-original sources and material used or referred to should be 

acknowledged in footnotes/citations and a bibliography. 

TOEFL: Acronym for “Test of English as a Foreign Language.” Grades from this test 

are very often used to determine the admissibility of international students 

or the level at which the students should be placed in English-language 

courses. 

Transcript: The official record of a student’s courses and grades. Students may request 

copies from the Registrar’s Office at $5.00 per transcript. 

Tuition: The cost of the academic program undertaken. Tuition must be paid before 

each term or for a full academic year. 

Tutor: A private teacher who assists students outside normal classroom periods. 

Tutors are available at the Max Center. 

Undergraduate: This is you! The general definition is that of a college student aiming to 

complete a bachelor’s degree. 

Withdrawal: Exiting a class before the end of the term; see the handbook regarding the 

rules for withdrawal. 

WMCN: Macalester’s student-run radio station (91.7 FM) 

Zip Code: A five- or nine-digit number used in an address when sending mail to or 

within the U.S. This number aids the post office in delivering mail. 

At Macalester College, the zip code is 55105-1899. 

83

Acknowledgments 

Nienke Wijnia is the editor-in-chief of The International Student Handbook (ISH). Nienke updated 

and checked with offices for correct information, corrected my errors, and added new information. 

The ISP student and professional staff also helped. Bruce Gawtry, immigration specialist, made sure 

everything related to government regulations was correct and up-to-date. The world’s best student 

worker staff were never shy with their suggestions and complaints. The ISP Lair’s student workers 

are Amy Janett (USA ’14), Annie Gavin (USA ’15), Emily Horecki (USA ’15), Even Kvelland (Norway 

‘12), Rohin Borpujari (India ’14), Shahar Eberzhon (Israel ’12) and Yulun Li (China ’14). Of course, 

we would never have finished the handbook if we did not stand on the shoulders of past Lair giants 

who edited ISH and are now up to bigger and better things. Before Nienke arrived to Macalester, 

students edited ISH. Those students were Mark Sorenson (USA ’02), Natalie Mettler (Switzerland 

’03), Derrick Fernando (Sri Lanka ’06), Na Yeon Oh (Korea ’07), Katlo Manthe (South Africa/ 

Botswana ’08), and Kristina “Peanut” Doan (USA '10). We’re also grateful to all the great but sassy 

International Student Programs Assistants over the past thirteen years who would tell us about all 

the Handbook’s problems: Eleni Messiou (Cyprus ’03), Andrea Purdekova (Slovakia ’03), Ai Li Ang 

(Malaysia ’05), Anyas Sumchenko (Ukraine ’05), Jun Sasaki (Japan ’08) and Pål Robson (Norway 

’10), Gerbrand “Number 2” Hoogvliet (Netherlands ‘11), Marissa Leow (Singapore ’11), Feifei Zuo 

(China ’11), and Lkhagvajarg “Lhawa” Yondonjamts (Mongolia ’11). And, finally, thanks to all the 

support we receive from the Dean of Students, Jim Hoppe. 

Aaron C. Colhapp 

Director of International Student Programs 

April, 2012 

ISP and Macalester student employment awards over the years: 

Marissa Leow Employee of the Year Award: Shahar Eberzhon (2012) 

Kristina “Peanut” Doan Employee of the Year Award: Marissa Leow (2011) 

Gerbrand Hoogvliet Employee of the Year Award: Kristina “Peanut” Doan (2010) 

Macalester Student Employee of the Year Award: Kristina “Peanut” Doan (2009) 

Katlo Manthe Employee of the Year Award: Gerbrand “2” Hoogvliet (2009) 

Na Yeon “O” Oh Employee of the Year Award: Katlo Manthe (2008) 

Derrick Fernando Employee of the Year Award: Na Yeon “O” Oh (2007) 

Anyas Sumchenko Employee of the Year Award: Derrick Fernando (2006) 

Macalester Student Employee of the Year: Ai Li Ang (2005) 

Mark Sorenson Employee of the Year Award: Anyas Sumchenko (2005) 

Macalester Outstanding Student Employee of the Year Awards: Eleni Messiou (2003), Natalie 

Mettler (2003) 

84

Sampling of Class of ‘12 

Plans after Graduation 

LAST FIRST PLANS AFTER GRADUATION MAJOR 1 MAJOR 2 

Ayino Yilikal University of Minnesota, Physics 

Ph.D 

Balsells Evelyn London School of Hygiene and 

Tropical Medicine 

Doku Reginald Center for Infectious Disease, 

University of Minnesota 

85 

Physics Math 

Biology, Community 

and Global 

Health Concentration 

Biology 

Imran Ajwad Citigroup London Economics Statistics 

Liu Mo MIT Sloan School of Management, 

Boston, MA 

Martinov Tijana Macalester College, Biology Department 

Mijatovic Slavisa MA in Geography at York University, 

Toronto 

Applied Math and 

Statistics 

Biology 

Geography History 

Stanceric Igor Masters in Human Resources Pyschology 

and Industrial Relations, Carlson 

School of Management, Minneapolis 

Suchy David UBS Investment Banking, New Physics Applied Math and 

York 

Statistics 

Yang Qianyi Analysis Group, San Francisco Mathematics Economics 

Wang Yiting United Bank of Switzerland 

(UBS), New York 

Zhang Jingjiao Citigroup Investment Banking, 

New York 

Economics International Studies 

Economics Math

Appendix - Where are they now? 

Notes on former Mentors and ISP student workers since Aaron Colhapp has been at Macalester. 

Last First 

Grad 

name name Country Year Work/grad school 

Swaniker Fred Ghana 1999 McKinsey and Company, South Africa; Stanford University, 

MBA; African Leadership Academy 

Braband Kate USA 2000 Alliance Française, Luthern World Relief (Africa); MPH 

Emory University; UN Program Consultant, Bangkok, 

Thailand 

Matsuu Takara Japan 2000 UN Habitat, Japan; Kyushu University, Research Assistant; 

LSE -- Masters in NGO Management; Hottokenia, 

Sekai no Mazushisa Media Officer; Goldman Sachs, 

Tokyo; Fukuoka Urban Laboratory 

Thapa Diwakar Nepal 2000 Merrill Lynch; Molson Coors; GATX Corp. 

Abbas Hiam Pakistan 2001 Saloman, NYC; LSE, Masters International Affairs; Refugee 

Transitions; World Bank, Pakistan; World Bank, 

NY 

Arellano Jeronimo 

Ecuador 2001 NYU Law School; Cambridge University; Stanford University, 

Comp. Lit PhD; UC-Riverside; Prof of Latin 

American Lit and Culture, Brandeis University, MA 

DeMarce Andre USA 2001 George Washington University, Eliott School, Masters 

Security Policy Studies; Terrorism Research Center, 

Asst. Dir. Intelligence and Analysis; MENA Regional 

Team Manager and Intelligence Analyst at iJET Intelligent 

Risk Systems; Instructor at Terrorism Research 

Center; Security Intelligence Analyst at Mall of America 

O'Rourke Harmony 

Pasipanod 

ya 

Tafadzwa 

Sajjad Tazreena 

Schonhey 

der 

USA 2001 Harvard University, PhD, African History; Chemonics 

International Inc.; Professor at Pitzer College 

Zimbabwe 

Bangladesh 

2001 Princeton University, MPA; NYU Law School; Foley 

Hoag LLP; Open Society Institute, NYC 

2001 American University, Masters International Peace and 

Human Rights; Global Rights; AU School of International 

Service, PhD; Program Director at Center for 

Peace Building Int’nl, Washington, D.C. 

Jon Erick Norway 2001 US Bank, Minneapolis, MN; Oppdal Booking (family 

business ) Norway 

Shevde Anushka India 2001 Medtronic, Minnesota and California; Medtronic, London; 

University of California Berkely, MBA; Medtronic, 

Santa Rosa, CA; Medtronic Boston, MA 

Shuminsky 

Troszczyn 

skya 

Nick USA 2001 Drummer for well-known local bands (e.g., Superhopper, 

Malachai Constant); St. Paul Mayor Coleman's 

Staff, Policy Associate/Research 

Wanda Poland 2001 LSE, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe 

in Kosovo; Human Rights Watch; Directorate- 

General for External Policies, European Parliament 

Ulusoy Nilhan Turkey 2001 Piper Jaffrey; Northwestern University, Kellogg School, 

MBA; Lehman Brothers NYC; Investment Banking, 

London; Vice President, Citibank, Turkey 

Vieira Stephan Brazil 2001 Brazilian Embassy, Washington, D.C.; Translator Spain 

and Portugal; FAO(UN) Brazil 

86

Where are they now? (continued..) 

Yamagata Mirei Japan 2001 Mixed Blood Theater, Minneapolis; Corporate Language 

Trainer, Phoenix Associates; Ibis Associates, Tokyo; 

Dancer/Choreographer, Tokiirotamago, Tokyo 

Jamrich Jan Slovakia 2002 Microsoft, Seattle; MBA Harvard; Boston Consulting 

Group 

Koshimizu Rino Japan 2002 DISCO International, New York; BJ Labo Tokyo, 

Japan; attended school for International Training, 

Product Marketing at Bulgari, Tokyo 

Muzaffar Isra Palestine 2002 University of Minnesota, MA, Political Science; 

Palestinian Monitoring Group; UN– OCHA, Jerusalem 

Neitzel Beth USA 2002 Fulbright Fellowship in Columbia; Macalester College 

Admissions Office; UC-Berkley, PhD, Political Science 

Nelson Katie USA 2002 University of California - Santa Barbara, MA, Latin 

American Studies; Minnesota State, MA; Riverland 

College Anthropology Instructor 

Petrova Ekaterina Bulgaria 2002 LSE, Masters in European Politics; 

BalkanTravellers.com, Editor 

Poduska Anne USA 2002 Cornell University, PhD, Chemistry; American Assn for 

the Advancement of Science, Senior Program Assistant 

Sijapati Bimbika Nepal 2002 LSE, PhD, Ecology; Non-Profit Organization 

Management, Cambridge, UK 

Sorenson Mark USA 2002 The Hague; TomTom, Amsterdam 

Stave Noel Sri Lanka 2002 RBC DainRausher; RBC Capital Markets, Minneapolis 

Curran Chris USA 2003 CELAS Maya, Guatemala: Law Firm, San Francisco; UC 

Hastings Law School; Legal Services for Children; 

Project Victoria; Law Office of Fernando Quinones, San 

Francisco 

Habayeb Khaled Jordan 2003 J.P. Morgan Chase, NYC 

Jha Ruchira India 2003 Harvard Medical School; Massachusetts General 

Hospital 

Messiou Eleni Cyprus 2003 University of Minnesota, Humphrey Institute, MA, 

Public Policy; Elderberry Institute, St. Paul; 

Intercontinental Aphrodite Hills Resort, Cyprus 

Mettler Natalie Switzerland 2003 Boston University, PhD, African History 

Purdekova Andrea Slovakia 2003 Johns Hopkins SAIS, Italy and DC; World Bank, 

Washington, D.C.; PhD Oxford Development Studies 

Tayebjee Zia Australia 2003 University of New South Wales, Office of Overseas 

Studies Program 

Yankson Kwame Ghana 2003 Actuary, NYRAG, New York; HSBC, London, UK 

87


Adam Rahma Tanzania 2004 Harvard University, Research Asst. for Massachusetts 

Eye and Ear Infirmary; Harvard University JFK School of 

Government 

Aqeel Harris Pakistan 2004 Dahlen, Berg, Minneapolis; Analysis Group, San Francisco; 

Yale Business School; Analysis Group, Boston 

Ho Giang Vietnam 2004 Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis; PhD UCLA Economics; 

IMF Washington, D.C. 

Karipidis Rena Greece 2004 Warrick University, MA; Royal Institute of International 

Relations, London; American Farm School, Greece 

Lo Larry Taiwan/ 

Japan 

2004 Yale University Medical School, MD/PhD; John’s Hopkins 

Medical Center 

Musoke Andrew Uganda 2004 USBank, Minneapolis, MN; United Health Care, Minneapolis; 

Clinton Foundation, Boston; Clinton Health Access 

Initiative 

Peshkitar Tomas Albania 2004 Credit Suisse First Boston; Carlyle Group, NYC 

Piyaratna Rohith Sri Lanka 2004 Vanderbilt University Medical School; Stanford University 

Medical Center 

Syed Tanzeen Bangladesh 2004 J.P. Morgan, Senior Associate at General Atlantic, New 

York 

Tsurumi Izumi Japan 2004 American School of Yaounde (Cameroon), Teacher; International 

School of Shanghai, Teacher; Harvard University, 

School of Education, M.Ed in International Education 

Policy 

Adam Rahma Tanzania 2005 Harvard School of Government, Masters 

Ang Ai Li Malaysia 2005 Deloitte Consulting, Chicago; Kiva Microfinance, Azerbaijan; 

World Bank, Jakarta, Indonesia; INSEAD, Fontainebleau, 

France 

Araki Sayaka Japan 2005 Iberica Inc, NY 

Darko- 

Appianti 

Jerry Ghana 2005 University of Southern California, Masters in Electrical 

Engineering; Pepperdine University, MBA; Founded nonprofit: 

Just Like You; Morkan Keegan Technology Group; 

KPMG, San Francisco 

D'Silva Rohini India/USA 2005 Office of The Comptroller of Currency, Asst. national 

bank examiner, NYC; MBA, University of Michigan 

Fernandes Omar India 2005 Dakota Communities, Inc., Minnesota; University of Minnesota, 

MPH; Health Partners Research Foundation, Minneapolis 

Gonzalez Carlos Guatemala 2005 Analysis Group, Boston; UC Berkeley School of Business; 

Bloom Energy, Marketing/Strategy; Pacific Gas and Electric, 

San Franciso 

Kuran Arda Cyprus 2005 Bristol University, UK; US Embassy, Cyprus; Political 

specialist, Cyprus 

88


Molina Erika Argentina 2005 World Bank, Washington, D. C.; FLACSO Argentina 

'08, Maestría, Diseño y Gestión de Políticas y Programas 

Sociales; FOMIN Associate at Inter-American 

Development Bank, Argentina 

Nisavic Mladen Montenegro 2005 Harvard Medical School; Massachusetss General 

Hospital 

Paris Maxence France 2005 Documentary film making; Ecole Louis Lumière; Director/Producer 

“Guilt Trip” 

Sakaguchi Yukie Japan 2005 Mentoring Expats in Japan; TGA Family Relocation 

Support, Tokyo; IKEA CFO Assistant/Legal Affairs, 

Chiba, Japan; Mailmagazine-writer, Aichi, Japan 

Sandoval Luis Guatemala 2005 Center for Economic and Policy Research, Washington, 

D.C.; Gothenburg University, Sweden 

Sumchenko 

Anyas Ukraine 2005 Freedom House, Washington, D.C.; Macalester College 

Admissions Office; Johns Hopkins SAIS, Masters; 

World Bank, Washington DC; JPA; UN— 

Industrial Development Organization 

Terai Akiko Japan 2005 DoCoMo, Tokyo; SVP– Tokyo; Researcher, Opus 

Consulting, Japan 

Truong Ha USA 2005 3M 

Fernando Derrick Sri Lanka 2006 LarsonAllen, Minneapolis; MBA Georgetown Business 

School 

Takemoto Shoko Japan 2006 Consultant at Ex Corporation, Tokyo, Japan; Consultant 

at Ex Corporation, Tokyo, Japan; MIT, Master 

of City Planning at the Department of Urban Studies 

and Planning with a specialization in Environmental 

Policy and Planning; Climate Change Program Analyst 

at UNDP, Ghana 

Tomova Vasilena Bulgaria 2006 Teaching in NYC; New York Cares, HR Analyst; Customers 

Sales Service at ReExe Ltd, Bulgaria 

Chanla Methawat Thailand 2007 University of Minnesota IT Department 

Chen Lulu Taiwan 2007 Taught ESl in Taiwan; Masters in Teaching Foreign 

Language University of MN; Christopher American 

School, Teaching Assistant 

Hong Boram S. Korea 2007 Cal Tech, PhD, Chemistry; living in Santiago, Chile 

Krishnan Nisha India 2007 Johns Hopkins, Masters in Applied Economics; Resources 

for the Future, Washington, D. C.; Impacts 

and Adaptation Group, ICF International, Washington, 

DC 

Oh Na Yeon South Korea 2007 Prophet Inc. NYC; Monsanto, Singapore 

Rivero Alexander Costa Rica/USA 2007 National Institutes of Health; George Washington 

University Medical School 

89


Sablani Naveen Jamaica 2007 Georgetown University, Masters in Public Health; St. 

Georges University Medical School 

Hiltrop Jonas Germany 2008 Cornerstone, Boston 

Jelev Momchil Bulgaria 2008 Georgetown University, study away; Kings College, 

London; Government Affairs & Policy, Johnson & 

Johnson, Belgium 

Manthe Katlo Botswana 2008 Optimal Solutions Group, Washington, D.C.; Research 

Assistant, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health 

Munemara Nao Japan 2008 Mitsubishi Shoji 

Olson Matthew USA 2008 Al Futtaim Group, Dubai; World-Wide Opportunities 

on Organic Farms (WWOOF), Portugal, Iceland, Israel; 

College of the Atlantic, MPhil 

Sasaki Jun Japan 2008 Merrill Lynch Japan Securities Co., Ltd. Investment 

Banking Analyst; Global Capital Markets at Morgan 

Stanley 

Wang Lucia New Zealand 2008 Hennepin County Medical Center ER; Sydney Medical 

University 

Johnson Anne USA 2009 International Organization for Migration, Tajikistan; 

IREX, Washington, D.C. 

Setty Suma USA 2009 Center for Progressive Leadership, Washington, DC; 

Project Fellow, Indicorps, Chicago, IL 

Wattal Urvashi India 2009 Tata Institute of Social Sciences in Bombay, Masters 

Degree 

Ahmed Munadir Bangladesh 2010 Investment Analyst, Macalester College; Research 

Assistant, Physics Dept Macalester College, St. Paul, 

MN; PhD, Engineering, Purdue University, IN 

Choi Ji Young Korea 2010 Analysis Group, Denver, CO 

Da Gama 

Rose 

Dimitri Kenya 2010 University College London (UCL), Masters of Public 

Health; Grant Proposal & Program Intern at ICROSS; 

Policy Research Intern at Piper Jaffray; Health Management 

Information Systems Intern at Symphony 

Healthcare; MSc Public Health; 

Doan Kristina USA 2010 Crowell & Moring, Washington, DC; Maximus, Minneapolis 

, MN 

Raghunandan 

Sharmila India 2010 Research Assistant, Regions Hospital, St. Paul, MN; 

University of MN, MA Public Health 

Robson Pål Norway 2010 Administrative Coordinator at Life Technologies; Partner 

at Process Orient AS, Oslo, Norway 

90


Saqer Sami Palestine 2010 Microsoft Inc., Fargo, ND 

Skluzacek Catie USA 2010 Teach For America, Jacksonville, FL; Teacher at Duval 

County Public Schools, Jacksonville, FL; living in 

South Africa 

Snider Stephen Jamaica 2010 Financial Leadership Development Program at 

Ameriprise Financial, Minneapolis, MN; Ameriprise, 

Boston 

Wang Pei-Hsuan Taiwan 2010 Cranbrook Art Academy, MI 

Wong Tina Jamaica 2010 William Mitchell College of Law, St. Paul, MN 

Goodhouse 

Andrew USA 2011 Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.; Bard 

Graduate Center, New York City 

Khawaja Bassam USA/Palestine 2011 Manager and Guitar instructor at SoundWorks Studios, 

Minnetonka, MN; 

Leow Marissa Singapore 2011 Duke University/NUS Medical School 

Hoogvliet Gerbrand The Netherlands 2011 University College London, MA in Legal and Political 

Theory 

Sarin Gayatri India 2011 Deloitte Consulting, New York, NY 

Yondonjamts 

Lhawa Mongolia 2011 Community Reinvestment Fund, Minneapolis, MN 

Zuo Feifei China 2011 Investment Analyst, Macalester College, St. Paul, 

MN 

91

.notes.notes.notes.notes.notes.notes.notes. 

This handbook will continue to be a 

useful resource for you during your time at Macalester. 

In addition, it will be continually referred to, particularly during 

Pre-Orientation for International Students. Therefore, make sure 

to keep it and bring it along with you to Macalester. 

92

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK - Macalester College

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