Life at Messiah

The Essentials

• Important documents (Passport, Visa, I-20, Itinerary, Plane tickets, etc.)
• $100 in local currency
• Extra eye glasses/contacts
• Enough prescription drugs for the length of your stay
• Backpack (for day trips and daily use)
• Computer w/charger
• Camera w/cords and charger
• Adapters/converter

Clothing/Shoes (In general pack a week’s worth of clothing)

• Jeans (2-3 pairs)
• Sweaters/Hoodies (2-3)
• T-shirts
• Long sleeve shirts (Make sure they are good for layering)
• Undergarments (two weeks’ worth)
• Pajamas (3 pairs)
• Warm slippers
• Flip flops/sandals for the showers
• Socks (2 weeks’ worth) (you should include a few pairs of wool socks)
• Coat/Jacket (water resistant with zip pockets and removable lining)
• One nice outfit (dress pants/skirt/dress) for special/formal occasions
• Traditional attire

Toiletries (a week’s worth)

• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Soap
• Deodorant
• Brush/Comb
• Contact lenses and solution
• Over-the-counter medicines (aspirin, anti-diarrhea, anti-nausea, etc.)

Cell Phones

During International Orientation, a representative from a cellular provider will be on hand to sign up for cell phone service.

Internet and E-mail

Information Technology Services is pleased to announce the availability of wireless internet service in all Residence Halls and all Academic Buildings. ITS is in the process of completing outside wireless access across campus. The wireless card in your laptop will automatically detect the campus wireless networks. When given a list of networks, choose "Messiah Guest" for general access. If you have had your PC configured, your wireless network connection is automatic. When you open your browser for the first time, you will first be asked to register your laptop on our network. This is done by a prompt to enter your Messiah username and password before allowing access to the Internet. For more information, please visit the ITS Website.

School-year Breaks

Students are allowed to stay on-campus for Fall break, Thanksgiving break, J-term break, Spring break, and Easter break. However, students are required to move out during winter recess (Christmas break - The entire university will be closed) by designated date and time to avoid penalties. Students are responsible to find their own housing over the winter break; many of our international students usually go home with their domestic friends to learn more about the American Christmas culture. 

Summer

Messiah University provides housing for students who are working on-campus or doing an internship for Messiah University credit. For more information about Summer housing, please click here. 

Health

Messiah University's Health and Counseling Services, the Engle Center, is located right on campus for students' convenience. Students are also able to schedule an appointment online. 

Please visit the Engle Center webpage for more information. 

Housing

First-year students primarily will be stayed in Naugle, Bittner, and Witmer Residence Halls as their first-year experience. 

For more details, please visit the Residence Life webpage. 

Identification (IDs)

Messiah students are provided an ID card that give them access to residence and academic buildings, photocopy/printing privilege, chapel attendance, etc. For more information, please click on the link here. 

Money Matters

During the International Orientation Week, International Student Programs will hold one session for banking services. Students will be able to open a checking account with a local financial institution that has an ATM on campus. 

Safety

Messiah University's Department of Safety and Dispatch Services are here to provide a safe and secure environment for all students, staff, faculty and visitors. 

Visit the webpage for more information. 

Shopping, Dining and Entertainment

Messiah University is close to several local attractions, restaurants, and shopping venues. Please visit here for more information. During holiday breaks, the Office of Student Engagement provides shuttle services and students receive more communication about that as the dates approach.

In order to assist students with their unique adjustment to Messiah University, all incoming international students (F-1 visa holders, missionary and third-culturre students will be required to take a one credit course called GEST 140 "Adjusting to Life in the U.S.". The course will provide a well-rounded, but general knowledge base about the U.S. American educational system and broader U.S. American culture, with special attention given to the skills necessary for academic success at Messiah University. Through dialogue, guest speakers, readings and individual reflection, the course will seek to foster an awareness of the diversity in U.S. American society while assisting students through their own unique adjustment.