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International

Student Handbook

UPDATED FALL 2017 WWW.LVC.EDU 2

LVC INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

Lebanon Valley College

Table of Contents Welcome

Welcome ......................................................................................................................................................................... 4

The Center for Global Education .............................................................................................................................. 5

Culture Shock ................................................................................................................................................................ 6

Photo Gallery of Events……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..7

Academic Resources

Academic Calendar ..................................................................................................................................................... .9

The Registrar .................................................................................................................................................................. 9

Academic Advisors ..................................................................................................................................................... 10

Grading Scale and GPA Equivalent ......................................................................................................................... 11

Canvas .............................................................................................................................................................................. 11

Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism ................................................................................................................... 12

Center for Writing and Tutoring Services ............................................................................................................ 13

ESL Support Services……………………………………………………..……………………………………….……..…………………………13

Center for Disability Resources………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……..14

Center for Career Development………………………………………………………………………………………………..………….…14

Bishop Library…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……....15



Student Resources

Dutchman OneCard…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..15

Dining Services ............................................................................................................................................................. 13

Residential Life.……………………………………………………………………..…………………………..……………………………………..16

Drugs and Alcohol Policy………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...18

The Office for Intercultural Affairs and Inclusive Programs…………………………………………………………..……..18

Student Activities ........................................................................................................................................................ 18

Redbook…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….19

The Global Education Club ....................................................................................................................................... 19

Study Abroad .............................................................................................................................................................. 20

The Arnold Sports Center………..…………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………21

Varsity Athletics & Club Sports .............................................................................................................................. 22

Health and Counseling Services ............................................................................................................................. 22

Health Insurance……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….23

Public Safety ................................................................................................................................................................ 24

Spiritual Life ................................................................................................................................................................. 25

The Office for Community Service and Volunteerism………………………………………………………………………....25

Business Office ............................................................................................................................................................ 26

College Store ............................................................................................................................................................... 26

Information Technology ........................................................................................................................................... 27

Computer Labs ............................................................................................................................................................ 27

Transportation ............................................................................................................................................................. 27

Driver’s License ........................................................................................................................................................... 28

Pennsylvania State ID Card ..................................................................................................................................... 29



Cell Phones ................................................................................................................................................................... 29

Immigration Resources

F-1 Student Visa Information .................................................................................................................................. 30

J-1 Student Visa Information……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…..31

Working in the U.S. ..................................................................................................................................................... 31

Social Security Card Information ............................................................................................................................ 31

On-Campus Employment ......................................................................................................................................... 32

Curricular Practical Training .................................................................................................................................... 32

Optional Practical Training ...................................................................................................................................... 34

Activity Resource List

Top Off-Campus Activities List .............................................................................................................................. 36

Watch International Student Video

Welcome

As a new international student at LVC, we want to make sure you feel comfortable on campus, sharing your

own ideas, and exploring those of your faculty and students. The Center for Global Education is here as a

resource to you for the cultural, social, and educational aspects of your time in the States. At LVC, we value

diversity of student interests, perspectives, and experiences. We hope that you will not only be successful as

a student at LVC but that you will also join clubs on campus or start your own, attend musicals, cheer at

sports games, volunteer your time with community service, and make lasting friends and memories. We

understand at times you will be homesick, confused, stressed, or frustrated- and that is okay! Just know that

you can find us whenever you need us and be sure to utilize this handbook to help you navigate the

different resources provided.

Thank you and welcome to LVC,

The Center for Global Education Staff



The Center for Global Education

The Center for Global Education is a resource for international

students, students who are studying abroad/ or planning to study

abroad, as well as a place to raise international awareness around

campus. The center can help you academically, culturally, and

socially as you adjust to life at LVC. Throughout the semester, a

series of events, dinners, and presentations will be held that you can

participate in or help organize. Select Fridays at 3pm is dedicated to

Global Coffee Hour, Global Presentations, and Global Book Club.

There are many opportunities for you to meet new people while you

learn about culture in the United States, different cultures from

around the world, and even share with LVC your own culture and

celebrate your heritage!

Location- Lebegern Learning Commons, Mund College Center

Hours- 8am-4:30pm

Phone Number- 717-867-6418

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directions/center-for-global-education/

Contact- Jill Russell, Director of Global Education

Email- [email protected]

Phone- (717) 867-6076

Contact- Caitlin Murphy, International Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator


Phone- (717)867-6089

Office Location: Carnegie, 1st Floor



Culture Shock Culture Shock can occur after a person has entered a new culture and is experiencing difficulty or

disorientation. Often this difficulty arises from a lack of understanding of new cultural norms and

social cues, as well as facing a different set of values. Culture shock can manifest itself as fatigue,

homesickness, lack of sleep or appetite, isolation, lack

of social interaction and disengagement.

It is important to note that this difficulty is temporary,

and with the right solutions and mindset one can

overcome it. Culture Shock is described as a “U” in

which there are periods of highs and lows. In periods

of low, try to make a routine, eat a balanced diet, get

involved in campus-activities, find people to share

your own culture with, and talk to one of your

advisors or mentors. Remember, counseling services

are available for free at LVC. There will also be a

period of high in which you are able to adjust and adapt to your new life at LVC. Keep a journal

and reflect on your experiences throughout your journey here at LVC. You may even laugh at it

months later.



Photo Gallery



Academic Calendar This resource is a calendar that explains the academic dates for the upcoming

school year. It is a collection including start of classes, finals week, add/drop

period, registration as well as other on-campus activities. The calendar can be

found on the website of the registrar, and accessed via the following link:

http://www.lvc.edu/academics/academic-resources/academic-calendar/

The Registrar What does the Registrar do?

● Manage Student Academic Records

● Publish your Degree Audit, a file that holds information on all of your academic courses

and grades received

● Oversee Course Scheduling and Registration

● Schedule Final Exams

● Evaluate Transfer Credits

● Add/Drop of Courses

● Change/Add Major or Minor

Location- Humanities Building 106 (1st Floor)

Hours- 8am-4:30pm

Phone- 717-867-2615


" If at the beginning you feel overwhelmed about the

new schedule, just talk to your supervisor

(advisor)…[they can] help you to organize until you get

used to the busy University life and later on you will be

able to be more efficient in everything you have to do".

Noelia Carrizo, Fulbright Student, Argentina, ’16-17



Academic Advisors Each student has an academic advisor who is a professor in their major field of study. You should

meet with your advisor regularly to make sure you are on track to graduate. Advisors can help you

pick classes, declare minors, or suggest internships/research. You can find your advisor’s name

listed on your Degree Audit in AccessLVC. If you have more than one major, or a minor, you will

have an advisor for each. It is important that you check-in with your advisors a few times a

semester. Be sure to meet with them in advance of selecting your courses for the next semester to

make sure you are picking courses that will fulfil your degree requirements. These professors are

here to help you so make sure to build strong relationships from the start!

Course Selection

First year students will select classes for the fall semester during the summer and for the spring

semester during the fall. During their first spring semester, they will register for the entire next

year. There will be time periods where students can decide to change the courses they have

registered for. Your academic advisor will help you in scheduling which courses you need to take.

Please be advised that international students must maintain 12 credits at all times. This means that

dropping courses or withdrawing from courses and getting under 12 credits would put an

international student at risk for being out-of-status. Always check with the Center for Global

Education before making changes to your academic schedule.

Website: http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directories/registrar/register-for-classes/

“Lebanon Valley College is a small community that is

composed of numerous welcoming and knowledgeable

faculties and staffs, who would always be willing to help

me in many directions and make me feel at HOME at the

Valley.”

Vichika Than, Biology & Pre-Medicine, Cambodia, ‘17



Grading Scale and GPA Equivalent The standard grading scale is as follows:

A 100-93% A- 92-90% B+ 89-87% B 86-83% B- 82-80%

C+ 79-77% C 76-73% C- 72-70% D+ 69-67% D 66-63%

D- 62-60% F 59% and below

*Some professors change their grading scales so be sure to check your syllabus or speak with your

professor.

Your lettered grades (like the ones listed above) are converted into Grade Point Averages (GPA)

on a 4.0 scale. Your score is averaged to determine your cumulative GPA.

A 4.0 A- 3.66 B+ 3.33 B 3.0 B- 2.66

C+ 2.33 C 2.0 C- 1.66 D+ 1.33 D 1.0

D- .66 F 0.0

Canvas Canvas serves as an online component of most classes. Each class has its’ own Canvas page that is

accessible when you are enrolled into that particular class. Professors use the page in a variety of

different ways, but most will post assignments, grades, lectures, the course syllabus and other

materials. Canvas also has a calendar feature to keep track of due dates, and an online e-portfolio.

You can access Canvas by going to www.lvc.edu, and clicking on MyLVC (top right-hand corner).

On the page, you will see a textbox with the name “Canvas.” Click here and use your LVC

username and password to access the site. You can also download a free Canvas app for your

phone from the App Store as well. If you are experiencing difficulties with Canvas, please call

Information Technology at (717) 867-6060 or email them at [email protected]. It is important that

you familiarize yourself with Canvas as you will need to submit homework, take online quizzes,

access the syllabus, and email professors with this tool.



Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism As explained on the LVC’s Website: Cheating, Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism are defined as:

Cheating and plagiarism are acts of academic dishonesty. Cheating is an act that deceives or

defrauds. It includes, but is not limited to, looking at another’s exam or quiz, using unauthorized

materials during an exam or quiz, colluding on assignments without the permission or knowledge of

the instructor, and furnishing false information for the purpose of receiving special consideration,

such as postponement of an exam, essay, quiz, or deadline of an oral presentation.

Plagiarism is the act of submitting as one’s own the work (the words, ideas, images, or

compositions) of another person or persons without accurate attribution. Plagiarism can manifest

itself in various ways: it can arise from sloppy, inaccurate note-taking; it can emerge as the

incomplete or incompetent citation of resources; it can take the form of the wholesale submission of

another person’s work as one’s own, whether from an online, oral or printed source. The seriousness

of an instance of plagiarism—its moral character as an act of academic dishonesty—normally

depends upon the extent to which a student intends to deceive and mislead the reader as to the

authorship of the work in question. Initially, the instructor will make this determination.

To avoid plagiarism, it is important that you cite your papers. To learn more about proper

citations, please use the Library’s page: http://libguides.lvc.edu/c.php?g=333554&p=2245611

Turn-it-In is a service that some faculty use to check for plagiarized material. Faculty will ask that

you upload a paper or assignment online through Turn-It-In (located in Canvas), and technology

will then compare the content of work to the content found on the internet and databases. It will

give you a score of plagiarism; a low score is okay if you have used quotes throughout your paper

and have properly cited them. A high score is a warning flag that you have not properly cited and

perhaps have plagiarized. A report of your score is then sent to the faculty member and any

student who has plagiarized work will be penalized by the policy. *For more information on

Plagiarism and Academic Honesty, contact Academic Affairs:

Location- Humanities 107

Hours- 8am-4:30pm

Phone- (717)-867-6208

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directions/academic-affairs/ or

http://www.lvc.edu/academics/academic-resources/college-catalogue/academic-regulations-

requirements/



Center for Writing and Tutoring Services What does the Center for Writing and Tutoring Services do?

● Connects students to other 1-on-1 tutors & group tutor (“study

pods”) sessions

● Assists students with writing and research techniques

● Provides effective time management and study techniques

As a new student, taking four to five courses can be challenging. Adding

another language on top of this, can make the stress of homework seem

overwhelming. LVC offers free tutoring services to students. A student

should request a tutor online (see homepage below) or contact Beth Julian for more details. Many

students use tutoring services, regardless of their grades. Please utilize this resource if you need!

Location- Lebegern Learning Commons, Mund College Center

Hours- 8am-4:30pm

Phone Number- (717)-867-6120

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directions/center-for-writing-tutoring-resources/

English as a Second Language (ESL) Support Services English as Second Language (ESL) learners are students, staff or faculty who have learned a

language, other than English, as their primary (first) language. These

students/staff/faculty now are learning or have learned English but may

struggle to write, speak, or comprehend English as quickly as native speakers.

ESL speakers may have grown up overseas and then have moved to the U.S. or

may be speaking a language other than English in their home.

Currently, there are tutors available to help ESL speakers understand grammar,

punctuation, pronunciation, and

writing. In addition to tutoring

services, for incoming students

there is a special section of the

First Year Experience that is

taught by an ESL instructor who

can help students adjust to

college writing and content.

Students may opt to take an

“ESL students provide a unique perspective in my courses. Those

perspectives foster engaging discussions and dialogues that benefit all

participants in the courses…professors want to know your stories, and

they love to share their stories with you."

Theresa Rosenberg, Professor of English & ESL



ESL exam that allows for testing accommodation, (time and a half). To sign up for the exam,

please email [email protected]. Students may receive time and a half on all exams in order to have

the appropriate amount of time to finish their efforts. All students who use this accommodation

letter, will schedule testing times in the testing center with the Director of Disability Resources.

Center for Disability Resources The Center for Disability Resources aids students by offering testing services, note-taking help,

writing class time accommodations such as attendance policy and leaving class during lecture,

along with other resources. Students with disabilities who need to receive accommodations

initiate the process by providing documentation will be made. There are also assistive technology

resources available to students. Please check out “Access for All” for more information.

Location: lower level Mund

Hours: 8am-4:30pm

Phone: (717)-867-6028

Website: http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directories/center-for-disability-resources/

Center for Career Development The center for Career Development helps students explore possibilities for majors and careers,

giving them opportunities to network at events with alumni mentors and online. Career

Development helps build professional skills, knowledge, and leadership to aid in finding a job after

graduation. The office will also help students find and add their work, internships, volunteer and

community service, and participation on campus organization to their resumes. Handshake is an

online system that allows students to apply for jobs and internships as well as register for various

campus events and connect with mentors. This office is also a good resource for graduate school

applications. There is a Career Closet which has professional clothes for everyone that they can

borrow and wear for an interview or professional event.

Location: Center for Career Development, lower level Mund

Hours: Monday-Friday: 8am-4:30pm

Drop-In Hours: Monday & Tuesday: 10am-12pm; Thursday: 2-4pm

Phone: (717) 876-6560

Website: http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directories/center-for-career-development/



Bishop Library The library is a frequented place for students to study, work on group projects, and check out

academic recourses such as books, articles, and movies. There is also a coffee shop that students

are able to purchase food and beverages. Speak with one of the resource librarians for assistance

in conducting research projects or help with citations.

Phone- (717) 867-6360

Hours- Monday – Thursday: 7:30 am-midnight

Friday: 7:30 am-9 pm

Saturday: 10 am – 7 pm

Sunday: noon-midnight

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/library/

Dutchman OneCard The Dutchman OneCard is your school photo identification. This card will give you access into your

dorm, the athletic facilities, pay for you meals on campus in the dining hall, can buy books or

school items in the book store, and buy food/drinks at various places on campus with pre-paid

money called “flex dollars” or more commonly called “flex”. This card will be given to you upon

arrival to campus and it is important to keep with you at all times.

Dining Services Dining Services is run through Metz, a corporation that helps provide all

meals for our college students. There are various places to use meal plans and flex

dollars on campus to buy food.

Mund Dinning Hall is the main cafeteria for meal times. This is a buffet-style food location that

serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the weekdays and brunch and dinner on the weekends. It is

all you can eat, but it is good to remember to only take what you can eat.

Location: Mund

Hours: Monday-Friday: 7-10:30am (Breakfast), 10:45am-4:30pm (Lunch), 4:30-7pm (Dinner)

Saturday & Sunday: 10:30am-2:30pm (Brunch), 4:30-7pm (DinnerWebsite:

http://www.metzlvc.com/mund.html



InterMetzo is one of two coffee shops on campus, located in the building C.A. Lynch Memorial Hall.

It is a great place to grab a snack or a drink during the day. Flex dollars and money are accepted

here.

Hours: Monday-Thursday: 7:30am-9pm; Friday: 7:30am-2pm

Bishop Brews is the second coffee shop on campus. It is located on the first floor of the library.

Bishop Brews offers a variety of coffee and tea as well as various snacks. Hours vary.

Dutchman Den, or more commonly known as the C Store, is an on-campus food store that offers

sandwiches at lunch and food into the night. Meals swipes are accepted here for lunch, Monday-

Friday from 12-3pm, and for dinner, every day from 7-9pm. The store is open Sunday-Friday from

7pm-1am and Saturday from 7pm-2am, where flex dollars can be used to buy food outside of Metz

meals.

Residential Life Residential Life handles housing, roommates, and living situations. New students will live in one of

our traditional dormitories including Funkhouser East/West, Hammond, Keister, Vickroy, Silver,

Mary Green, or Stanson halls. After freshmen year, there are a variety of different housing options

including suites, apartments, and standalone houses. Residential life not only selects your room,

but also helps provide educational resources and programs throughout the year, as well as helping

mediate roommate troubles.

In addition to the Residential Life staff, each hallway has one-two student(s) who are Resident

Assistants (RA). An RA is an upper-level student who is hired by the college to assist students

with their living needs on campus. It is important to get to know your RA and use them as a

resource. RA’s responsibilities include sharing information about living facilities at LVC, assisting

with mail delivery, helping students adjust to college life, resolving lock-outs, and updating

students on college policy, campus events and other announcements. Each building also has

professional staff called an Area Coordinator (AC). These are people whose job it is assist the RAs

and help students when needed. In case of a medical emergency, call 911 and contact your RA

immediately.

Pre-Arrival Bedding Services

Before arriving to campus, you can order linens and ship them to the College. Be sure to send

them to C/O Center for Global Education. If you do not pre-order linens, you may request a

temporary blanket and pillow for your first night by emailing [email protected] in advance of

arrival.



What to Pack

All living spaces at LVC are equipped with a bedframe, mattress, dresser, desk, chair, and closet.

Students should communicate with their roommates prior to arriving to school to see which items

each intends to bring. Most students will bring a refrigerator, lamp, white board, rug, shelves, and

more. Students will share a bathroom but will need to bring their own toiletries and shower

supplies. Here is a suggested list of items to bring:

What to Bring / What Not to Bring:

Bring: • Toiletries • Towels • Medications • Clothing • Surge Protectors and Extension Cords • Laptop / Tablet • Laundry Basket and Detergent • Umbrella • Printer (Optional) • Ethernet Cable • Bedding • Mini Fridge (no larger than 4.5 cubic

feet) • Microwave • Snacks

Don’t Bring:

• Alcohol • Window Air Conditioners • Candles / Incense • Weapons • Dartboards • Lofts • Nails / Hooks / Screws • Pets other than fish • Large Furniture / Desk Chairs

Laundry

At LVC, laundry is free! High efficiency washers allow students to keep their clothes and the

environment as clean as possible. RA’s are available to help students understand how to work the

machines.

Living with a Roommate

Living with another person for the first time can be a challenge. Roommates need to communicate

openly about expectations and rules of the room. Remember, it is important to understand cultural

differences can add stress to a living situation. Roommates will need to learn to compromise more

as both students settle into dorm life at LVC and is important to communicate concerns early and

in an understanding way. RAs help provide advice and counsel if two roommates are struggling. If

two roommates have a lasting disagreement, RA’s can set up a mediation session which allows the

RA to help roommates state their claim and help to hear the other side. By the end of the

mediation, each student will sign a roommate agreement form that has been formulated during

the meeting by both sides. It is the policy that a roommate mediation will occur prior to any

moving of rooms or switching of roommates.



Location- Center for Student Engagement, Mund College Center

Hours- 8am-4:30pm

Phone Number- (717) 867-6230

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directions/office-of-residential-life/

Drug and Alcohol Policy LVC allows students who are over the age of 21, (the legal drinking age in the United States), to

possess and consume alcohol on campus. However, students may only possess two 6-packs of

beer, one 6-pack of wine coolers, 1 litter of wine, OR 1 litter of distilled alcohol. Drugs are not

allowed on campus or in student possession for any reason. Tobacco is the only acceptable drug

for students to use but this must take place outside of the dorm/campus buildings, following all

policies. Violations to these policies will result in consequences. For more information, go to

http://www.lvc.edu/life-at-lvc/student-handbook/college-policies/

The Office for Intercultural Affairs and Inclusive Programs The Office for Intercultural Affairs and Inclusive Programs provides services to the entirety of campus through personal and academic advising, promoting educational programs to promote diversity, various conferences, leadership opportunities, and community networks. The office also promotes and builds a community of advocacy and awareness on LVC’s campus. Location- Center for Student Engagement, Mund College Center

Hours- 8am -4:30pm

Phone Number- (717) 867-6165

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directories/intercultural-affairs-inclusive-programs/



Student Activities With more than 90 clubs, organizations, and initiatives, most of which are

run-by and made-up entirely of students, getting involved at LVC is easy. If

you are looking for guidance about what clubs to join, The Center for

Student Engagement can help you out. Each year, there is a can’t-miss

activities fair during the first few weeks of classes that provide students the

opportunity to learn about and sign up for clubs and organizations that

interest you. If you have an interest that doesn’t fit into the already-existing

clubs on campus, you can always petition to

start one of your own!

Location- Mund College Center, Center for

Student Engagement

Hours- 8am -4:30pm

Phone Number- (717) 867-6235

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/life-at-lvc/student-activities/special-interest-groups/

Redbook Redbook is a service for LVC students that offers various events on the weekends. These are called

bus trips and frequently go to museums, sporting events, amusement parks, and cities such as

Washington D.C., New York City, Lancaster and more! These are either

free or of little cost. Sign up by going to MyLVC, finding the textbox that

says “Redbook”, and search for events that you are interested in.

The Global Education Club The Global Education Club is a group of international students, students who have studied abroad,

or simply those who have international or cultural interest. The club meets regularly and helps to

internationalize campus from the ground up. Students in this club have the opportunity to meet

“Dive head first in to everything LVC has to offer, there's so much going on that you'll always find something that interests you. Sign up for loads of things at the activity fair and then actually go along to them. This the easiest and best way to make friends!”

Daniel Downey, StudyUSA Student, Northern Ireland, ‘17



others from around the world, having the opportunity to compare and contrast different countries

and culture. Some of the events that the Global Education Club sponsors annually are:

● International Education Week

● International Food Festival

● Global Coffee Hours & Presentations

● International Holidays and Festivals Global

Education Facebook Page- https://www.facebook.com/LVC-Global-Education-Club-

1480149715543293/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel or contact [email protected]

Study Abroad

Watch Study Abroad Video

As an international student at LVC, you are afforded the same opportunities to study abroad as

any other student. The only stipulation is that you may not study abroad in your home country.

When studying abroad for a semester, LVC students pay the same tuition amount to go overseas

and in most cases students will retain all of their aid/scholarships. LVC has nearly 20 programs

that touch Europe, Asia, and the Americas. There are semester-based programs, spring-break

trips, and summer short-term faculty-led programs. Some programs allow for language learning

and host families as well as internships and service learning. A GPA requirement is set specific to

“Try and immerse yourself in college life as much as possible whether

that's through joining clubs such as Global Ed., actively contributing

in class or even getting a job- that way you'll be able to meet and

learn from so many different people that you wouldn't have the

opportunity to cross paths with otherwise.”

Emer Gilmore, StudyUSA Student, Northern Ireland, ‘16



each program, so make sure to speak with your advisor immediately if you are interested in

pursuing this opportunity.

● Spring Semester Study Abroad Deadline: October 15; Italy is August 1 ● Fall Semester Study Abroad Deadline: March 15 ● Summer Semester Study Abroad Deadline: February 1

Location- Center for Global Education, lower level Mund

Hours- 8am-4:30pm

Phone- (717) 867-6076

Website: http://www.lvc.edu/academics/study-abroad/

The Arnold Sports Center

The Sports Center is located across the train tracks on the North side of campus. To access this

facility, please use your LVC student ID card and it is free of charge.

The Sports Center offers the following amenities to students:

● A six-lane, 25-meter lap pool

● Three racquetball courts that can be converted into volleyball courts

“I strongly recommend to study abroad because I have

learned so many things and have become more mature.

I learned how to take care of myself, learned the culture

as well as people’s different lifestyles. It is of interest to

see famous monuments with my own eyes rather than

from the text books or tv.”

Mai Phan, Global Studies & Politics, Vietnam, ‘20



● Arena area that includes four courts, with each converting into basketball, volleyball, or

tennis courts

● Sauna in locker rooms

● A four-lane, 196-meter track

● A fitness center fully-equipped with cardio and strength training equipment

● Warm water wellness pool

Location- North Side of Campus, near athletic fields

Hours- View website for hours. Fitness center, pools, and fitness classes vary each semester.

Phone- (717) 867-636

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/sportsCenter/

Varsity Athletics and Club Sports With over 25 of men’s and women’s varsity sports like soccer, basketball, lacrosse, ice hockey, and

tennis, LVC students compete in Division III of the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC). To see a

complete list of sporting opportunities or to learn more about LVC athletics, visit

www.godutchmen.com.

The sports center also offers club sports including volleyball, flag-football, and basketball. To

register for club sports, go http://www.lvc.edu/life-at-lvc/fitness-recreation/intramural-sports/

This link will allow you to create a personal account in the “imleagues” database for Lebanon

Valley College. Captains should register a team name in the selected sport and invite prospective

teammates to register under that team name. If you have any questions you can email Melissa at

[email protected]. All games are played in the evenings, Sunday through Wednesday. All captains and

players will be guided to take a quiz prior

to registering.

"Being part of a team sport is my favorite

thing about being at college. Joining a

team whether it's varsity or intramural level

will help keep you active, plus… you will meet

lots of other friendly LVC students!"

Jillian Moffatt, Digital Communications, Canada, ‘20



Health and Counseling Services The Shroyer Health Center provides physical and emotional care to students and promotes health

and wellness to the entire community. The health center aims to emphasize wellness through their

support of the academic and social

development of students. Staffed

by registered nurses and part-time

physicians, the staff provides

services to assist students with

ordinary medical needs of full-time

students, and can assist with emergency medical needs of the larger College community. A

registered nurse is available Monday–Friday 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for evaluation and triage at the

health center. For after-hours sickness or emergencies- you should contact your Resident

Assistant (RA), Area Coordinator (AC); or Public Safety (717-867-6111) for immediate assistance.

For medical emergencies call 911. The on-call practitioner’s telephone number to call for health

care advice after hours and weekends is 717-867-4671. There are also counseling services that give

students someone to talk to about life (50-50 Peer Helpers) or a certified psychiatrist. These

services are free to students and an appointment should be made to see a certified psychiatrist.

There are also other programs available to students such as OASIS, which meets weekly to discuss

how to overcome challenging or awkward situations in college.

Location- 83 Sheridan Ave

Hours- Monday-Friday: 10:30am- 3pm

Phone- (717) 867-6232

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directories/health-services/

Health Insurance In order to see a doctor in the United States, you will need health insurance. LVC provides mandatory international health insurance coverage for you as a student. Students are eligible to waive this coverage if they meet the right requirements (see below). If you are sick, first stop at the LVC Health Center and ask the nurse on call for advice. From there the nurse may suggest for you to see a doctor. Please check with the Center for Global Education about the offices that are close to campus and within your health insurance network. Be sure to let the Center for Global Education if you are experiencing extreme sickness, pain, or have any emergency. Be sure to bring your health insurance card with you to any appointment, and always ask for a receipt as well as information regarding your visit.



Health Insurance Coverage Lebanon Valley College requires all residential international students to maintain medical insurance that provides coverage in the United States. Therefore, enrollment in the Lebanon Valley College sponsored health insurance plan is automatic and the cost of the policy is included in the student’s tuition and fees invoice. In certain cases, students holding comparable insurance policy coverage may be eligible to waive enrollment in the LVC's health insurance plan. In addition to personal health insurance coverage, the comparable plan must include the following benefits and minimum limits in order to be considered for an exemption:

Additionally, students will provide evidence that the comparable policy has a health insurance claims office based in the United States. Students requesting a waiver review of their individual insurance policy should submit the following information to [email protected] by Aug. 1 for fall semester and Dec. 1 for spring semester:

• Insurance company name • Insurance company phone number and claims address • Policy number • Policy holder name and date of birth • Photocopy of policy holder ID (if already purchased) • Detailed list of coverage benefits

After review and acceptance of your submitted waiver form, your Lebanon Valley College tuition invoice will be credited the automatic policy premium. Please note that the waiver request must be renewed every academic year.

Public Safety The Office of Public Safety maintains a safe

and secure campus for all students, staff, and

visitors through 24-hour, seven-days a week

service. Public Safety strives to keep the

campus safe but also to educate students and

staff alike, through a series of courses

including RAD (Rape Aggression Defense)

International Students Attending Classes at Lebanon Valley College Emergency Accident & Sickness

$100,00 Can be included in personal health insurance if coverage extends to care in the United States.

Medical Evacuation $250,000 Repatriation $50,000



classes, and Green Dot training, to name a few. Students may register their cars at Public Safety,

secure parking passes for visitors, and request personal pick-up services/escort rides.

Location- Corner of Sheridan and College Avenue

Hours- Office hours vary, 24/7 phone service

Phone- (717) 867-6111

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directories/public-safety/

Spiritual Life

The mission of the Office of Spiritual Life is to support and nurture the faith development and

ethical growth of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of Lebanon Valley College so that

caring and concern for others is a core value within the LVC community. Spiritual life supports this

mission by giving students the opportunity to attend programming in a variety of religious

traditions. Additionally, the Office attempts to shape students into people appreciative of

differences, and of broad vision.

Location- Miller Chapel

Hours- hours vary

Phone-(717) 867-6135

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directions/spiritual-life/

The Office of Community Service and Volunteerism Community Service is an important part of the LVC

experience. Most students participate in multiple

community service opportunities throughout their

four years. Students also have the opportunity to earn

Gold, Silver, and Bronze Community Service Awards

after completion of at least 25 community service

hours.

Location- Lebegern Learning Commons, Mund

College Center

Hours- 8am-4:30pm

Phone- (717) 867-6167

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/life-at-lvc/community-service/



Business Office The Business Office is the resource office for any questions related to student accounts, tuition

payments, and refunds. Bills are prepared in early July and late November for each semester.

There is a late charge of $200 per semester if a student does not make a payment in full by the

stated deadline. Charges for items such as College Store purchases, are added monthly to a

student’s account. Statements are sent out mid-month and are due 14 days after billing. Students

can pay by international wire for tuition or any other charges. Please ask the Business Office for

instructions.

Location- Humanities 110

Hours- 8am-4:30 pm

Phone- (717) 867-6300

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/business-office/index.aspx

College Store Textbooks can be purchased in store or by visiting the College website:

http://lvc.bncollege.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/TBWizardView?catalogId=10001&langId=-

1&storeId=65216 Options in purchasing textbooks include “new,” “used,” and “rental.” Each option

has a different fee and return policy, so please clarify before purchasing. An original receipt must

be presented for a full refund through the first 30 days of the semester.

Textbooks in America can be very expensive, and so expect to pay around or over $500 per

semester, depending on the course and book option selected. To make a purchase at the

bookstore, students may pay in the following options:

● Cash

● Credit/ Debit Card

● Check

● LVC account (by swiping student’s LVC ID card)

If using the LVC account a minimum of $15 is required to place a charge. The charge will show up

non-itemized each month and will need to be paid by the end of the month. Besides textbooks,

the College store offers merchandise, novels, supplies, graduation materials and more.

Location- First Floor of the Mund College Center

Hours- Mondy-Thursday: 9am-5pm, Friday: 9am-4pm

Phone- (717) 867-6313

Webpage:http://lvc.bncollege.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/BNCBHomePage?storeId=65216&

catalogId=10001&langId=-1



Information Technology Information Technology (IT) offers services to help students with their computers and other

devices. Students will log into the LVC network and register their devices in order to access the

free campus wifi. Please note that every 90 days, students must reset their passwords to their LVC

emails. Notifications will be sent out days prior, but it is important that you change your password

before it runs out. Otherwise you will be locked out of the LVC network and need to utilize IT for

help. Any issues with wifi, LVC email, passwords, devices, and printing can be addressed with the

IT staff. To connect to wifi, you will need to use your LVC username and password.

Location: Basement of C.A Lynch Memorial Hall

Hours- 8am-4:30pm

Phone- (717) 867-6072

Webpage- http://www.lvc.edu/offices-directories/information-technology/

Computer Labs Each semester, students are eligible to print 1,500 pages of paper/material for classes for free.

After the 1,500 pages, students may purchase an additional 500 pages for $35 a semester. There

are a number of locations where students can print school-related material:

● Bishop Library

● Neidig-Garber

● C.A. Lynch Memorial Hall in the Lynch Technology Center (color printer here)

● Lower level Mund

● Yuhas Commons

Transportation Lebanon Valley College is a walkable campus where a personal vehicle is not necessary, except for

traveling off-campus. Currently, Lebanon Transit sponsors a bus route that passes by the college

daily (route 8), heading west (towards Hershey) and east (towards Lebanon). The bus costs $2

each way unless an LVC student identification card is shown, and then the cost is dropped to only

$1 each way. The bus picks up in Annville Square (in front of, and slightly right of the Fulton Bank

on Main Street), but unfortunately there is not a designated bus stop or signage marked. You can

also pick up a bus here that can take you to Harrisburg Train station for just $1 with your student

ID. This route is designated as a “Commuter King” route. During orientation, you will have the

opportunity to ride the bus and learn more about how to get around the area.



On select weekends,

LVC offers a free

shuttle service to

Walmart and Target so

students can purchase

materials without

having to arrange for

transportation. Please

see Redbook for the

next trip!

Driver’s License For those who are interested in having access to a car for weekend or holiday travel, applying for

a driver’s license may be a useful alternative to using the bus or train system. Please see the

following 6 steps to apply:

1. Apply for a Driver’s Permit.

2. Take the Written Exam

3. Complete all of the Behind the Wheel Requirements

4. Attend Driving School

5. Take the Driver’s Test

6. Pass the Test and Enjoy your new Driving Privileges

The nearest testing center is: 900 East Cumberland Street, Lebanon, PA 17042. To set up an

appointment, please call (800) 932-4600. For more information or to make an appointment

online, please check out the DMV website here.

To prepare for your driving permit, please review this guide. In order to gain experience, you could

also sign up for a Driver’s Ed course. Please use this link to learn more about resources in the area

and online.

All drivers in the United States are required to have car insurance and have their vehicle inspected

once a year. For more information on car insurance please use this link:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vehicle_insurance_in_the_United_States . For information on car

inspections please use this link:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vehicle_inspection_in_the_United_States.



Pennsylvania State ID Card In order to apply for a PA state ID, you must take the documents listed below to a Social Security

Office. The closest office to campus is the Lebanon Office located at 924 Russell Drive, Lebanon,

Pa 17042. No appointments can be made in advance so it is best to visit the office within the

following work hours:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday: 9am-4pm Wednesday: 9am-noon Saturday & Sunday: Closed

If you have any questions you can call the office at 1-800-325-0778.

Students should present the following documents for application:

• Valid Passport • I-94 card: can be found online here. • Social Security Card or a letter from the Social Security Administration explaining

your ineligibility for a Social Security number • Valid I-20 • Two documents that serve as proof of residency:

§ Tax Records § Lease Agreements § Mortgage Documents § W-2 Form § Current Utility Bills (gas, water, electric, cable)

Cell Phones Cell phones and plans can be purchased at an individual provider store such as AT&T, Verizon, and

T-Mobile, to name a few. Alternatively, students can also purchase pay-as-you-go

phones and plans that allow students a more affordable rate to call and text within

the U.S. If students want a data-plan it is advisable that they visit one of the stores

listed above for more information on costs and options. In the U.S., cell phone

plans and phones, can be quite pricey, so it is important to do research prior to

buying one. It is also important to note that most phones in the U.S. are not

unlocked, which means the phone will not be able to be used outside of the U.S. Be sure to

purchase an “unlocked” phone if you plan on using it at home. At LVC, wifi is free, so students can

use free calling or texting applications to communicate with family back home.



F-1 Student Visa Information Step 1: Secure Form I-20

Once all of your application materials have been received by LVC, the LVC Admission team will

issue a decision. If accepted, a deposit of $500 must be paid before LVC can issue and mail a Form

I-20. The I-20 is vital in order to apply for your visa. For more information on how to get started,

please visit this site.

Step 2: Complete the Visa Application

Using this link, complete the visa application online. First select your location, then click "Start an

Application." You will be required to upload a photo online. You can complete the application in

stages so make sure to save all inputted information.

Step 3: Pay the SEVIS Fee (I-901 fee)

Using this link, fill out the form and pay the necessary fee with a credit card online. You will need

to print out a receipt of proof of payment for your interview with a consular officer. Make sure to

make a copy of your receipt and documents as you will hand this in with other documents at the

time of the interview.

Step 4: Schedule an Interview

Locate the closest US consulate in your country/region. Schedule an appointment for applying for

an F-1 visa.

“College is the best time to have fun and meet friends that

last a life time. The coolest thing is that these friends can be

from any corner of the world!”

Shen “Isaac” Lu- Actuarial Science Graduate ’15- ***Now pursuing his PHD at the University of Colorado, Boulder



J-1 Student Visa Information LVC cannot issue J-1 visas, so any student with a J-1 visa has their immigration record held by

another U.S sponsored-institution. In order to apply for a J-1 visa, please follow these steps. For

more information on this visa, please visit: https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/how-to-

apply/interviews-documents/ Length of program and requirements vary by program.

*J-1 students can work on campus up to 20 hours a week and 40 hours over break or vacation

periods. Before applying for a Social Security Card, make sure you have reported your arrival in

the U.S. to the institution that holds your record, i.e. Fulbright. Please allow at least 10 days after

arrival and reporting before applying for a Social Security Card.

Working in the U.S. In order to legally work in the United States, all students must have a social security card that

allows students to receive payment. Students must apply for a social security card at the start of

work in the United States. Please see below details on how to apply.

Social Security Card Information The following documents are required for applying for a social security card:

● Original Form I-20 or DS-2019

● Employment Offer Letter (stipulating start date (set this date on the same date you apply

for the card), hours of work a week, type of work, responsibilities, address etc). This must

be written by your supervisor at work.

● Valid passport (along with old passport if it contains your F-1 visa)

● Printout of your electronic I-94 information, which can be obtained here.

● Form SS-5 (SS Application): http://www.socialsecurity.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf

● Copies of Passport Picture, Visa Picture, and I-20 or Ds-2019

Students can begin working without the actual card in hand, as it generally takes two weeks to

receive a S.S. card in the mail. Students cannot be paid at LVC, until the S.S card number has been

reported to Human Resources. Make sure to take your S.S. card, I-20 or DS-2019, passport, and

visa along with necessary paperwork to Human Resources to arrange for payments.

The closest Social Security Office is located just under 20 minutes away in Lebanon:

● 924 Russell Drive Lebanon, PA 17042



Please leave ample time (at least two hours) as no official appointments can be scheduled. The

hours of operations are: Monday-Fridays 9am-4pm with the exception of Wednesday, in which the

hours are 9am-noon. Social security offices are not opened on weekends. If you have any

questions you may call 1-800-325-0778.

On-Campus Employment As early as the first year of study, international students can begin working on campus up to 20

hours a week during the academic year, and up to 40 hours a week over break or vacation

periods. To find an opening, please search the Student Job Board through the Human Resources

Website: http://www.lvc.edu/admission/tuition-financial-aid/types-of-financial-aid/student-

employment/job-board/

Remember, jobs fill up quickly so do not wait! In order to be paid, a student must have applied for

a social security card prior/or at the start date to begin working, as well as complete a W-4 and I-

9 form that can be found in the Office of Payroll Benefits (Humanities 108). For payroll procedures

please see this link for more details. Although students can work on campus, students are not

eligible to work off-campus, unless they have logged an economic hardship, which is a process

that needs approval through the Center for Global Education. Working illegally in the United

States could revoke your status and result in an enforced immediate departure from the United

States. Be very careful and cautious before accepting a job offer, and have it approved by the

Center for Global Education prior.

F-1 students have the opportunity to participate in Curricular Practical Training and Optional

Practical Training once they have met the requirements, depending on undergraduate or graduate

curriculum. These training opportunities differ in time-line, length, and purpose, but commonalities

do exist. Please read the information below to see if you are eligible to apply.

Curricular Practical Training

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is defined as “alternate work/study, internship, cooperative

education, or any other type of required internship or practicum which is offered by sponsoring

employers through cooperative agreements with the school.” If a cooperative agreement is not in

place, the employer must write a letter supporting the student stipulating the specifics of the

internship or training and how it relates to the curricular goals of the student.

Applying for Curricular Practical Training

1. Review CPT Eligibility and Requirements



2. Schedule a meeting with the Center for Global Education to discuss CPT eligibility.

3. Schedule a meeting with your Academic Advisor and discuss the CPT opportunity.

4. Complete the CPT Request Form with Academic Advisor signature.

5. Obtain an Employer Sponsor Letter that stipulates the following:

a. Your name (must match Passport Name), the type of responsibilities, the

work/training you will be completing (in detail), how this work and training will

relate to your coursework and major, the number of hours per week of work

(including days etc.), whether or not you will be compensated for your work and if

so, what the hourly rate will be, start date and end date of training/internship.

6. Once steps 1-5 have been completed, please sign up with the Center for Global Education

for a time to review CPT requirements and regulations as well as receiving your new Form

I-20 with printed CPT authorization.

* For forms and information, please visit the website: http://www.lvc.edu/admission/how-to-

apply/international-students/requirements/curricular-practical-training/

"As an international student, I had a great experience in pursuing my MBA at Lebanon Valley College. I enjoyed the course since the faculty was very knowledgeable and helped me relate the MBA course to my job responsibility at PennDOT and real-life examples. The staff in the college…were always available to answer my questions related to CPT and OPT… I would be thankful to Bob Dillane for giving me the internship opportunity in college’s IT department. The CPT is a great opportunity for international students to gain professional experience while pursuing the MBA; it also prepares the students for their bright future after completing the MBA."

Ruchi Tiwari, MBA Graduate ’16 *** Now working with PENNDOT



Optional Practical Training Practical training is a type of employment opportunity for F-1 students. There are two types of

Optional Practical Training:

1) Pre-completion

2) Post-completion

Pre-completion OPT can be pursued after a student has spent one year studying at an

SEVP-certified school. For more information on pre-completion OPT, please see the Center for

Global Education for more details.

Post-completion OPT is most common and allows students to live and work in the U.S.

after graduation for up to 12 months. OPT is a process in which international students can apply to

the United States Customs and Border Control (USCIS) for the opportunity to remain in the

country and find meaningful work that relates to their major. This type of work is only available for

F-1 students who have completed a program in the U.S. (having been in the U.S. for at least one

full academic year) and are pursuing work in their major of study. The following process should be

followed to apply for OPT.

1) Set up a meeting with the Center for Global Education to learn about eligibility and

timelines.

2) A Designated School Official (International student Advisor) will request OPT

opportunity by updating your Form-I-20. Please have potential employment

information ready including employer and type of work as well as how this work

relates to your field of study.

3) Student must complete form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Please

print this form out and complete in blue or black ink.

4) Students must write a check for $410 to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

5) A copy of your I-94 card. To print online click here.

6) A copy of a passport

7) A copy of your visa

8) Previous EAD cards if applicable

9) Two 2x2 inch passport photos

i. White Background ii. Glossy Thin photo paper iii. Full face and meeting these dimensions:

1. Head should be from 1 inch to 1 3/8 inches high 2. Eyes open & natural expression



3. No Shadows 4. In pencil, write name, I-94 number, and SEVIS ID #

10) Students must mail in application and supporting documents no later than 30 days

after OPT was requested by a Designated School Official. Before mailing documents,

please set up an appointment with the Center for Global Education to review your

application package. To mail application use either of these options and be sure to get

tracking on sent packages:

a. USPS- United States Postal Service Deliveries:

USCIS

Attn: AOS

2501 S. State Highway 121

Business Suite 400

Lewisville, TX 75067

b. Courier and Express Mail Service Deliveries:

USCIS

P.O. Box 660867

Dallas, TX 75266

Please note there are opportunities for STEM students to apply for an extension to their OPT

period.

Students must communicate to the Center for Global Education as well as USCIS any changes in

work, status, travel, etc. within 10 days of the change. If approved, students must find

employment. In total, students can only accrue up to 90 days of unemployment throughout their

entire OPT period of 12 months. If employment is not secured or if a student exceeds the allotted

unemployment amount, students will forfeit their OPT and must return home. USCIS may request

more information with a “RFE,” Request for Further Evidence. At this point, a student will need to

immediately send in additional information so the decision can be adjudicated. Please work with

the Center for Global Education on any additional submissions. For more guidance, please visit this

website: https://www.uscis.gov/working-united-states/students-and-exchange-visitors/students-

and-employment/optional-practical-training



Top Off-Campus Activities List Restaurants within Walking Distance

● Annville Grille (American)

● MJ’s Coffee House (American)

● J&S Pizza Shop (Italian)

● The Batdorf (Mexican/Texan)

● Subway (American)

Restaurants within Short Driving Distance

• Miss Saigon (Vietnamese)

• Wasabi (Japanese)

• Komi (Pan-Asian)

• China Moon (Chinese)

• Cumberland Café (Middle Eastern)

Things to do on the Weekends:

● Go to Hershey Park

● Go shopping at the Hershey Outlets

● Hike Mount Gretna

● Watch a movie at the Allen Theater

● Visit the Quittie Park

● Attend a Redbook Event

● Go Bowling at The Sink Hole

Cities Nearby:

● Hershey, PA

● Harrisburg, PA

● Lancaster, PA

● Philadelphia, PA

● Pittsburgh, PA

● Washington, D.C.

● Baltimore, MD

● New York City, NY