During International Student Orientation, new students and current students meet over lunch. At our Winter 2026 Orientation, current students gave the following advice. We share the advice with you, future students of LCC.
What advice do you have for new students?
Current students offered a mix of tips for adjusting to the American education system and promoting resources on our campus.
- Introduce yourself to your faculty
- Join in the activities! Clubs and campus housing events are great ways to connect with friends
- Events at the RCA (Rose Center for the Arts) are free for students
- You can borrow a laptop from the campus library for free
- The campus library will buy back your textbooks
- WinCo is the cheapest place for groceries
- If it's too hard, don't add extra pressure
- Don't be afraid to knock on dorms. Ask for help, ask for eggs or ask how to do laundry.
- Find ways to entertain yourself
When you first arrived in the U.S., what culture shock did you experience?
- All trash in one bin. There are very few recyclers. In our home country, bottles, glass, plastics, and paper are all separated. Here, there is maybe one bin, or maybe a bin for aluminum cans.
- During my orientation, I was jetlagged. I just followed my new friends during the tour. I didn't pay attention. As a result, I didn’t know where my classrooms were on my first day. I had to ask a lot of questions during the first week. Don’t be like me. Instead, pay attention and visit the International Office for help.
- Sales tax and tipping culture. When you are shopping or eating at a restaurant, the price on the object or menu isn’t the price you pay. You will pay more with tax or tips.
What are some of the most useful purchases you have made?
Current students offered practical suggestions for the new students settling into campus housing. While there are several shopping options within walking distance, students are quick to promote WinCo as their favorite place for grocery shopping.
- Toilet paper
- Sauces and spices from WinCo
- Dish soap
- Filter water pitcher
- Humidifier
See related student stories in: Expectation vs. Reality
Contact International Programs
The office is open for students and visitors Monday - Thursday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm and Fridays 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. Office hours during the breaks may differ, and the campus is closed on Fridays during the Summer session. We are in Pacific Daylight Time (UTC-7) from March through November, and Pacific Standard Time (UTC-8) from December through February.
International Programs Office
Alan Thompson Library (LIB) 110
(360) 442-2310
international@lowercolumbia.edu