Since the climate in Tacoma varies greatly from day to day, we recommend that you bring a wide range of clothing with you. You will need items such as a heavy winter coat or jacket, boots, gloves, hats and raingear. You will also need lightweight items, such as shorts, sandals and t-shirts for during warmer weather. Most importantly, bring clothes and shoes that you are going to be most comfortable with. Students dress casually on-campus.
It is never a good idea to travel with large sums of money. We recommend that students bring a combination of cash, traveler’s checks, and/or credit cards to meet the initial costs of getting to campus, and at least the first month’s expenses. Students should also plan to open a bank account once they are here and have their family or sponsor wire-transfer money to your account (see money matters section for more details).
If you require any prescription medication or eyewear, be sure to bring them with you. It is also a good idea to idea to bring an extra supply of any medicines that you are used to using at home, an extra set of eyeglasses or contact lenses, and for your doctor to provide a copy of the prescriptions. If you have any health concerns or medical conditions, bring a copy of a copy of medical, dental, immunization records.
Depending on your educational plans, you may be spending a long period of time away from home. To help prevent homesickness, it is a good idea to bring personal items such as pictures of your family and friends, small gifts, traditional clothes, maps, posters, music, and items that represent you or your culture. These items will be helpful for you to introduce yourself and your country to people who you meet here. These items will also keep you feel close to your home.
There will be events on campus in which students are encouraged to share their cultures and traditions through demonstrations and performances. Please bring traditional dresses, musical instruments, stationeries or other items that represent your country or culture!
Although there are strict rules on customs, you may want to pack a few non-perishable foods, sweets and/or cooking spices. Sharing your food is also a great way to make friends and to share part of your culture with others!
There will be events on campus in which students are encouraged to share dishes from home! Please bring your favorite recipes and items that you need to cook the dish which are difficult to obtain in US.
Hand-carry passport and immigration documents on the airplane and make copies. Bring contact information of your family members, friends or sponsors. If possible, bring your high school and/or college records. Do Not Pack These Items In Your Checked Luggage!
Please also keep the following contact information with you:
Akane Yamaguchi Assistant Director of International Student Services, PDSO Student Involvement and Leadership Office Pacific Lutheran Univeristy (253) 535-8294 Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM (253) 535-7441 Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.