Author: admin

The list below shows newest posts first. In order to follow my guide, ensure you read in reverse order- so start reading from the bottom- i.e. oldest ones first

  • Move-out & Summer Storage

    Move-out & Summer Storage

    This is it! You are finishing your first year at Purdue. All students in the dorms must move out from the dorm along with their belongings (even if they are returning to the same room on campus next year!) The last day for move-out is normally the day after the semester ends. For the 2024-2025…

  • Renewing your F-1 Visa

    Renewing your F-1 Visa

    If you plan to take a trip outside the United States (U.S.) or return to your home country for a temporary visit, you must confirm that you will have the proper visa documents to return to the U.S. If your visa stamp will be expired at the time of your reentry to the U.S, you…

  • Filing Taxes – With US Income

    Filing Taxes – With US Income

    If you earn US Income as a F1 Student, you will need to file tax returns. Read on to get the details. Disclaimer- This information is meant as an overview for educational purposes only for international students and scholars and is not a substitute for tax or legal advice obtained from the Internal Revenue Service…

  • Filing Taxes – Form 8843 for No US Income

    Filing Taxes – Form 8843 for No US Income

    Filing taxes as an international student is required for all F-1 visa holders, even if you decide not to work while pursuing your education. Don’t let questions about Social Security numbers and tax forms intimidate you. It’s easy to file with a little bit of prep work and this guide. Disclaimer- This information is intended…

  • Maintaining Your F-1 Status.

    Maintaining Your F-1 Status.

    While studying in the United States, it is important to maintain your F-1 student status. Your status relates to the purpose, or reason for why you want to come to the United States. A F-1 student visa means that you have come to the United States to study. You should not take any action that…

  • Driving in the USA – Licences & Lessons

    Driving in the USA – Licences & Lessons

    I’m assuming you are an international student already holding a driver’s license from your own country and know how to drive. In case you do not have a Driving licence from your home country and/or you need driving lessons/ brush up for your tests;

  • Choosing Your Major (T2M for Engineering)

    Choosing Your Major (T2M for Engineering)

    Many First Year Engineering (FYE) students know from the outset what they will pursue. Some may have dreamed of becoming an Aeronautics and Astronautics Engineer (AAE) from their childhood, while others have been fascinated by Formula 1 Racing and Mechanical Engineering (ME). If that’s you, then you are lucky. However, my son wasn’t so sure.…

  • Change of Degree Objective (CODO)

    Change of Degree Objective (CODO)

    Are you thinking of changing your major? At Purdue that’s called a CODO (Change of Degree Objective), and you start the process by reaching out to your current academic advisor for guidance and begin the online process. Computer Science, Pro-Flight, Nursing and Engineering are likely the most competitive majors on campus, but they are not…

  • Travelling while a F-1 Student
  • Things to do around Purdue

    Things to do around Purdue

    Generally you will be too busy to venture much outside campus but if you have free time on weekends, here are some fun things to go do:

  • Underground Tunnels at Purdue

    Underground Tunnels at Purdue

    Purdue has a somewhat-extensive system of tunnels connecting some of its buildings. There are 3 primary tunnel systems and many other smaller ones. This Google Maps page shows an overview of these tunnel systems. They are very useful during the winter months as you avoid the snow and the icy paths.

  • Getting a Haircut

    Getting a Haircut

    If you’re new to the area, finding a good barber or stylist can take some trial and error. Luckily, other Boilermakers have done just that. Here are some local businesses with recommendations that I culled from Reddit;