by Christy Koumakis
Things I have learned about ASU campus life that I wish I knew before coming to the US:
ASU Dining Halls
Most students cook at home so the dining halls are mainly freshmen who are required to buy a pass. Unless you have friends who also have a dining hall pass, it might not be worth the money to buy the most expensive pass. I live off campus, so I was recommended an express pass that gives meal swipes and M&G’s (Maroon and Gold dollars to use at eateries on campus). I don’t think it was much cheaper than buying a regular meal. You can buy a meal plan when you get on campus, so it is worth exploring your options first when you arrive before buying a plan.
Sports Games
Make the most of the free student passes to college sports games. On the ASU Game Day app, you can get free student passes to a lot of college sports games. There is a specific student section that you sit in and it is a great way to see sports games for free. My favourite sports game so far has been the ice hockey.
Public Transport
Public Transport is not very reliable here so keep that in mind when considering how to get around. The city of Tempe provide free buses called the Tempe Orbit and they go to certain parts of Tempe. The other options are the city bus, the street car and the metro train.
Weather
The weather is so nice here! We had a long (hot) summer but it does get cooler as it goes into fall and winter, so keep this in mind when packing. They also have monsoon season which means it will rain a bit, have thunderstorms and lightening. I’m glad I packed a rain jacket.
Exchange Rate / Flights
I bought a flight with only one checked bag thinking I would buy everything here. The exchange rate isn’t the greatest at the moment so some things weren’t a whole lot cheaper to buy over here compared to back in NZ. It’s also worth considering booking with an airline that has a cheap or a free second checked bag if you are planning on bringing or buying a lot while you are overseas.
Waikato Global Experiences Blog 