Trinity College
International
Student
Handbook
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Welcome
A warm welcome to Trinity College! The Office of International Programs (OIP) and the international
student advisor look forward to getting to know you and working with you to make your stay at
Trinity College one of the most productive and fulfilling experiences of your academic career.
International students at Trinity come from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. We
invite you to use this handbook and our website as a resource for academic, cultural, social and
immigration information as you adjust to life in the United States and at Trinity.
Important information:
Office of International Programs
66 Vernon Street
Hartford, CT 06106
USA
(860) 297-2005
Contacts:
Tamara Kribs ([email protected])
International Student and Scholar Coordinator
Preparing to Travel to the U.S.
Visas
International students must have a visa to attend school in the United States. All international
students (including IDP students) are required by law to be full-time students in order to get a
student visa. For full-time status, Trinity students enroll in a minimum of 4 credits.
Once you are accepted at Trinity College, you will receive either an I-20 form (for F-1 four-year degree
students) or a DS-2019 form (for short-term J-1 students). Please check that all information on the I20 or DS 2019 is accurate and sign on the designated line.
This is a very important immigration document and all pages should be kept and safe guarded.
As an F1 or J1 student, you may enter the country 30 days prior to the program start date on
your I20 or DS-2019. However, housing at Trinity is not available until August 29, 2009. Students
who arrive prior to this date may not come to campus (unless as part of a sports team or as a
participant in the QUEST program) and are responsible for all lodging, food, transportation and
safety.
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Do not enter the U.S. with a B-1/2 Visa unless it is marked “Prospective Student”. As a tourist you are
not eligible to study and you will not be allowed to change your status to F1 once you are in the
country.
Applying for a Student Visa at the U.S. Consulate
1. Pay your SEVIS fee (see your packet from International Programs for instructions on how to pay
the fee).
2. Go to the United States Embassy or United States Consulate with jurisdiction over your
permanent residence with all the pages of your I-20 or DS-2019 form issued by Trinity College, the
letter of your acceptance to Trinity, your passport, SEVIS fee receipt and proof of sufficient funds to
live and attend school in the United States.
3. At the Embassy or Consulate, fill out a visa application form DS-156 and pay the applicable visa
processing fee (this is different and in addition to the SEVIS fee of $200). The visa application fee is
non-refundable.
4. Students should contact the consulate prior to the appointment to find out what information and
documents are needed. Students are often required to show proof of residence in their home
country to return to after their studies.
Packing
Do not pack too much and make sure you are familiar with the baggage limits for the airline you will
be flying on to the U.S. Remember that you must be able to carry all your bags plus you will want to
purchase things once you have arrived here.
You will need appropriate clothing and shoes for winter but it is best to purchase those items once
you are here. Also, during the International Student Orientation on September 2 nd, there will be a
shopping trip to Target (www.target.com) where you can buy everything from electronics and
clothing to school supplies and things for your room.
The one thing you MUST purchase from your home country to bring with you is an electric currency
converter and adapter.
Arrival Information
During your travels to the U.S., be sure to keep all of your immigration documents with you and not
in your checked luggage. It is also a good idea to keep this handbook with you or at least the college
contact information, in case you need assistance.
Customs and Immigration
Before landing at any international airport, flight assistants will give you a white, Arrival-Departure
Form, called an I-94. The I-94 contains your unique identifying number issued by the Department of
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Homeland Security (DHS). A flight assistant will also distribute Customs Declaration Forms. Follow
the instructions on the form and have it ready for Customs.
After disembarking, you must go to immigration to present your passport, I-94 and visa to DHS. The
immigration officer may ask you questions before stapling the I-94 to your passport. In some cases,
students will be brought into a back office area (called Secondary). If this happens to you, do not
worry. You have not done anything wrong but sometimes the immigration officers need to access
different computers in the back to check on your status. When you finish with immigration, go to
Customs with your passport and Customs Declaration Form and then go to the Baggage Claim area.
Transportation to Hartford
Please let the Office of International Programs know when you will be arriving so there can be
someone available on campus to meet you.
When you arrive on campus, you should go to the Campus Safety Office at 76 Vernon Street and they
will have your room assignment and door code. If our office knows when you are arriving, we will
have a student meet you at Campus Safety.
For International IDP students: The Office of Special Programs will assist international IDP students in
finding an apartment or sponsor. Students staying with a sponsor usually make arrangements to get
to their Connecticut address with their sponsor.
Getting to Trinity College campus
From Hartford’s Bradley International Airport:
Connecticut’s Bradley International Airport is about a half-hour from Trinity College and is a easy taxi
ride from the airport to Trinity.
From JFK or LaGuardia International Airport:
Both JFK and LaGuardia International Airports are located in New York City, about two and a half
hours south of Hartford, CT. From either Airport, you can take a Connecticut Limo shuttle from the
airport to Hartford.
Connecticut Limo (http://www.ctlimo.com) may be an easiest option since you can leave right
from the airport. CT Limo offers regular shuttles from JFK and LaGuardia to Union Station in
Hartford. Once at Union Station, take a metered taxi to Trinity. Taxi fare should be between
$8-10 and it is customary to tip the driver 10-15% of the total cab fare.
Another option is to take a taxi to either Port Authority bus terminal or Penn Station train station for
buses and trains to Hartford.
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By train: If you decide to go by train, you will have to take a taxi or a bus to Penn Station.
From JFK, you can take the Midtown Manhattan/Westside New York Airport Service Express
Bus to Penn Station. Amtrak (http://www.amtrak.com/) has regular trains to Hartford. Once
at Union Station in Hartford, take a metered taxi to Trinity. Taxi fare should be between $810 and it is customary to tip the driver 10-15% of the total cab fare. If you arrive at LaGuardia,
you can get the Amtrak bus shuttle to Penn Station, see the website.
By bus: If you decide to go by bus, you will have to take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Port
Authority Bus Terminal. From JFK, you can take the Midtown Manhattan/Westside New York
Airport Service Express Bus to Port Authority. You can then take a Greyhound
(http://www.greyhound.com/home) or Peter Pan Bus (http://www.peterpanbus.com) to
Union Station in Hartford. Once at Union Station, take a metered taxi to Trinity. Taxi fare
should be between $8-10 and it is customary to tip the driver 10-15% of the total cab fare.
Newark Airport:
If you are arriving into Newark Airport, you can either take a bus or train to Hartford.
By bus: Take the Newark Liberty Airport Express (http://www.coachusa.com/olympia/), which
takes you to Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City. There you can take either
Greyhound or Peter Pan bus to Hartford’s Union Station. Once at Union Station, take a
metered taxi to Trinity. Taxi fare should be between $8-10 and it is customary to tip the
driver 10-15% of the total cab fare.
By train: You can take the train (http://www.amtrak.com) directly from the airport to
Hartford’s Union Station. Once at Union Station, take a metered taxi to Trinity. Taxi fare
should be between $8-10 and it is customary to tip the driver 10-15% of the total cab fare.
Boston Logan airport:
The easiest way to get from Boston to Hartford is to take the Peter Pan Bus, which leaves directly
from the airport and will bring you to Union Station in Hartford. Once at Union Station, take a
metered taxi to Trinity. Taxi fare should be between $8-10 and it is customary to tip the driver 1015% of the total cab fare. One-way tickets cost $37. For additional information go to:
http://www.peterpanbus.com/
Orientation Programs
P.R.I.D.E
PRIDE stands for Promoting Respect for Inclusive Diversity in Education. P.R.I.D.E.’s fundamental
goals are to help first-year students from diverse racial and cultural backgrounds adjust to life at
Trinity and, at the same time, promote among members of the student body as a whole an
awareness of and receptivity towards diverse cultures both inside and outside the U.S. P.R.I.D.E.
offers both international students and students of color additional time in settling into the dorms,
adjusting to the Trinity campus, and generally learning about campus life. Some of you will be very
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familiar with environments like Trinity’s, while others may find this a very new experience. The
P.R.I.D.E. Welcome Weekend should offer something of value for everyone. Students who have
attended P.R.I.D.E. in previous years are nearly unanimous in expressing appreciation for the chance
to come in early, make friends with other new students, and seek advice from P.R.I.D.E. Leaders, a
select group of Trinity students who have successfully faced the challenges of adjusting to college life.
International students are invited to P.R.I.D.E along with U.S. minority students to be offered
additional resources and services that will ease the transition into campus life.
International Student Orientation
International Student Orientation is offered to all new incoming international students. It takes place
on campus for a full day before the mandatory First Year Orientation. During this day, we discuss
immigration issues, including how to stay legal and how to work. We will talk about American culture
and have staff from Campus Safety and the Health Center offering important information. We will
also have returning international students answer your questions about life in the U.S. and at Trinity.
We will end the day with a shopping trip to Target (a large store like Wal-Mart) if you would like to
get things for your room.
First Year
First-year Orientation is an on-campus program designed to provide opportunities to enhance your
academic and personal success. You will make friends with other students in the class of 2013 as well
as student leaders who will guide you through the week. You will also learn to navigate campus and
Hartford, learn what to expect from your classes, and how to succeed academically.
QUEST
Incoming first year students have the opportunity to start their Trinity College journey with a
wilderness adventure on the Quest leadership program, Trinity’s extended pre-orientation on the
Appalachian Trail. The program’s philosophy encourages participants to take on new challenges and
responsibilities, meet other Trinity students, and transition into college.
About Hartford, Connecticut
Established in 1623, Hartford was originally settled as a Dutch trading post. John Steele established
the first English settlement in the area and later in 1636 Thomas Hooker and Samuel Stone of
Massachusetts re-established the colony with members of their Congregationalist congregation,
changing the Algonquin name of the area, “Sauciog,” to “Hartford” after Hertford in England.
Hartford officially became a part of the Connecticut Colony in 1639.
Established as an early trading post, Hartford continued to be an important supplier for the
Revolutionary War and later became a booming industrial center during the late 18 th and 19th
centuries. As an industrial center, Hartford attracted diverse groups of immigrants. Today,
contemporary Hartford’s population reflects this rich cultural diversity with cultural events,
community groups, and international cuisine.
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Nicknamed “the Insurance Capital of the World,” Hartford merchants in the early 1800s, out of
concern for the safety of their goods, gathered and created the Hartford Fire Insurance Group. Large
insurance companies still make Hartford their home and contribute to the wealth and corporate
environment prevalent in Hartford today. Hartford’s rich history, cultural and ethnic diversity, and
contemporary vigor and prosperity make it one of the most interesting and engaging small cities on
the East Coast.
Small city charm, big city entertainment, and early American historic sites make Hartford, Connecticut
an accessible and vibrant U.S. city. Connecticut’s changing New England climate and wooded
landscape offers residents opportunities for hiking, skiing, and water sports at the nearby
countryside, mountains, and beaches. In Hartford, Connecticut, residents are never far from urban or
rural entertainment.
Hartford residents can enjoy theater at the acclaimed Hartford Stage, attend exhibits at the
Wadsworth Atheneum, and explore historic areas like the Indian Burial ground. Smaller venues like
Real Art Ways offer contemporary films, exhibits, and theater while the Hartford Civic Center hosts
sporting events and exhibitions. Those who wish to explore New York City or Boston need only travel
two and a half hours from Hartford, by car, railroad, or bus.
Area Accommodations
There are many hotels in the Hartford area. Rates vary according to the time of the week, availability,
and time of year. Call ahead of time to check the rates of each hotel.
Hartford Marriott Downtown (2.2 miles from Trinity)
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bdldt-hartford-marriott-downtown
Residence Inn Hartford Downtown (2.4 miles from Trinity)
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bdlri-residence-inn-hartford-downtown/
Hilton Hartford (2.5 miles from Trinity)
http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/HFDHHHF-Hilton-HartfordConnecticut/index.do;jsessionid=2B5336843F7777A043EC698A9771CA51.etc56?brand_id=HI&brand
_directory=/en/hi/&xch=430160471,KY3ZREBZPFIIGCSGBJBN2EQ
Crowne Plaza Hotel, Downtown Hartford (2.5 miles from Trinity)
http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/cp/1/en/hotel/bdlcc?rpb=hotel&crUrl=/h/d/cp/1/en/availsearch
&ias=y
Holiday Inn Express, Downtown Hartford (2 miles from Trinity)
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http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/ex/1/en/hotel/bdlas?rpb=hotel&crUrl=/h/d/ex/1/en/availsearch
&ias=y
Holiday Inn Express, Convention Center area (3 miles from Trinity)
http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/ex/1/en/hotel/bdlct?rpb=hotel&crUrl=/h/d/ex/1/en/availsearch
&ias=y
Days Inn Hartford (closest to downtown) (3.1 miles from Trinity)
http://www.daysinn.com/DaysInn/control/Booking/check_avail?areaCode=&brandCode=DI,HJ,TL,RA,
KG,SE,BU,BH,MT&searchWithinMiles=50&areaType=1&destination=hartford&state=CT&country=US
&checkInDate=09/01&numberAdults=2&numberRooms=1&checkOutDate=09/04&numberChildren=
0&numberBigChildren=0&rate=000&useWRPoints=false&variant=&id=05651&propBrandId=DI&force
_nostay=false&tab=tab1
Homewood Suits by Hilton, Hartford Downtown (2.1 miles from Trinity)
http://homewoodsuites1.hilton.com/en_US/hw/hotel/WNDHWHW-Homewood-Suites-by-HiltonHartford-DowntownConnecticut/index.do;jsessionid=28DE5E8D2F498713D57CE411092AE9A8.etc63?brand_id=HW&bran
d_directory=/en/hw/&xch=430165693,5IY3AEZJ3SOQKCSGBIX2VCQ
Super 8 Hartford/Windsor (4.5 miles from Trinity)
http://www.super8.com/Super8/control/Booking/check_avail?areaCode=&brandCode=SE,RA,HJ,TL,D
I,KG,BU,BH,MT&searchWithinMiles=50&areaType=1&destination=hartford&state=CT&country=US&c
heckInDate=09/01&numberAdults=2&numberRooms=1&checkOutDate=09/04&numberChildren=0&
numberBigChildren=0&rate=000&useWRPoints=false&variant=&id=03369&propBrandId=SE&force_n
ostay=false&tab=tab1
Traveling around the United States
You probably want to take advantage of your time in the U.S. to travel. Thanksgiving break, winter
break and spring break or after the school year has ended are the perfect times to explore.
On the road
Bus – Greyhound (http://www.greyhound.com) and Peter Pan
(http://www.peterpanbus.com) are the bus companies with which can get you to anywhere.
You can buy tickets on line or at their office at Union Station downtown.
Chinatown bus – If you want to go to New York, Boston or Washington DC, you may want to
consider the Chinatown Bus, which is much cheaper than Greyhound, however it only runs
twice a day. For information, schedule and prices go to http://www.ivymedia.com.
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Amtrak – As an international student, taking the train is the cheapest way to travel. There are
usually specials that are a great bargain. Go to Amtrak - Hot Deals for more details.
In the air
Flying – Internet search engines such as Student Universe, Orbitz, Expedia or Travelocity have
great deals on plane tickets. The sooner you book your ticket, the cheaper it is.
Climate
Climate varies from season to season in Hartford. Below is a chart that provides average
temperatures by season to give you an idea of what to expect. Keep in mind, however, that
Connecticut weather is notoriously changeable, so be sure to have a variety of clothes handy for
unexpected heat, cold, rain, or snow.
Season
Autumn (September -November)
Winter (December – February)
Spring (March – May)
Summer (June – August)
Fahrenheit
Low 46 to High 60
Low 0 to High 37
Low 38 to High 60
Low 60 to High 90
Celsius
Low 8 to High 15
Low -17 to High -3
Low 3 to High 15
Low 15 to High 35
Fall in Connecticut is typically breezy and mild, with a frequent tendency for “Indian Summers” when the temperature rises to summer temperatures after a period of cooler weather. In Autumn, it
is helpful to keep light jackets, sweaters, and rain gear handy. Being in New England, this is the time
to see the world-famous foliage of fall trees in the region.
Winter in Connecticut can either be mild or snowy. You can expect everything from mild, Fall-like
days to sleet storms. For the winter, be sure to have warm sweaters, winter coats, hats, gloves,
sturdy boots, and thick socks.
Connecticut Springs are often quite rainy though the temperatures are mild. Keep some of your
warm clothes handy, but you can begin to break out some warm weather clothes as well.
If you stay in Hartford for the Summer, expect mild, pleasant weather in the early part of the season,
but be prepared for hot, humid days through July and August.
Regardless of the temperature outside, the dormitories are notoriously cold before the heat
kicks in around late fall and notoriously hot for the rest of the year. With this in mind, you may want
to keep some warmer clothes handy in the fall, and some cooler clothes handy the rest of the year so
you can be comfortable in your dorm room.
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International, Ethnic, and Religious Organizations in the Hartford Area
Organization serving many different immigrant populations in Hartford
CCMAA (Connecticut Coalition of Mutual Assistance Associations)
CCMAA Hartford Office
143 Madison Avenue
Hartford, CT 06106
Phone: 860.236.6452
Fax: 860.236.6456
E-Mail: [email protected]
Islamic
Islamic Center of Connecticut
68 White Rock Drive
Windsor, CT 06095
(860) 249-0112
Indian
I.A.O.G.H.
Indian Association of Greater Hartford
PO Box 436
Rocky Hill, CT 06067
(860)-519-3132
German
Hartford Sängerbund
719 North Mountain Road
Newington, CT 06111
(860) 953-8967
Brazilian
Shaheen Brazilian Cultural Center
1915 Park St # 1
Hartford, CT 06106-2118
(860) 233-4217
Chinese
Chinese Culture Center
P.O. Box 1380825
East Hartford, CT 06138-0825
Voice Mail: (860) 656-0236
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Russian
St Panteleimon Russian Orthodox Church
19 Becket Street
Hartford, CT 06114-2402
Phone: (860) 956-8899
Lithuanian
Lithuanian American Community, Inc.
Connecticut district chair: Sigita Šimkuvienė Rosen
(203) 415-7776
[email protected]
Caribbean
Caribbean American Society
400 Woodland Street
Hartford, CT 06106
(860) 247-0306
Trinidad & Tobago American Society
1023 Albany Avenue
Hartford, CT 06112
(860) 247-5659
French
French Social Circle of Hartford
373 Main Street
East Hartford, CT 06118
(860) 568-5021
Jewish
Jewish Family Service of Greater Hartford
740 North Main Street
Hartford, CT 06117
(860) 568-5021
Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut
40 Woodland Street
Hartford, CT 06105
(860) 418-5701
(860) 236-6452
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Jewish Community Center
and Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford
333 Bloomfield Avenue
West Hartford, CT 06117
Vietnamese
Vietnamese Mutual Assistance Association of Connecticut Incorporated
143 Madison Avenue
Hartford, CT 06106
Peru
Peru Opportunity Fund
151 New Park Avenue
Hartford, CT 06106
Getting Settled
Soon after arriving on campus, you should contact your family to let them know you have arrived
safely. You may use the phone or computer in the Office of International Programs for this initial call
or email
Telephones
Each dorm room comes equipped with a modular telephone jack, one campus extension and service
activated to include free campus and local dialing, call waiting and voice mail service. Residential
voice mail is provided at no charge to every dormitory room through the college’s integrated voice
messaging system.
Students must provide their own telephones to plug into the outlet provided in each room. All Trinity
numbers start with 297-xxxx. If you want to find out what your number is, you can look yourself up
via a search on the www.Trincoll.edu website, or call Campus Safety at 2222 and they will be able to
tell you.
Country code when calling into the U.S.: 001
Area code for Hartford: 860
International code to call internationally outside of the U.S.: 011
On Campus Calls
Whenever you use a campus phone to call another campus number, just dial the last four digits of the
number. For example, to call the Office of International Programs, just dial 2005, or to call Mather
Front Desk dial 2053. All on-campus calls are free. To set up your voice mail, dial 5200 and follow the
instructions.
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Off campus local calls
If you need to dial a local off-campus number, you must dial the number “9” first to obtain an outside
line. For local calls with area code 860, you only need to dial the 7 digit number, without the area
code. You can call any local number for free.
Long Distance Calls
In order to make long distance phone calls, you need to use a phone card from any campus phone by
following the instructions on the card. In the U.S., whenever you dial a long distance number, you
must dial “1” first. Since this is common knowledge, the “1” is seldom written when numbers are
listed. All numbers with a 800 area code are toll free.
International Calls
For international calls, dial 011-Country Code-City Area Code-Local Number.
Phone cards
You can purchase calling cards from a local gas station or in a vending machine in Mather Hall. The
cards at the gas stations tend to be cheaper, while the cards from the vending machine are more
convenient.
Internet Communication
You may also explore internet peer to peer voice services for low cost communications with home.
Sites such as www.skype.com and www.google.com/talk are good places to explore.
Skype
Skype is software that enables you to make free calls anywhere in the world. Skype uses innovative
P2P (peer-to-peer) technology to connect you with other users. Skype calls have better sound quality
than your regular phone and are highly secure, with end-to-end encryption.
Skype-to-Skype calls, video calls and instant messaging are free, any time of the day or night,
anywhere in the world. Call phones and mobiles and send SMS messages at great value Pay As You
Go rates, or call unlimited* to certain countries with a subscriptions.
System requirements
 PC running Windows 2000, XP or Vista. (Windows 2000 users require DirectX 9.0 for video
calls).
 Internet connection (broadband is best, GPRS is not supported for voice calls, and results
may vary on a satellite connection).
 Speakers and microphone – built-in or separate.
 For voice and video calls we recommend a computer with at least a 1GHz processor, 256
MB RAM and of course a webcam.
 For High Quality Video calls you will need a high quality video webcam and software, a
dual-core processor computer and a fast broadband connection (384 kbps).
 For more info visit http://skypeofficial.info/off.php?aff=38095.
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Cell Phones
Cell phones are the most convenient phone option and there are two types of phones available:
Prepaid and Plan.
Prepaid: You can usually get these phones inexpensively and you have to buy minutes to
make calls. The cost for minutes can range from 10c to 35c depending on the prepaid plan you
get. You can get this type of phone online http://www.tmobile.com,
http://www.wireless.att.com and http://www.virginmobileusa.com (if you have a debit/credit
card) or at a store like Target or Wal-Mart or la ocal retailer store for cell phone carriers such
as T-Mobile, AT&T, Virgin Mobile etc.
Pros: You don’t need a social security number, debit/credit card to purchase this type
of phone
Cons: It is expensive for someone who makes lot of calls and you don’t get a pretty
good phone
Plan: These types of phones are very inexpensive and sometimes even free but you pay a flat
monthly charge ($30+). It usually comes with a fixed number of minutes (200-300) you can
use every month. In most of the plans, night (9:00PM-7:00 AM) and weekends (Saturday and
Sunday) are free. So you could make unlimited calls. But you usually have to sign a contract of
a year or two and if you want to cancel it before it expires, you will have to pay a fee. You also
need a good credit history (for that you need a credit card, and for that you need a social
security number). Students have found carriers such as T-Mobile and ATT to have good
reception at Trinity.
Pros: You get a decent phone and this comes with lot of features and turn out to be
cheaper in long run.
Cons: You need a social security number and/or debit/credit card to purchase this type
of phone.
Laundry
There are washing machines and dryers located in the basement of each dorm. One load of washing
or drying is $1.35. You can pay by using your ‘Bantam Bucks’ on your Trinity ID (see section in this
Handbook for more information on the ID). You need to have your own detergent and fabric softener.
You can leave your laundry unattended while it is being washed and pick it up at the end of the cycle
to then transfer it to a dryer. If you need help when first using the machines, please do not hesitate
to ask someone.
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Trinity also offers a laundry service on-campus through American Laundry, located in the basement of
Mather Hall.
Money & Banking
American paper currency (dollars) comes in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.
American dollars are all the same size and color. Coins or “change” make up the smaller units of
money called cents. They come in the amounts of 1 cent (a penny), 5 cents (a nickel), 10 cents (a
dime), 25 cents (a quarter), and 50 cents (a half-dollar – this is rarely used) and one dollar coin (also
rarely used).
You should open a bank account to have easy access to your money and to avoid keeping large
amounts of cash on you or in your apartment or dorm room. Representatives of local banks come to
campus at the beginning of the year. They set up tables in Mather Hall so you can open your new
account without having to go to the bank. To open a bank account, you will need to show your
passport, I-20 or DS-2019 form, and another form of identification like your student ID. Basic banking
services for most Americans include a checking account, a savings account, an ATM card, and
sometimes a debit card.
Checking Account
You open a checking account by depositing money into the account, which you access with checks or
an ATM card. Checks are paper documents issued by your bank that have your name, address and
phone number (if desired) printed on them and function as money when you write one for a
purchase. Most stores require you to present some form of ID when you write a check that includes
your address and picture.
If you are not familiar with checks and how to fill them out, please ask the International Student
Advisor for a sample copy.
Savings Account
A savings account is less active than a checking account. If you want to save money and gain interest
on it, opening a savings account is your best option. The more money you deposit, the more interest
you earn on it. This is ideal for money that you do not touch unless you really need it.
ATM (Automatic Teller Machine)
When you open a checking or a savings account with a bank, you can also get an ATM card attached
to that account. An ATM card allows 24-hour access to your money. There are two ATM machines
on campus in Mather Hall that you can use by inserting your ATM card and entering your password
and the amount you want to withdraw. The money is then deducted from your account and the cash
is produced from the machine.
Debit Cards
Debit cards function like an ATM card and a credit card combined. They can be used like credit cards
for most purchases, but unlike a credit card, for which you receive a bill with interest, the debit
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purchase comes directly out of your bank account. This is a nice option especially if you are
concerned about getting into credit trouble or would rather not pay interest to the credit card
company for your purchases.
Depositing checks
If you work on campus, you will get paid every other week on Friday. You will find a check in your
mailbox. You can take the check to your bank in person to deposit it.
In order to deposit your check, you have to sign (=endorse) the check on the back with your full
name. This way the bank will know from your signature that you are the one to whom the check
really belongs.
Area Banks
There are several banks to choose from. Below is a list of the most accessible banks to Trinity
students.
Bank of America
https://www.bankofamerica.com
Bank of America has branches and ATM’s available throughout the country, including an ATM
right on campus in Mather Hall. You can get a checking and/or savings account as well as a
debit card.
People’s Bank
https://www.peoples.com/portal/site/peoples/
People’s Bank has branches throughout Connecticut. You can get a checking and/or savings
account as well as a debit card. There is no ATM machine on campus.
Sovereign Bank
http://www.sovereignbank.com/
Sovereign has as ATM machine in the basement of Mather Hall.
Residential Living
Trinity is predominantly a residential college with a variety of housing options, from singles to suites
and from traditional halls to theme options. All four-year degree students are housed together the
first year in first-year halls with their seminar groups. After the first year, students select their
residence during the Room Selection Lottery held in early spring—a student-designed system based
on seniority and prior housing history.
All halls are staffed with peer leaders (Resident Assistants-RA’s) and, in the first-year halls,
with P.R.I.D.E. leaders as well. The Residential staff plays a vital role in community development,
assisting in creating links between students’ social and intellectual lives and serving as an after-hours
resource for all residential students.
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Students are encouraged to become involved in floor or hall-wide social, cultural, and educational
events, as well as events planned by the Hall Representative Boards. In each residence area, Hall
Representative Boards are responsible for developing and implementing activities and hall
improvements designed to enhance life for those living within. By becoming involved in such student
leadership positions, Trinity students are able to make an important contribution to their residence
hall community.
Trinity provides each student with a bed, mattress, desk, desk chair, and a wardrobe or dresser. You
will need to purchase or bring sheets, towels and blankets. Since there will be a couple of days after
your arrival on campus before the shopping trip to Target, you may want to consider purchasing
these items online and having them sent to our office in advance for you to pick up upon your arrival.
If you choose to do this, it is very important that you have the items sent in the following way:
Your Name
c/o Tamara Kribs
Office of International Programs
Trinity College
300 Summit Street
Hartford, CT 06106-3100
860-297-2005
The Office of International Programs also has sheets that can be loaned to you for the days before the
shopping trip, but we do not have towels available.
Please note that there are several items are forbidden in residence halls for safety reasons. Candles,
incense, cooking appliances, halogen lamps, dart boards, among other items.
Campus Dining
There are several dining options on campus and food service is provided through the Chartwells
Corporation. Chartwells offers a variety of meal plans which you can read about at
http://www.dineoncampus.com/trinity. All incoming international students are automatically signed
up for the ‘19 Regular’ meal plan, which allows students to eat three meals daily Monday through
Friday and two meals daily on the weekends. Various meal plan options are available and you can
choose your individual meal plan if you wish. Please note that if you want to change your meal
plan, the deadline to do so is September 17, 2009.
Mather Hall
The main dining hall located in the campus center, Mather Hall
It serves a wide variety of dishes including soups, pasta dishes, hamburgers, hot-dogs, pizza, wraps,
meat dishes, a variety of fruit, and it has a salad bar. In the morning breakfast dishes like scrambled
eggs, omelets, sausage, pancakes, waffles, cereal, bagels, etc. are served. Coffee and fountain drinks
are available at every meal. It also has a take-out counter, where snacks and beverages are available.
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The Cave
Located on the lower level of Mather Hall, it is an a la carte dining facility. Wraps, subs, burgers etc.
are on the menu as well as pizza made to order. A huge variety of snacks and beverages as well as
coffee are also available.
The Bistro
This a la carte dining facility is located on Vernon Street, next to the Admissions building (across from
Vernon Social Center). It serves wraps and sandwiches, two kinds of soup and has an excellent salad
bar. Snacks and beverages as well as coffee are also available.
The Underground
This is a coffee house serving beverages and light snacks.
Peter B
This is a coffee house serving beverages and light snacks.
Post Office
Trinity has a full service U.S. Post Office located in the basement of Mather Hall. This is also where
your Post box is located. Each student is given an assigned box upon arrival and the staff will show
you how to use your combination to open your mailbox. When you get a letter, it will be put in your
mailbox. If you receive a package that won’t fit in the box, you will get a notification paper. Sign it and
take it to the post office window to retrieve your package.
Your address at Trinity is:
Your name
Trinity College
300 Summit Street
Mailbox 70xxxx
Hartford, CT 06106
Post office hours
During the academic year the post office window is open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. You can pick
up packages Monday-Friday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Outgoing mail
Both the bookstore and the post office have supplies for mailing. The post office only accepts cash
and Bantam Bucks.
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Local Transportation
On-Campus Shuttle
The Trinity College Campus Safety Department is pleased to offer a shuttle system designed to serve
the Trinity College Community. To provide better services to a growing number of riders, the On
Campus Shuttle will operate on a continuous loop around the campus with 14 designated shuttle
stops. All of the shuttle stops are located in well-lit areas of the campus by emergency call boxes.
The shuttle stops are: http://www.trincoll.edu/pub/info/shuttle_stops.pdf
You can also check where the campus shuttle is on its route through an online gps service:
http://org.trincoll.edu/gps/
For more information, including hours of operation, please see
http://www.trincoll.edu/studentlife/healthsafety/campussafety/transportationservices
Off-Campus Shuttle
This ride system is run completely by Trinity College Students during evening and nighttime hours.
This shuttle operates within a ten-block radius of the campus, Sundays through Thursdays from 6pm
until 12am and extended until 3am Fridays and Saturdays. Depending on the semester, there can
also be hours available during the day on Saturdays and Sundays from 2pm to 6pm to assists students
with rides to area shopping.
Please call ext. 3333 for service and availability. Occasionally, students are unavailable, so please
plan ahead and carry sufficient funds if you need to return by taxi.
Zip Car
Zipcar is a unique car-sharing service for Trinity students, faculty, and staff ages 18+ that provides
affordable access to low-emission vehicles by the hour – for errands, for meetings, or just for fun.
Gasoline, car insurance, parking and maintenance are included in the price. Trinity has three fuelefficient cars to choose from (two are parked in the Campus Safety lot at 76 Vernon St. and the other
is parked at Mather Hall, 300 Summit St.).
There are membership requirements, including a valid driver’s license, so please visit their website
for further details at http://www.zipcar.com/how/.
** If you think this may be something you will be interested in, you may want to apply for an
international driver’s license before leaving your home country.
Public Bus
The U-Pass is a special transportation pass for Trinity College students, which are valid for free,
unlimited trips during the semester on CT Transit local buses. It’s a safe easy way to get around
Hartford. When you get on the bus, show the driver your Trinity ID and insert the U-Pass into the
pass reader on the fare box.
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The Trinity College campus is served by three bus routes that connect to Downtown (Q1), West Farms
Mall (Q2) in West Hartford and New Britain Town Center. In Downtown Hartford, connections to
other CT Transit buses provide access to a variety of retail and employment centers, entertainment
venues, Union Station (bus and train station), and Bradley International Airport.
Free CT Transit timetables and system maps are available on campus outside Mather Dining Hall.
Students may also call the CT Transit Customer Service Center at (860) 525-9189, visit their web site
at www.cttransit.com.
To report a lost or stolen pass, or for any other questions regarding CT Transit or the administration
of the U-Pass Program, please contact the Trinity U-Pass program coordinator, Joe Barber, Director of
Community Service and Civic Engagement, Mather Hall, Lower Level at 297-4256 or
[email protected].
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About Trinity
Administrative Offices
Office of International
Programs
Admissions Office
Computing Center
Financial Aid Office
Office of Multicultural Affairs
Registrar’s Office
(860) 297-2005
66 Vernon St.
general information about international student
services and study abroad
(860) 297-2180
Admissions
Building
(860) 297-2007
applications, information about Trinity College
(860) 297-2046
Admissions
Building
(860) 297- 4251
Hamlin/Cook
(860) 297-2116
Trinity
Commons
loan information, financial aid applications,
scholarship information, individual financial package
information
diversity issues, concerns, support, and information
(860) 297-2222
76 Vernon
Street
(860) 297-2415
135 Allen Place
security issues, parking tickets and permits, campus
shuttles and escorts, questions about campus safety
computing questions, problems, and information
academic calendar, course information, transcripts,
grades, exam schedule, transfer credit
Campus Services
Campus Safety
Counseling Center
Dean of Students Office
First Year Program Office
Health Center
Office of Campus Life
(860) 297-2156
Hamlin Hall
(860) 297-5331
Jones Basement
(860) 297-2018
Wheaton Hall
(860) 297-2305
Hamlin
personal counseling sessions, free of charge for Trinity
students
pre-orientation programs, academic issues,
counseling, discipline issues, support for students with
learning disabilities and physical disabilities
information about first year seminar classes, faculty,
and mentors, general information for first year
students
information about immunizations, health concerns,
medical help
all housing information, extended or early housing
accommodations
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On-Campus International Clubs and Organizations
Participation in clubs and organizations gives students the chance to get together in an atmosphere
of common interest, while offering opportunities for expanding and strengthening social and
intellectual camaraderie. At Trinity there are plenty of options for taking part in organized activities
outside the classroom.
Our campus is home to numerous social and cultural organizations, including Hillel, the Newman
Club, La Voz Latina, the Asian American Student Association (AASA), and Imani, the Black Students
organization, to name just a few.
Of particular interest to International students there is the International House (iHouse) and the
International Student Services Association (ISSA). Students will receive more information about
these organizations during orientation.
For a complete list of on-campus clubs and organizations, please refer to the college website at
http://www.trincoll.edu/StudentLife/StudentOrganizations/.
Information Technology and Computer Services
Information Technology is well integrated into virtually every aspect of life at Trinity. Students send
and receive e-mail from their professors, pick up and drop off papers electronically, and perform
research on the Web. Our campus network, which makes these activities possible, reaches into all
academic and administrative departments as well as all student residence halls. In addition to
facilitating the exchange of documents and data, the network provides access to dozens of software
packages that are needed for class work.
If you have questions, please call 297-2007, or via e-mail at [email protected]. You can also
find much more information on-line at the Computing Center’s home page:
http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/cc/.
Trinity is committed to providing all members of its community with access to state-of-the-art
information technologies. A vast array of information services is in use to facilitate learning in the
classroom, the laboratory, the library, and the dormitory room.
Network File Servers
The Computing Center maintains network file servers or “share areas” for public use. These network
volumes contain software that can be accessed by any users.
Residential Data Services
Every dormitory room on campus has complete access to Trinity’s data network. There is no charge
for use or for a connection to the network.
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Electronic Mail
Every student is provided with a Trinity College e-mail address with can be activated before arriving
at Trinity. Addresses are in the format [email protected]. First Year Students can find
information about activating their email accounts at
http://www.trincolle.du/depts/cc/documentation/email/firstyearemail.htm. All students are
required to use their Trinity e-mail address for correspondence during their entire tenure at Trinity;
however, students may forward their Trinity e-mail to another address if they wish. Much of the
communication between faculty, students, staff, departments, and programs occurs via Trinity e-mail
addresses, especially time-critical information. More information regarding e-mail, including e-mail
activation, is available online at
http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/cc/documentation/email/firstyearmail.htm.
Network Laser Printing
Printing to public laser printers in the Library and Information Technology Center is available from
any computer connected to the campus network. More information on printing is available at
http://www.trincoll.edy/depts/cc/documentation/ under the “Networking on Campus” section.
Library Computing Resources
The Trinity College Library and Information Technology Center
(http://www.trincoll.edu/RaetherCTR/) is a repository of knowledge and an informational hub.
Services include access to the library CTW (Connecticut-Trinity-Wesleyan) catalog, connections to
other libraries and multimedia based information.
Trinity College on the World Wide Web
Trinity’s World Wide Web server (http://www.trincoll.edu/) provides a number of practical services,
including academic schedules, rules and regulations, departmental information, library resources,
computing documentation, and postings from student organizations.
Blackboard
Blackboard (http://my.trincoll.edu) is Trinity College’s on-line e-Learning landscape. Faculty members
use the Blackboard site to post class material, host class-related discussions, and even interact with
members of their class in real time. Students pick up assignments for class and drop off papers all
from their computer’s web browser.
Trinity Exchange
Campus events and announcement information is available through Trinity Exchange at
http://www.trincoll.edu/trinexchange.
TCOnline
TCOnline (http:// tconline.trincoll.edu) is used for registering for classes, viewing unofficial
transcripts, and other student data maintained by the Registrar’s office.
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Students on the World Wide Web
Trinity students are also on the World Wide Web. Students can create their own web presence and
have their name on our Walk of Fame.
Student On-Line Publications
Trinity is also home to the Trinity Tripod, the official student newspaper, and The Other Voice, a hip
literary opus.
Network Language Lab
The Computing Center maintains a shared network server dedicated solely to the purpose of serving
the needs of foreign language scholars and students. The server provides access to a growing
collection of software packages designed to assist students in learning foreign languages.
Instructional Facilities
Trinity labs and classrooms across campus are networked and offer printing and projection
capabilities. Informational Technology Services also provides shared hosts that are adept at handling
CPU-intensive applications such as mathematical modeling, graphics, Computer Aided Design (CAD),
and digital video editing.
Help Desk
The Help Desk provides both application and network support for the student body at Trinity. They
can answer questions about how to use supported software applications, and provide assistance in
configuring student computers to access to Trinity network. The Help Desk can also provide
information on appropriate computers for the Trinity network.
TCTV
Trinity College Television (http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/av/) has been a growing local access cable
TV network serving teaching spaces and all dorm rooms. As part of this service Trinity provides
channels of international, native-language programming that make it a vital resource for studies in
the Modern Languages. Other educational and cultural programming also originates from on-campus.
Informational Technology Services
Help Desk, (860) 297-2007 (X-2007 on campus)
Email: [email protected]
(Staff is available Monday-Friday to answer hardware and networking questions)
Information can also be found on the Computing Center’s website:
http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/cc/.
Email Activation: http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/cc/documentation/email/firstyearemail.htm
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Some Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t have a computer?
There are computer labs for student use, so it is not essential to have your own computer.
Does Trinity support wireless networking?
Yes! We have wireless access in public areas like Mather Dining Hall, the Cave, many
classrooms, and the Library and Information Technology Center. We currently see wireless
networking as a supplement to the existing traditional wired network. Therefore, we will
continue to maintain the standard Ethernet modular jacks (RJ-45) in all dorm rooms and
public access areas. Note that dormitory rooms are generally not equipped with wireless
access, so you must use a traditional wired Ethernet card to access the network in your dorm
room.
You are strongly encouraged to take advantage of wireless networking on campus, and to do
so you will need to purchase a wireless Ethernet card. Wireless cards must conform to the
IEEE 802-11b standard and have WECA (Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance) “Wi-Fi”
stamp of approval. Cards that fail to meet these standards WILL NOT work at Trinity. The Cisco
Aironet cards, 3Com’s 11Mbps wireless LAN cards, and Apple’s cards are products that meet
these minimum requirements. More information can be found at
http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/cc/documentation/wireless/wireless.htm.
What about a printer?
Students find it beneficial to have a printer in their room. We recommend inkjet printers as
they generally meet most students’ needs. They produce high-quality output that’s very
similar to a laser printer, but at a fraction of the cost. Although color isn’t often a necessity,
most manufacturers offer a color ink jet printer that is close in price to their black and white
models. Not all printers are the same however, and one should look not only at the cost of the
replacement cartridges when comparing printers, but whether the black and color cartridges
have to be replaced at the same time when one is empty. If they can be replaced separately,
you will be saving addition money. Printing on public laser printers is available from any
computer connected to the campus network. More information on printing is available at
http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/cc/documentation/ under the “Networking on Campus”
section.
Can I have a web page?
Yes, students are given space for personal web pages.
How do I connect to the network if I am living on-campus?
All dorm rooms at Trinity are equipped to provide a high-speed connection to Trinity’s
network and access to the Internet. In order to make use of this connection, appropriate
network hardware and software must be installed in your computer. Most computers are
“network ready,” but if yours is not, you will need to purchase and install an appropriate
10Base-T Ethernet card to allow your computer to access the network in your dorm room.
Supported cards are listed at http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/cc/StudentHelpDesk/Purchase/
with the recommended configurations.
25
Are there rules for using the Trinity Network?
Yes, Trinity has a policy governing the acceptable use of computing, communications, and
video systems. The policy is included in the Handbook of Student Computing given to every
student and it is also available on the web:
http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/cc/documentation/stuhbk/networkuseguide.html.
Every student is expected to know and adhere to these regulations. Ignorance of the rules is
not an acceptable defense.
How will I get my computer on the network?
We will have instructions available which describe how to set up your computer to access the
network, including details on software you may have to install. You can pick up installation
packets on the first day of school during registration and anytime after at the Help Desk in the
Library and Information Technology Center. Information is also available online at
http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/cc/documentation.
Are there any workshops or classes I can take to improve my computer skills?
Yes. A number of workshops are offered throughout the semester. A schedule will be available
at registration and can also be found online linked off of the Computing Center’s homepage:
http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/cc/.
Does Trinity provide financial assistance to purchase a computer?
Please contact the Director of Financial Aid for information about the possibility of aid for a
computer purchase.
Does anyone offer a loan to buy a computer?
Some computer manufacturers offer leasing or loan programs to qualified students; contact
the specific company for more information. If you do look into a computer loan or lease
program, make sure you calculate the total cost of the deal—the cost of the computer plus
the interest or finance charge. You might find that you would be better off saving your money
until you can purchase the computer outright.
What should I do if I still have questions?
If you still have questions, contact the Computing Center
Phone: (860)297-2007 (dial 2007 from on campus)
Email: [email protected]
WWW: http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/cc/
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The Trinity College “Bantam”ID Card
When you arrive on campus, you will be issued a Trinity ID card. Have this with you at all times, you
will need it for lots of things, including access to campus buildings and dorms as well as making oncampus purchases.
Replace a lost or stolen Bantam ID Card at Building & Grounds, M-F 8AM - 4PM or Campus Safety,
nights and weekends.
Please see http://www.trincoll.edu/StudentLife/campuslife/bantam.htm for more information.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Bantam ID?
The Bantam ID is your student ID card.
What are Bantam Bucks?
Bantam Bucks are a debit system, which enables you to use your Trinity ID at the
Underground Coffeehouse, laundry and vending machines, campus bookstores, public
printers and copiers, the Health Center, Cinestudio, at several off-campus businesses (see
Bantam ID Programs), Peter B’s and in any of the campus dining facilities. Money may be put
onto one of three accounts: Bantam Bucks, Dining Dollars, and Printing Dollars.
What are the accounts linked with my ID and what is the difference between all of these
accounts?
Bantam Bucks may be used in all the places listed above; Dining Dollars may be used in the
dining facilities and are sold at a 10% discount (e.g. $10 put in this account will earn you $11).
The Printing Dollars account begins with a balance of $25 and is used for public printing only.
Once the $25 in Printing Dollars is gone, your Bantam Bucks account is used to pay for
printing.
How do I put money on one of these Bantam ID Card accounts?
For Bantam Bucks and Dining Dollars, machines known as Value Transfer Stations (VTS) reside
in Mather Hall (adjacent to the Office of Campus Life, Mather 107), at 76 Vernon Street
(upstairs from Campus Safety), and in the library. Simply follow the directions on the VTS
screen, which will allow deposits of $5, $10, and $20. Checks made payable to “Trustees of
Trinity College” may be deposited at the Business Office. You cannot add to your Printing
Dollars.
Can I add money to my accounts online now?
The BlackBoard e-commerce system enables Bantam ID cardholders (or the friends, parents,
or relatives of Bantam ID cardholders) to deposit money into a Bantam Bucks account using
Visa or MasterCard. To deposit money from a credit card into the Bantam Bucks account, you
must know the account number (located above the bar-code on your ID card) and the account
holder's first and last name. Just go to tcommerce.trincoll.edu
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How do I use the Bantam ID Card in the laundry machines?
Once you have put money onto your Bantam ID Card at a VTS, use the control box (on the wall
of the laundry room) to first select which machine, and then simply slide your card. Use the
help key if you need more information.
What are my choices for using a Bantam ID Card account in the campus dining facilities?
There are two options:

Students on meal plans may use the account called Dining Dollars that works like
“Meal Plan Flex” with two important differences: (1) Dining Dollars don’t expire at the
end of the semester; students who buy them will still have them in January, and more
importantly (2) Dining Dollars purchased through the VTS machines are given a 10%
bonus: ex. spend $20 and get $22 on your account.

The Bantam Bucks account may be used. When you go to the register, you must ask
the cashier to use Bantam Bucks for the transaction.
Whom should I call with questions regarding the Bantam ID Card?
Please contact T.J. Barber in the Office of Campus Life at extension x2171.
Dining Services, Bookstore(s), Health Center, Cinestudio

The Bistro and Cave accept cash, Bantam Bucks, Dining Dollars, and meal plans.

Mather and Gallows Hill bookstores accept cash, credit card, check or Bantam Bucks.

Bantam Bucks are accepted at Health Center for supplies and medicine.

Bantam Bucks are accepted at Cinestudio.
Account/Card Services

Check balances and add money to your Dining Dollars and/or Bantam Bucks accounts at Value
Transfer Stations in Mather, Campus Safety and the Library

Check your balances, cancel your card, or transfer money from a credit card to your Bantam
account on-line at http://tcommerce.trincoll.edu (click on “my accounts”).
Academics
Academic Support
Trinity College prides itself as a liberal arts college dedicated to academic excellence. Academic
support is integral to fostering this excellence. As a Trinity student, you will find many individuals and
offices employed expressly to help you be a better student.
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Faculty
Faculty are the first resource for students who need help with a course. Trinity faculty keep office
hours so students can get the academic support they need in that professor’s class. American
students frequently question professors outside of class about grades and to clarify course
assignments. This is not considered rude or disrespectful when handled tactfully.
Advisors
Advisors assigned to each student are also a valuable resource for Trinity students. Faculty advisors
can assist students with time management, course selection, and program requirements, which are
all essential for academic excellence. It is recommended that international students contact their
academic advisors as soon as possible during the first week of classes. Academic advisors will be able
to explain the course selection system and the registration process as well as confirm that students
are enrolled in the proper classes. The faculty advisors will assist students throughout the year and
will be available to answer their questions.
Teaching Assistants (TAs)
TA’s are students who assist professors with particular classes. These upper-class students provide
academic support in larger or more demanding classes.
College Tutors
College tutors are students who are selected by the Dean of Students Office to help students in many
different difficult courses and subject areas.
Classroom Format
In American classrooms, students are encouraged to share their opinions, ask questions and
challenge professors and classmates. It is not considered rude to disagree or debate in class at the
appropriate times. While it would be rude to debate a point with a friend in whispered tones while a
professor lectures, it would not be rude to present your opinion to the class when the professor
pauses or stops lecturing. Class participation is often an essential part of your grade at Trinity.
Math Center
The Math Center employs student tutors available to assist students with their math classes. These
peer tutors are students who have successfully completed two years of Calculus at Trinity. Located in
MCEC, the Math Center provides a quiet study space, a math reference library, faculty advising, and
three Macintosh Computers as well as tutoring services.
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Writing Center
The Allan K. Smith Writing Center is a student-run tutoring facility available to all students. Tutors
called “Writing Associates,” apply to the program and are selected by faculty and current Writing
Associates. Students chosen to be Writing Associates exhibit excellent writing skills as well as an
interest in and experience with working with others. All Associates attend a semester long class to
train them for the responsibilities of writing tutoring. They can give you useful advice when you have
a writer’s block or they can even proof-read your complete work. Trinity students are encouraged to
use the Writing Center at any stage of the Writing Process from outlining an essay to writing a thesis.
Health and Safety
SAFETY
The Trinity campus is located in a diverse neighborhood of Hartford and students are consistently
reminded to exercise caution and vigilance.
Trinity College employs its own security force to help preserve the safety of Trinity community
members. Being safe, however, is not just a matter of having a security force. You can avoid
precarious situations by following a few recommended precautions. Below are safety tips
recommended by Campus Safety and important emergency numbers.
General Personal Safety Tips:
1. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid dark, secluded areas.
2. If you think you are being followed, walk quickly to a lighted area or group of people.
3. Don’t walk alone at night. You can call for an escort from Campus Safety or take the on-campus
shuttle if you need to go out at night.
4. Keep your door locked when you are in or out of your room. Always ask who is at your door
before you open it.
5. Never prop open a campus building door
6. Never let people you do not know into a dorm building
On and off-campus shuttles, internship shuttles
During the academic year, shuttles run on-campus after 6 p.m. Use these shuttles to get around
campus instead of walking. Off campus shuttles run on weekends, allowing you easy access to
Downtown Hartford, West Hartford and Westfarms Mall. Internship shuttles are operated by Dattco
free of charge on weekdays to get you to various locations in the Hartford area. You need to reserve a
ride at least a day before you need it. For more information call Mather Front Desk.
30
Emergency Blue boxes
Located around campus are Blue Boxes which can be used to get help in the event of an emergency.
For more safety tips and information, consult the Campus Safety “Personal Security & Safety” Web
Page at http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/campsaft/personal_security.shtml, or call Campus Safety at
(860) 297-2222.
Emergency Services
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBER
297-2222*
CAMPUS SAFETY
HARTFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
HARTFORD POLICE (NON-EMERGENCY)
HARTFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT
HEALTH CENTER
TRINITY SEXUAL ASSAULT COUNSELOR
297-2222
911**
527-6300
911
297-2018
297-5377 (in an emergency, call 2972222)
*On campus, just dial 2222 from any on-campus phone
**Throughout the U.S., 911 is the standard emergency number. If you are on-campus, you must dial
9 to get an outside line, and then 911.
Health
Before arriving to Trinity, you should receive a packet from the Health Center, which will introduce
you to Trinity policies and requirements of some examinations by your family doctor. A copy of this
form is also on the Health Center website under Immunization and Physical Form.
The state of Connecticut requires all students who live on a college campus be vaccinated against
and educated about meningococcal meningitis. Please arrange for this prior to arrival on campus. If
you cannot obtain it prior to arrival, please call the Health Center at 860-297-2018 and reserve a dose
for a fee to be given during check-in on the first day you arrive. We strongly suggest you contact your
home health care provider to discuss and obtain immunization against meningococcal disease prior to
arrival so protection exists during the first few weeks on campus.
A vaccine is available to help protect against Hepatitis B. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
recommends vaccination of everyone age 18 and under, and anyone at high risk for hepatitis B. The
American College Health Association (ACHA) recommends that all college students be vaccinated. The
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) recommends that all student athletes be vaccinated.
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A Tuberculosis Test is also required of all students and can be obtained at the Health Center for
$10.00. The Health Center also recommends a Tetanus Booster shot if your last booster was more
than 10 years ago. You can also get a Tetanus Booster from the Health Center for a $10.00 fee.
Health Insurance
All four-year degree undergraduate students will need to prove adequate health insurance coverage
as a condition of enrollment. To assure everyone is covered, Trinity will charge every student for the
plan. For more information on the plan, please see
http://www.trincoll.edu/StudentLife/HealthSafety/HealthCenter/insurance.htm
To remove the charge from your tuition and prove your own personal coverage, simply complete the
hard-waiver at https://www.kosterweb.com/students/student_home.php?idField=1044
Students may bring their own insurance, as long as it meets the requirements below,

Medical benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness

Repatriation of remains in the amount of $7500

Expenses associated with medical evacuation to the students home country in the amount of
$10,000

A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness.
Immigration matters
Upon arrival to campus, all incoming international students will receive an orientation on immigration
issues, including how to remain in status, do’s and don’ts, working on campus, getting a social
security number and filing taxes. The International Student & Scholar Coordinator is always available
by appointment to meet with students and answer questions.
Under Federal Law, all international students are required to check with the International Student &
Scholar Coordinator in the OIP within the first 30 days at the start of each semester. Students who
fail to do this will not be recorded in the SEVIS system as an active student and will have to leave the
country immediately.
While the OIP and the International Student & Scholar Coordinator will advise students of
immigration regulations, it is ultimately the responsibility of the student to know the laws and
requirements to remain in F-1 or J-1 immigration status.
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