If you are new to the country we know what you are experiencing. You may be unsure of how to adapt to the culture, homesick, and lonely. We hope this guide will give you an introduction to Mobilian culture, let you know what to expect, how to deal with common feelings.
You won't find any baggage carts in the airport.
Unlike arriving in many south Asian countries, there won't be a line of taxis (or Autos) to take you to the University. There may be one or two, and the price will be by meter. Don't be surprised if the fair ends up being $15US. It's best to arrange to have someone meet you. Send us an e-mail to see if one of our team can assist you. We will be thrilled to meet you.
Even though you speak English, you will likely not be able to understand people from Mobile. Likewise, they won't be able to understand you. Speaking slowely will help if you have difficulty.
There is not much Public Transportation in Mobile. There is a bus service which has improved in recent years. Bus stops, however, are often far from many places you are trying to go. Most residence have their own transporation. If you are in Mobile for any extent of time, you will likely want to get your drivers license and buy a car or scooter.
Once you have adjusted to the city, you may feel need to buy a car. This is not the easiest purchase in the world. New cars are too expensive for most students, and finding a good used car can be difficult. Hopefully by taking the following procasions, you can end up with a good automobile.
You will always pay less by buying a car from an individual who is getting something new. Used car dealers generally have nothing under $3000. Ideally you will get a car that has had only one owner who regularly maintained it (Oil changes and tune-ups)
KBB.Com Kelly Blue Book - allows you to put in any car's make and modal and it will show you an average price.
CarFax.com - Once given the Vehical Identification Number (VIN) this website will show you all title related information. It may give you clues to the car's past such as wrecks or multiple past owners.
Be aware that since Hurricane Katrina there have been a large number of cars that were submerged under water and now being sold. This guide can help you identify cars with this problem
Make sure to look at the engine and the tires. If the engine doesn't run smooth, it could mean big problems later. Before you pay $2000 - $5000 for a car take it to a mechanic to have a pre-sale inspection. It may cost $60 but what he or she finds may save you hundreds of dollars in the future.
Before you are allowed to drive in the USA, you need to get a drivers license. The first step is to take the written exam which is done on a computer at the Department of Motor Vehicals Office.
If you are going for road test you will need in addition to the above the following:
You will not be able to take either test if you do not have all the required documents.
If you have some insite about college life that you would like to share with new students let Ben or Jim know.
If you have some insite about apartments or dorms that you would like to share with new students let Ben or Jim know.