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Methods of Communication While in the U.S.
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Important Links to Remember
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In this section, you will learn how to communicate better with family, friends, and program administrators while you are in the United States. With the advantages of the "information age," there now exists more than just one way to communicate internationally.
The U.S. Department of State offers the following additional information on Communication in The United States. For more complete information, please visit the Department of State's site.
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Telephone:It is important to know the telephone numbers of your emergency contacts in the United States and in your home country, both during business hours and in case of an emergency. The Emergency Card includes phone numbers you should have available at all times.
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International Calling Cards: The most low-cost way to communicate between the United States and your home may be through the use of an international calling card, available through various companies/providers. International phone cards are sold at specialized international food markets, liquor stores, and online; however, there are other places where cards are sold. For more information you can check with the International Students office at your university.
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Cellular Phone: Cellular phones have become more common and less expensive in the United States. Although local calls may be inexpensive, international calls may have a high cost. Short text messages sent from a cell phone may be a less expensive way to communicate internationally, provided the person you are messaging can receive text messages on his/her cell phone. Some multi-band phones that can be used in many parts of the world can also be used in the United States. There are a number of cell phone providers as well as rate plans. Once here you can choose the particular plan that best suits you. There are also cell phone plans that do not require you to sign a contract and it operates month to month.
 You can use international calling cards from your cell phone! Make sure you check your available minutes.
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Fax: Your U.S. college/university or program sponsor may have a fax machine available for communication in case phoning is not possible. Usually faxing is done for quick transfer of important documents rather than conversation.
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Wireless/PDA Device: Known as Personal Data Assistants or PDAs, wireless communication devices may be another way to communicate while in the United States. If you purchase a PDA at home, you will need to make sure that the device you purchase will work while you are in the United States. Most devices are set up in such a way that they are compatible to work anywhere.
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E-Mail: Electronic Mail is probably the least expensive and easiest method of communication for people in different time zones. Chances are you already have an e-mail for a while and know everything there is to know about using it.
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Mail: (Regular or Express): Postcards and letters are still an important and inexpensive method of communication. For those documents that need to get there faster, many companies provide fast international mail delivery. The U.S. Postal Services is quite fast and reliable, but always allow for extra time when mailing internationally.
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Instant Messaging: Yahoo! Messenger, ICQ, Skype and AOL IM are some of the few instant messaging engines that allow you to talk to anyone who has internet access anywhere in the world. There are various components of these IM engines such as cameras and phones. It is an inexpensive way to communicate with your friends and family back home. Just be aware of the time difference.
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