Q: What is 'plagiarism' in the US and why is it taken so seriously? A: Plagiarism is using someone else's words or ideas without giving them credit. In the US academic system, it's considered a form of intellectual theft. The focus here is on developing your own original thoughts based on research, so showing where your source material comes from is critical. Always cite your sources to avoid serious academic penalties.

Q: I got a scary call from someone claiming to be from the government. What should I do? A: Hang up immediately. It is 99.9% a scam. Do not engage, argue, or give any personal information. After you hang up, you can report the number to the NUPD. Remember, official agencies will communicate with you via official mail, not with threatening phone calls demanding gift cards.

Q: How can I save money on entertainment in Boston? A: Use your student ID! Get free admission to the MFA and Gardner museums. Look for "student rush" tickets at theaters for cheap last-minute seats. Explore Boston's many beautiful parks, like the Boston Common and the Esplanade, which are free.

Q: Should I really bring a pressure cooker from India? A: Many students do and are happy they did. It's convenient to have one from day one, and you're used to how it works. However, you can easily buy one here from Amazon or an Indian store like Patel Brothers. It's a personal choice, not a necessity.

Q: How do I pay my tuition fees from India? A: Northeastern recommends using services like Flywire or NUPay. These platforms are designed for international tuition payments, offer competitive exchange rates, and allow you to pay in INR via methods like NEFT/RTGS. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or using direct wire transfers from your bank, which can be more expensive and harder to track. Check the official Student Financial Services website for the most current options.

Q: What is an SSN and do I need one? A: An SSN (Social Security Number) is a unique identification number issued by the US government. As an F-1 student, you are only eligible to get one if you have an on-campus job. You don't need it for most things (like opening a bank account or getting a SIM card), but it is required for employment and is very helpful for getting a standard credit card or heading a family mobile plan.