TSA: Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring a laptop computer?

It is not necessary, but many students find it convenient. Other students take advantage of Coe College's excellent computer labs and free e-mail accounts. You may need to modify your computer's hardware slightly to fit into Coe's system.

How will I get money?

There is an ATM (banking machine) on the Coe College campus and a bank (U.S. Bank) within walking distance. Some students find using a credit card the most convenient way to get money. Other students bring their money in traveler's checks. (Do not bring large amounts of cash!) Get advice from your local bank before you come.

How should I bring my money?

In traveler's checks. We do not recommend bringing more than $100 in cash. (see question above).

What are the extra costs for students attending Coe College?

Excluding international transportation and vacation travel, our estimated costs for extras are as follows:

Personal Expenses:	$1,800 ($200 per month x nine months)
Books:	$700
Insurance:	$550
Orientation:	$75
TOTAL:	$3125

Do I need to bring a suit, a party dress or a yukata?

It is not necessary but there are events such as the President's Ball, the Culture show, and the International Student Banquet where students may need more formal clothes. In class, students at Coe wear more casual clothes than is common in Japan (jeans, sweatshirts, T-shirts).

What kind of clothes do I need for the weather?

Buildings are centrally heated and air-conditioned. Bring a warm winter parka, a scarf, gloves and a hat. These items can also be purchased at one of the local shopping malls, outlet mall or stores in the area.

What kinds of shops and restaurants are around Coe College?

There are several fast food restaurants (KFC, McDonald's, Arby's and Wendy's) very close to campus, a few 24-hour convenience stores, a supermarket and an Asian Supermarket all within walking distance.

Who will be my roommate?

You will be roommates with an English-speaking Coe College student.

Is Cedar Rapids a safe city?

Cedar Rapids is a safe, small Midwestern city and our students have never had problems with safety in the 29-year history of our program.

Where will I wash my clothes?

There are washing machines and dryers on the lower level of each dormitory. Students pay a $28 laundry fee each term. They may then use the machines for no charge whenever they need to.

Can I get Japanese food in Cedar Rapids?

Yes

Can I cook in the residence halls?

Yes. There are stoves for students to use in the dormitories.

What courses will I take in the Fall Term?

A. Oral Presentation in Multicultural Studies: This seminar (with about 8-9 students) is taught by ESL instructors for students at any level, with opportunities to improve fluency in extended discourse, use appropriate grammatical structures in communication, and participate effectively in discussions. Topics in international relations, gender, race and ethnicity will be explored. (3 days a week - ESL credit)

B. Rhetoric: Midwest American Culture: Taught by a Coe professor in the Rhetoric department, this is a reading, writing and discussion. TSA students will study with US students from the Writing Center. (2 days a week - Coe credit - 20% local students)

C. Academic Reading/Writing Workshop in Multicultural Studies: an academic writing class in which students will gather information, write in several rhetorical forms, document sources, use the Coe Writing Center, compile a portfolio and contribute to a program magazine. Students will read fairly extensively on topics of race, class, ethnicity, gender and national identity. Some American students will participate in this class as writing and discussion partners. Each class will have 9-10 students (3 days a week - Coe credit)

D. Core Communication & Cultural Class (TSA Seminar): Students will analyze their interactive cultural experiences throughout the year as well as study and participate in American academic culture; visiting classes, planning an academic schedule, and getting support.

What will I take in the Spring Term?

In the Spring, you will have several options:

1. Based on your academic performance in the Fall, you may register for 3 credit classes in the Spring Term.
2. Partial credit courses in sports and music are available.
3. An ESL support course may be available to help you with 1 of your classes.
4. Students needing more writing will take a Spring section of Reading/Writing Workshop.

What is Coe's Academic yearly schedule?

Fall Term 2008

New Student Orientation	Aug. 17-23 (Mon.-Sun.)
Registration for entering students	Aug. 21 (Fri.)
Classes begin/Returning students change of course	Aug. 24 (Mon.)
No classes (holiday) - Labor Day	Sept. 7 (Mon.)
Homecoming Weekend	Oct. 3 (Sat.)
Fall Break	Oct. 13-14 (Mon.-Tues.)
Thanksgiving Recess	Nov. 24-30 (Tues. after last class - Mon 8 a.m.)
Final Exams	Dec. 10-15

Spring Term 2009

Classes Begin	Jan. 12 (Tues.)
Spring Recess	Mar. 5-Mar. 14 (Fri. after last class-Sun.)
Residence Halls Close	Mar. 6 at noon (Sat.) - Mar. 14 at 8 a.m. (Sun.)
Classes End	Apr. 28 (Fri.)
Final Exams	May 1, 4-6 (Fri., Mon.-Wed.)
Baccalaureate	May 8 at 3 p.m. (Sat.)
Commencement/Residence Halls close for graduating students	May 9 (Sun.)

May Term 2009

Classes Begin	May 10 (Mon.)
Classes End	June 4 (Fri.)