Information for accepted students in Pune

You are about to embark on the experience of a lifetime - one of exploration and discovery, great learning, cultural immersion, and new friendships. The Alliance staff wants you to get the most out of your experience and we know that you have many questions. These materials will help you to prepare in advance for your time abroad.

Print your pre-departure checklist here: Pune Pre-Departure Checklist

If you have questions that are not addressed on our website, please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email.

The Alliance for Global Education      Amanda Zimmerman
450 S. Easton Rd.                           Senior Program Manager
Glenside, PA 19038                         Email: azimmerman@allianceglobaled.org

Phone: 202-822-0032
Toll Free: 888-232-8379
Fax: 215-572-2174

All Alliance students are responsible for reviewing and familiarizing themselves with the policies outlined in the Alliance Policy Handbook.

You are also expected to acquaint yourselves with the recommendations, rules, and cultural expectations outlined in the Pune Student Handbook prior to departure.

Additional forms you will be asked to sign at orientation are the Academic Policies Contract and Student Behavior Contract. Please also be sure to familiarize yourself with possible Disciplinary Sanctions following from a breach of these expectations.

Accepted students should complete and return the following forms by email,
fax, or postal mail:

• Intent to Enroll Form:  You must complete and submit your Intent to Enroll form within 10 days of acceptance to an Alliance program.
• Medical Form:  Please complete the medical form with your physician even if you don't have any special requirements. It is crucial that you fully disclose any pre-existing health issues or concerns before departure to ensure that your needs can be accommodated. We must receive your completed medical form no later than one month prior to the program start date.

Accepted students must also submit the following online forms:

• Course Selection Form: (Fall and Spring Semester Students ONLY): Please be sure to list your elective course choices in order of preference.
• Housing Preference Form: Every attempt will be made to accommodate students’ housing preferences, but they cannot be guaranteed.
• Flight Form: Please complete the flight form once you have finalized your travel arrangements to Pune. Be sure to thoroughly read the information listed in the Travel Arrangements section for important information regarding your travel.

To complete these online forms, log in using your last name and your Alliance Student ID number. Then, select the form you wish to complete, fill it all of the required fields completely, and hit “submit” when you are finished.

If you will be applying any financial aid toward the cost of your Alliance program:

• Please print, complete and return the Financial Aid Arrangements form.
• You can read more about transferring financial aid by visiting the Finances section of this website.

All forms not submitted online can be emailed (preferred), faxed, or mailed to Alliance at:

The Alliance for Global Education               Phone: 1-888-232-8379
450 S. Easton Road                               Fax: 215-572-2174
Glenside, PA 19038-3295                       Email: kryan@allianceglobaled.org

Airline tickets

Students are responsible for booking their own airline tickets to India. See "Program Calendar" for arrival and departure dates.  Only these dates should be used when making any travel plans and it is mandatory for all students to attend their in-country Alliance orientation at the beginning of the program.

Students are required to arrive in Mumbai between 8:00pm and 12:00am (midnight) on their program start date. All students should fly to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai, IN. The airport code is BOM.

Regarding your flight home, make sure to book your flight after 5:00pm on the scheduled departure day listed on the program calendar. We don't want you to miss the Closing Ceremony which is held the evening before your return flight.

The Alliance for Global Education partners with Student Universe to provide discounted student fares. For more information about Student Universe, to view recommended flights, and to book a flight with them online, visit http://www.studentuniverse.com/travel/allianceindia.

If you are flying from the U.S., most flights will arrive in India on the day after they depart from the U.S. Be sure to confirm that your flight is arriving on your program start date. Once you have booked your flight, be sure to complete and submit your Flight Form.

Other websites to browse for discounted tickets are below.

• www.statravel.com
• www.ISTC.org
• www.expedia.com
• www.orbitz.com
• www.travelocity.com

If you consult a travel agent, be sure to ask about student rates, as well as taxes and other fees. It is also recommended to confirm the fees involved if you would like to change your return date to the U.S.

Arriving in India

Students arriving within the mandatory time window in India will be met at the airport by the Pune program's Resident Director and transported to a Mumbai hotel. For this purpose, you MUST communicate your travel plans to the Alliance before you depart for India.

After you leave the customs area and exit to the main arrival hall at the airport, look for the Alliance Resident Director holding a sign that says "The Alliance for Global Education." Students will stay for their first night with their fellow participants and the Alliance staff in Mumbai before traveling to the orientation site the following morning.

You will likely experience jet lag during your first few days in India. To help you adjust to the time difference, try to sleep on the plane and drink a lot of water during your trip and after you arrive. Do not consume alcohol or drinks with much caffeine.
Additional arrival details will be provided to participating students.

Early Arrivals

If you will already be in country or will arrive earlier than the official program start date, it is your responsibility to report to the hotel in Mumbai for the commencement of the program. Alliance staff in India will not be able to assist students before the start of the program.

Staying After the Program

Students planning to stay in Pune or travel in India beyond the official program end date should research all of the required visa and registration requirements before arriving in India. Alliance staff in India will not be able to assist students after the program ends.

A mandatory orientation led by your onsite Resident Directors will take place after arrival in Mumbai.

Your orientation will include the following activities:

• Introduction to the Alliance program
• Meeting professors
• Overview of the academic program and Alliance expectations
• Program policies (academic, student conduct)
• Health, safety and security tips
• Individual meetings with your Resident Directors
• Experiencing and coping with cultural shock
• Campus tour, neighborhood tour, city tour
• Cultural performances
• Meeting your Indian roommates or host families

The orientation is designed to meet the following goals:

• Deepen your understanding of the program and what to expect during the semester
• Facilitate your introduction to Alliance staff, faculty, roommates, host families, and your fellow students
• Create an Alliance community and culture
• Familiarize you with your surroundings -- the campus, neighborhood, and city
• Teach you how to use local transportation, order food, and safely navigate your new environment
• Establish individual academic and personal goals for your semester
• Prepare you for the new semester both academically and emotionally

Baggage Restrictions

Alliance-India students will be permitted only one checked bag and one carry-on. We will be traveling by van to the orientation site, and there are space restrictions for how much baggage can be brought on board.

We also strongly recommend that your one checked bag be a big backpack. Sidewalks are rare in India, and with train and bus travel as well, backpacks are much more manageable than large rolling suitcases.

Packing Suggestions

Women's Clothing

Please plan on dressing modestly during your time in India. Though Pune is a modern university town, and you will no doubt see some Indian students wearing jeans and tank tops, as a foreigner you will want to minimize the kinds of unwanted attention you might receive. Furthermore, for your internship and directed research you should be prepared to dress in manner appropriate to more traditional contexts.

This means just following a few basic rules of thumb: shoulders should be covered, pants and skirts mid-calf or ankle-length, necklines not too low, all clothes fairly loose (though fitted is fine), and fabrics opaque. Layering is always a good idea: having tank tops, camisoles, and slips under fabrics that might be translucent, tops that are hip-length, and cotton scarves or shawls to throw over your shoulders. Often linen pants are very comfortable, and if you are in Pune during monsoon season you should bring pants that can be rolled above your ankle. You should also bring one pair of jeans for any weekend excursions that might include hiking or similar activities. In a university or metropolitan setting, modestly-fitting jeans and leggings are also acceptable when worn under more traditional hip-length tunics. Shorts are not appropriate, even in your homestay.

Most women students end up buying a lot of local clothing, or even better, having outfits tailor-made! The traditional Indian salwar kameez outfits that you'll see most women wearing are always comfortable, attractive, inexpensive, practical, and appropriate.

Men's Clothing

Men may have things a bit easier when it comes to clothing, but there are a few things to keep in mind as you’re packing. Shorts are not appropriate, especially not for internships, documenatary film, or directed research. Same goes for T-shirts. Most men in India wear lightweight, collared shirts with cotton pants. You should also bring one pair of jeans for any weekend excursions that might include hiking or similar activities. As with the women, remember that your experiences in India will be enhanced if you are dressed appropriately to the local context.

Women’s and Men’s Clothing

Underwear: Bring plenty of underwear! All hosts will provide a way for the laundry to be done as often you need it, however, if you are in Pune during a drought there, obviously, won’t be an abundance of water so you will probably cut back on the frequency of doing your wash. Also, in most cases your laundry will be hung up in public areas to dry, so try to bring modest cuts and solid colors as not to draw attention. Cotton underwear is typically best for the hot climate.

Sweater/Outerwear: Even in December and January, Pune has a lovely climate, so one sweater, sweatshirt, or fleece should suffice unless you are planning on traveling to North India after the program. For travel and the rainy season, it is good to pack one lightweight shell or waterproof jacket.
Shoes:

• Flip-flops or sandals - In India people commonly slip off their shoes before entering homes, temples, and even some classrooms and places of business, so you’ll want at least one pair of flip-flops or sandals that you can take off easily. These are widely available and inexpensive in Pune as well, if you’d prefer to wait to acquire a pair when you’re there.
• Sturdy walking sandals – also a good idea, also available in Pune.
• Light trekking shoes or sneakers – with the many hills and mountains that surround Pune, you might want to bring a pair for light trekking.

Sun hat/sunglasses: Indian sun is strong, so be sure to bring adequate protection.
Dress clothes: Chances are good that you will be invited to at least one Indian wedding or other celebration while you are in India, so you'll want at least one nice outfit to wear. Women, this could be your opportunity to buy your first sari, but if you do also want to bring something from home, keep in mind the above guidelines here, too.

Pharmaceuticals/Toiletries

Please be sure to bring a full semester’s supply of any prescription medication you require. Most medications are available in Pune, but certain brand names may not be available or there might be slight variations, so bring as much of any required medication as you will need for the duration of your stay.

Most everyday toiletries are available in Pune, but you’ll still want to start out with a basic supply (a few weeks' worth) of the following:

• Sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent
• Basic self-medication needs (aspirin, band-aids, etc.)
• Anti-bacterial waterless hand cleaner (you’ll be using A LOT of this)
• Contact lens solution
• Feminine products (though you might want to consider the Keeper, a favorite of women travelers, www.thekeeper.com)

Miscellaneous

• Laptop computer (see "Telephone and Internet" for more information)
• Journal
• Camera and charger
• Adapter/converter (see "Electrical Applicances")
• Appropriate equipment for your anticipated internship or directed research project, for example, a digital voice recorder for interviews or a hand-held video camera for documentary filmmaking
• Small flashlight (power cuts are frequent)
• Sturdy water bottle with screw top
• Money belt
• A towel to use when you first arrive 
• Small photo album with pictures of family, friends, home, and college to share with your host family/roommates
• Travel alarm clock
• Ziploc bags (you have no idea how many uses you find for these!)
• Locks for luggage or cabinets
• Swiss Army knife (be sure to pack in your checked baggage)
• USB "flash" drive
• Any favorite small games (Frisbee, cards, chess, etc.)
• Musical instrument if you play one (this would be permitted as a second carry-on)
• Gifts for your host family or roommates (something from your college/university or unique to your hometown/region is usually a good idea)

Program dates roughly follow the U.S. academic calendar:

• Spring semester begins in mid-January and concludes in mid-May
• Summer session begins in early-June and concludes in late-July
• Fall semester begins in mid-August and concludes in mid-December

Semester Structure

The 16–17 week semester begins with an on-site orientation at a retreat location outside Pune. Two long weekends are built into the calendar for an urban field visit to Mumbai and a rural village visit, respectively. In addition, there are several day-outings to various points of interest in and around Pune. One weekend is set aside for independent travel, and students may choose to travel elsewhere on the subcontinent after the program ends. The semester concludes with a final two-day seminar where research is presented and discussed, and students are prepared for their return home.

Given the program’s busy academic schedule, weekly local activities and excursions, and field study trips, the Alliance STRONGLY DISCOURAGES students from hosting visitors until the end of the semester. Please encourage family and/or friends to visit AFTER the program has ended. Students should make their travel plans accordingly.

2013 Spring Semester Calendar

20 January 2013           Flight departure from U.S.
21 January 2013           Arrival in India
22 January 2013           Travel to Durshet – Orientation begins
14 May 2013                Closing Ceremony
15 May 2013                Return flight to U.S. (after 5:00 p.m.)

2013 SUMMER TERM CALENDAR

16 June 2013               Flight departure from U.S.
17 June 2013               Arrival in India
18 June 2013               Travel to Durshet – Orientation begins
30 July 2013                Closing Ceremony 
31 July 2013                Return flight to U.S. (after 5:00 p.m.)

In order to study within India, all students are required to obtain a visa. You will not be permitted to enter India without securing a visa in advance, so it is imperative that you complete the visa application process before you depart.

Instructions on how to obtain your visa are listed below. Please read through this information carefully. These instructions are intended for US citizens. If you are not a citizen of the United States, please contact your Program Manager for assistance.

Please remember that it is your responsibility to ensure that the appropriate visa is obtained for participation in the Contemporary India program.

How to Apply

Download and complete the AIIS Student Visa Authorization Form from the Alliance for Global Education website. Return this document to your Program Manager as part of your initial application. Your AIIS visa sponsorship will be based on this information. For question 15, you must list the consulate that corresponds to the address on your driver's license or a major utility bill. Please use the districts chart (make this an ANCHOR to chart at the bottom of page) below to determine your corresponding Travisa office.

Upon acceptance to the Alliance program and AIIS’s approval, your AIIS Student Visa Sponsorship Letter will be sent to you via UPS approximately one month prior to your program departure date. You cannot proceed with your student visa application without this letter. Do NOT proceed to Step 2 and initiate the online India Visa Application until you have received this UPS package.

Complete the online India Visa Application: https://indiavisa.travisaoutsourcing.com/get-a-visa.html.
For detailed instructions please refer to Travisa's visa process tutorial video. 

Click on the “Apply by Mail” button and enter “Student Visa” as your visa type, along with your citizenship and home state information. You will then be taken to a page with a link to the online application (see item 1).

AFTER THE ONLINE APPLICATION HAS BEEN COMPLETED, YOU MUST PRINT AND SIGN THE APPLICATION.

Mail all of your supporting materials to the appropriate Travisa Outsourcing location. The processing of visa applications is jurisdictional, so you must submit your materials to your assigned Travisa office, which is dictated by your home state. Please see addresses below.

It is strongly recommended that you send your supporting materials via a trackable method such as: UPS, Fed-Ex, DHL or registered mail.

The following items must be included:

1. Online Application: Signed copy
2. Passport: Passport must have a minimum validity of six months from the date of visa application with at least two blank visa pages. Last 2 amendment pages are not acceptable. Must be the actual passport, NOT A COPY. The visa will be a sticker in your passport.
3. Photographs: Two recent, identical passport-size photographs (black/white or color) depicting front pose against light background. Remove hat and glasses.  
4. Proof of Address: Applicants must submit a photocopy with proof of residence/address that matches the address on the visa application exactly. Photocopy of state issued ID (Driver License or ID), or major utility bill (Water, Gas, Electric, Sewage) must be submitted. The following items are not accepted: cell phone bill, credit card statement, bank statement or lease. The address cannot include a P.O. box. Minor applicants must have a copy of both parents State Issued ID or Passports.
5. Admission Letter: A letter confirming admission from a recognized institution along with evidence of financial arrangements for stay in India. This is your AIIS Visa Sponsorship Letter provided by your Alliance for Global Education Program Manager.
6. Persons of Indian Origin: (if applicable) Persons of Indian Origin applying for a visa for the first time on any US passport must submit their Indian passport and a completed Renunciation Form (http://indiavisa.travisaoutsourcing.com/pdf/renunciation.pdf). (US Citizens Only)
7. Dual Citizenship: (if applicable) Applicants who have dual citizenship with the US and another country must apply on their US passport if living in the US.
8. Fees (*approximately $130 including shipping): Payment can be made online with Visa or Mastercard (recommended), or by money order enclosed with the application. A Processing Service Fee of $13.00 will be charged by Travisa Outsourcing per application, per passport. All fees are non refundable. If payment is not paid in full, processing delays will occur. The payment method should be selected when completing the visa application.

*Please note that the shipping fees may vary.

Estimated Processing Time: Applications sent by mail take around 7-9 working/business days to process from the date of receipt. You can check the status of your application at the following site: https://indiavisa.travisaoutsourcing.com/track-passport

For more information about the visa application process for India, please see Travisa Outsourcing’s website at https://indiavisa.travisaoutsourcing.com/ or contact a Travisa office directly by telephone.

MAKE A COPY OF ALL VISA APPLICATION FORMS AND MATERIALS FOR YOUR RECORDS.

Here are our answers to some frequently asked questions about passports and visas. If you still can't find what you're looking for, we're happy to talk to you!

Do I need a passport?

YES!!!! Please visit the U.S. State Department travel pages for the most up-to-date information regarding passport application and fees. If you don't have a passport, you should apply for one immediately when you begin to think about studying abroad.

What is a visa and what kind of visa do I need to participate on an Alliance program in India?

In addition to a valid passport, you are also required to secure a student visa to enter India. A visa is an official document/seal that is glued into your passport that permits you to enter the country.

Where do I go to get a visa?

Instructions accompanying your visa application forms will tell you how to apply by mail.

When should I secure my visa?

You first need a valid passport. You can't apply for your visa until you receive a Student Visa Authorization letter from the Alliance, sponsored by the American Institute for Indian Studies (AIIS). These visa documents are sent to students according to the following timeline, and this mailing will also include detailed instructions on how to apply for your visa.

• Fall term students - early July
• Spring term students - early December
• Summer term students - mid-April

Should I make copies of my visa documents?

YES. Please make a copy of all visa-related paperwork

Is it possible to extend my visa so I can travel around India at the conclusion of my program?

The Alliance's sponsorship of your student visa cannot be extended for travel, research, or volunteer conducted outside its auspices. Students planning to stay in Pune or travel in India beyond the official program end date should research all of the required visa and registration requirements before arriving in India. Alliance staff in India will not be able to assist students after the program ends.

Is it possible to travel to other countries at the conclusion of the Alliance program and then return to Mumbai to fly back home?

Yes, this is usually possible, but visa regulations are constantly changing and can be complicated. It is best to check with your Resident Director before making any plans.

Disclosure

The first step to staying healthy in India is to fully disclose any pre-existing health issues or concerns on the Medical Form before you go. This allows Alliance to be sure that your needs can be accommodated in the local context, and to anticipate any care that you might require.

Failure to fully disclose any and all physical or mental preconditions might not only impact our ability to provide adequate care in India, it might be grounds for you to be sent home.  Please know that all medical information is treated confidentially by Alliance staff, and shared only on a need-to-know basis.

Student Health Insurance

All students enrolled in an Alliance program automatically receive insurance through our health insurance provider. The Alliance's plan is offered through HTH Worldwide and underwritten by HM Life Insurance Company, Pittsburgh, PA. The plan is effective throughout the duration of the participant's program. There is no deductible per injury or illness, and the maximum medical expenses of the policy for accident or sickness is $500,000. Additional information about the HTH Worldwide plan will be emailed to students upon acceptance and enrollment in an Alliance program.

Student Information

Personalized information and support for participants about health care and prescription medication is available through "Well Prepared" at www.hthstudents.com. HTH Worldwide will send an e-mail to accepted Alliance students automatically prior to departure. The e-mail will contain information about coverage, the individual ID number and certificate number with HTH. Students can then print an ID card and activate a "Well Prepared" profile.

Parent Information

HTH Worldwide also has a website which includes information for parents. Parents can go to www.hthparents.com and create a sign-in with their son's or daughter's e-mail address. Parent(s) have access to provider information and health and safety services. In order for a parent to have access to any personalized information on "Well Prepared," they must request access online from their son or daughter.

Questions?

Please contact Amanda Zimmerman, Program Manager, via email or at 888-232-8379. Your Resident Director will also provide information during orientation about where to seek medical attention in Pune.

Street Smarts

Staying safe in India involves many of the same behaviors as staying safe anywhere in the world. Be aware of who and what is around you, avoid putting yourself in risky situations, and dress and behave in culturally appropriate ways in order to avoid making yourself a target.

Another component of personal safety that students often neglect is road safety, which is actually the number one cause of American fatalities overseas. India in particular has very high rates of road-related fatalities, and students should maintain high vigilance as they are walking (on streets which rarely have sidewalks), speak up if you are in a vehicle with a driver who is behaving recklessly, and use seatbelts wherever available.

Alliance resident staff will provide a thorough orientation to personal safety matters, with local and culture-specific tips for minimizing risk.  We want you to stay safe and healthy throughout your study abroad experience, so please never hesitate to let Alliance staff know if you have any concerns about your health or safety.

Food and Water

Paying attention to the food and water you consume is the number one way to stay healthy in India. You'll be given a thorough overview of do's and don'ts during your onsite orientation, and travel guides such as the Lonely Planet offer good standard rules to live by, but the first rule of thumb is: HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE! Dehydration is a leading cause for students having to seek medical attention, and is the most easily preventable.

Of course, you want to make sure that the water you consume does not make you sick. Filtered water will be available at the program center and in your housing placements. Plan to carry a plastic bottle around with you to fill up wherever you can, and to always have handy. When you are eating out or traveling on your own, always ask for bottled water instead of drinking whatever is provided to you. Bottled water is inexpensive and widely available.

Also pay attention as you are showering--try not to let the tap water inadvertently pass your lips--and when you are brushing your teeth, use filtered or bottled water.

Be aware of plates or glasses that are still wet, and watch out for juice drinks that have water blended into them--even ice cream scoops left in water can be the cause of great discomfort. Coffee and tea are always safe choices, as they have been boiled. Soft drinks, too, are a safe bet.

For food, fruits and salads are the main culprits. Rule of thumb: if it is cooked, it is okay. Another rule of thumb: if it can be peeled, then peel it and it should be okay. Grapes, for example, are not a good idea, nor the tempting salad fixings you may see.
That said, chances are good that at some point you will succumb to something food or water-borne. In most cases, though it will not be fun, it will pass within 48-72 hours. The key is to keep yourself well-hydrated to flush it out of your system. Many students like to bring Emergen-C electrolyte packets with them from the U.S. to help combat dehydration, either heat- or stomach-related.

As with all health-related matters, keep the resident staff fully informed about how you're feeling, even if you don't think it's anything serious. Our staff is familiar with the kinds of medical issues U.S. students experience in India, and it is important that they be able to keep tabs on how you are doing.

Prescriptions

If you plan to take any prescription drugs while in India, we recommend that you take a supply to last you the entire term. Also, pack a prescription from your doctor for any medications you take to India. This is an extra precaution in case your luggage is searched and you need to verify why you are bringing the medication with you. If you plan to purchase any medication in India, you will need to present a copy of your prescription and see an Indian physician to obtain a new one. While most prescriptions and medications are available in India, it is best to bring all of the specific medications you think you will need for the term with you.

Bringing enough prescription medication is particularly important as prescription medication and even over-the-counter drugs are often held up in customs when shipped from the U.S. The student health insurance program (HTH Worldwide) can help with prescription drug replacement/shipment if needed.

If you wear prescription eyeglasses, you should bring a copy of your prescription. It is easy and inexpensive to have glasses made in India. Contact lenses and solutions are also available in India, though not all brands you are familiar with will be available.

Immunization

Vaccinations are not required for entry to India, but we recommend that you consult the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and consult with your physician to determine which vaccines you may need. You should also make sure that all of your regular immunizations are up to date. The CDC also operates an international traveler's hotline that provides up-to-date vaccination requirements for any region or country you select. The number is 1-877-FYI-TRIP (394-8747).

We strongly encourage you to obtain insurance against theft and/or damage to your personal effects for the period of time you will be abroad. The Alliance for Global Education does not provide insurance for your possessions, nor do we provide travel insurance for any travel arrangements made by individual students. It is a good idea to check first with your home insurance provider to see what is already covered, how coverage might be extended, and the possibility of Renter’s Insurance for your time abroad if your program houses you in apartments.

The electrical current in India is 220 volts, 50 cycles whereas the US is 110V/60Hz. If your appliances are not dual voltage (110/220V) you will need a voltage converter or transformer, which can be purchased in India a few weeks after your arrival. If you require the immediate use of your lap top or other appliance, however, we recommend that you bring a voltage converter from home, as well as a plug adapter.

It is easy to purchase appliances (such as a hair dryer) that use the correct Indian electrical current after you arrive. A picture of the most common outlets in India can be found here. Please note that power strips allowing you to plug in your computer and other hardware of variously pronged plug types are readily available at many stores and they are inexpensive. These are not power adapters, but they do allow you to plug in almost anything.

India's currency is the rupee. At the time of writing, USD $1 = INR Rs 52.

Exchanging Money

It is best to change money in banks, hotels, and other authorized locations to which our resident staff will direct you. Do not under any circumstances exchange money on the black market. This is illegal, it may put you in an unsafe environment, and you may receive fake money. ATMs are also widely available around town, and are addressed in more detail below. The best approach overall is to have several different sources of obtaining funds in case cards, cash, or travelers checks are lost, stolen, or not viable in a given location.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are becoming widely accepted in India, but generally in larger stores or in nicer hotels and restaurants. In Varanasi most everyday money transactions in India still take place in cash. It is always a good idea to have one or two credit cards on you for emergencies, for travel outside of your host city, and/or for any higher-end shopping you might want to do, but don't plan on using them around town as you might in the U.S. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, American Express less so. Some vendors accepting credit cards will add an additional 2-3% to the purchase price with a credit card payment and require a photocopy of your passport.

ATM Cards

A convenient way to withdraw money from your account at home is to use an ATM card that has a VISA or MasterCard logo. You should not rely on ATMs as your only source of cash as they may not always work, but in general this is your best bet for getting the best exchange rate, and for avoiding having too much cash on you (or stashed at home) that could be lost or stolen.

Be sure to carry the PIN number in a safe place separately from your card, and also confirm with your bank that your ATM card will work internationally. It is best to test your card in the U.S. before you leave. We also advise that you call your bank or credit card company to let them know that you will be using the card in India. Sometimes banks may obstruct card transactions overseas in the interest of customer security. Also be sure that you are aware of any international withdrawal charges that your bank or credit card company might charge for these transactions.

Mailing Address:

The Alliance for Global Education
Fergusson College, Bungalow #3
Ladies Hostel Gate, F. C. Road
Pune 411004
INDIA

All student parcels should be sent to this address, not to student residences.  Please be sure not to send any items of value or medications, as these may increase the risk of theft or be held up in Indian customs.

Phone:

+91-20-2565 8574

The Alliance for Global Education, US Office

If you are experiencing an emergency outside of US business hours, please dial Arcadia University's 24/7 Public Safety number at 1-215-572-2900 and await instruction from the operator. You will then be contacted by an Alliance member who will assist you. 

It is most convenient to have all of your mail, including FedEx packages, sent to you at the Alliance Program Center, where packages can be received during the day. Regular airmail takes approximately two-three weeks to arrive in India from the U.S.

Please note that nothing of value should be sent, especially through regular mail. It is common for packages to be opened and for anything of value to be taken. 

Mail should be sent to:

The Alliance for Global Education
Bungalow No. 3, Fergusson College
Ladies Hostel Gate, FC Road
Pune 411004
INDIA

Time Difference

There is only one time zone in India: 10.5 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. When it is 10:00 pm in New York on Wednesday, it is 8:30 am in India on Thursday.

When Daylight Savings Time begins in March, India is only 9.5 hours ahead, as India does not observe Daylight Savings Time. Thus, when it is 10:00 pm in New York on Wednesday, it is 7:30 am in India on Thursday.

Telephone

During orientation, you will receive more information about how to call home. Host families may have landlines, but you should not use them except in emergencies. Using Internet telephone booths is generally the least expensive way to call home from India, and you are able to receive calls at these calling centers as well. Students may also wish to contact their U.S. long distance carrier before they depart the U.S. and request an international calling guide. Keep in mind that using calling cards purchased in the U.S. is more expensive than using local options.

As with most of the world, cell phones are now the most common way to communicate in India. The Alliance will provide all students with a pre-paid cell phone on arrival. You will be responsible for maintaining a balance on your phone, and value can be easily added at nearby shops. Incoming calls and text messages on Indian cell phones are usually free. Reliance India offers inexpensive calling cards to India from the U.S., as well as a service that allows a U.S. number to be forwarded to an Indian cell phone at reduced rates.

Internet Access

Two student computers and general internet access are provided at the Alliance Program Center for academic use. For personal use, internet cafes are widely available and inexpensive or you may consider purchasing a broadband data stick, which connects via a computer’s USB port. Students will be able to purchase this connection during the second week of the program and should budget approximately $60 to purchase the data stick and the first recharge. After the initial purchase, you should expect to pay as per your data usage. Students should not expect internet access during orientation or at their housing placements.

Past students have strongly recommended bringing a personal laptop, though the Alliance assumes no responsibility for personal items damaged or stolen while in India. If you are going to bring a laptop, consider purchasing a special insurance policy before you go. See the Travel Insurance section for more information.

All students should bring a USB flash drive with them to use for class presentations, printing assignments and saving work on other computers.

It is important to keep in mind that internet access and land-line phone service may not always be available. Power cuts are a frequent and regular part of life in India, so plan as best you can to allow for more time than you might usually need to accomplish even the most humdrum of tasks online.

Critical skills for success--with all things in India--are patience and an ability to roll with the unexpected.  Also, remember that your priority in India is to immerse yourself in your local environment!  Too much dependence on communication with home can not only hinder your ability to adapt and integrate, but it can actually exacerbate homesickness and culture shock.  Try to set realistic expectations with your family and friends in the U.S. that will allow you to fully focus on this experience and your own personal growth and transformation throughout your semester.

Many of you will be interested in reading about India, watching Indian films, or perusing India-related websites before you depart. Below is a short list of recommended books, films, and websites. Enjoy!

Books

• Giridhadaras, Anand. India Calling: An Intimate Portrait of A Nation's Remaking. New York: Henry Holt & Co., LLC., 2011.
• Mehta, Suketu. Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found. New York: Vintage, 2005.
• Chandra, Vikram. Red Earth and Pouring Rain: A Novel. London: Faber & Faber Ltd, 2001.
• Bose, Sugate, and Ayesha Jalal. Modern South Asia: History, Culture, Political Economy. New York: Routledge, 2003.
• Gandhi, Mohandas K. Hind Swaraj. Columbia: South Asia Books, 1998.
• Chapple, Christopher, and Mary Tucker, eds. Hinduism and Ecology: The Intersection of Earth, Sky, and Water. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 2000.
• Roy, Arundhati. The God of Small Things. New York: Harper Perennial, 1998.
• Lahiri, Jhumpa.  Interpreter of Maladies: Stories. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 1999.
• Ghosh, Amitav. The Hungry Tide: A Novel. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 2005.
• Nagarkar, Kiran. Cuckold. New Delhi: HarperCollins India, 1999.
• Guha, Ramachandra. India After Gandhi: The History of the World's Largest Democracy. London: Macmillan Publishers Ltd., 2007. 
• Thomas, David C. and Kerr Inkson. Cultural Intelligence: People Skills for Global Business. San Francisco: Berrett-Koehler Publishers, Inc., 2004.

Articles

• Necessary Angels. A National Geographic article on community public health workers in Maharashtra, December 2008.
• NPR Special Series: Along the Great Trunk Road, Coming of Age in India and Pakistan - http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=126395475&jump=3
• Cultural Crossing: A community built guide to cross-cultural etiquette & understanding - http://www.culturecrossing.net/basics_business_student.php?id=96

Films

• Rao, Kiran. Dhobi Ghat. Aamir Khan Productions, 2010.
• Rizvi, Anusha and Farooqui, Mahmood et al. Peepli [Live]. Aamir Khan Productions, 2010.
• Mehra, Rakesh Omprakash, et al. Rang De Basanti. Flicks Motion Pictures Co. Pvt. Ltd., 2006.
• Boyle, Danny and Tandan, Loveleen, et.al. Slumdog Millionaire. Celador Films, 2008.
• Hirani, Rajkumar, et al. Lage Raho Munna Bhai. Eros Entertainment, 2006.
• Varma, Ram Gopal, et al. Company. Eros Entertainment, 2002.
• Mehta, Deepa, et al. Earth. Zeitgeist Films, 1999.
• Mehta, Deepa, et al. Fire. Zeitgeist Films, 1997.
• Mehta, Deepa, et al. Water. Fox Searchlight Pictures, 2005.
• Ratman, Mani, et al. Bombay. Eros International, 1995.
• Gowariker, Ashutosh, et al. Lagaan (Once Upon a Time in India). Sony Pictures Classics, 2002.
• Nair, Mira, et al. Monsoon Wedding. Focus Features, 2004.
• Johar, Karan, et al. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Yash Raj Films, 2001.
• Advani, Nikhil. Kal Ho Naa Ho. Yash Raj Films, 2003.

Journals/Newspapers

• The Hindu (newspaper) - http://www.thehindu.com/
• The Times of India (newspaper) - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/
• Manushi: A Journal about Women and Society - http://www.freespeech.org/manushi/
• Journal of South Asia Women Studies - http://www.asiatica.org/jsaws/
• India Abroad - http://indiaabroad.com/
• Indian Express - http://www.indianexpress.com/

Websites

• U.S. State Department's travel resource page on India - http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1139.html
• U.S. State Department's Background Note on India - http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/3454.htm
• U.S. Consulate, Mumbai - http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov/
• Center for Disease Control's travel health information for India - http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinationIndia.aspx
• Indian Embassy, Washington, D.C. - http://www.indianembassy.org/
• AIIS Photo Archive for Pune - http://dsal.uchicago.edu/images/aiis/aiis_search.html?quick=pune&limit=20&skipMissing=1&depth=Quick+Search
• SAWNET: South Asian Women’s Network - http://www.sawnet.org/
• SARAI: South Asia Resource Access on the Internet - http://www.columbia.edu/cu/lweb/indiv/southasia/cuvl/index.html