WHAT TO BRING AND HOW TO GET IT HERE
To keep travel simple, bring as little as possible. You are less likely to lose luggage if you follow the baggage limitations of the international airlines. However, bringing certain items from home will help you feel more comfortable in your new surroundings -especially photos and room decorations.
COMMUNICATE BEFORE YOU PACK AND TRAVEL
Use Skype, Whatsapp or Zoom to plan and connect with others who will join you at Sarah Lawrence; this is especially helpful for roommates.
CLIMATE AND CLOTHING
Sarah Lawrence is located in Bronxville, New York in Westchester County, a suburban area north of New York City. This region has four very distinct seasons. Fall and Spring are mild (averaging between 45° - 75° F/ 7°-25°C), and a sweater or jacket will usually keep you warm. Winter can be as warm as fall, as rainy as spring, or it can be snowy and freezing (below 32° F/0°C). If you stay during the summer months, it may be pleasantly warm or blazing hot up to 86°F/30°C.
If you are from a warm climate, it is advisable to buy your winter clothes here since selection is better. Classroom attire is casual - jeans and tee shirts are fine. Student dress can be incredibly casual - however, there are times (Fall/Spring Formals, International Bazaar) where 'dressing up' is appropriate and FUN! If you have a traditional outfit from your country, bring it. There may be occasions, like for example during International Education Week, where you might wear it.
SHIPPING AND BAGGAGE (for undergrad students living on campus)
Most international airlines have strict rules that limit the amount of luggage you can bring with you. It is sometimes as little as 20kgs or 4lbs. Check the airline. If you ship some of your belongings in advance, clearly label all packages to:
[YOUR FIRST AND LAST NAME]
c/o Sarah Lawrence College,
Bronxville, New York,
10708, U.S.A.
You can obtain information about freight and shipping services through local travel agents. Pick a reliable company, since they will be responsible for your things. Be sure to insure any valuable items. Your packages can be picked up at our campus Post Office when you arrive.
MEDICATION
If you have a medical condition that requires daily or regularly scheduled medication, please be advised that healthcare is very expensive in the United States. You may bring medication into the U.S. for personal use only. To be able to bring any kind of medication into the U.S., a doctor's note, or the original prescription, is required. The doctor's note should state the name and quantity of the medicine you are bringing into the U.S. It cannot exceed the quantity needed for 90-day stay. The note must also confirm that the medication is only for your personal use. It is also important to keep the medication in the original container
PERSONAL HYGIENE, HOUSEHOLD ITEMS AND SHOPPING
Toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, laundry detergent... you can buy it all here. Bring just enough shampoo, toothpaste, and hygiene products to get you settled.
Many students buy their bed linens and towels after they arrive. It is helpful, however, to bring one set with you for that first night before we go shopping. A Twin X-Long sheet set will fit any bed. The College does not rent sheets or towels.
Students should buy a reading lamp. Halogen lamps and candles are not allowed on campus. Alarm clocks (if your phone is not loud enough) are essential - getting to class on time is important.