First off, there are a lot of things that you haven't been told, but nonetheless need to know if you're going to make it in Aruba. These are things that I believe you should know before coming, which will make the transition from civilization to desert isle somewhat easier.

#1. Bring pants. I know what you're thinking - why should I bring pants to a desert isle whose mean temperature hovers around 27 C? Because, and this should really be coming from the school administrators and not a mere student such as myself, but Xavier employs uniforms. Under the dress code you'll need pants - jeans, slacks, what have you, with an absolute ban on shorts. Moreover, if you were thinking of chilling out with sandals - think again. Closed toe shoes ONLY.

#2. Uniform policy in effect between Monday-Thursday. Friday is your free day where you can wear closed toe shoes, pants, and a non-Xavier T-shirt of your choosing.

#3. Do not depend solely upon loan money. If you have no savings of your own, I recommend putting off coming - it's really that simple. You will need a couple of thousand dollars cash minimum in the event that lodging is not settled right away, for transportation costs and groceries. Loan monies are held by the school for a week or two. Plan to survive without a loan in that time period.

#4. You need a laptop. Yes, I said 'need'. You cannot depend upon the few computers the school has being available - they likely won't be when you need them. Also, a laptop with wireless internet connection will enable you to maintain your sanity by keeping in touch with loved ones an ocean away.

#5. Beware of bank machines. ATMs charge an arm and a leg. Use them infrequently. Better yet, open an account at the CMercantile Bank and transfer money from another account or your loan to this one. ATMs marked CMB are then free to use, provided you're withdrawing florins that is - your better option anyway as not all the locals are, shall we say, adept at dollar to florin conversions.

#6. Buy a car, rent a car, get a car pool going, but find transportation. You may want to allow more savings when coming to the island because transportation is a must - things are rather spread out.

#7. Come ahead of time, (if you have the money), and check out the school, and if you remain steadfast in your aim to pursue medicine here, arrange your own housing. Housing officials are swamped, and you don't want to end up like myself and a number of other students - stranded for a place to stay or paying big bucks at a hotel. If you do find yourself stranded, go to the Hotel Victoria - it's likely your cheapest option.

#8. Make sure you challenge premedical credits that you have completed elsewhere - this will allow you to focus more on your other studies - should you be exempt.

#9. Ensure all of your documents are complete, and apostilled with copies sent. Ensure you get your X-*** and immunization. Ensure that the immigration officials at the Aruba campus have copies in addition to the copies you sent to the U.S. Do not leave the island unless you have your student visa - you may be barred return entry. Immigration is a major hassle in Aruba.

#10. Realize that a lot of the effort you put into the program will be self-directed in nature. Ie. Professors may not assign you homework - assign it to yourself, or readings - read ahead on your own. You have to be a self-directed learner to be successful.

These are your 10 commandments. Learn them, internalize them, and make them you're own. You may think I'm just some crazy guy on a rock somewhere, but believe me, I know what I'm talking about.

Thanks a lot and very helpful
I'll see u in may 08.

thanks a lot these are great tips

Hey this is a great information'i live here one the island if you need any assis let me know