We recommend Mint Mobile because it is affordable, easy to set up, and reliable throughout campus and the nation. From experience, you are paying a fraction of the price at T-Mobile while operating off the same network.

Mint Mobile provides its service through both physical SIM and eSIM. If your phone is eSIM enabled, you can access the internet immediately after activation by following the link below. Otherwise, have the card delivered to Webb's address and collect it once you arrive on campus.

We are sharing THIS special link so you can get ANY plan, including unlimited data, for $15!

Note: You must use this link for the special offer. Email rho@webb.org if there are any issues!

If you are opening a new account, inform the bank that you are an international student with permanent residence abroad and a temporary U.S. residence for the length of your education. They should advise you of the account types available to you (any simple account with a debit card should suffice). Some options are specifically geared toward students—these accounts have no overdraft fees, waived annual fees, and other helpful features (e.g. Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking). For specifics, kindly contact your bank. Common banks include Bank of America, Chase, and Wells Fargo. For your reference, this is the official guide from BoA: https://about.bankofamerica.com/en/international-student-bank-account.

Three main documents are required across all banks, but some may require more:

1. Proof of permanent residence abroad (utility bill, bank statement, etc. from your home country, unless you have a residence in the US)

2. Proof of U.S. address (this will be the Webb address—you may use any Webb document listing your name and Webb address, such as the letter of acceptance)

3. Two proofs of identity (e.g. passport, ID)

During your time at Webb, there will be numerous instances where having a card will help. Note that you may also use a foreign bank card, although keep in mind that foreign exchange fees from your currency will add up, so having a card in USD is advisable.

Once you arrive campus, head to Stockdale Community Center where our package pickup counter is at, and let Mr. Silva know your name—he will pass you your package. It's that simple!

Example~

Name: Ryan Ho

Address: 1175 West Baseline Road

City: Claremont

State: CA

ZIP Code: 91711

Visit this link for OUR map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1FRB2PNxQ9qtMPxZ7MnmkhAWsh12QIgo&usp=sharing

First, we will share some places within walking distance. For quick groceries, walk 20 minutes south to the Stater Bros grocery store. Across Towne Avenue is also a CVS Pharmacy and a taco stand for a delicious bite.

An additional 5 minutes east, you will arrive at Baskin Robbins, where you can get an ice-cream dessert. Feeling Thai food instead? Head west instead for 10 minutes and arrive at Thai Orchid Garden.

If you are less of a walker, don’t worry! The school organizes regular weekend “runs,” which are van rides to take you deeper into Claremont as well as other cities nearby! Simply sign up for a spot on the van, board at the departure time, enjoy your free time at the destination (no supervision), and be back at the van at the pick-up time! Here are some common runs:

- Claremont Village: A variety of delicious food and drinks, local boutiques, and even a farmers market on Sunday! My favorite spots at the Claremont Village include the James Turrell Skyspace at the Pomona Museum, as well as the Benton Museum of Art at Pomona College! (Reach out to mmojaverian@webb.org for more hidden gems in Claremont!).

- Target (La Verne): All-stop-shop with everything you need, from groceries, room essentials, and personal items! Around Target there are other shops like Marshalls and Staples, as well as restaurants such as Blaze Pizza or Mongolian BBQ!

- 99 Ranch Market: Missing the flavors of home? A bit further out, in Rowland Heights, this Asian supermarket hosts a wide variety of Asian groceries and specialty items. There are also plenty of international restaurants in the area!

- Montclair Place: Exactly what you would expect from a mall. They have shops such as Macy's and Nordstrom, and restaurants serving poke, Korean hotdogs, and even pho!

Comment below if the ISLs should lead a trip showing you to these walkable places!

For your information, if you are flying into Ontario International Airport (ONT), a Webb personnel will be your driver, while Mr. Silva will book you a shuttle from Xpress Shuttles if you are flying into any other airports. Hence, there will be no charge incurred for transportation from ONT. However, cost for an Xpress Shuttles trip will be charged into your student account, and your parents will reimburse to Webb at the end of the month (should be around $130 if you fly into LAX).

Also, as you are NOT ALLOWED to use ridesharing services like Uber, and Lyft, please be mindful when choosing your means of transportation. Safe travels!!