Learning Objective of the Module:
To be confident in how to proceed with the practical arrangements.
STEP 1: Signing Up for the Pre-Departure Orientation Day and Award Ceremony
As you are aware, the Foundation arranges a Pre-Departure Orientation Day and Award Ceremony on May 13, 2025 for all grantees beginning their grant term in the U.S. during 2025-26. The orientation will take place at the University of Helsinki Economicum building, Arkadiankatu 7, 00100 Helsinki, starting at 8:30.
After the orientation, we will continue with the Award Ceremony and Reception at the Helsinki City Hall, concluding at 19:00.
The tentative program for the day can be found here.
TASK:
Sign up for the orientation day by filling out this form by May 4.
Through this survey, we will collect information on:
• dietary restrictions (if any)
• permission to use photos of you
• name of your avec for the Award Ceremony
STEP 2: Continuing with the Visa Process
During the orientation, we will have experts to answer your remaining questions about the visa process.
TASK:
After reading through the visa process on Module 1, please add any remaining questions on this Whiteboard by May 8, 2025.
STEP 3: Social Security (not applicable for SUSI and Travel Grantees)
Read about social security in our Guide for Going to the U.S. A separate session will be held online on social security issues. We will send a separate invitation to those grantees who should participate in the session.
STEP 4: Finnish Fulbright Welcome Network
Our alumni in the U.S. are eager to connect with you, so feel free to take advantage of this wonderful networking opportunity. Members of the Welcome Network have all volunteered to help, and look forward to meeting you. You may even get to experience Thanksgiving, Halloween, or other American traditions or holidays with them. Remember that they are also a great source of information in many practical matters already before traveling to the U.S.
You can access the Welcome Network list here (please note that you will need a password that has been shared with you earlier). Please contact your own program coordinator if you have problems in accessing the list.
Please remember that the list is for your personal use only and not for distribution.
STEP 5: Bringing Your Family with You (if applicable)
- Alumni tips in the Guide for Going to the U.S.
- Blog by MCPD Pirjo Kangas - traveling with a child
The orientation day includes a breakout session with alumni of the program, which is also a good opportunity to ask their tips for traveling with family.
Please note that these pages are for the Fulbright Finland Foundation grantees only and not to be shared publicly.
