Bank Account Setup

Do You Recommend Any Specific Banks?

Absolutely! I personally recommend JPMorgan Chase Bank because they have branches nationwide. It makes finding ATMs for cash withdrawals easier so that you don’t have to worry about out-of-network fees.

When Should I Open an Account?

Please go open an account as soon as possible after arriving because there will be many people. Unless you arrive very early (late July/early August), make sure you schedule an appointment first, and then bring your I-20/DS-2019 and passport (if you already have an SSN, bring that as well).

Can We Organize a Group to Open Accounts?

Yes! They are happy to have people open accounts together so that you don’t have to repeat the same things over and over. Opening an account usually comes with some incentives! (I once received nearly $500 – please check online for account opening promotions.)

Obtain your own promo code here with the following steps:

  1. Enter your email address.
  2. Once you receive the code, tell the banker when opening your account (you can get at least $200).

Please do not walk in without a plan and end up with nothing 😭

Don’t be nervous about opening an account – in Ithaca, there is a female representative who is from Kaohsiung (Shu-Chang Chen) and even speaks Taiwanese!

What If I Can’t Find an ATM and Need Cash?

At many supermarkets (like 7-Eleven, Wegmans, and similar stores) when you check out, simply tell the cashier with your debit card (your ATM card) that you’d like Cash Back!

In other words, if you are purchasing $10 worth of items and you want $5 cash back, the transaction will be processed as $15 and you will receive $5 in cash. (I remember once when I was shopping alone, the cashier asked, ‘Do you need cash back?’ and I was a bit stunned – I initially thought he was referring to cashback rewards! Don’t be as confused as I was; he is asking if you want cash back.)

Life at Cornell

How Should I Drink Tap Water?

Many American students drink tap water directly! However, I’m a bit cautious, so I purchased a Brita water filter and only drink after boiling (even though I personally find it quite gross) because the water is treated with chloride (for disinfection) and fluoride (for dental protection).

How Can I Identify American Bird Species?

Cornell is renowned for its avian ecology research, and there is a world-famous bird identification app called Merlin. You can download it and have fun – it can identify birds just by their songs!

Can I Drink or Buy Alcohol?

You must be 21 or older and carry acceptable ID. Stores and bars generally accept:

  • Your passport (the most reliable option when you first arrive)
  • A U.S. driver’s license or Learner Permit
  • A New York State Non-Driver ID — if you don’t plan to drive, this is the most convenient alternative, and you apply for it at the DMV just like a license
Taiwanese national ID cards, NHI cards, Taiwan Compatriot Cards, and International Driving Permits will not be accepted — staff cannot verify them. Get a New York State ID or license early so you don’t have to carry your passport around every day (losing your passport is a genuine ordeal — see the Passport & Visa Section).
Everyone at the table gets carded, even people who aren’t drinking; if one person in your group has no ID, the whole table may be refused. (I was initially flattered, thinking I must look young for my age — then I saw them card the clearly retired gentleman next to us.)

How Do I Get Online on Campus?

Typically, everyone uses the eduroam Wi-Fi network.

Your account is: *netID*@cornell.edu, and your password is your netID password. You can find eduroam at educational institutions worldwide (for example in Taiwan: Academia Sinica, various universities – see the eduroam website) and log in using the same credentials.

In addition, the campus also offers two other unencrypted Wi-Fi networks:

  • RedRover
  • Cornell-Visitor
For connection tutorials, visit the IT website: Android, Windows 10, Mac, iOS, Linux Certificates.

What Are the School’s COVID-19 Insurance Policies?

Since the U.S. ended the COVID-19 emergency status on May 12th, 2023, the insurance benefits have been reduced! You may decide whether or not to wear a mask (personally, I think over 99% of people no longer wear one).

Regarding COVID-19 policies: Treatment and testing for COVID-19 is still covered under the Student Health Plan; however, cost-sharing for these services has changed.

You will pay a copay, coinsurance, or deductible at in-network locations. Refer to your summary of benefits for details on cost-sharing.

Office visits related to COVID-19 will also follow the normal plan cost-share.

COVID-19 vaccines, including boosters: You will still pay $0 for the vaccine at in-network locations.

COVID-19 at-home test kits (over-the-counter test kits): You will pay the retail price for these kits.

Antiviral medications or treatments, such as Paxlovid: Copays may apply.

What Should I Be Aware of When Going into the Woods?

Please be very aware of ticks (see Wikipedia). Ticks are blood-sucking parasites that often lurk in long grass, waiting for you to pass by so they can cling to you. While getting a tick bite is one thing, if you contract a virus from it, it can be really bad!

The most concerning condition is Alpha-gal Syndrome, which could potentially cause you to be unable to eat mammalian meat (beef, pork, lamb) for the rest of your life, effectively forcing you into a semi-vegetarian lifestyle (though you can still eat fish and chicken)!

I Want to Exercise – Where Can I Go?

The school has plenty of recreational facilities (Cornell Recreational Services). Check out the official website. There are 5 gyms, 2 swimming pools, a rock climbing gym, a bowling alley, an ice rink, badminton, basketball, table tennis courts… and almost all equipment is available for free rental so you don’t need to bring your own.

I don’t have many friends, so I mostly stick to weight training. You’re welcome to join me at the gym (if you’re as diligent as I am, gym access is free)! I’m currently struggling with some fitness goals—maybe you can motivate me to build muscle successfully

How Does Parking Work on Campus?

There are various parking guidelines based on your status, and since I don’t have a car, I haven’t personally tested them!

What Methods Are There for Paying for Temporary Parking?

  • Method 1: Download the ParkMobile app. The parking facility will display a parking code, which can be located via GPS or manually entered. Follow the instructions to pay. Register here
  • Method 2: Text “PARK” to 77223.

What Campus Safety Measures Does Cornell Have?

Ithaca is a relatively safe town. People are generally friendly, and you won’t run into nearly as many unpredictable situations as in a big city. Under normal circumstances a little ordinary awareness is enough to have a very comfortable time here — there’s no need to worry excessively.

There are 950 Blue Light Service units deployed around campus and its surroundings! They look like small blue lampposts with an intercom on them that connects you directly to Cornell Police! They can be used in any emergency like for help, getting lost, or car troubles.

If you’re really worried about your safety while walking, you can use the Blue Light Virtual Escort. Simply download the Guardian App (iOS Download, Android Download).

Select Cornell and then log in using your school netID credentials. The app has a safety timer feature. Basically, set the duration you expect to be at risk (for example, 20 minutes if you’re walking home late at night), and if you don’t cancel the timer after those 20 minutes, Cornell Police will be notified of your probable danger! (Sometimes students forget to turn it off and then Cornell Police immediately show up at their location.)

Of course, you can choose who gets notified – it can be family, friends, or the police by default. Typically, if you forget to turn off the timer after arriving, Cornell Police will be alerted!

If you’re too scared to walk at night and need a bus, TCAT’s Route 92 runs from 6:30 PM to 2:30 AM. This is another option for students.

What Is the Current Tipping Culture in the U.S.?

This may vary from person to person, but here are my thoughts:

Tips are given only for dine-in service with waitstaff. When the bill comes (it’s common to split the check among people):

  1. Your credit card is taken.
  2. They swipe it at the counter and then return your card.
  3. They give you two copies of the receipt!
The two receipts usually look identical, except for a single line where the name differs. One copy is for you to keep, and the other is for you to write your tip on for the restaurant.

You provide your tip by writing the tip amount and the total amount (food plus tip) on the receipt that they take, sign it, and then leave it on the table.

Typically, people tip 15% for lunch and 15-20% for dinner, though some people consistently tip 15%.

Since you sign the receipt and leave it on the table, you don’t need to worry about the waitstaff giving you dirty looks for a low tip – just tip according to the level of service you received!

Sometimes, a service charge is automatically added to your bill, so be sure to check the total. The receipt might list ‘gratuity’ instead of tip! This is still a tip. If you feel the automatic tip is too high, you can cross it out and write in the tip amount you are willing to pay along with the food cost. Then sign it!

In general, tips are calculated based on the pre-tax amount. However, an increasing number of restaurants now suggest tips based on the post-tax amount, which effectively makes you pay an extra 8% (sales tax) on your tip. Also, some restaurants automatically add a 20% tip for parties of six or more since more service may be required.

Nowadays, tipping in the U.S. can be a bit over the top. For example, some bubble tea shops will ask if you want to tip, and the default button is set at 20%. Remember – be ruthless and choose ’no tip’ if you don’t want to pay extra! (Of course, you can tip if you wish.)

Do Online Shopping Platforms Offer Discounts?

Yes, Rakuten is an option! It is a cashback website similar to ShopBack. When you shop through their referral site and then visit the official website, you receive a corresponding cashback. The cashback is provided by mailing a check every quarter to your address. You can either deposit it using your Chase (or other bank’s) app by taking a photo, or have it transferred directly to PayPal or as American Express points.

What Software Does the School License?

The school provides access to:

For more details, check out the official IT website and be sure to note the post-graduation account usage policies via the links provided.

I Really Want to Use a GPT-4 Model to Solve Problems – Is It Free?

Absolutely yes! Cornell has purchased Microsoft Copilot Enterprise Services.

Microsoft Copilot is powered by ChatGPT, DALL-E, and Microsoft’s search engine. This enhances the recency and accuracy of its answers, but also means that conversations are processed through public search engines with privacy limitations. Therefore, please only input low-risk information.

What Are the Transportation Options on Campus?

If you don’t own a car, you’ll typically use the bus system – and for your first year, it’s free, so take advantage of it! If in your second year you find yourself needing to use a fee-based zone, you can use your student ID as a reloadable card – very convenient!

Recently, the campus also introduced Ithaca BikeShare and Ithaca Carshare. Both electric bicycles and cars are available for rent on a flexible basis!

Are There Discounts for Renting a Car?

Yes! The school has partnerships with major rental car companies (Hertz, Budget, Avis, etc.). Please visit the school website to check for promo codes. When booking, make sure to enter your school email to use the discount! The prices are usually very reasonable, and you can even get additional cashback through cashback websites!

What If I Suddenly Need Money?

In emergencies, the school offers Emergency Funds – you can apply for up to $500 per academic year. There is also the Cornell Food Pantry for students who need food.

Credit Cards

Can I Apply for a Credit Card Without a Social Security Number (SSN)?

Yes! You can still apply for some credit cards without an SSN. However, if you’re confident you’ll have one soon, skip to the next questions: Here are some credit cards available for those without an SSN (once you obtain an SSN later, you can add it to your account so it counts towards building your credit history):

  1. Bank of America® (Many options are available; the Customized Cash Rewards card is usually the easiest to get approved for, but you must apply in person at a branch – note that there is no Bank of America branch in Ithaca).
  2. Capital One Platinum Secured.
  3. American Express International Transfer Card (you can convert your Taiwanese Amex to a U.S. version).

Who Is Eligible for an SSN?

PhD students, teaching assistants, and any students who work or earn money should apply for an SSN. It’s something to be happy about because it serves as an identity number (you can use it for your driver’s license). However, it also means you’ll have to start filing taxes!

Where Do I Apply for an SSN?

Most likely, you won’t be seeking off-campus employment, so the school will typically help you apply for it! The process is straightforward; the school’s webpage explains everything clearly. Follow the steps and you should receive your SSN card (which is just a piece of paper) within about two weeks.

Which Credit Card Should I Get First?

It’s usually best to start with a no annual fee card, as high-end cards are often not available for newbies. Also note that Chase allows a maximum of 5 cards to be open within 24 months (applications that are declined do not count)! Applying for a 6th card will be automatically rejected by the system, so the order in which you apply is important (I regret not knowing about this limit early on). Some first credit cards to consider (listed in alphabetical order – be sure to research the welcome offers, cashback options, and other benefits to decide):

  • Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students
  • Chase Freedom® series (unlimited or Rise versions)
  • Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards
  • Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards
  • Discover it® Student Cash Back

I Got My First Credit Card – Now What?

Typically, after having your first credit card for about three months, you can start applying for credit cards that offer various perks and rewards! Feel free to ask me about my thoughts and recommendations on all credit cards (not limited to the few below). Here are the credit cards that I currently have: If you don’t want to do the research yourself, you can follow along with mine (all together, the annual fees come to less than $450 per year! I don’t travel much; most of my spending is at supermarkets and restaurants. The annual fees look scary, but you earn them back):

Welcome bonuses, annual fees, and benefits on these cards change constantly. The figures here are only meant to convey what each card is for — always check the issuer’s current terms at the time you apply. The best welcome offers also tend to appear only during limited windows, so if you are not in a hurry, it pays to wait and watch.
  • Amex Gold
    • Great for groceries, dining, Uber, and redeeming flights (a good card for banking miles toward trips home to Taiwan). The welcome bonus is paid in Membership Rewards® points.
  • Chase IHG® Rewards Premier
    • Car rental insurance, travel insurance, United Airline TravelBank Cash, Global Entry, worldwide IHG hotel Platinum Elite, extended warranty on electronics.
  • Amex Hilton Honors Surpass
    • Gas rewards, global Hilton Hotels Gold, $200 Hilton Credit, National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® Status, and extended warranty on electronics.
  • Bilt
    • The rent-paying card that provides a virtual debit account for paying rent with no fees – plus, it offers rewards!
  • Capital One Venture X
    • A simple, easy-to-use premium travel miles card — you don’t really need to study bonus categories; you can steadily earn miles on everyday spending
    • Every year you get a $300 Capital One Travel credit, plus 10,000 anniversary miles (so it’s pretty easy to offset the annual fee)
    • Travel multipliers: Book travel with cash through Capital One Travel to earn higher rates (commonly 10X on hotels/rentals, 5X on flights)
    • Airport lounge access: Includes Capital One Lounges + Priority Pass (1,300+ lounges)

U.S. Driver’s License

Can I Exchange My Taiwanese International Driving Permit for a New York License?

No. Two separate things get confused here, so it is worth spelling out:

  • Driving legally: yes, you can. New York State does honor a Taiwanese International Driving Permit (IDP) — but only when you carry it together with your original Taiwanese driver’s license. Neither document works on its own.
  • Exchanging it for a NY license: no. There is no license reciprocity agreement between Taiwan and New York State, so you cannot simply trade one for the other. You must go through the full local process (written test, five-hour course, road test).
An IDP is meant for short-term visitors. Once you become a New York resident (fixed address, studying or working here), you are expected to obtain a state license within 30 days. On top of that, holding only an IDP narrows your car-rental options and drives up insurance premiums — so it is worth taking the test early.

The full licensing process is covered in the Driving on the Road section.

What Is the Process to Apply for a Driver’s License?

Please visit the New York State DMV website for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Here’s a summary:

  1. Know what type of license you need: Most people only need a regular passenger vehicle license (Class D) – you generally don’t need a license for buses or heavy vehicles, and you must be 18 or older.

  2. Decide which level of license to apply for: A standard driver’s license or a Real ID. U.S. citizens or permanent residents can apply for an enhanced Real ID (Enhanced Real ID). The main difference is that a Real ID can be used for domestic flights, and an Enhanced Real ID also allows you to cross into Canada and Mexico. (More Information)

  3. Prepare for the written test: If you have some free time, study the New York traffic rules (and practice tests). Even if you try without preparation, you might do okay. One surprising fact is that, unless otherwise specified, you can turn right on red!

  4. Prepare the required documentation:

    • For a Real ID, you will need additional documentation because it can replace your passport and visa. In addition to your two primary documents (passport and I-20/DS-2019), you will need to prove residency in New York. There is a long list of accepted documents, though you may not need all of them. Please check the official document guide to see what you qualify for.
    • For a standard license, you will still need some documentation. Check the official guide based on your situation.

  5. Take the test: Fortunately, due to COVID, you can take the written test online, so you won’t have to struggle with unfamiliar computer formats.

    Once you pass the test, make sure you have all the documentation from step 4 ready, and then visit the DMV in person. Remember to bring cash or a credit card. Alternatively, you could take the test in person like in Taiwan, but I wouldn’t recommend it. (If taking it in person, bring all the required documents from step 4 along with cash or a credit card.)

    When you apply, you may have heard that government services in the U.S. are often slow or unhelpful, but don’t worry – the DMV in Ithaca has very friendly staff who are happy to answer your questions!

    Also, when applying for a Learner Permit, your photo will be taken on the spot! So if you care about your appearance, consider dressing well for the upper body. You will also need to sign – so it might be a good idea to practice your signature since it will appear on your license! Keep this in mind if you’re concerned.

  6. Receive Your Learner Permit: About a week after applying, you will receive your Learner Permit. This permit allows you to practice driving as long as a licensed driver is in the car with you.

    Once you receive it, you can sign up for a Pre-Licensing Course. There are online options too; check out online course providers. Prices vary, so compare before paying. Some courses offer audio options for accessibility.

    The course basically reviews traffic laws and includes quizzes. You don’t have to complete it all at once, but you must pass it before scheduling the road test!

  7. Road Test: Visit the official website for step-by-step instructions, then use this site to schedule your road test. When taking the test, drive a registered vehicle and bring your Learner Permit; your accompanying driver must also bring their license. If you go alone, bring your international driving permit. If you pass the road test, your international permit will be confiscated.

    The road test generally only includes a three-point turn and parallel parking. Other skills tested include stopping at stop signs and making left/right turns.

  8. Check Your Results and Understand the Deductions: After the test, results are usually posted by that afternoon (sometimes even earlier than the time announced by the examiner). Check your results and review any point deductions at this website. (You need to score 70 points or more out of a possible 100 to pass, with deductions totaling up to 30 points.)

Is the Test Difficult?

Not at all! Once you know the process, it’s straightforward – relax and do your best. There’s no need to fumble around like I did.

What Are the Point Deductions During the Road Test?

SectionTest ItemPoints Deducted
A. LEAVING CURBFails to observe10
Fails to signal10
Uses mirror only / Fails to check blind spot5
B. TURNING AND INTERSECTIONSPoor judgment when approaching intersections
– Stopping
– Turning
– Observing signals		10
Fails to stop near the center of an intersection when waiting for a left turn10
Turns wide – short right turn5
Turns wide – short left turn5
Inattentive to traffic – signals, lane markings, etc.10
C. PARKING, BACKING, AND U-TURNFails to signal5
Fails to observe adequately/use caution10
Unable to park properly15
Unable to complete a 3-point turn15
Parks too far from the curb (excessive space)5
Excessive maneuvers during a 3-point turn5
D. DRIVING IN TRAFFICFails to keep to the right10
Improper lane usage10
Follows too closely10
Speed excessive for traffic, weather, or road conditions15
Driving too slowly15
Fails to yield right of way (pedestrians or others)15
Poor judgment in traffic situations10
Fails to check or signal when changing lanes10
Fails to anticipate actions of pedestrians or other vehicles10
Fails to anticipate potential hazards10
E. VEHICLE CONTROLRepeated stalling10
Poor engine control or deceleration10
Poor steering control (turning, straight driving, maneuvers)15
Delayed or abrupt braking10
Poor gear usage (automatic or manual)10
Poor clutch control5
Poor reaction in emergencies10

What Should I Do If I Get a Speeding Ticket?

  1. Do I HAVE to go to court?

    Not necessarily, but if you don’t go, you’ll just have to pay the fine.

  2. If I Do Go to Court, What Should I Do?

    If you are clearly speeding, you might have to plead guilty. Sometimes you might be able to pay a reduced fine—or if the officer didn’t show up, you might get off without paying. There is also the possibility of probation, meaning you might not have to pay immediately.

    If you reoffend during the probation period, you could be fined double. On your first offense, you must pay.

  3. Will It Go on My Criminal Record?

    No, but it can affect your insurance premium. If you get multiple tickets within 18 months (three or more), your license could be suspended.

  4. If the Ticket Doesn’t List an Amount, How Do I Know How Much to Pay?

    After the ticket is issued with a fine amount, you will receive it in the mail. You should also be able to check the fine amount online.

What Documents Should I Check When Buying a Car Privately?

  1. MV-999 must include the mileage reading and bill of sale. If the mileage is not clear or the bill of sale is missing, additional forms (103/912) may be required.
  2. FS20 is the proof of insurance card, which you get only after successfully obtaining insurance. You must own the car to transfer the previous owner’s insurance.
  3. DTF-802 identifies both parties in the transaction, the vehicle details, and the sale price; it’s used for tax purposes.
  4. MV-82 is the application form you fill out when applying for a license plate. This form is not part of the transaction.
  5. Once you have MV-82, a photo ID, FS20/21/75, and MV-999, you can pay and submit everything to the DMV to register for new plates.
  6. Verify the seller’s credentials to confirm their name, address, and that any outstanding auto loans have been cleared.
  7. Proof of ownership comes from MV-999. If the mileage on MV-999 isn’t clear, you might need form 103, but normally it isn’t necessary.

School Email

How Many Email Accounts Do We Have?

  1. Microsoft Outlook email
  2. Google Workspace
Your school email *netID*@cornell.edu forwards to Outlook, then automatically redirects to Gmail (netID@g.cornell.edu). To log in, simply visit the official Outlook or Gmail website, enter your netID@cornell.edu, and the system will redirect you to the school’s login page where you input your netID and password.

How Do I Verify if I Received a Phishing Email?

Please visit the following websites to check:

Edit this page

Last updated 26 Jul 2026, 08:10 -0400 . history