Student Handbook - Campus Cuernavaca

Transcription

International
Student Handbook
Campus Cuernavaca
OFFICE OF INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS
Congratulations for choosing to study at Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Cuernavaca!
This Student Handbook has been designed to give you an idea of what you need to arrange prior to arrival
and is an answer to all questions you might have, such as what to expect of Mexico and studying at the
Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Cuernavaca.
Table of Content
Things to do prior to arrival ................................................................................................2
What to bring to Mexico .....................................................................................................4
Arrival information..............................................................................................................9
Transportation Cuernavaca/Airport .................................................................................11
Accommodation in Cuernavaca ........................................................................................13
Academic System ..............................................................................................................15
Campus facilities and schedules .......................................................................................16
Administrative Business ....................................................................................................18
Non-Electronic Mail ..........................................................................................................22
Mexican culture ................................................................................................................23
Local Banks/Currency Exchange Centers ..........................................................................25
The Mexican Legal System ................................................................................................26
Staying healthy in Mexico .................................................................................................27
Cuernavaca Social Scene ...................................................................................................28
The Mexican telephone system ........................................................................................30
Final Word .........................................................................................................................31
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Tel: +52 (777) 362 0810 Fax: +52 (777) 362 0811
www.cva.itesm.mx/cicom
[email protected]
Things to do prior to arrival
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Last updated: April 2008 by Carin Verbree
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There are a few things that you absolutely need to do in the weeks leading up to your travel to Mexico.
1) Obtain a passport!
When you receive your passport make several photocopies of the first page which contains your picture.
Leave 1 copy at home with your family and bring the others with you. Also, make photocopies of the front
and back of your credit card(s) in case they become lost or stolen and you need to contact your home
bank.
* You will need a passport to withdraw money from Mexican banks and also to
acquire pesos from most "Casas de Cambio" (currency exchange stores).
* If you lose your passport while in Mexico, you will have to go to your country's
embassy in Mexico City and apply for a temporary one. You will need an ID with
picture, such as a driver’s license, to be able to obtain it.
2) Obtain a Mexican visa.
The Mexican government requires all foreign students studying for a period longer than 2 months or those
that will do an internship of any duration in Mexico, to obtain a student visa FM3. This student visa can be
issued in your home country through a Mexican consulate or embassy. In case you fail to obtain your FM3
please contact our Office of International Programs.
Once you arrive to Cuernavaca you will need to register your FM3 at the National Immigration Institute in
Cuernavaca, at an additional cost of approximately $65.00 US.
Students studying for a period of 2 months or less do not need a student visa and should apply for a FMT
tourist visa. This format will be handed to you during your flight to Mexico.
The Office of International Programs at our Campus will provide you with the necessary information and
assistance during the Orientation Session.
For more information visit the official Immigration website of the Mexican government at
www.inami.gob.mx (under trámites migratiorios).
3) Pay the $100 US Activities Fee to the Office of International Programs as soon as possible. If you have
any problems doing so, please contact the Office of International Programs.
The accommodation and activities fees are non-refundable.
4) If you wish to profit from the Airport Pick-up arrangement, send your flight information as soon as
possible to our office. If you do not contact us about your arrival time, flight number, etc., by the deadline,
we will not be able to pick you up from the airport!!! (See also arrival information)
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5) Send your insurance information to the Office of International Programs. Either a letter from your
insurance agent or a copy of your policy will be accepted.
6) Send your emergency contact information and carry this information on you ALWAYS.
*For convenience, please send all the required documents in one envelope.
DO NOT PACK your passport, money, and other vital documents in your suitcase! You will regret it when
you arrive in Mexico and you have to dig through your suitcase in a crowded airport. Your backpack, travel
bag, etc. should serve that purpose.
What to bring to Mexico
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Before we go into this section, let it be known that what most of you will bring in terms of clothes is not
necessarily what your Mexican peers at Campus Cuernavaca will be wearing. Even in the middle of
summer, most Mexicans will not be wearing shorts, but jeans instead. Also, Mexicans like to dress up for
virtually every occasion.
Nonetheless, we recommend you to definitely bring some shorts, because most of you are not accustomed
to the heat.
You have the final option. If you are afraid you will "stand out" with your daily attire of shorts-and-shirts
(and you want to fight off the heat), then by all means bring every pair of pants you own.
When preparing to leave, remember that Cuernavaca is warm year-round; wearing light colors (white,
beige, yellow) is a smart way to combat the heat. However, the climate in Mexico City, and sometimes at
night in Cuernavaca, is a bit chilly, even in the summer. You will all make at least one visit to arguably the
biggest city in the world, so be prepared!
What else we recommend you to bring:
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A pair of sandals with solid supports, slippers/flip-flops.
There are 2 reasons why:
#1, it may be a sign of disrespect to walk barefoot around your home,
#2, we have scorpions here! Don't worry, the worst they can do is give you a big welt and cause a
considerable amount of irritation. Since we are on this subject, always make sure to shake out your shoes
before putting them on while you are here.
•
Washcloths - for your face, hands, etc.
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Mexican Pesos - make sure you exchange some currency at the airport upon arrival.
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Laptop - If you have a laptop, do not forget to bring it. It is also important that you bring the
necessary cables and plugs to connect it to the wireless internet and electric outlets in Mexico.
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Sun block - at least level 30. Mexico is a lot closer to the equator than
most of your homes are! Buy it at home, because it is more expensive
here.
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Compact umbrella - Can be really handy at night when you are waiting
to get into a disco or bar. The rain season begins in June and ends in
October. Nearly every night at around 10 p.m., rain begins to fall
ruthlessly from the sky, usually for about 45 minutes.
•
Light rain/spring jacket - A combination pullover/rain coat (with a hood) can really come in
handy during Cuernavaca nights, either for temperature drops or rain showers.
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A comfortable, durable pair of tennis, hiking, or cross-training shoes - You will be doing all kinds
of things on the weekends and you will also need them to play various sports on campus. Make
sure you bring something with thick rubber soles. Those who don't tend to regret it.
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At least 2 sweatshirts or sweaters - Always
better to be safe than sick, right? At night,
Mexico City can actually drop down as far
as 5° Celsius/ 40° Fahrenheit, and it is
obviously a place you are going to visit
somewhat frequently.
A QUICK REMINDER FOR WOMEN:
Please leave too revealing clothing at home. The following comment is not intended to be chauvinistic, but
the reality is that you will be sending out the wrong messages to Mexican men, some of whom may
mistake you for easy-to-get.
MEN: as noted elsewhere in the Handbook, you will need pants to get into virtually every discotheque, bar
and some restaurants.
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2 Rolls of toilet paper - You will see that this is not that crazy when you start traveling around
Mexico and you need to use a public bathroom. Toilet paper is unavailable at most of these
places, so start collecting.
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Compact, battery-operated alarm clock - Cuernavaca occasionally has power outages (usually
for no more than 5 minutes); buy your batteries at home because they are expensive in Mexico.
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2 small bottles of Pepto-Bismal, Immodium AD, or Kaopectate (or similar products) - Hopefully,
you'll never have to break the seal on these bottles, but just in case. You can also buy LOMOTIL,
an excellent stomach-relief product here in Mexico if you happen to forget to buy anything back
home.
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OFF! Or another mosquito repellent - to protect you from pesky
mosquitoes.
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CALADRYL!! – or another good lotion for treating bites after your
OFF! has come off.
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Reading material in your native language - Yes, you are here to learn Spanish, but there will be
times when your brain simply hurts too much from thinking all day in this language. Having a
few of your favorite magazines by your side is always a good remedy. You can buy books and
magazines in English at some stores in Cuernavaca.
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Travel guide of Mexico - If they are available in your country, look for Lonely Planet guides, as
they generally provide clear and elaborate information.
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Personal hygiene items, vitamins, contact lenses solution etc. – All these items are a bit pricey
here. In general, imported goods are more expensive here in Mexico than back home, so bring
extras of things that you really need! Also, your favorite brand might not be available in Mexico.
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Electrical devises
Most Mexican homes, apartments, and hotels have 2-prong (ungrounded) sockets. These are
the same as used in the United States, only generally un-earthed.
You may need an adapter for your devises if you have a different type. Voltage 110 v
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Luggage
Please confirm with your airline the
maximum weight and bag limit they
allow per traveler. Mark your luggage
tags with our address here at the Office
of International Programs, NOT your
home address. It is obviously better to
have lost luggage delivered to our
office rather than sent back home!
Also, do not wait at the airport for any
misplaced luggage. Just report your
baggage loss and get on the bus to
Cuernavaca, and wait for delivery.
Additionally, remember to pack
efficiently! Keep in mind that you are
going to buy many souvenirs, etc. throughout your travels in Mexico. You will need extra space
in your luggage for all the stuff that you are bound to accumulate!!!
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Miscellaneous
Set up an ATM or similar bank card account before you leave home. This will allow you to
acquire money (you will be receiving pesos from bank machines - your country's currency is
automatically converted into pesos) at any hour that you need it. There are plenty of cash
machines downtown in El Centro, and many 24 hr shops (Oxxo) are also equipped.
Visa & Mastercard are accepted nearly everywhere in Mexico. American Express is not. If you
can, obtain an ATM card affiliated with one of these two companies if they are not available in
your country, choose the credit card company where you live with the best reputation for
international service.
The Mexican government requires every foreigner to bring some form of credit card (ATM bank card, Visa,
MasterCard, American Express, etc.) to prove that they have money to stay in the country.
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Make sure you make photocopies of the front and back of your credit and cash cards in case they get lost
or stolen while in Mexico. This way, you know exactly who to contact at your local bank in case of an
emergency. Check with your bank how to contact them.
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Traveler’s Cheques - These come in very handy in Mexico. Personal checks will not be accepted
anywhere! Ask for small dominations and make sure you continuously update your cheque
records. An extra piece of advice: Do not wait till Friday to get your money for the weekend. The
banks will be overloaded with people trying to cash their paychecks.
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Flashlight - Make sure it is small. Convenient if you are studying and a power
outage occurs.
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Extra pair of glasses / contact lenses. At the very least, bring a copy of your
prescription.
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Medical prescriptions - If you take medication on a regular basis, bring a supply large enough to
last throughout your stay in Mexico.
Try to bring all your prescriptions in their original containers. Have your physician write a note
explaining the purpose of your medicine (just in case the customs agents want proof!) The same
goes for pre-existing conditions - bring a copy of your medical records or previous treatment,
especially any medication you may need. Make sure the medicines' names are clearly written or
typed, and correctly spelled.
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FANNYPACK - The best place to keep your wallet / belongings when you are traveling. Yes, everyone
knows they are far from stylish, but who cares! A shirt pocket with buttons is also a good spot, and
a last resort is the front pocket of your pants/shorts.
And finally, some more advice:
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Clean out your wallets/purses before leaving for Mexico. All you
need is your driver's license, 1 credit card, and the bare
necessities. There is no sense in having to open up a big fat purse
or wallet (filled with library cards, photos, etc.) every time you
need to buy something. You never know who is looking over your
shoulder.
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Women: Only use purses with thick, solid straps and preferably zipper. If all you have are
pocketbooks with thin straps, hold them near your chest, particularly in highly-populated areas.
One common purse-snatching technique occurs when someone "accidentally" bumps into you in a
crowded environment, such as a bus terminal, and disappears with your belongings before you’ve
even had a chance to recover.
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NEVER CARRY LARGE AMOUNTS OF CASH!!!
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Arrival information
Here, in order of occurrence, are the steps every foreigner must take in order to make it out of the airport.
1) Go to the Immigration Desk
This should not be hard to do, since virtually everyone on your flight will be doing the same thing. If you
have already obtained a STUDENT VISA (FM3), you can have it validated here, provided that you have a
passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate.
In case you don’t have a student visa yet, you can request a TOURIST VISA.
During your flight, flight attendants will provide you with the necessary
information.
Keep in mind one important detail: The immigration officer will not ask you
which duration of visa you want (30, 90, 180 days). You are responsible for
requesting a visa of at least 180 days!! Just in case you are not confident
enough in your Spanish, and they do not speak English, write down how many
days you want your visa to cover, and then present it to them. Not to worry, the
majority of officers will give you 180 days.
Keep in mind that asking for an extension of your visa will cost you about $380 Pesos. If you are the owner
of a FM3 (green book), your name will have to be written in the national register for foreigners within 30
days after your arrival, which will have an approximate cost of $650 Pesos.
Please watch out! If you already own a FM3 be careful NOT to get a tourist visa. If you have two different
visas you will be charged twice.
2) Collect your luggage
For those of you who travel light, you will be extremely grateful you did so at this
point. Mexico City International Airport is gigantic, with tons of people running
around in a million directions.
The more things you have, the more difficult it is going to be to obtain pesos from the cash exchange, to
load/unload your bags in the customs area, to find transportation to Cuernavaca, etc. Also, as would be the
case in any major airport, there are a few shady characters who like to hang out in the baggage checking
area and take off with items that are not being properly supervised.
Porters are available to help you with your luggage once you pass through customs. You should tip them
about 10 pesos depending on the amount of baggage you have.
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3) Go through customs.
During the flight to Mexico, you will be given a small white card to fill
out; a CUSTOMS DECLARATION FORM. Make sure you declare
everything you are carrying that this form requires you to list. After
collecting your luggage, you will present this card to a customs officer,
and then push a button as you pass through a gate. The button
activates a traffic light-type device, which will turn either "green" or
"red" when you pass. If you are "green," life is easy. If the light turns
red, your bags will be inspected. Your chances of being "red" are totally
random.
It is very important to be accurate with your C.D.F. If, for example, you have brought more items than the
maximum limit, you will have to pay import duties. Again, avoid problems such as these by packing
carefully and declaring accordingly.
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Transportation Cuernavaca/Airport
With regard to getting around, there are plenty of different options. You will find different choices based
upon reliability and how much you would like to spend on arriving in Cuernavaca.
1. Tecnológico de Monterrey transportation
We can arrange for you to be picked up at the Mexico City International Airport and introduced to your
host family in Cuernavaca. We will let you know in advance where the meeting point at the airport is
located. We will be holding up a sign that will either have your name or the "Tecnológico de Monterrey"
emblem on it. Upon arrival in Cuernavaca, students will be taken to the campus or to the homes of their
host families.
* This pick-up system is only available on the official arrival days before 7 p.m. To check the arrival days
please check out the important dates, for example available on the website. If you wish to utilize this
service, please indicate so on your application form.
2. Autobus: Pullman de Morelos
This is certainly the best way to get to Cuernavaca on your
own. Pullman de Morelos is an upscale bus company that can
take you directly from the airport to its Casino de la Selva
station, located on the outskirts of Cuernavaca, in the north.
It's safe, comfortable, reliable, and cheap.
To take the bus, you can either ask an M.C. Airport Customer
Service Representative where the Pullman de Morelos
transport area is, or you can follow these directions:
When you arrive at Mexico City airport, as you leave customs turn left and walk to gate E2. Here you will
turn left again, go up on the ramps and walk through a hall. Located here is the ticket booth. The name of
the bus company is “Pullman de Morelos”, the cost of a one way ticket is around $125.00 pesos. As soon as
you buy the ticket, continue down the corridor and down a ramp until you reach the street level. This is the
area from where the buses depart.
The trip takes about two hours, depending on Mexico City traffic. The last bus to Cuernavaca leaves at
11:00 pm. You will arrive at the “Casino de la Selva” bus station in Cuernavaca.
There is a pre-paid taxi service available inside the bus station and you can take a taxi to our campus or to
your family’s house.
PULLMAN BUS SCHEDULE (based on information 2008)
- Airport to Casino de la Selva station in CV / Casino to Airport
From the Airport to Cuernavaca (Mon-Sun)
6:40, 7:15, 8, 8:30, 9, 9:30, 10, 10:40, 11:20 a.m., 12:00, 12:40, 1:20, 2, 2:30, 3, 3:30, 4, 4:40, 5:20, 6, 6:40,
7:20, 8, 8:40, 9:20, 10:10, 10:50 & 11:30p.m
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From Cuernavaca to Airport (Mon-Sun)
3:40, 4:01, 4:25, 5:01, 5:31, 6:05, 6:35, 7:05, 7:35, 8:20, 9:05, 9:45, 10:31, 11:21am, 12:01, 12:31, 1:01,
1:31, 2:01, 2:41,3:21, 4:01, 4:41, 5:21, 6:01, 7:01, 8:01p.m.
You can expect to pay around 40-50 pesos for a daytime taxi ride from the Casino de la Selva bus stop to
your Mexican home (because this station is on the far end of Cuernavaca). At night, it will probably be 15
pesos more.
3. Taxi to Tasqueña (Southern Bus Station) in Mexico City.
This option is recommended only as a backup plan.
Take a taxi from the airport to Tasqueña, from Tasqueña bus station, you take a bus to different
destinations in Cuernavaca, but that is the only advantage.
The bus fare is 65 pesos, in addition to the 65 pesos more (approximately) you are going to have to pay in
taxi rides in Mexico City and later in Cuernavaca. You can purchase a taxi ticket for the Tasqueña bus
station at the Domestic Arrivals area of the airport, or buy it in the Tasqueña bus station. The ticket box for
Pullman de Morelos is located on the far end of the terminal. Only go this route if it is too late to get a
Pullman bus from the airport to the Casino de la Selva station in Cuernavaca. Although we do not have the
schedule for Pullmans' going from Tasqueña to Cuernavaca, we can tell you that they have buses running
to Casino de la Selva every day until midnight (12 a.m.) almost every 15 minutes. Below you will find the
schedule for Cuernavaca to Tasqueña:
PULLMAN BUS SCHEDULE
El Centro in 'Cuernavaca to Tasqueña Station in Mexico City
PHONE # 3-18-09-07, or 3-18-04-82
(DAILY) 5:15 a.m…5:45 a.m…6 a.m.
*After 6 a.m., there's a Pullman bus going to Tasqueña every 15 minutes until 8 p.m.
*After 8 p.m., every 30 minutes until 10 p.m.
Casino de la Selva in Cuernavaca to Tasqueña Station in Mexico City.
PHONE #3-12-76-20, or #3-12-94-73
(DAILY) Buses run every 10 minutes from 4:45 a.m. until 10:30 p.m.
4. Taxi to Cuernavaca
This is certainly not the best way to get to Cuernavaca on your own, for a variety of reasons. First of all, it
will be ridiculously expensive. Second, although highly unlikely, it could be dangerous, particularly if it is
night, you are alone, and you are a woman. Finally, unless you have it understood that the cost to go
through the toll is included in the overall transportation price, you may get stuck paying even more. So,
unless you absolutely have no other alternative (but you probably will), forget you ever read this
paragraph.
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Accommodation in Cuernavaca
If you would like the International Office to find suitable accommodation for you, which is highly
recommended if it is your first time in Cuernavaca, then you need to mail us your $250 US accommodation
fee as soon as possible. This fee is non-refundable. You have a few options, which are also explained on the
main website of the Office of International Programs. Here a brief overview:
1. Family Program
Live with a Mexican Family to get the full Mexican experience! This family-away-from-home will
provide you with meals, clean rooms, guidance and advice and whatever else you might need. Most
host families show great interest in the lives, cultures and backgrounds of their foreign students. They
want to help you learn and feel part of the family. Additionally, most houses have a communal
swimming pool.
2. Student Inn
This Program offers independent housing within a family’s property. The family lives on the same
terrain but acts solely as administrator, thus providing a higher level of independence than the Family
Program.
Naturally, you can still choose to search accommodation on your own. We do not recommend this unless
you have been to Cuernavaca before or you already have contacts here. While there are several places
relatively close to the campus that rent to students, they tend to become occupied rather quickly. Rooms
or unfurnished bungalows usually cost between 1500-3000 pesos/month. Apartments or houses can vary
anywhere from 1500-5000 pesos a month.
Other recommendations
Here are the approximate hours at which you can expect to eat your meals:
Breakfast: (7:00-7:45 a.m.)
Dinner: (2:30-3:30 p.m.)
Supper/light meal: (7:00-9:00 p.m.)
If you cannot make it home for a meal, or you would just rather eat somewhere else on a given day, let
your family know. It is common courtesy. You would probably do the same in your own house. Also, do not
help yourself to food in the refrigerator unless your host family says it is OK, okay?
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House keys
Each student will receive 1 set of keys to get in and out of their house or
apartment. Please double-check that all the necessary doors are locked whenever
you exit, especially late at night. Take care of things as if it is your own home. Of
course, you will need to return the keys whenever your time in Cuernavaca is up,
and if you lose the original set, you will have to pay for new ones.
Changing your host family
In the unlikely event that you are unhappy with your host family or their
accommodations, the Office of International Programs can find other housing for
you during the first 2 weeks of your stay ONLY.
Nonetheless, remember that your biggest responsibility in Mexico is to remember
what country you are in. In other words, in order to make a smooth transition into the Mexican culture,
you are the one who needs to adjust to your host family’s customs and way of life; not vice-versa.
Any questions or concerns you have should be directed to:
Orquidea Alvarez
Accommodation Coordinator
Phone: (01-777) 362 0810
Fax: (01-777) 362 0811
E-mail: [email protected]
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Academic System
The grading system used at the Tecnológico de Monterrey is accredited
by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Furthermore, the university is recognized throughout Mexico as one of
the finest university systems. Its outstanding reputation alone is
normally enough to ensure that student’s credits transfer to their
universities.
Furthermore, if your university has an agreement with the Tecnológico
and you enroll as exchange student, you will receive full-credit and an
equivalent grade for the courses you take at Campus Cuernavaca.
Students coming from schools who do not have an exchange agreement with us will be charged a nonrefundable registration fee of $100 U.S.
Adding/dropping classes
In case you decide to make changes in your course program, please visit the Office of International
Programs or contact Susana Rojas, the coordinator of Academic Programs.
Please keep in mind that you can never receive a full refund for a course that you choose to withdraw
from.
Grading system in USA
The grades of campus Cuernavaca transfer to US grades in the following manner:
Grade in Tecnológico
de Monterrey
100-93
92-90
89-87
86-83
82-80
79-77
76-73
72-70
69-67
66-63
62-60
59-0
Equivalent in the
USA
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
DF
At Tecnológico de Monterrey students need to score a minimum of 70 to pass a class.
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Campus facilities and schedules
Sports
The campus offers a wide variety of different sports and classes. You can choose to either join a class or
team or play individually. You need to sign up in the first two weeks of classes for joining a team or a class,
although you might be able to join later in the semester (depending on the amount of participants and the
trainer).
If you want to play recreationally, you need to reserve a court. Available courts include basketball,
volleyball, beach volleyball, tennis, soccer and American football courts. Reservations can be made on the
day you wish to play or before.
It is also possible to borrow equipment for playing from the gymnasium. In order to do so, you need to
show your student ID. All necessary equipment can be borrowed with the exception of tennis rackets.
Opening hours to borrow equipment:
Monday-Friday: 8am-1pm & 2.30pm-5.30pm
Saturday: Closed
The fully equipped gymnasium can also be used by students, as long as you sign in with your student ID
before your workout.
Opening hours gymnasium:
Monday-Friday: 6.30 am-8pm
Saturday: 9am-2pm
All campus is closed on Sundays.
Library
The library is located on the ground & 1st floor of the south wing (Edificio Sur).
Opening hours:
Monday-Friday: 6.30am-7pm
Saturday: 9am-1pm
CEC
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CEC is the computer laboratory of the campus, equipped with over 250 IBM and Mac terminals; software
and individualized instruction services, and free access to e-mail, Internet, etc. for students and staff. CEC
is located within the library premises, on the ground floor.
Printing
Printouts can be made from the computers in CEC. Each regular
printout is 50 centavos (1/2 peso), colors are 5 pesos each. You pay via
your student ID: at the beginning of semester you will receive a credit
of $500 MX. You pay what you have used of this credit at the end of
the semester.
Making Photocopies
If you want to make photocopies, you can go to the bookshop in the
North wing (Edificio Norte), ground floor next to the Cafeteria. Price:
50 centavos (1/2 peso).
Opening hours:
Monday-Friday: 6am-8pm
Saturday: 8am-1pm
Bookshop
The bookshop (located next to the Cafeteria, ground floor Edificio Norte) sells all books listed as required
for courses as well as different kinds of paper and stationary.
Opening hours:
Monday-Friday: 6am-8pm
Saturday: 8am-1pm
Cafeteria
The Cafeteria, located in the center of the ground floor of Edificio Norte, serves cheap but good food in
generous portions. They offer breakfast, lunch and snacks. A full meal will cost about 45 pesos.
Opening hours:
Monday-Friday: 6.30am-6pm
Saturday: Closed
Comida ("lunch/dinner") is usually eaten between 2-4 pm;
depending on where you are from, it can either be a difficult
transition to make, or something you are already accustomed to. We
say, "This is culture!" Usually it will take you an hour to finish off
your comida, then another 60 minutes working it off by kicking back
and chatting with your amigos.
Fax
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You may receive and send faxes from the Office of International Programs.
Office of Student Affairs (DAE)
What organizations and clubs can I get involved in? What sports can I play? Are
there any field trips I can sign up for? This is where you go to obtain answers to
these and many other fascinating questions. The office is located in the same
building as the gymnasium.
On Campus Doctor
There is a Doctor´s service you can utilize for free on campus! The office is located
in the same building as the gymnasium and the D AE.! (Past the tennis courts, right
across the coffee café.)
Administrative Business
Accommodation Payments
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This is the amount you'll need to pay for your housing, and the amount depends on the housing option you
have chosen. You can pay in pesos, U.S. dollars, traveler's checks or credit cards. Before you leave, make
sure your credit card is valid worldwide; not all cards are. Payment for this program to done in full on
registration day.
Tuition Payment
This is the cost of your classes. If the Tecnológico has an agreement with your school, you do not have to
pay tuition to campus Cuernavaca; you only pay tuition to your home university.
Payments made after deadline will be assessed an additional penalty fee equal to 10% of the student's
total tuition bill. Please keep in mind that we cannot confirm whether a certain course is being offered
until a minimum of 5 students have registered.
Payment Policy
Payment must be made in full at the beginning of the semester for the Accommodation Program. In case
the invoice bounces at the bank for any cause, an additional 20% commission of the total value of the bill
will be charged. (Art. 193, Ley General de titulos y Operaciones de Crédito).
Deposit Information
To the name of: ITESM
Bank: WELLS FARGO
ABA: 111900659
Plaza: LAREDO, TEXAS. USA
Swift code: WFBIUS6S
Account number: 7890956244
ADDRESS:
Wells Fargo Bank NA
Laredo Patrimonial Banking Office 1100
Matamoros St Laredo Texas 78040
USA
** Please note:
Official checks, International Money Orders, Postal Money Orders, personal money orders, Cashier Checks
and others are NOT ACCEPTED in this campus.
Activities Fee
This $100 US fee covers all types of activities organized by the Office of International Programs, such as
welcome and graduations parties, your commemorative photograph, workshops, transcript, airport pickup, guidebook, some trips, and more. You can pay this fee upon arrival, on registration day.
Bus Shuttle to Campus
There are bus shuttles between various locations in Cuernavaca and the new campus.
Approximate cost $1250.00 MX per semester.
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Textbooks
This is the cost of the books you'll have to buy for use in your classes.
Insurance
If you don't have a copy of your insurance policy you'll need to buy the insurance program that the
Tecnológico offers for the semester.
As was previously mentioned, we need your proof of insurance for our files. You should also check with
your agent to see if you have coverage outside your native country. Unfortunately, chances are that your
policy will not cover you in Mexico. If this is the case, you should definitely look into an international policy
for your stay in Cuernavaca. Consult your insurance agent.
Tecnológico de Monterrey also offers a plan with Seguros-Monterrey-Aetna, but it only covers major
medical expenses. If you are interested, you must send us your policy number and the name of the carrier.
This insurance plan has a direct payment agreement with the following Cuernavaca hospitals:
1. Hospital Morelos - Privada Jazmín #2, Colonia Chapultepec.
Phone: 315-22-77, 315-20-14, or 315-21-44.
2. Hospital Henry Dunant- Rio Panuco #100, Colonia Los Volcanes.
Phone: 315-34-11, 322-24-42 or 316-04-86.
3. Hospital Bellavista– Avenida Palmas #100, Colonia Bellavista.
Phone: 317-17-64, 313-67-35 or 317-03-23.
Of course, you can go to any other hospital in Mexico, but you will have to pay your fee at that exact
moment, and later, you will be compensated by Seguros-Monterrey-Aetna.
Please contact the Office of International Programs for more information.
Trips
At the beginning of the semester you'll have to decide which trips organized by the Office of International
Programs you would like to take, and pay for them. There are no refunds for trips due to the importance of
planning and confirming hotels, guides and transportation. An information session will be held right after
your arrival at campus to help you decide!
Cost of Living in Cuernavaca
Here a small overview of what you may expect to spend in Mexico
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Cost of movie: $45 MX from Thursday to Tuesday, $35 MX on Wednesday
Taxi: from your home to Centro varies from $35 MX during the day to $45 MX at night
Bus (“Ruta”): the cost varies from $5 MX to $7.50 MX depending on the distance you'll travel.
Lunch at cafeteria: Complete meal $45.50 MX
Junior $40 pesos
Soft drink: varies from $7 MX at the vending machine to $25 MX at
the movies
Cultural activities such as:
Theater / shows: the cost varies from $300 to $550 MX
Night clubs: the cost varies from $100 to $200 MX entrance, but
women generally never pay cover.
Photos
Please send us 4 recent passport size pictures with your application form. Also, sign
the back of each, writing your mother's maiden name after your normal last name
(Spanish style).
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Non-Electronic Mail
Receiving Mail
The easiest, safest and quickest way for you to receive mail is to have everything send to the address of the
Office of International Programs. You can check regularly in the office if anything has arrived for you.
The address is:
ITESM Campus Cuernavaca
Office of International Programs
Autopista del Sol Km.104 +60,
Col. Real del Puente
Xochitepec, Morelos, C.P.62790
MEXICO
Using this address is by far the fastest way to receive regular mail.
Nonetheless, keep in mind that sending anything to Mexico will usually take 3-4 weeks to arrive. Therefore,
inform your family and friends at home NOT to send you anything by regular mail in the last month of your
stay in Mexico.
Larger Packages
We strongly recommend you to use a courier service to send and receive packages. Anyone who has ever
spent sufficient time here knows the woes of the Mexican postal service; you can never be 100% sure.
Nonetheless, even a private carrier (such as DHL) will tell you that once a package arrives at the Mexican
border, nothing is guaranteed.
Basically, we are telling you to only send out or receive packages when it is absolutely necessary. If you
want to send something out, it is best to take it directly to the Post Office in El Centro. Don’t forget to ask
for a receipt!
Post Office
The post office is located at the edge of the Zócalo, next to restaurant ‘Los Arcos’.
Plaza de la Constitución #3, Colonia Centro
Hours: Mon. - Fri., 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. / Saturday, 9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Phone: 3-12-43-79
Outgoing mail from Mexico can take up to 28 days to be delivered. However, recently we have noticed
major improvements. Cases of packages getting to their destination in a week or two are becoming more
frequent.
It may take up to 4 weeks to receive parcels from the Mexican Postal Service. By the way, the government
reserves the right to open gifts that have been wrapped or packaged. So make sure your family and friends
know what is forbidden in Mexico.
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Mexican culture
Naturally, this section is too short to explain exactly how Mexican culture is. We can however give you
some ideas.
Speaking of Time…
The concept of "time" in Mexico is an abstract concept that may differ greatly
from yours. Parties for example, are guaranteed to start at least one hour
after the scheduled time, while formal occasions such as your classes, church
services, or a business lunch, will begin as scheduled. You’ll get the idea once
you start living here.
Mexican Social Structure
Statistics pertaining to the socioeconomic status of the Mexican people vary tremendously. Approximately
10% of Mexicans belong to the upper-class, while another 40% are considered middle class. The Mexican
upper-class is frequently the equivalent to the middle classes of other countries. The remaining 50% of the
people are poor, working as farmers or doing anything they can in the cities to make money. The
percentage of lower-class Mexicans in extreme poverty is uncertain. When traveling around Mexico, don’t
be surprised to see some heartbreaking examples. Nonetheless, Mexicans are a proud people, hardworking, friendly and humble.
You will find yourself in a very unique situation at Campus Cuernavaca.
Most of the students you will meet at school will be from the upper class, and
the majority has never worked a day in their lives. In fact, the physical and
social setting at our campus will resemble “home” a lot more than the images
of Mexican poverty that many of you are accustomed to seeing on TV at home,
courtesy of the media.
However, each time you step outside the campus boundaries, you will be
enveloped by the Real Mexico, the one where most people cannot afford to
dress according to the latest fashion or to go to a disco on Friday night. You will
notice that the socioeconomic lines are drawn very clear and blatantly, and that
prejudice and ignorance between the rich and poor is as prevalent here as
anywhere else.
Try to interact and learn from these differences as much as possible!
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Women in Mexican Society
One of the things you may find different in Mexico is the role of women in society.
Mexican women traditionally hold a different position than men. That is, women
are to be protected by men and are to get married and take care of children and
the household. At the same time, women are highly respected for this role. From
this point of view, women don’t hold high positions in business. Also, most women
have no social mobility between the poor and middle class, except through
marriage.
Nonetheless, in recent years this role has been changing. Nowadays, a growing group of (young) women is
entering university and pursuing a career. However, women are still viewed as people that have to be
taken care of by men. This becomes evident for example by the courtesy by which women are generally
treated. Don’t be surprised by Mexicans opening doors for you and always letting you go first!
At the same time, a certain type of dignity of women is expected, even on campus. It is easy to be viewed
as cheap or easy-to-get if you don’t make an effort to show integrity, particularly for foreign women.
The best way to understand and appreciate this part of Mexican culture is just to live the experience.
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Local Banks/Currency Exchange Centers
Apart from many ATM’s that can be found anywhere, such as in the airport and the city centre of
Cuernavaca, and, closer to home, in the Oxxo store in the area where you will live, here a few other
options.
Banks
Bancomer
8:30 a.m. till 3 p.m., Monday - Friday. Located in El Centro/Zócalo
HSBC
8 a.m. till 7 p.m., Monday - Saturday. Located in El Centro
Banamex
(The Casa Blanca Office) Monday - Friday 9 a.m.-2 p.m., & 4-7 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Casas de Cambio (Exchange Houses)
Although it only amounts to a few pesos' difference, some days exchange rates are better at banks, and
others, at Casas de Cambio.
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The Mexican Legal System
Here a few things you should bear in mind regarding Mexico’s legal system.
Possession or use of drugs is ILLEGAL and penalties are very severe!!
You will not be treated any different than Mexican citizenships in the event you
break the law.
Thus, your country’s citizenship offers no protection whatsoever if you are
arrested in Mexico. Claiming you "did not understand the law" is no excuse.
You are responsible for your actions and for knowing the laws.
In Mexico, you will be imprisoned immediately and by law, anyone is
considered GUILTY until proven innocent. This might be different to what
you are used to, so be very careful.
In the unpleasant event that you do get arrested, or if you become a victim
of crime, contact the following:
1) Your country's embassy in Mexico City. Before you leave home make sure you have the contact details
of your country´s consulate in Mexico City.
2) The Office of International Programs at the Tecnológico.
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Staying healthy in Mexico
There might be some deceases in Mexico that you are (not) yet vaccinated against.
Make an appointment with your doctor at home to see if you need any of the following
vaccinations: Hepatitis A & B, Rabies, Meningococcal Meningitis, Polio,
Tetanus/Diphtheria, Typhoid Oral, and Yellow Fever.
Do not drink water from the tap!!
You can take showers, brush your teeth, have ice with your beverages in nice restaurants, and do just
about everything else except for drinking water from the faucet!
Most Mexicans do not even drink tap water because it tastes horrible and is not filtered properly for
human consumption. The side-effects are rather uncomfortable. Best known as "Moctezuma's Revenge,"
this sickness is characterized by stomach cramps, diarrhea, occasional vomiting, and sometimes a fever.
The symptoms usually last about 2 weeks. Nonetheless, you will not have to fear suffering from this
sickness if you just be a little careful.
Only drink bottled water (everyone in Mexico does), and
make sure that you dry off fruits and vegetables after
washing them. Try and avoid eating lettuce everywhere
except nice restaurants and here at Campus Cuernavaca (we
filter our water). Because of its structure, lettuce tends to
retain water after it has been washed off. Finally, check with
your host family to see if they use purified water when they
are preparing salads, cold foods, etc. There is nothing wrong
with asking them! Just do it in a respectful manner.
If you do become sick, drink plenty of GATORADE. Bottled
water will work fine at first, but Gatorade is certainly the
more effective product.
If diarrhea and vomiting continue for more than 24 hours, or you have a body temperature of over
39°C/101°, visit a doctor, for example on campus. If the school doctor is not available, use your host
family's doctor.
Give your body time to adjust
Mexican food is absolutely delicious, but your stomach (and body) must first become accustomed to all the
new flavors, spices and ways of preparation. Eat and drink lightly at least during your first 10 days in
Cuernavaca. Settle in to the food and lifestyle slowly. Do not overexert yourself. Otherwise you may
acquire symptoms comparable to those previously mentioned.
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Cuernavaca Social Scene
This section is meant to give you some impression of some of the places you can go to
dance, eat, catch a movie and appreciate Mexican lifestyle and culture around Cuernavaca.
The list is by no means complete; you will probably find your own personal favorite eateries,
clubs, and hangouts as you become familiar with the city.
Discos, bars and nightclubs
You will find that you just cannot walk into a Mexican disco, bar, etc., like you might somewhere else. You
are first evaluated on your looks and gain entrance accordingly. Here some ground rules:
1) Wear nice pants! They are a must for guys. Raggedy jeans won't cut it. The security at the door will not
let you in if you don’t, and they also don’t care if you are with a big group of people, or a foreigner, or rich,
or … You are NOT going to get in.
2) Guys will generally never get into a disco or nightclub without female company. Get used to it boys - you
face a ton of sexual discrimination in the world of Saturday Night Fever.
3) Women have much less to worry about. As long as you come with your girlfriends, and you all dress as if
you have respect for yourself, you will have no such trouble.
Good Value Restaurants
If you are to spend some time in Mexico, you ought to try a Cocina Economica. They are scattered all
around the country and generally provide excellent, healthy meals for good value. A Comida Corrida (daily
special) generally costs about $35-45 MX.
Also, Mexico is famous for its Taquerías (Taco places) and you must try some tacos al pastor while you are
here. They are available on virtually every street corner, but make sure the place looks clean before you
order!! Check if the place is full of locals; it’s generally a good indication of the food! Also, we strongly
recommend you to WAIT A FEW WEEKS before trying them, so that your body is adjusted to the country
and its food.
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Furthermore, Cuernavaca has its fair share of McDonald's, Burger King´s and Pizza Huts to satisfy the needs
of homesick extranjeros (foreigners). Pizza Hut and Subway can be found in Plaza Cuernavaca and Galerias,
and there are also Subway and McDonald's restaurants right in the heart of El Centro.
Where to Watch a Movie
There are several cinemas around Cuernavaca, showing all conventional Hollywood movies and sometimes
films of Mexican make. There is also a local cinema in the city centre that generally shows cult-movies.
Markets
Although you shouldn’t be surprised to find whatever you might like to buy
anywhere in the streets, there are some places that are particularly
designated for it. The main market is located in the city centre.
Here you can find Mexican handicrafts, fruits, vegetables, handmade tortillas,
meat, cheese and everything else you could possibly want!
You might like to check out the Falluca too, the “black market”. It is great for
shopping illegal DVD’s, CD’s, jewelry and clothes.
Museums and Sights
All places mentioned here have FREE admission on Sundays. Make sure to carry your Student ID of the
Tecnológico to get at least 50% discount on regular days.
#1 MUSEO CUAUHNAHUAC
Better known as the Palace of Cortés in El Centro. Boulevards Juárez and Francisco Leyva, in front of the
Governor's Palace of Morelos. Take Ruta 14 and you can’t miss it.
#2 JARDIN BORDA
This beautiful garden was constructed by Hernán Cortés for his wife. You can find it right in front of the
Cathedral. It is a great place to read a book or relax with friends.
#3 MUSEO ROBERT BRADY
4 Netzahualcoyotl in El Centro. Next door to the Parque de la Revolucion, on the corner of Hidalgo and
Abasalo, down the street from the Pullman de Morelos Bus Station in El Centro. PHONE: 14-35-29
#4 MUSEO de HERBOLARIA y MEDICINA TRADICIONAL CASA de MAXIMILIANO de HABSBURGO
14 Matamoros, Colonia Acapatzingo.
#5 MUSEO MUROS
Av. Vicente Guerrero 205. Col. Lomas de la Selva. PHONE: 310-38-48
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The Mexican telephone system
The best way to stay in touch with your friends and family is definitely phone calls
made over the internet, with Skype for example. This option is definitely the cheapest,
and internet connection is free and fast at Campus and your house, probably.
Regular telephones in Mexico are operated by a company called TELMEX, which holds a monopoly. Making
phone calls from house telephones is therefore quite expensive.
A better way to call is by using calling cards and public phones. You will notice that public phones in Mexico
are still widely used. International phone cards are sold at virtually any convenience store. Ask for a Ladatel
card.
Finally, to contact your friends here it is probably wise to buy a Mexican cell phone. It is not difficult to find
a cheap model. You can try to bring your phone from home, but it probably will not work here. You can
easily buy a cell phone in the city centre, any larger supermarket or even in Oxxo´s and other convenience
stores.
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Final Word
This handbook was designed to give you some ideas on what you need to take care of before you depart
home, what you can expect to find here in Mexico and where and how to get around in the first few weeks
of your stay.
After all the advices given in this booklet, try to remember that whatever you will find here, any
differences, surprises, problems, etc. are part of the experience of going abroad.
If you have any doubts, questions, problems before, during or after your stay at Campus Cuernavaca, don’t
hesitate to contact the Office of International Programs.
We look forward to welcoming you on campus!
The Staff of the Office of International Programs
Autopista del Sol Km. 104 + 060
Real del Puente
C.P. 62790
Xochitepec, Morelos
MEXICO
Phone: (0052) 777 3620810
Fax: (0052) 777 3621811
[email protected]
www.cva.itesm.mx/cicom
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Student Handbook - Campus Cuernavaca

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