First Year Advising Center’s
College Essentials Checklist

Students entering the University of Hawaii at Manoa will find the following items useful throughout their college careers. While this is not a comprehensive list, having these essential items will make the transition to UHM much smoother.

IDENTIFICATION

	Photo identification Students should carry some form of photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, at all times. Students will need a photo ID in order to open checking accounts, make check and credit card purchases, find employment, etc.
	Validated University of Hawaii at Manoa student identification card All students enrolled in a degree program at the university may obtain a free photo ID card at the Campus Center Ticket and Information Services Office once they have paid the current semester’s tuition in full. Students must bring one photo ID with signature or two signature-only cards in order to obtain their student ID. Student IDs must be validated each semester at the Ticket and Information Services Office once tuition has been paid in full. Student IDs are required for services and/or discounts from the University of Hawaii libraries, intramural sports, the Campus Center Ticket and Information Services Office, and Kennedy Theater. Many local shops and restaurants also offer discounts upon presentation of a student ID.
	Social Security number The university identifies students primarily through their Social Security numbers, so each student should know his or her own SSN. (However, students without a Social Security number will be issued an identification code.) Students will need a Social Security number in order to find employment.

HEALTH

Health insurance Health coverage is recommended for all students so that any accidents or illnesses will not cause financial hardship. Students should carry their health insurance card with them at all times in the event that they need emergency medical care. Students have the option of purchasing health insurance through University Health Services.

FINANCES

Checking account Having a checking account enables students to manage their money more effectively and is required for on-campus employment. The following financial institutions have branches located near the university: American Savings Bank, Bank of Hawaii, and First Hawaiian Bank have ATMs located on campus, as well as numerous ATMs throughout the city of Honolulu. University of Hawaii Federal Credit Union members may use all First Hawaiian Bank ATMs without a surcharge. There are a limited number of Central Pacific Bank and City Bank ATMs in Honolulu.

Credit card Students should have one credit card for emergencies, such as purchasing a plane ticket home. Having a credit card will also provide students with an opportunity to establish credit. In order to avoid credit card debt, it is recommended that students charge only what they can expect to repay within the month. For more tips on managing credit, visit http://www.theoldschool.org/stucredit.asp.

ACADEMICS

	Current year’s University of Hawaii at Manoa catalog The catalog contains important information on campus policies and resources, academic departments and degree requirements, and courses offered at the university. The catalog can be purchased at the university bookstore for $5.00 or can be accessed online at http://www.catalog.hawaii.edu/.
	Current semester’s Schedule of Classes Students should keep the current Schedule of Classes for the duration of the semester. Not only is the SOC essential for registration, but it also contains information on important academic dates, tuition and fees, final exam schedules, and whether courses fulfill Focus requirements.
	Transfer evaluation For transfer students or students who earned college credits while in high school (for example, through Advanced Placement exams), the transfer evaluation indicates the number of college credits transferable to UHM and their UHM course equivalencies, if applicable. Students should always bring their transfer evaluation to advising sessions at the First Year Center.
	Catalogs and course syllabi from colleges previously attended Transfer students should bring all catalogs and course syllabi from their previous colleges in case there is a question of whether transfer courses have UHM course equivalencies.
	Portfolio for important academic documents It is useful to have a single portfolio to store all academic documents, such as information packets and tuition receipts, for future reference.

TRANSPORTATION

Bus pass If students do not have their own means of transportation (car, bicycle, etc.), they can purchase a bus pass each month at Campus Center’s Ticket and Information Office.

PERSONAL

	Laptop computer Computers are located in Keller 105, Keller 213, Sinclair Library, and Hamilton Library, but as computer labs are only open during certain hours and other students may be using the computers, it is far more convenient for students to have their own computers. Laptops are more convenient than desktop computers, as students can take them to class or to their favorite study spots on campus. It is also easier to take laptops home during weekends and breaks. There are power outlets and data ports for laptops located throughout Hamilton Library, Sinclair Library, and the Campus Center Lounge. Each dormitory room contains one Ethernet port per occupant. Click here, to determine whether your computer meets the minimum system requirements. While it may also be convenient to own a printer, students will most likely use computers more often than printers, and can utilize the computer labs’ printers when necessary.
	Planner Use a planner to keep track of classes, assignments, work schedules, extracurricular activities, and appointments. The university’s Board of Publications distributes free planners at the beginning of the fall semester.
	Alarm clock Don’t sleep through your first class of the day!