Life in the Bay Area
Life in the Bay Area
Life in the Bay Area
There is a reason that the San Francisco Bay Area is a top tourist destination!
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Lots to look forward to
We love the Bay
There is a reason that the San Francisco Bay Area is a top tourist destination! We have an unbeatable climate, unparalleled natural beauty, and a vibrant and diverse culture. Learn more below, and check out additional resources to help you prepare for your new life here.
Area Attractions
Area Attractions
Area Attractions
Oakland and the surrounding San Francisco Bay Area are well-known for their cultural diversity, exciting entertainment and food options, and colorful neighborhoods. Below are some links to get you started in exploring the Bay Area.
It's all about the neighborhoods
Bay Area neighborhoods
Coasts, valleys, inland areas, and hills
An unbeatable climate
The Bay Area is made up coasts, valleys, inland areas, and hills--and you’ll find that each area has its very own “micro-climate”! Oakland’s temperatures tend to be mild with an average high of 73°F/22°C and an average low of 45°F/7°C. December through February can be rainy and cold, although it never snows. Be sure to bring a range of clothing, from warm weather clothes to winter clothes.
Local Weather
Counseling Services
Counseling Services offers free resources for students, including individual and group counseling sessions to help you adjust to your new home in the US.
HNU's International Community
The Office of International Education is your home away from home at HNU. Get your questions answered about living in the Bay Area, and connect with other international students on campus.
Prepping for your expenses and banking in the US
Expenses:
Living, incidental, and social expenses will depend on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and budget, as well as your choice to live on campus, rent an apartment, and/or have roommates. When you arrive in the US, you should have sufficient funds to cover your expenses at HNU.
- Learn how to pay for tuition, room, and board at HNU by visiting our billing and payments page.
- All students must have enough money to cover their expenses. Little, if any, financial aid from the University is available for international students. Therefore, plan on meeting your own educational expenses for the duration of your studies. You can work on campus when jobs are available.
- International students are allowed to work on campus part-time, however there are very few jobs available. International students are NOT allowed to work off campus without permission from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and only after you have been a student for over 1 year. To work without permission can result in deportation and denial of future entry into the United States.
Banking options:
Visit WalletHub for local banking options.
Internet Service Provider Options:
For detailed information about the cost of utilities such as Internet, use InMyArea to find and compare provider plans and pricing so you can factor it into your budget.