Make sure to arrive in time to learn about what’s new and different at MUM. Also, when to register for classes, move in to your new campus room, and much more. See the new student welcome and orientation schedule.

Room assignments are available to students at time of arrival on campus, but not prior to arrival. See more information about on-campus housing or off-campus housing.

Iowa generally has hot and humid summers, cold winters, and wet springs. Temperatures vary widely during the year. Winter may bring snow, freezing rain, or very cold wind. A very warm coat, boots, hat or hood, gloves, and an umbrella are needed. Natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and down will keep you the warmest. In the summer, light weight fabrics, light colors, a brimmed hat, and sunglasses will protect you from the sun and heat. If it is not possible to buy some of these items before you arrive, don’t worry — someone from the University will help you shop once you arrive.

Our rooms are cozy, so don't over pack! You should only bring items which can be easily stored in your room. Your room will have a bed, a desk, a desk chair, a closet-dresser, and a wastebasket. The furniture provided in the room meets most students' needs, and it cannot be removed without prior approval. You should not bring large pieces of furniture. If you want to provide your own bed, you must let us know ahead of time so we can remove the furnished bed before you arrive. The windows have drapes, shades or blinds.

U. S. students must bring their own bedding and linens — pillows, blankets, sheets, and towels. Regular twin size sheets will fit the mattresses. You may bring other personal items to make your room more comfortable. Here are some suggestions: clothes hangers, a desk lamp, an iron, your computer, a CD player, a clock radio, a sewing kit, an extension cord, and a UL-approved outlet strip with breaker switch. A fan may also be useful. You may bring small appliances like hot water dispensers and coffee makers. You may have a small refrigerator in your room. You can easily purchase any of these items in Fairfield.

For fire safety purposes, we ask that you not bring open flame devices or open element cooking units like hot plates, cooking appliances, or microwave ovens. Also any lamp, particularly halogen lamps, that require a bulb greater than 150 watts produce a lot of heat and are not safe. Pets of all kinds are not permitted on campus.

We encourage people to walk or ride bicycles around campus instead of driving — it’s good exercise, you don’t consume fossil fuels or pollute the air, and you can easily get to where you need to go. Most buildings on campus have designated bicycle racks and the relatively flat terrain makes bicycling easy. Basic supplies and toiletries are available on campus through the University Book Store and the Golden Dome Market and Café. The downtown area is less than one mile from campus and offers a variety of stores. If you bring a car or bicycle, you must register it with the Security Office on registration day. Registration for bicycles is free and it is $50 per year for cars.

Once you have registered, you may order a private telephone for your room or take advantage of the University’s free voice mail system. Many students use cell phones; however most service providers require long contract terms that may be inconvenient or costly. Be sure to read all terms and conditions carefully before purchasing a cell phone plan. All residence halls have high-speed Internet connections and most are equipped with exercise and TV rooms. If you do not already have an e-mail address, you can apply for a University e-mail account after you arrive on campus.

• Accident Insurance: All students enrolled at the University in at least a half-time program are automatically covered by accident insurance for accidents occurring on campus.
• Personal Property Insurance: The University does not carry insurance on personal property. We suggest that you determine if your personal property is covered by insurance you or your family already have. If it is not, you may wish to purchase personal property insurance. There are a number of private insurance agencies in Fairfield that provide policies for student residences.
• Health Insurance: The University does not provide medical insurance for U.S. students; but encourages them to have adequate health insurance coverage. In addition, all students should bring sufficient cash to cover health related costs not covered by health insurance, including transportation to medical appointments. For additional information on health insurance options, we suggest:
• IowaCare, a limited health care program that covers adults ages 19-64 who would not normally be covered by Medicaid. More about IowaCare
• Sidha National Insurance, which offers plans for Blue Cross Blue Shield, and also IMG Global (a travel insurance or for international students). Call to set up an appointment, 641-472-3500.

Small packages can be sent before you register and held at the campus mail room. Packages should be clearly addressed to: Your Name, New Student Arriving On (Date), Maharishi University of Management, Fairfield, IA 52557