Though U.S. cities often vary wildly from one to the next, the undergraduate experience on U.S. campuses is made up of more consistent, sometimes even predictable elements. Most institutions, for example, have a cafeteria and a health center.

The layout schemes, in terms of where communal grounds and parking lots are positioned, often echo one another. And faculty and students are for the most part friendly, informed, and approachable. But for international students, the average day on a U.S. campus can be anything but average. Here are some tips for managing your time between -- and after -- classes.

Starting the day
Getting to class can involve stepping out your door or driving 30 minutes across town -- it all depends on housing. Carefully consider each option: Dorms and residence halls are slightly more expensive than some private rentals, but they offer a great way to meet people, they're usually within walking distance of campus, and they often include meal packages that make it easy to grab a quick breakfast and get to class with enough time to get settled.

If starting the day early isn't your style, you're in luck. Most U.S. institutions offer a full spectrum of courses with many times and days to choose from. Your schedule could consist of:

• Hour-long classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
• 90-minute courses twice per week; a night class (usually 6 pm to 9 pm once a week)
• Saturday morning sessions
• or any combination thereof.

The trick to planning your schedule is to find the right classes in convenient time slots. At most schools, registration priority increases with seniority, so the further along a student is, the earlier he or she gets to choose classes.

Into the afternoon
Higher education exists not only for earning a great education, but also for meeting people, relaxing, and socializing. Spend your time between classes with other students on campus. Whether you're engaging in group study on a grassy lawn or playing ping-pong in the student lounge, you are serving the dual purpose of adjusting to your surroundings and -- for ESL students -- practicing the language.

Free time is also ideal for perusing bulletin boards around campus, where fellow students offer up everything from part-time employment opportunities to secondhand furniture to membership in campus groups. Bulletin boards can usually be found in high-traffic areas like recreation areas and cafeterias.

The night life
The area immediately surrounding your campus will have a major impact on your U.S. experience. If you're the type who prefers spending nights at home or having coffee with friends, you would likely benefit from a school in a regional city or rural town (like those in the Midwest region of the United States) -- they're known to be less populated, somewhat safer, and more conducive to quiet fun and introspection. On the other hand, urban cities (like New York or Chicago) facilitate a much more active social life. Whichever you choose, don't hesitate to consult the office of international student affairs. They can help you decide what to do with your free nights and weekends.