Field notes

Written for the family. Not for the algorithm.

Short essays on the practical parts of the first year in the US, the questions we answer most often, written up so any family can use them.

Pre-departure

Why Most Families Pack Wrong (And It Costs Them)

Almost every family we work with arrives at the pre-departure call already packing, and almost every family is packing wrong.

2026-06-15·3 min read

Banking & SIM

Why Your Bank Choice Decides Your First Month

Every student lands with money they can't access. The bank you pick in week one quietly shapes the entire first month.

2026-07-03·2 min read

Parents

Why Your Child Won't Tell You What's Really Happening

Your child lands in America and sounds fine on the first call. Here's what's actually happening beneath the surface.

2026-07-14·2 min read

Career

Why Your Club Choice In Month One Decides Your Internship

Most students wait until junior year to think about internships. By then, it's too late.

2026-06-22·2 min read

Housing

The Housing Scam Pattern (And How It Catches Everyone)

Nearly every housing scam we've seen follows the exact same pattern. Here's how to spot it before it costs you thousands.

2026-07-08·2 min read

Arrival

The First Two Weeks (And Why The Order Matters)

Most students land and panic because they don't know which order things should happen in.

2026-07-21·2 min read

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