Living In Boston

For decades, people from all over the world have come to Boston to study, live and work. A vibrant and culturally-rich city with more than 100 colleges and universities, Boston is one of the world's most popular destinations for international students.

Bunker Hill Community College provides a friendly, welcoming environment for its international student population, offering plenty of opportunities to make new friends and pursue diverse interests, both on and off campus. We are located a short distance from such cultural landmarks as Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market and the renowned Freedom Trail, which winds through many of the city's significant historical neighborhoods. The campus is easily accessible to the Boston Common, Public Garden and the Charles River, which serve as settings for outdoor and sporting activities.

Those who prefer to enjoy their sports as spectators will appreciate the easy access to Fenway Park and the T.D. Banknorth Garden, where fans cheer on the Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins from the comfort of the sidelines.

Artistic and cultural activities abound. The Back Bay, which is home to numerous shopping centers, art galleries, restaurants and the famous boutiques of Newbury Street, lies in the heart of the city, in close proximity to Symphony Hall, the Boston Center of the Arts, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Theater District.

Outside the city, many students choose to explore the beautiful beaches of Cape Cod, the mountains and ski areas of Vermont and New Hampshire or the rocky coast of Maine, all of which are in driving distance of our campus.

For a fun and exciting educational, cultural and social college experience, Boston is the ideal city for the international student to call "home."

People and Culture

You will find Americans to be very welcoming and friendly. They speak openly and directly and find humor in everything, including their language. Because English is so rich with double meanings for many words, Americans will often "play" with their language - so bear this in mind if you are still learning the vocabulary!

Americans believe very strongly that all people are created equally and that everyone should have the opportunity to succeed regardless of his or her race, gender or religion. Many believe that success can only be obtained through individual effort, so they tend to be very self-reliant and, at times, competitive.

It is often difficult to determine an American's economic status by looking at him or her, because they tend to dress casually and comfortably. Many businesses and schools have very liberal dress codes or none at all. Regardless of status, Americans tend to dress to satisfy their individual tastes and comfort and not out of concern for "what other people will say."

While you will discover many differences in people's characteristics depending upon the location of the country you are visiting, overall, Americans like to be comfortable and practical in everything they do. Don't be afraid to explore the many cultural differences between you by making friends and engaging in activities with the many diverse and interesting people you will meet here. The more things you are able to share, the easier your transition will be. We suggest you make the most of your time here by taking photographs or keeping a journal. After you return to your home country, you will treasure these memories for many years to come.

If you do choose to keep a car during your time in Boston, you will need to register it and obtain the necessary insurance and neighborhood parking permits. For additional information about automobile regulations and restrictions, please visit www.mass.gov.