You're boarding an airplane in an Indian city. And when you get off that plane, everything has changed. Let's talk about your arrival. Previously there was a paper I 94 immigration form. That's all done electronically now. So you won't have to fill out a paper form during the flight.
When you arrive, you will be jet lagged and airports can be confusing places. If you feel disoriented and a little bit freaked out, tell yourself I'm going to get through this. Follow the people that are ahead of you. There's people if you need to ask help. Ask for help from somebody. But it's not too complicated.
You will get through fine. First to go through immigration. They'll have all your documents in your backpack. you've packed them carefully before you left. When you proceed to the baggage claim, you'll find your luggage. And I have a little bit of bad news for you.
In that I think us airports are the only airports in the world that don't have free luggage carts, you have to pay, it's usually $5. And generally it's worth it. After getting your check luggage, you'll proceed outside where you will meet the person waiting for you, or where you'll get your transportation to your destination. Make sure you have address and phone numbers with you. There are information counters, and you can ask another passenger if you can make a call on their cell phone. Explain who you are and who you want to call.
Some people may say no, but many will say yes, especially if they understand that you're an international student and you've just arrived if you have a connecting flight You will probably get your luggage and go through immigration at the first airport, then you may need to go through security check before going on to your gate. In the US security check is pretty regimented. You will have to remove your shoes, take off any jacket and have nothing in your pockets. liquids and gels have to be in small bottles that are 100 milliliters or less. And those bottles have to be inside of a Ziploc bag. No water bottles are allowed whatsoever.
If you're thirsty, drink something before or buy something on the other side, but they don't allow any beverages to pass through. As you move through the rival process, keep a cool head and ask for help if you don't know what to do.