International students studying in the U.S. are often immediately welcomed by their host colleges or universities. Many schools have clubs that hold orientations, dinners and networking events for incoming students. American schools want to diversify their campus populations and often accommodate learners from all over the world.

Non-U.S. citizens make up nearly 20 percent of the student population at some schools, according to U.S. News and World Report.

The Ironton Tribune reports that Shawnee State University in Ohio has created a lending program that brings bicycles, as well as other comforts, to international students. When individuals come to study in the U.S., they can often only bring clothes. The Center for International Programs and Activities, and other similar groups, connects learners with blankets, phones, pillows, winter coats and cooking utensils.

Local residents are encouraged to donate not only bicycles, but helmets, bike locks, water bottles and head lights as the school will be accepting 24 new exchange students this year from nine different countries.

Students from abroad often have to walk or pay for public transportation, but with programs such as the International Student Bicycle Loan Program, university attendees have more freedom to buy groceries, run errands and travel.