Professors & Scholars - Arrival Information

First Day Arrival to Valencia College

Exchange Visitors cannot arrive more than 30 days prior to their program start date, but you should plan to arrive with a couple of days to get settled. On the first day of your campus arrival, you will need to report to your Host Department contact if you have not been in contact with him or her already.

You will then need to report to Ms. Bliss Thompson, International Counselor and Responsible Officer, at Valencia's West Campus, 1800 South Kirkman Rd., Student Services Building, office 146. It is best to contact her in advance to request an appointment. The hours are Monday-Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Phone: 407-582-5830 / Email: bthompson@valenciacollege.edu. Please bring the following documents when you check-in:

  • Passport with J-1 visa
  • I-94 card
  • DS-2019
  • The documents above for all J-2 dependents
  • Proof of insurance payment (if already purchased)

J Exchange Visitor Orientation

All J Exchange Visitors are required to attend a J Exchange Visitor Orientation session that covers specific information to this program.

Emergency Messaging System

Upon arrival, be sure to sign up for Valencia's Emergency Messaging System. You do this through your Atlas account. Find VALENCIA ALERT on your Atlas home page and click the link to sign up for alerts. You can receive instant notification via email or text message to your cell phone.