Finances

In the U.S., money flows differently than in many other countries. If you just leave your money in a standard bank account, you are actually losing value every day due to inflation. Think of your bank accounts like a plumbing system. You need the right pipes to make sure the water goes exactly where it belongs without leaking.

In the U.S., your Credit Score is your financial reputation. It is a three-digit number that tells banks, landlords, and even some employers how much they can trust you. For an international student, you start with a blank slate (no score), which can make it hard to rent an apartment or get a phone plan.

In the U.S., taxes are self-reported. This means the government doesn't just send you a bill; they expect you to calculate what you owe and send it to them by April 15th every year. For international students and workers, this is the most dangerous part of your finances. If you file incorrectly, it can actually lead to visa denials.

In the U.S., you don't build wealth by just working hard—you build it by owning assets that grow while you sleep. For an international student or worker, investing can feel scary because of visa rules and taxes. But the truth is, the U.S. stock market is one of the most powerful wealth machines in the world, and you are allowed to use it.

In the U.S., retirement planning is not just for people who are 60 years old. It is a tax strategy that you should start the very first month you get a paycheck. Because you may not stay in the U.S. forever, you need a plan that is portable—meaning the money stays yours even if you move back to your home country.

Making large financial decisions in a foreign country can be intimidating because the rules of money change. In the U.S., these choices aren't just about spending—they are about opportunity costs and legal safety. Think of these decisions as moves on a chessboard: each one should protect your king (your visa/stability) while advancing your pieces (your wealth).