New Friends, Money and My Quest For a Bike

Well, I am doing better today. It is 1:30 and I haven't yet turned into a blubbering mess. I went to an orientation for international students this morning and met several really nice people. I met two girls from Ohio and made plans to meet up with them this evening. I also have met some people at my college, and even two within my major!
I knew today would be a rough one for me, with it being my birthday, but so far, so good.
Yesterday I went shopping and bought a bunch of stuff I needed. Everything is SO expensive here! I was in shock yesterday, not only from jetlag and severe homesickness, but also sticker shock about prices! I spent the equivalent of $40 on hangers, and they were the cheap ones! My tiny cheapo travel alarm clock was the equivalent of $16. This is intense, and to top it all off I found out that I would have to pay for my own internet connection in my room. (The good news, however, is that I may be able to get internet, phone connection and cable tv in one relatively decent package) I am starting to stress a bit about how much money I am going to be spending, but I know I will just have to grin and bear it.
I have not yet been able to buy a bike, and so that remains my goal for the day. There is apparently a bike shop near some thrift stores that I am going to try and make it to today. I would love to get some cheap ammenities for my room, and at this point second-hand is A OK with me!