Tell them to get maps of their area and explore right away. Mark important spots such as hospital, grocery store, hardware store, etc. Check out local transit - bus, taxi, uber or whatever so they know different ways to get around and how it works locally.

They should also leverage any of the University resources available and check to see if the institution has a "welcome" package for new students with local information and programs.

Once settled it is always a good idea to meet and greet the neighbors - the old retired type in the community can also be a great resource and local church, community center, government offices (police, fire, school) will also have local information.