The nominal academic year pay period starts in mid-August even though school starts after Labor Day. Watch your mail over the summer and be prompt about sending the required forms and identification back so that you can get paid as soon as you arrive. In case you haven't heard anything about your employment status, contact Thelma as soon as you arrive, and she will tell you what you need.
Many banks allow direct deposit of paychecks.
You generally need a form from the bank to request direct deposit service and another form from the University to authorize the transfer. Again, contact Thelma and your bank for more information on how to do this.