To novemberrain:sorry that I donot know if anyone has apartment for rent in September now. But I can tell you that you will find some information at that time from the university's notice board. It is a bit early for you to worry about the apartment, I think you have to sign a contract in person since it is very important here. Only when you have the apartment contract then you can apply for the permit. After that, you can open the bank account.

To cdg2404: I think it is better for you to contact the coordinator in your program. They can help you to contact with other new students. You can find lots of information in their blog. http://mtlugano.blogspot.com/

Good luck!