COMMUNICATION
To keep in touch with your family, do not waste your money on phone cards. Try Skype for free PC-2-PC calls. All you need are a computer (preferable with wireless card), a headset and the internet connection. You may need a web camera if you would love to see your family. Skype video chat is built with high quality.
If you want to make a call to a regular phone, you could buy Skype Credit (called Skype-Out), and pay as low as US$0.02/minute. This is the unbeatable price compare to public phone or the like if you want to contact people within North America or Western Europe. I would not recommend Asia calls. Check Skype-Out rates and Promotions at the time you decide.
If you could afford a cell phone, then you can talk for free within the US after 9pm and during weekends. Sign the plan with no charge for incoming calls.