tips to get ready for study abroad

This study abroad or foreign exchange program is an important step for your student and young person. But, it can also be stressful for everyone involved. Things can and do happen, so its important to stay calm, and draw upon the knowledge, experience and resources you have developed along the way. By planning ahead, troubleshooting as needed, keeping calm and organized, and staying positive, you and your student will be well-equipped to deal with some of the bumps that are sure to arise along the way.

Of course, application to study abroad or participate in global exchange is typically accomplished through schools, communities or non-profit organizations. For example, the 1.2 million member Rotary International reports that it sends about 8,000 young men and women to 80 countries each year. Why so popular? Rotarys network of 32,000 clubs keeps costs down as it matches students with local chapters and host families. International Student Exchange Programs, or ISEP, features access to a worldwide network of 300 higher education institutions in more than 50 countries to provide an affordable and meaningful global learning experience. AFS-USA (formerly American Field Service) facilitates intercultural learning and exchange in more than 40 countries around the world through independent AFS nonprofits, leveraging an impressive network of volunteers and administrative infrastructure. And, 50,000 students have participated in the well-known People to People global ambassador program since its inception over 50 years ago. This summer alone, People to People plans to fund $1 million in scholarships and tuition credits to support summer study abroad.

Recently, our family participated in an exchange program with a sister city organization in our town. Little did we know all of the planning that goes into sending a son or daughter to another country. We learned a lot along the way, and so will you. Its all about planning, making good decisions, and keeping everything organized and ready to go. Travel documents. Itinerary. Local currency. A contingency plan. These are just some of the essential ingredients for the trip ahead. So are electrical adaptors, lap tops, cell phone plans, and other devices. You have to ensure that your world traveller knows a little bit about the country he or she is visiting, how to get there and how best to travel within or outside of the host country. You have to pack just the right things for the trip, and not much more. These are just some the issues that arise in foreign exchange decision making.