Studying abroad can be an enriching educational experience, where a student can explore the world beyond the typical American college classroom. College students can gain a deeper knowledge of another culture, as well as its customs, food and language.
Adjusting to life in a foreign country can have its stressful moments, however. So before you sign up to study abroad, here are some things you need to consider.
Quick Tips:
- Before visiting a foreign country, check the State Department’s Travel Warnings. It will tell you if there are any areas of that country you should avoid.
- The Department of State publishes background notes for 170 countries. Read these brief pamphlets that include information on the country’s current political situation, as well as travel notes and maps.
- Learn as much as you can of the language of the country you are visiting, especially basic phrases.
- Learn about the local laws and obey them. While in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws on drugs, alcohol and dress, to name a few.
- What is considered casual clothing for women in the U.S. may be seen as provocative or inappropriate in other cultures. Women can be singled out for harassment and physical violence, so dress conservatively.
- Register at the American Embassy or Consulate so the embassy knows where they can find you in an emergency. Americans may at times need to be evacuated or someone from home might need to contact you.
- Make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage while abroad and that your coverage includes medical evacuations. Some travel insurance policies also can provide additional coverage.
- Always carry your prescriptions in their labeled containers. Many countries have strict narco-trafficking laws and are suspicious of pills in unlabeled bottles.
This information was originally published by the Federal Citizen Information Center of the U.S. General Services Administration. For more information, visit www.pueblo.gsa.gov.
