It’s about that time of year when students begin packing for study abroad! Packing is ridiculously hard – you suddenly feel like everything in your life is incredibly valuable. And how can you possibly choose what to leave behind?! I’ve gotten to the point of packing only in a carry-on for trips lasting less than … Continue reading Packing for Study Abroad: A Review
[Read More→]Full disclosure – I am a dual language major. *collective gasp* (To be fair, the languages were French and English #liberalartsforlife.) I strongly believe in the importance of learning another language. However, it is difficult to become proficient in another language without being immersed in the language and its cultural context. Coincidentally, the U.S. government … Continue reading Language Immersion Programs: What to Know
[Read More→]After many years as a study abroad advisor, I can say with gusto that the majority of students are genuinely interested in finding ways to make their time abroad fulfilling and enriching. Students are the reason I go to work, enjoy my job, and find new challenges… but students also continue to find new ways to stress me out. Today, I discuss the things that many students do that will always be challenging.
Excerpt:
Let me stress that I thoroughly enjoy my job as a study abroad advisor.
(I mean, I have an entire blog dedicated to it.)
It’s never dull, students are (mostly) wonderful, and it keeps me on my toes.
However, there are some things that, no matter what, stress the hell out of me.
If you wish to remain on your study abroad advisor’s good side, here are things to NOT do.
Before: You miss deadlines.
Deadlines exist in study abroad offices for any of the following reasons:
1. You need a visa and the paperwork takes time to procure from overseas.
2. We have to review your application and it makes sense to review all study abroad applications at one time.
3. The deadline is for a scholarship (and missing these deadlines = no money fo’ you).
4. Our partners abroad require things from you (like an application).
5. We want to stress you out and find it fun.
Please don’t miss your deadlines. If you do, be prepared to not go abroad.
It’s that simple.
[Read More→]No matter how long a study abroad program is, students have common experiences that transcend borders. Here are some universal truths of studying abroad.
[Read More→]If you are planning to study abroad, here are some buzz-worthy things to ask your advisor. These questions will help ensure your time abroad is a success!
[Read More→]While this topic may be scary, the best way to respond to an emergency is to prepare in advance. This important step-by-step guide will help you get your bearings – read and bookmark this now to remember for later!
[Read More→]Once you have arrived in your destination, there are many things you should do to get to know your new city. Here is a list to help you get ready for your adventure abroad.
[Read More→]This list of 13 things to always have in your carry-on is tried-and-true after two decades of international travel.
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