Recommended Reading

Your student may have a wide range of feelings about their upcoming experience abroad, from excitement to stress at the idea of being far apart from family and friends. By understanding each other's feelings and supporting decisions throughout the study abroad cycle, you can help maximize this opportunity for your student and your family. “Pointers to prepare for the transformation,” from the Council on International Educational Exchange, provides some good advice on what to expect.

Additional resources:

• The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Travelers' Health site offers information to assist travelers and their health-care providers in deciding the vaccines, medications, and other measures necessary to prevent illness and injury during international travel.
• Culture Smart! guides, available at major bookstores, offer illuminating insights into the culture and society of a particular country.
• The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) offers discounts on travel, museum entrance fees, food, and much more. Students may purchase an ISIC card online; the card requires activation.
• Once approved to study abroad on a UR program, students will receive login information to access the AXA Member Center, which has up-to-date information on medical, health, security, and intelligence issues worldwide.
• StudentsAbroad.com provides tips and resources for parents of study abroad students.
• The U.S. Department of State's "Students Abroad" website is a one-stop reference for international travel specifically designed for college students.