Guide for Parents
Parents of Students Who Are Currently Abroad
Students traveling abroad should register with the US Department of State prior to their departure. The US government will then be able to provide them
with any important travel updates and warnings as well as get in contact with them in case of an emergency.
Orientation
When students arrive at their program site, they will participate in an on-site program orientation that will explain specific aspects of their
program, the host university, and their new city. It is mandatory that students attend orientation and make their travel plans with the date of
orientation in mind. The most up-to-date calendar for each program's orientation can be found in the calendar section of the website.
top
Communication while Abroad
Your student may not call much during the first week abroad or even the first day. Be sure to speak before departure and agree on an expected timeframe
for your student to call and check in with you.
The easiest way to contact your student while s/he is abroad may be through email or an internet based chat and calling service, such as Skype. Many
students also choose to wait until they arrive at the program site to buy a local cell phone, normally a pay per minute phone. Students can research
whether their cell phone carrier offers international roaming, but this may be an expensive service. For calling home, many students purchase calling
cards.
Read more about these topics on Know Before You Go.
top
Contacts Abroad
Depending on the type of USAC program, program sites will be staffed by USAC personnel or the International Office staff that will provide on-site
assistance and support to your student. The USAC Resident Directors have worked with USAC for an average of 12 years and are therefore very experienced
in taking care of international students.
Before your student's departure, you will be mailed a copy of the Arrival Update with contact information and mailing addresses for the staff at your
student's program site. Keep in mind, the on-site staff is simultaneously preparing for your student's arrival and overseeing the well-being of current
students.
top
Culture Shock
Most of your student's lack of communication is due to the time difference and all of the fun and exciting things he or she is doing and learning.
However, for the first few weeks your student may experience culture shock and he or she may vent some frustrations to you. This is normal and the best
thing you can do is be as supportive as possible during this adjustment period as they adapt to a new culture and way of life. Studying abroad helps
students develop personally and often times gives them valuable life skills as they adjust to new surroundings.
For more information about culture shock, please see the following websites:
top
Visiting Your Student
Consider planning a trip to visit your student at the end of his or her program. Many programs also have breaks during the term that can be good times
for family and friends to visit. However, it is better to come at the end of the program so as not interrupt their studies. Also, by this time your
student will be adjusted into life in their new home country which will give them the opportunity to show you around and give you a taste of their
experiences.
top