Study Abroad
What You Need to Know Before You Leave
Congratulations once again on your acceptance to the Study Abroad program of your choosing! Studying Abroad is both an exciting and knowledgeable experience every student should get experience. But, before you depart for your trip, there are a few things you may want to keep in mind:
- Visiting a different country is a huge culture shock to many students. Please visit the Study Abroad website for more information about what culture shock is and how it may affect you.
- Conduct necessary research about the country you will be staying in to bring the right amount of spending money.
- Visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website to research anything you may want to be aware of with regards to your health and sanitation practices.
- Check out these additional Pre-Departure tips.
Most importantly, be prepared to have fun. Study abroad is a wonderful opportunity for you to learn from. Remember to accustom yourself with some of the basic laws and customs of the country you are residing in. This will make your trip more comfortable. Here is a list of travel tips from the United States Department of State:
Top Ten Travel Tips for Students
- 1. Make sure you have a signed, valid passport and visas, if required. Also, before you go fill in the emergency information page of your passport!
- 2. Read the Consular Information Sheets (and Public Announcements or Travel Warnings, if applicable) for the countries you plan to visit.
- 3. Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page and visas with family or friends at home, so that you can be contacted in case of an emergency. Keep your host program informed of your whereabouts.
- 4. Make sure you have insurance that will cover your emergency medical needs (including medical evacuation) while you are overseas.
- 5. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of the countries to which you are traveling. Remember, while in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws!
- 6. Do not leave your luggage unattended in public areas and never accept packages from strangers.
- 7. While abroad, avoid using illicit drugs or drinking excessive amounts of alcoholic beverages, and associating with people who do.
- 8. Do not become a target for thieves by wearing conspicuous clothing and expensive jewelry and do not carry excessive amounts of cash or unnecessary credit cards.
- 9. Deal only with authorized agents when you exchange money to avoid violating local laws.
- 10. When overseas, avoid demonstrations and other situations that may become unruly or where anti-American sentiments may be expressed.
If you have any questions, or would like additional information or an application
to study abroad, please contact:
Study Abroad Office
1101 Holzapfel Hall
(301) 314-7746
studyabr@deans.umd.edu
Study Abroad Office
Website
