TABLE OF CONTENTS. PRE-DEPARTURE Important Travel Documents 3 Research Your Destination 4 Air Transportation 4 Packing 5 Money Matters 7

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2 TABLE OF CONTENTS PRE-DEPARTURE Important Travel Documents 3 Research Your Destination 4 Air Transportation 4 Packing 5 Money Matters 7 HEALTH & SAFETY Health Insurance 10 Emergency Abroad 12 Troubleshooting While Abroad 12 Staying Healthy 13 LIVING ABROAD Arriving in Your Host Country 19 Immigration & Customs Contacting Home Jet Lag Settling In 20 Culture Shock Greetings & Gifts General Safety Tips Local Laws Public Transportation In the Moment 22 Staying Healthy Independent Travel Language Immersion Keeping in Touch RETURNING HOME Departure Checklist 25 How am I Going to Get All This Stuff Home? 25 Is All This Stuff Allowed Back In The Country? 25 Reverse Culture Shock 25 Stay Involved 26 ADDENDUM Journal/Notes 27 Weekly Calendar 29 Yearly Calendar 31 Important Contact Information 33 Program Specific Contact Info 34 2

3 PRE-DEPARTURE IMPORTANT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS Passports If you do not currently have a valid passport, or your passport will expire while you are abroad or within 6 months of return, you will need to apply for one as soon as possible (3 months prior to departure or earlier if you need a visa). To learn more about the passport application process, visit the U.S. Department of State website: or call The Study Abroad Programs Office is now an official Passport Acceptance Agency. Before you go: Your passport is the most essential of all of your documents while you are overseas. You cannot re-enter the US without your passport Leave a copy at home with your family and carry a copy with you at all times while abroad. It is important to keep the original passport in the most secure place possible. Depending on where you are, this may either be in secure location or hidden securely on yourself. In case of loss or theft: Color copies of your passport will facilitate the process of replacement. If this happens, immediately notify the nearest US embassy or consulate and the Study Abroad Programs Office. You will need to complete an application to replace your passport. Application fees will apply. Visas A visa is written proof that you have authorization to enter another country. Permission is granted by the government of the destination country. A visa may come in the form of a stamp imprinted on a page in your passport or it might be an official document, which includes a photograph. Countries have different visa requirements. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct documentation to enter and exit the countries you plan to visit. International Students: Before you depart the U.S. you must contact an advisor in International Student Services (ISS) at ISS will assist you in preparing the necessary paperwork for leaving and re-entering the U.S. Failure to complete the proper paperwork will jeopardize your legal status, and you may not be allowed to enter your destination country or re-enter the United States. 3

4 RESEARCH YOUR DESTINATION In order to have a successful, meaningful international experience, it is wise to learn as much as you can about your program destination. Look for guide books and search online for country specific information. When researching your destination you may want to think about the following topics: Country History Weather Food Money Voltage & Plugs Local Customs Common modes of transportation Geography Must-see attractions or destinations Current events Health and safety information AIR TRANSPORTATION Researching Affordable Flights Texas A&M Study Abroad programs typically do not include international airfare in the program fee. Please consult with your program leaders or advisors regarding appropriate or required airfare arrangements. Begin planning well in advance and be sure to compare prices. General suggestions for exploring airfare options: Utilize travel websites to gauge a realistic middle price range for your roundtrip international airfare. Inquire with local travel agencies. Plan for the unexpected by leaving sufficient time between connecting flights (usually at least one or two hours). Purchase travel insurance to protect yourself in the event of cancelations or delays. Take advantage of frequent flyer programs if applicable. Some countries list a round-trip ticket as one of their entry/visa requirements. If you are planning to travel on your own after your program ends, you might want to investigate fares that let you return from a different location than your point of entry. Please consult with your program leaders or advisors regarding post-program or independent travel requirements. 4

5 Airport Regulations & Safety Please check with your airline website for baggage limits along with weight and size regulations. Allowances vary greatly between airlines. Other considerations: Check the TSA website for carry-on and checked baggage regulations. Please remember that most International flights require that passengers check in at least 2 hours prior to departure. Remember you should never leave your luggage unattended or accept packages from strangers in the airport. PACKING Travel lightly! Remember, whatever you bring you ll have to carry. The following list is to serve only as a suggestion or reminder about some things you may not have considered. Please consult your program leaders for any program specific information. Important Items to take on the plane Note: Gels and liquids should not exceed 3.4 oz, and should be placed in a Ziploc bag to present at security. Passport (with visa if necessary) Airline tickets (copy of itinerary and necessary electronic documents) Copies (front & back) of important documents Credit/Debit Cards Money Belt with some cash Emergency information card Contact information in the US and abroad Second form of picture ID Prescription medication in original container with doctor s letter or original prescription Contact lenses & glasses Sweater or light jacket Extra change of clothes Reading materials Camera, memory card, and charger Batteries Cell phone and charger (if not obtaining one in country) Laptop and charger Important items for your destination Clothes will vary greatly depending on your destination and the duration of your stay. Research the local weather ahead of time. Layering your clothing will give you the greatest flexibility. Keep in mind that even warm climates 5

6 can get cool at night or in inclement weather. 5-7 sets of clothes Dress clothes/shoes (if necessary) Pair of good walking shoes Socks Underwear Coat/jacket Rain jacket/poncho Medicine & Toiletries Razor/blades Toothbrush/toothpaste Soap/shampoo Deodorant Comb/brush Washcloth/towel Contact lenses/solutions Feminine hygiene products First aid kit including pain reliever and stomach medicine Bug spray Sunscreen Tissues Zip lock bags (for wet items or toiletries) Miscellaneous Backpack/carry all bag Sunglasses Small umbrella Voltage converter & power adaptor Travel alarm clock Small flashlight Luggage lock & tags (do not lock your suitcase for flights, it will have to be opened in security) Music Gifts for host family (if applicable) Guides & maps Materials for class Other 6

7 MONEY MATTERS When preparing for an international experience, students should develop a financial plan. There are several methods of funding available to eligible students. Utilize on-campus resources to assist you in your pursuit for financial assistance: Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid: Honors Programs Office: (honors students only) Study Abroad Programs Office: Texas Guaranteed Tuition Plan: Veteran Services Office: Budget The majority of your study abroad program expenses (Texas A&M tuition & fees, housing, some meals and excursions) will be billed to your student account prior to departure. Be sure you know exactly what your program fees do and do not cover so that you are prepared for the other expenses. Review the Budget Statement and Payment Schedule provided by your study abroad advisor. The following are some of the personal expenses for which you will need to take into account: Meals (consult with program leaders) Extra baggage fee, shipping purchases home (including unplanned gifts) Personal excursions, travel, or local transportation Weekend or evening expenses Communications (internet access, phone calls, cell expenses) Below are some general tips for managing funds on-site: Do not carry large amounts of cash with you. Make arrangements to convert dollars or withdraw cash before you depart Have several different methods of payment available including cash and debit or credit cards. Keep in mind that in many places outside of the United States cash is the preferred method of payment. Avoid falling into a pattern of always using the same ATM at the same time and be wary of crowded ATMs or people who seem to be hanging around ATMs. 7

8 Currency, Cash, and ATM s Consider the following for payments while abroad: Contact your bank. Ask them about affiliated ATM s or networks and their locations in your destination. Inform them of the countries and dates of your travels. Be sure that your PIN is 4 digits or less. Know the exchange rate and how it converts to U.S. dollars. Have an idea of the cost of living and relative prices of goods and services. Understand the fees involved with ATM or currency exchange transactions. Typically ATM s offer the best exchange rates (not including fees that can make frequent withdrawals expensive) but banks and money exchanges are also options. Credit Cards Consider the following when using credit cards abroad: Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted cards in other countries. Check to see if any credit cards are restricted. Be aware of any usage fees and exchange rates for individual credit cards. Fees and rates will likely differ between cards. Be aware of credit card customs within your destination. Credit cards may not be as readily accepted in your host country. Do your research. In many countries it is important to not lose sight of your credit card. (In restaurants for example) Lost or Stolen Cards - Have a Plan Record the service numbers for your credit card company, bank, and other institutions. If your cards are lost or stolen you should immediately contact the issuing company for instructions on how to get the card cancelled and replaced. It may also be a good idea to leave your credit card number and toll -free service numbers with a trusted family member in the US. 8

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10 HEALTH & SAFETY HEALTH INSURANCE If you are participating in a Texas A&M University sponsored faculty led study abroad program or short term group trip, you will be insured by Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) for the duration of your program. The cost of this insurance is included in your program fees. A study abroad advisor will enroll you in CISI and you will receive a copy of your insurance card prior to departure. CISI provides health insurance, medical and security evacuations, claim administration, 24-hour multilingual emergency phone support, and online tools to assist you in planning for your time abroad. Overview of Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) Coverage & Services Maximum Limits Health Insurance $0 Deductible, $250,000 at 100% Home Country Coverage Limit $10,000 Emergency Medical Reunion $3,000 Emergency Medical Evacuation up to $200,000 Repatriation/Return of Mortal Remains up to $100,000 Security Evacuation up to $100,000 In addition to the services listed above, the CISI plan includes coverage for the following: Return Air Ticket Up to $1000 in the event of a death or life-threatening accident or sickness of family at home. This benefit only covers a roundtrip ticket back to the program after a visit home. Program Fee Refund Benefit CISI may be able to reimburse you for a portion of the Texas A&M study abroad program fee, up to $5,000, if you are unable to participate in the program due to certain unforeseen circumstances. Travel Delay Benefit $100/day up to $500 if your trip is delayed for more than 12 hours until travel becomes possible. Please see the Coverage Plan below for the full information regarding these additional benefits. More details regarding CISI insurance policy coverage can be found at 10

11 Using your Insurance You should carry your signed ID card with you at all times. In case of emergency anyone can open up a case on your behalf (study abroad staff, program leader, parents, or friends). For all EMERGENCY medical situations, seek help without delay. It is important to contact the Study Abroad Programs Office or CISI as soon as possible so that a case can be opened and additional arrangements can be made in a timely manner if necessary. For non-emergency situations please call the Study Abroad Programs Office before visiting a clinic or hospital. It may be possible to set up direct billing with CISI so that you will not have to pay for expenses out of pocket. If you do pay for any expenses out of pocket make sure you keep all receipts to file a claim once you return home. You will submit all itemized bills and receipts along with a completed claim form to claimhelp@culturalinsruance.com. The claim form is available through the mycisi Participant Portal or from the Study Abroad Programs Office. Contact Information Both CISI and the Study Abroad Programs Office are available 24/7 in the event of an emergency. Please use the following contact information. CISI Insurance Beyond Your Program Dates Please note that all Texas A&M sponsored study abroad programs include CISI coverage only for the dates you will actually participating in the academic program. If you plan to travel before or after the program, study abroad highly encourages you to purchase additional insurance coverage. You can purchase individual coverage through many different providers at a low cost. Should you wish to look into other overseas medical insurance providers, please go to: Non-TAMU Sponsored Programs If you are participating in a program that is not sponsored by Texas A&M University, we strongly encourage you to purchase the CISI plan. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have sufficient health and accident insurance 11 Study Abroad Programs Office Outside the US: Monday Friday, 8-5: From the US: After Hours: teamassist@culturalinsurance.com studyabroademergency@tamu.edu

12 for the duration of your time abroad. Instructions on how to purchase this coverage can be found in your study abroad online application/registration portal. Research the travel provisions especially Emergency Medical Evacuation (EME) and Repatriation of Remains (RR) of your current study abroad program insurance, and make sure you understand both the coverage and the procedures to follow if something should occur. If your existing insurance does not cover EME or RR, or if you want supplemental coverage, you should purchase insurance through CISI. EMERGENCIES ABROAD Study Abroad Programs Office Monday Friday, 8am 5pm After Hours CISI Team Assist The US State Department's Overseas Citizens Service can help a friend or family member with the process of wiring money to you. Your stateside friend can access this service by calling (8:15am - 10:00pm weekdays; 9:00am - 2:00pm Saturdays). Beyond that, the United States Embassy in the host country can provide advice and assistance in extreme situations (e.g. theft and lost passport services). See the Index for additional important contact information. Emergencies at Home It is extremely important for students to leave a travel itinerary, including telephone numbers and other contact information, with family, friends, and the study abroad office to use in case of an emergency at home. TROUBLESHOOTING WHILE ABROAD Who to call and Where to go Have a plan. Consult with your group, program leaders, and/or host family on where to meet and how to communicate should there be an extreme emergency. Please keep emergency contact information with you that includes local contacts. A general list of numbers has been provided in the addendum of this booklet. Additional emergency resources while abroad can be found at: 12

13 Travel Alerts Travel Alerts are issued to disseminate information about short -term conditions, generally within a particular country, that pose imminent risks to the security of U.S. citizens. Natural disasters, terrorist attacks, coups, anniversaries of terrorist events, election-related demonstrations or violence, and high-profile events such as international conferences or regional sports events are examples of conditions that might generate a Travel Alert. For a list of current Travel Alerts, visit: Texas A&M does not restrict undergraduate students from traveling to a country with a US Department of State Travel Alert in place to receive academic credit. However, students should exercise caution while there. Travel Warnings Travel Warnings are issued to describe long-term, protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable. A Travel Warning is also issued when the U.S. Government's ability to assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or consulate or because of a drawdown of its staff. For a list of current Travel Warnings, visit the US Department of State website at Please note that Texas A&M University rules state that undergraduate students are not allowed to travel to a country with a U.S. Department of State Travel Warning in place. If a Travel Warning is issued for your host country before you depart, your program will be cancelled. If you are in your host country when a Travel Warning is issued, you will be advised to leave the country as soon as feasibly possible. The study abroad office will help facilitate your return to the US. STAYING HEALTHY Health and safety are the most important aspects of your study abroad experience. Below are some general recommendations. 13

14 Medical preparation Vaccinations Colds, Coughs, and upset stomach Glasses/ Contacts Over the counter and Prescription Medications Students with Dietary Restrictions Students with Disabilities Students with Pre-existing Medical Conditions Students with Psychological or Emotional Concerns Obtain any necessary routine medical/dental care before you leave. Carry a copy of your personal health record with you when you travel. All routine vaccinations should be current. Required and recommended vaccinations for a specific country can be obtained via the Center for Disease Control (CDC) These conditions may be a temporary result of the temperature and climate changes inherent with traveling. Consult with a physician or a medical professional about remedies or medications available to you. Pack ample supply of contact lens cleaner/solution with you, as these items are often expensive and difficult to find abroad. Pack a second back-up set of glasses and carry your prescription with you. It is important that all medication, including over-thecounter drugs, be clearly labeled and in the original container. Make sure your medication is legal in your host country. Ask your physician to prescribe ample supply for your entire stay abroad. See the HTH website (hthstudents.com) for more information on how to fill prescriptions abroad if necessary. If you need special meals or dietary supplements please make arrangements prior to departure. Some items may need to be taken with you and are subject to the customs laws of the host country. Notify your study abroad advisor and/or program leader of any special dietary needs or restrictions. This information is helpful when securing flight and housing arrangements. Consult with the Texas A&M University Disability Services, your study abroad advisor, and program leader early regarding any concerns you might have about studying abroad and any accommodations you might need while oversees. For more information on how to prepare for an international experience, visit Mobility Internation- Consult with your physician and study abroad advisor to ensure that your special needs can be met while you are away. Ask your physician to provide written instructions to utilize in the event of an emergency. Consult with the Texas A&M University Student Counseling Services and your Study Abroad Advisor to ensure that your needs can be met while you are away. 14

15 Other Useful Resources Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) Center for Disease Control: Department of State: Mobility International USA See Addendum for more contact information. Sexually Transmitted Diseases Be aware of your risk of sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS. Complete abstinence from high-risk behaviors is of course your best protection, but as an adult, it is your responsibility to protect yourself in whatever activities you choose. Alcohol Abroad By far, the greatest threat to student safety involves the use or misuse of alcohol. Different customs and laws exist across cultures regarding the use and consumption of alcohol. Misuse or overindulgence with alcohol is serious in all cultures (and at home) and can lead to severe and negative consequences. Please remember that the laws of the host country apply and should be respected at all times. Your program may have additional restrictions or regulations regarding the consumption of alcohol. Please consult with your program leader or study abroad advisor for more information. It s important to research your host country s drinking laws and customs. In many countries, the legal drinking age is lower than that of the U.S. However, in some parts of the world, drinking alcohol is highly restricted or even illegal. If you choose to consume alcohol, please do so in a smart and responsible manner. Being drunk in an unfamiliar country could lead to dangerous situations. It is important to only take drinks that you have purchased or you are certain of the origin. It is not recommended to accept unknown drinks or consume drinks that have been left unattended. It is important to understand the local laws, norms, and your own limitations prior to departure. 15

16 Women Men See the charts below for the estimated and approximate Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) for men and women. Drinks 100lbs 120lbs 140lbs 160lbs 180lbs 200lbs 220lbs 240lbs Coordination & Judgment Affected Coordination & Judgment Impaired & Over Legal Limit Coordination & Judgment Very Impaired Coordination & Judgment Extremely Impaired Dangerous Levels of Intoxication Drinks 100lbs 120lbs 140lbs 160lbs 180lbs 200lbs 220lbs 240lbs Coordination & Judgment Affected Coordination & Judgment Impaired & Over Legal Limit Coordination & Judgment Very Impaired Coordination & Judgment Extremely Impaired Dangerous Levels of Intoxication Estimated and Approximate Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) 1 Drink = 12oz Beer, 5oz Wine, or 1.5oz Hard Liquor or Spirits Subtract for every hour, including the first one. Drugs Texas A&M University will not tolerate use or possession of illegal drugs. Keep in mind that laws concerning drugs are much more severe in many other countries than in the United States, and you are subject to the laws of the host country. All members of the university community are expected to abide by state and federal laws pertaining to controlled substances and illegal drugs. More specifically, Texas A&M University Student Rules prohibit manufacturing, possessing, having under control, selling, transmitting using or being party thereto any illegal drug, controlled substance or drug paraphernalia on university premises or at university-sponsored activities. University disciplinary charges may be pursued against students alleged to have violated University Student Rules and/or state and federal laws concerning controlled substances. Violations of any state or federal law pertaining to 16

17 controlled substances that occur off campus and are not associated with a university-connected activity may result in disciplinary charges in situations in which the continued presence of the individual on campus is likely to interfere with the educational process and the orderly operation of the university. For the complete student rule see Appendix VII: Texas A&M University Drug Rules. Any student in violation of these student rules may be subject to immediate dismissal from the study abroad program. Women Travelers Women traveling abroad may encounter unexpected difficulties if not prepared. US students need to be aware that different attitudes about women may exist in other countries. It is not uncommon for the lifestyle of American women to be considered as free and loose in comparison to what is acceptable in many other countries. In addition to preconceived notions, interpretations about behavior, use of body language, style of dress, use of makeup, amount of eye contact, and personal distance between individuals may be profoundly different from country to country. It is important to learn about the customs, religion, and appropriate dress for women before a visit is made to another country. The goals are to be knowledgeable, prepared and safe. 17

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19 LIVING ABROAD ARRIVING IN YOUR HOST COUNTRY Customs and Immigration Most travelers will need to pass through some form of immigration and customs prior to entering your destination. Here are some tips on what to expect. Officials will likely examine your passport, check visa and immunization certificates (if required). Depending on the country, immigration officials may or may not stamp your passport. Declarations on what you are carrying in your luggage or on your person are typically handled through Customs. If asked, you may be required to open luggage for search. Answer questions politely and with respect. References to sensitive or taboo subjects will usually cause complications entering the country and may even result in denial to enter. Contact Home Call, Text, , Skype..however you want to do it, please be considerate of your loved ones back home and let them know you arrived safely. Jet Lag A few days after traveling, you may still feel tired, sleep and wake at irregular times, and have less patience than usual. This will pass once your internal clock has adjusted to the time change. In order to minimize the effects of jet lag, please note the following: Set your watch to the destination time upon embarking on the flight. This will help you adjust your sleeping and eating schedule. Stay awake until it is bedtime in your host country. Stay hydrated. Please remember that alcohol and caffeine make it difficult to maintain proper hydration. Exercise/walk as much as possible. 19

20 SETTLING IN Culture Shock Culture shock is a phase of your transition to living in another country. Culture shock is a condition of disorientation affecting someone who is suddenly exposed to an unfamiliar culture or way of life or set of attitudes. Symptoms Include: Difficulty sleeping Homesickness Depression Isolation General irritation Suggestions to acclimate yourself to the host country. Interact with local people and places. Communicate with others who might be in similar situations. Keep a journal of your thoughts and experiences. Participate in activities that you enjoy. Keep in touch with family and friends back home. Keep your long term goals in mind. Greetings and Gifts If you are living with a host family, it is a nice gesture to present the family with a gift for hosting you. If you choose to bring a small gift for your host family, do not wrap the gift before arriving, it may be opened at security. Suggestions for small gifts include: Magnets, key chains, coffee mugs from your state T-shirts, caps, pens from Texas A&M Picture books, music, cookbooks Texas memorabilia General Safety Tips Again, health and safety are the most important variables of any study abroad experience. Staying safe while abroad has a lot to do with your behavior and decision making. Personal safety and security begins with the multitude of decisions each student makes on a daily basis; which includes the transportation methods you choose, whom you associate with, when and where you go out. By being aware, employing cultural common sense and making responsible, intelligent choices, students take an important first step to a safe experience. Some key principles for staying safe while abroad include: Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Learn from program leaders or personnel, independent research, 20

21 and/or local residents which areas of town are safe or dangerous and when to avoid certain locations. Stay abreast of local news and events. Determine which means of transportation are safe and secure, and at what time of day. Secure wallets, cash, phones, cameras, etc. in discreet and inconspicuous places on your person or handbags/backpacks. Be smart about alcohol consumption. Stay away from street gatherings, demonstrations, and areas/events of controversy. Be wary of participating in controversial conversations and situations when in public places. If you are singled out of the group as being from the United States, calmly ignore any harassment and walk away into the crowd. Be mindful of your dress and appearance. Avoid excessive demonstrations of wealth, and inflammatory symbols. Ask permission before taking pictures. In some cultures people do not want their pictures taken. Local Laws Familiarize yourself with local laws and cultural customs of your host country. You are subject to the laws of that country. Accidents or arrests can be difficult and expensive. US citizenship does not exempt you from another country s judicial system. Please refer to the consular web sites for the countries that you will be visiting. The US State Department web site is also a good source for information. Public Transportation Public transportation is a much more common and integral part of most international cultures. Each destination will have different options and different considerations. Please become very familiar with the positives, negatives, and nuances of each mode of transportation. Some rules of thumb are as follows: Learn the system. Be knowledgeable of subway or bus schedules and destinations. Exercise extreme care and caution when using taxis. It is important not to be cheated, but to also select taxis that are safe and secure. Take the time to learn where you are going and have a back-up plan should you become lost. Carry emergency contact numbers with you. Consider purchasing a metro/bus pass instead of paying each time. Make sure to secure your belongings on trains. 21

22 IN THE MOMENT Staying Healthy Adjusting to the cuisine of your host country takes time. It is very important for you to understand your limitations and tolerances regarding your diet. Find a balance between trying new things and staying with tested foods that will keep you healthy. Bring over the counter medicine for upset stomach or diarrhea. Find out if it is safe to drink the tap water. If not, only drink filtered bottled water. If safe, start with bottled water and progressively transition to tap water to give your body time to adjust. You can also boil the water or use water tablets. Food improperly stored or cooked could make you sick, so do your research on local foods and drinks. The following are some general tips to stay healthy: Stay hydrated. When in doubt, drink bottled water. Do not request ice in restaurants. Get plenty of sleep and don t get too run-down. Stay away from raw foods and unpeeled fruits. Choose restaurants carefully. Exercise caution when purchasing food from street vendors. Wash hands regularly and carry hand sanitizer. Do not drink excessive amounts of alcohol or use illicit drugs. View more country specific health information on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and the World Health Organization websites. Independent Travel If you decide to take independent trips, it is best to go with a small group if possible. Notify your program leaders and host family or personnel and provide them with itinerary and contact information. Individual programs may have different requirements regarding acceptable or allowable travel before, during, or after the program. Please consult with your program leaders regarding expectations. If you do travel independently, here are a few tips: Reserve your transportation and lodging ahead of time. Communicate with your family and program leaders regarding itinerary and contact information. Do not go out at night alone. Carry emergency contact information for your new destinations and research emergency procedures and medical facilities. Do not wear eye catching clothing or expensive jewelry which draws attention to you. 22

23 Language Immersion Spending time in a culture where a different language is spoken and making friends who speak a different language are fantastic opportunities to develop or refine your language skills. Regardless of your skill level, don t be afraid to try the local language. Your efforts will be appreciated and your experience will be enhanced by your attempt. Set language goals for yourself and surround yourself with people who will help you reach your language learning goals. Ask questions about their culture and life experiences. Ask for recommendations on restaurants, museums, and local events to attend. Keeping in Touch Uncertainty causes a great deal of anxiety. It s important that you check in regularly with your family, by phone or , while abroad. There is no right answer to when and how much you should call home. Come to an agreement that all parties are comfortable with that is reasonable for the location you will be visiting. It is very important, whatever agreement is reached, to honor that agreement. Some of the more common methods of keeping in touch are: Purchasing a calling card at your destination. Purchasing a pay-as-you-go cell phone at your destination. (usually good for receiving incoming calls) Use Skype or other Internet communication services. Texting (Check rates with your cell phone carrier.) 23

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25 RETURNING HOME DEPARTURE CHECKLIST Verify arrangements for transportation to the airport. Check flights, confirm if necessary and arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to departure. Check baggage and weight restrictions. (Remember..you are probably bringing back more than you left with.) Communicate with people who may be picking you up. Check with US customs on what is allowable to enter the country. Do not lock your suitcase. It may be opened for an inspection. HOW AM I GOING TO GET ALL THIS STUFF HOME? Have you bought too much stuff and have no room to carry it back home with you? Ship it back or consider leaving some things behind that are not necessary to bring back. Other tips to consider: Will the store where you bought the item ship it for you? Check a variety of commercial shipping options. How much is an extra bag with the airlines? IS ALL THIS STUFF ALLOWED BACK IN THE COUNTRY? When you come back to the United States, you must pass through U.S. Customs, where you will be asked to declare the value of items that you purchased abroad that you are bringing back with you. Certain items are illegal to bring into the United States, and some require that you pay an import tax or duty. Learn about United States customs regulations at this website: cgov/travel/vacation/kbyg/ REVERSE CULTURE SHOCK Reverse culture shock is a condition of disorientation an individual experiences upon returning home after living abroad. Everyone who lives abroad for an extended period of time goes through some readjustment upon their return. Do not be surprised or hurt if, upon return, friends and family are not as excited to hear about your experience as you expected. 25

26 Below are some suggestions for coping with reverse culture shock. Be reflective and understanding of your home country. Seek opportunities to get involved with international initiatives on campus. Keep in touch with other students who traveled abroad with you. As odd as it may sound, you should prepare yourself for a period of cultural adjustment or reverse culture shock when you come back to the United States. Returning travelers experience the same physical and emotional upheavals as in the early stages of life abroad. This includes jet lag, as your body adjusts to the change in time zones. STAY INVOLVED There are several ways in which students can get involved once they return to the US. Opportunities include, but are not limited to: Join an organization with a focus on international education and outreach to the College Station/Bryan international community. Volunteer with campus or community groups that work with international populations. Become a Conversation Partner with the ELS Program. Join the International Student Mentor Association (ISMA). Volunteer at Study Abroad Programs Office and International Student Services Events. Continue to develop your language skills. Think about an internationally themed academic pursuit (major, minor, certificate). Create an electronic memento through video, picture, or website. Blog, Blog, Blog Continue to travel. Study abroad again!! Program Evaluation We need your help. At the end of your program you will have many opportunities to evaluate aspects of the program. Please take the time to complete the evaluations, as much can be learned from your experience. Your willingness to participate is an important part of the continuous improvement that will benefit the Aggies that will follow in your footsteps. 26

27 JOURNAL/NOTES DATE: 27

28 JOURNAL/NOTES DATE: 28

29 DATE Monday DAILY SCHEDULE Dates: Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 29

30 DATE Monday DAILY SCHEDULE Dates: Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 30

31 2011 CALENDAR YEAR JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

32 2012 CALENDAR YEAR JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

33 IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION The Study Abroad Programs Office is here to assist you, not only before you depart, but while you re abroad as well. Should you require emergency assistance while you re abroad, please contact the Study Abroad Programs Office at A study abroad staff member is on-call 24/7. Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) U.S. Department of State s Overseas Citizens Service TAMU Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid TAMU Police Department TAMU Registrar s Office (Registration) TAMU Association of Former Students (Aggie Ring) TAMU Degree Audit TAMU Student Counseling Services TAMU Study Abroad Programs Office (M-F, 8-5) TAMU Study Abroad Program Office (after hours) TAMU Student Health Services Federal Voting Assistance International Dialing Codes Currency Convertor Aggie International Ambassadors aia.tamu.edu International Student Association isa.tamu.edu International Student Mentor isma.tamu.edu International Student Cultural Exchange isce.tamu.edu 33

34 PROGRAM SPECIFIC CONTACT INFORMATION Faculty Phone # Program Provider/Center Website Phone # Embassy/Consulate Address Phone # Family/Friends in the US Phone # Other Phone # 34

35 Study Abroad Programs Office st Floor, Bizzell Hall West