Taking the
time to do a little advance planning helps ensure a smooth trip. There
are offices on campus, faculty advisors, and other resources available
to any student who wants to plan a trip abroad.
1.
Start
planning early.
Josh started planning and arranging things 2 years before he left. It always
takes more time to get ready than one anticipates.
2.
Apply
for scholarships.
There are scholarships for international travel, as well as department
or Regents scholarships available to those who qualify. These can cover
a lot of the cost of a trip.
3.
Office
of International Affairs
Study Abroad advisors can help you study in one of more than 100 universities overseas and help connect you to internship and overseas work opportunities. Ask about
details such as: How can I get credit towards my degree to transfer back to UNL? Is it true that Financial Aid and many scholarships can apply to a summer, semester, or year abroad? What locations have some English language classes, even though English is not the native language of the country? Will someone meet me when I land? What kind of housing
is available? What customs should I be aware of so I don't unintentionally
offend my hosts? What's the best way to get around the country I'll be
visiting?
They also
provide insurance coverage which includes: medical expenses due to sickness
or accident, repatriation, medical evacuation, or family airfare with HTH Worldwide during your full stay.
As of August 2007, this coverage was less than $40.00 a month with zero deductible
on payment of benefits. HTH provides 24-hour worldwide medical and travel
assistance in English. Services include referrals to doctors or hospitals,
coordination of payments, assistance with lost or stolen prescriptions
or travel documents, and the coordination of medical evacuations and repatriations.
Students who are traveling without a study abroad agenda, can also receive help from this office. Passport photos, Eurail passes, and other logistics such as connecting you with international or exchange students as a cultural ambassador or conversation partner, are all available through this office. Check out their travel library too!
4.
Things
you may need:
Passport
Student
Visa (if staying for longer than 3 months)
Immunizations
Physical
examination
Proof
of health insurance
Letter
of proof of parent's financial solvency
A bank
account where you'll be (usually optional, but can be a great help)
A police
report
A letter
from the foreign university stating that they will receive you for study
5.
Language
While there are many places you can go where English is the primary language,
there are lots of places where a foreign language is a must. Plan accordingly
by taking classes, or plan to spend part of your trip in an intensive language
program once you arrive. Knowing the language not only makes it easier in
your studies and getting around, it's the best way to really learn about
the country and its people.
6.
Personal
goals
Know not only what you might like to study (contact professors prior to
going), but plan for excursions, entertainment, etc. Keep a journal and
take lots of pictures to help you remember your trip.
7.
Independent
study
Talk to your professors before leaving and make a plan to get credit towards
your degree for any classes you take while you are away.
8.
Keep
in touch back home
Make sure phone and/or computer systems will let you stay in contact with
your parents and friends, and know process to call is and what the rates will be.
