A Parent’s Survival Guide to
Study Abroad
EXPLORE
YOUR
G L O B A L I Z AT I O N
WORLD
The Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange Austin Peay State University Miller Hall, RM 223 P.O. Box 4485 Clarksville TN 37044 Office (931) 221-6851 InternationalEd@apsu.edu
Ms. Paige Williams Coordinator
Dr. Marissa Chandler Director
Dr. Marissa Chandler has been employed with Austin Peay State University for over 19 years. Dr. Chandler received her bachelor’s degree in International Studies from the University of Evansville, IN. Her master’s degree is in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Western Kentucky State University. She received an Education Specialist degree from APSU. Dr. Chandler earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership and Professional Practice from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville. Dr. Chandler feels extremely fortunate to have studied abroad for two semesters in England during her undergraduate years. Her study abroad experiences literally changed her life. One of her main goals while serving in the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange is to assist students in becoming world travelers and not just tourists.
Paige Williams of Paris, TN received her Bachelor of Arts degree from APSU in May 2011, studying History and minoring in Art History. Her favorite travels include her summer trip to Germany, France and Austria in 2010 through APSU’s European Studies and Holocaust Seminar. Paige has visited other locations such as England, Spain, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Belize, and Ireland. She was a Student Assistant for the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange from 2010-2011, and became their Administrative Assistant in 2011. In 2014, Paige was promoted to Coordinator for the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange. She enjoyed her role as the Assistant Director for the CCSA London Winter 2012- 13, 2013-14, and 2014-15 programs. Her main goal is to advise and educate the APSU community about the importance of being a global citizen. Her dream trip is to travel throughout the UK and Ireland to research family genealogy.
Note to the Parents This booklet was designed to help parents fully understand the process of study abroad/exchange programs. We hope you will obtain all the information you need and your experience with this process is pleasant and enjoyable. Written by Nykkiesha Starr 2 Page design and layout by Deya Ortiz Austin Peay State University
Table of Contents
Deciding to Study Abroad
What is Study Abroad? Why Study Abroad? Austin Peay Requirements for Study Abroad Is Study Abroad Affordable? Choosing a Program How We Help Students Make a Decision How Parents Can Help Make a Decision
Pre-Departure
Application Financial Aid Passport Register for Classes How We Help Students With Pre-Departure How You Can Support your Student With Pre-Departure
While Abroad
Culture Shock Health and Safety How We Help Students While Abroad How You Can Support Your Student While Abroad
Re-Entry
Reverse Culture Shock How We Help with Re-Entry How You Can Help Your Student With Re-Entry
Campus Resources
Office of International Education Office of Financial Aid APSU Bursar’s Office Student Life & Engagement’s Office
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Deciding to Study Abroad
Deciding to Study Abroad
The moment has come when your student has asked to study abroad. We understand that there is so much for you to consider. How long will he or she be gone? How much will it cost? Will he or she be safe? What exactly is study abroad? This section of the guidebook focuses on helping you answer your questions so that you can make an educated decision about supporting your student’s desire to study abroad. What is Study Abroad? Study abroad is an opportunity for your student to earn college credit while visiting another country. Why Study Abroad? There are countless benefits to studying abroad. Studying abroad will benefit students personally, academically, and professionally. Personal benefits include: • Living and understanding new cultures • An increase in confidence • An increase in maturity • Opportunity to make new, diverse friends • Establish independence • An appreciation for their home country Academic benefits include: • Earning college credit at APSU • Summer and winter programs 4 Austin Peay State University
could help your student graduate faster. Professional (Career) benefits include: • Acquiring job skills employers value (communication, flexibility, adaptability, cultural sensitivity) • Building a network • Preparation for a globalized society • Becoming a more competitive applicant Austin Peay Requirements for Study Abroad We want students to have safe and successful trips abroad. For that reason, students who wish to study abroad must meet a set of requirements. In order to be eligible for a study abroad or exchange program, students must meet the following conditions: Good academic standing with a minimum 2.25 GPA on file.
must contact our office for a separate application. We understand that there may be situations that may need individual consideration. Students who do not meet eligibility requirements, may complete the appeal process for possible acceptance. Is Study Abroad Affordable? Many parents are concerned with the expense of studying abroad. Our programs start at approximately $2,500. These costs cover the different expenses associated with your student’s trip abroad. The length of the program, location, tuition, and program inclusions (lodging, meals, travel, etc.) all affect the final cost of each study abroad program. For information regarding which expenses are included in the program costs, he or she should consult his or her cost breakdown sheet, which can be obtained in our offcie during an advising session. Though the trips may initially seem expensive, they can be made affordable in many ways. Financial Aid Often, the same method used to pay for domestic courses (the HOPE scholarship, Pell grants, VA benefits, loans, etc.) may be applied towards payment for study abroad costs. Your student can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss methods of paying for his 5 Austin Peay State University
Deciding to Study Abroad
Students who are classified as freshmen must have a college GPA on file in order to study abroad. Students who do not meet the minimum GPA requirement will not be recommended to study abroad. A student should make it a goal to raise his/her GPA. No recent or pending criminal or student code of conduct proceedings. Students who have been found in violation of any criminal statute or student code of conduct provision within the last 12 months, or have such charges currently pending will not be considered. All other instances involving violations of criminal statutes or student code provisions will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Students who are under the age of eighteen must register for APSU coursework abroad and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is also registered for APSU coursework abroad. Students who are under the age of eighteen
Deciding to Study Abroad
or her experience. The Global Learning Travel Grant The Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange awards students that meet eligibility requirements with the Global Learning Travel Grant. In order to receive the grant, students must complete an online application, which can be found on our website. It is important to make sure your student checks the application deadline for the travel grant. Late applications will not be considered for awards. Eligibility Requirements: The travel grant is open to fulltime students who have paid the program service fee for either the spring or fall semester preceeding the study-abroad or exchange program. Part-time main-campus students who have paid the program service fee are eligible at a pro-rated amount. Applicants must have successfully completed at least one semester of full-time studies at APSU, have a record of enrollment, and at least a 2.5 G.P.A. on file. Applicants must have no history of student code of conduct violations, or currently be on academic probation or suspension. Special consideration may be given to students with demonstrated financial need. 6 Austin Peay State University
Scholarships Students are responsible for researching scholarship options. There are many scholarships offered by both Austin Peay State University and other agencies that can be applied towards study abroad costs. It is best that students begin this research early in the study abroad process. Find out more information about scholarships at www.apsu. edu/study-abroad-exchange/ scholarships. It may also be beneficial for students to attend study abroad related events like the Study Abroad 101 information session and the annual Study Abroad Fair. Students who attend these events may be eligible for a scholarship raffle drawing. Fundraising Fundraising can be an effective way to raise money for a study abroad program. Students can write a letter of support requesting
experience abroad is usually embedded into a semester course, and the length of time abroad is between 7-10 days. The experience abroad usually takes place during Spring Break and the time abroad is to receive the 3-4 credits for the course.
Choosing a program Type of Programs: Short-Term Faculty-Led Length of time abroad averages from 1-5 weeks. Students earn 3-8 credit hours and travel with a group of APSU students and faculty. Courses are available in many disciplines including the sciences, communication, business, education, professional programs, arts, humanities, foreign language, etc. Courses are taught in English or in the target foreign language for language immersion programs.
Short-term Consortium Length of time abroad averages from 2-4 weeks. The students earn 3-8 credit hours and travel with a group of students from many U.S. institutions and faculty from both APSU and regional institutions. Courses are available in many disciplines including the sciences, professional programs, arts, business, humanities, and foreign language.
Spring Break These programs are specialized faculty-led programs. The
Semester/Academic Year Partner Institution Exchange Length of time abroad is for either a full semester or an academic year. The student studies abroad individually as an international student in a foreign partner university. The student can earn 1215 credit hours per semester in many academic areas including business, humanities, sciences, communication, arts, etc. Semester or Academic Year International Exchange Program (ISEP, Magellan, etc.) Length of time abroad is for a full semester or academic year. The 7 Austin Peay State University
Deciding to Study Abroad
donations to friends and family. This letter can detail why he or she wants to study abroad and how the experience will benefit his or her future. Other ways to fundraise may include having a yard sale, set up a profile on greennote.com, or have a fundraising party.
Deciding to Study Abroad
student studies abroad individually as an international student in a foreign partner university. Students can choose from more than 135 member institutions in 53 countries and receive credit for 12-15 hours in many academic areas. Curriculum Coursework for each study abroad experience may vary. Each program includes classroom time. Shorter programs may include more classroom time in order to compensate for the short time period in which the course takes place. Professors may include journals, exam excursions, etc., as part of the students’ final grade. For more information regarding the coursework for programs, students should consult the course syllabus or the faculty coordinator for individual programs that interest the student.
APSU and Exchange Locations Argentina Australia Austria Belgium Belize Botswana Brazil Bulgaria Canada Chile China Colombia Costa Rica Czech Republic Denmark England Fiji Finland France French Guiana Galapagos Islands Germany Greece Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India
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Ireland Italy Japan Latvia Lithuania Malaysia Malta Morocco Netherlands New Zealand Norway Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Russia Federation Scotland Senegal South Africa South Korea Spain Sweden Switzerland Taiwan Thailand Trinidad & Tobago Turkey United Arab Emirates
Advising Sessions Our office offers both general and program specific advising sessions for students and parents. During these advising sessions we provide information regarding the study abroad process, program information, costs, scholarships and courses offered. There is also time to answer additional questions that you or your student might have. These advising sessions may be program specific or general; we do
our best to meet the needs of each student. It is required that each student complete a study abroad advising session to participate in a study abroad program. Study Abroad 101 Throughout the fall and spring semesters, the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange offers Study Abroad 101 sessions. These sessions offer students the opportunity to learn basic information about study abroad, program types, program locations, and general financial information. These sessions may also offer students the chance to win a scholarship to use towards their study abroad experience. Study Abroad Fair The Study Abroad Fair takes place every fall and spring semester. It offers students and parents an opportunity to meet with exchange students, past study abroad and exchange participants, and faculty members. Faculty and past participants from each program set up a table to display program information, as well as discuss the specifics about each program. This event is a perfect opportunity for students who are uncertain of which program or program location they want to participate in to get a quick glimpse into several options. Each fair may also offer a raffle for scholarships to use towards a study abroad 9 Austin Peay State University
Deciding to Study Abroad
How We Help Students Make a Decision We are aware that studying abroad might seem like a complicated process. The Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange is here to help throughout the entire process and can help your student make an educated decision.
Deciding to Study Abroad
programs. How Parents Can Help Make a Decision You may be asking, “Where do I come in?” You, may be the most helpful person in your student’s journey through study abroad. Here are a few things you can do: Listen. Before turning your student away, please listen to what they have to say. Try to understand why your student is interested in study abroad and how the experience may be beneficial. Encourage. Just the thought of studying abroad may be scary for your student. Encourage your student to venture outside their comfort zone and explore the world. Become informed. Students often look to you as a resource. Do your research, so that you may help guide your students to making positive decisions. The perfect place to start is with our website, www.apsu.edu/study-abroadexchange.edu. Also remember, we are here to help not just your student, but you as well! Talk. Discuss different possibilities and options with your student to help them think through the decision making process. Make sure your student is not just interested in taking a vacation. Students need to be excited about 10 Austin Peay State University
learning both the subject matter and the new culture as well.
Pre-Departure
Now that your student has decided to study abroad, you may be wondering what’s next. Once a student has decided to study abroad, there is much to do before they can embark on their new adventure. Let’s start from the beginning! Application Hopefully, by this point your student has already attended an advising session for his or her
Passport A passport is required for all international travel. Passport processing time in the early spring is usually 4-6 weeks. In the late spring, processing time can increase up to 8 -12 weeks. It is best for your student to begin the application process early to ensure that he or she receives their passport prior to exiting the country. Passport applications are available online at the U.S. Dept. of State website. First time applicants must go in person to a passport agency to apply for a passport.
Financial Aid We strongly encourage each student to make an appointment with the financial aid office. During this appointment, a financial aid study abroad counselor will help the student develop a plan to make their study abroad dreams come true. It is important for students to recognize that the financial aid counselor can access student financial information. Specific information for this office is located in the last section of the guidebook.
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Pre-Departue
program. During this important session, we discuss the application process with your student. This application process starts online at www.apsu-sa.terradotta.com. First, your student selects the program they wish to embark on, and push the ‘Get started’ button. The study abroad application process is lengthy. It is important that your student begins the process, before the application due date in order to receive help if at all necessary. It is also beneficial for the student to begin early so he or she may meet with their advisor to discuss how the program will fit into their academic program, and to receive the approval of the academic advisor. It is also pertinent the student remembers that applications are due on the same date as the application fee.
Pre-Departure
The most common agencies are the post office and county clerk. If your student decides to fill out the passport application online, it is important that he or she does not sign it until they are in front of a passport clerk or the form will be voided. It is also important that the student bring a driver’s license, an original birth certificate, two passport photos, and a checkbook. Although the passport may be expensive, ranging between $100$150, it lasts an entire ten years. Register for Classes Like any other semester, your student must register for classes. Class registration takes place the semester before the study abroad program. The student may not leave for the program before registering, paying for, and confirming his or her classes. Students will not receive credits for classes if he or she does not register. The student can register on their AP One Stop account at www.onestop.apsu.edu. For any questions, please encourage your student to contact our office. How We Help Students With Pre-Departure The Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange conducts a mandatory orientation prior to participating in a study abroad program. These sessions are led by a staff member. We conduct these sessions to tell students everything 12 Austin Peay State University
they will need to know regarding their trip abroad. This information includes the traveling process, packing tips, safety precautions, and curriculum information. Although the sessions are intended for students, parents and guardians are more than welcome to attend. Office Hours The Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During these hours, we will we be more than happy to assist students or parents/guardians with application completion, class registration, or with any program related questions. How You Can Support your Student With Pre-Departure
Plan. Planning makes the study abroad transition much smoother. Begin discussing different topics with your student like, what safety measures he or she will take, by what means and how often he or she will contact you, and how he or she will maintain financial stability while away. You may even consider helping your student develop a budget, purchase a cell phone, or pack.
Your student will need your support every step of the way. Here are a few steps you can take to help make the pre-departure process smooth for your student. Encourage. Students at this stage may be experiencing a mixture of feelings: excitement, anxiety, fear, and stress. Keep providing your student with positive messages to help them during this crucial process. Stay informed. Your student is currently responsible for a lot of information. He or she must maintain good grades while planning this experience. Try to stay informed so that you may offer positive advice and reminders. Some things you may want to know include: deadlines, predeparture information provided
Get excited. When your student sees that you are excited, he or she will probably become less nervous and more excited. Share in this moment with your student, ask
“S
tudying abroad in Spain gave me the opportunity to experience an entirely different culture. From the beautiful architecture to the amazing people and food, Spain has opened my eyes to life on the other side of the world, and has shown me that we as people are not so much different from one another.�
Nathaniel APSU Student Spain Program 13 Austin Peay State University
Pre-Departure
at orientation, travel plans, and accommodation information.
While Abroad
While Abroad
Culture shock Studying abroad is a transitional process. Like any other transition, it is typical for students to encounter several challenges prior to becoming comfortable in their new environment. It is normal for students to experience a set of stages collectively known as culture shock. This process usually involves experiencing several emotionally high and low periods while adjusting to the cultural differences in another country. There may be periods in which your student strongly misses home to times in which your student may wish to stay longer in the new country. Do not worry, these phases pass as your student adjusts and becomes more neutral to their new environment. During the orientation process, students are made aware of cultural differences and manners of coping with these differences. Each program has a trained coordinator or faculty member able to fully assist students as they become
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accustomed to the host country and cope with cultural shock. Health and Safety We are all concerned with your student’s health and safety. We strive to ensure that each study abroad has a valuable learning experience while maintaining good health and safety practices. Prior to students embarking on study abroad trips, the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange works diligently to verify that all study abroad locations are safe for travel. We also include questions in the application process to verify that students health conditions are optimal for travel. Plans and procedures are established in case of an emergency while students are abroad. Students are also provided with a 24-hour emergency number that they may contact in case of an emergency. Apart from equipping students for emergencies, we also strive to prepare students to avoid unsafe or unhealthy situations while abroad. Students are also advised to do
How We Help Students While Abroad By this time, students have already participated in the
mandatory student orientation. Students participating in facultyled programs, maintain regular contact with the faculty members throughout their study abroad experience. Students who participate in exchange programs are asked to periodically check-in with our office throughout their time abroad. We also ask our study abroad participants to add the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange Facebook. Our Facebook page may be a source of additional information. Students may also continue to contact our office during office hours or through email for any additional inquiries. How You Can Support your Student While Abroad Keep in touch. Although it is not necessary to communicate with your student daily, be sure that you make an effort to keep the lines of communication open, even if it is just a few Facebook posts every week.
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While Abroad
their own research prior to visiting a new country. This research should cover country laws, health, and safety risks. During each mandatory orientation, culture-specific safety procedures are discussed with students. Faculty, coordinators, and staff also review procedures on how to avoid illness while abroad. Most of our program costs include health insurance coverage while students are abroad. While abroad, students are to continue following the Austin Peay State University Code of Student Conduct (www.apsu.edu/studentaffairs/judicial1). Any breach of the APSU Student Code of Conduct is subject to disciplinary action that may range from receiving a verbal warning to being removed from the study abroad program at the students’ own expense. These university regulations are mandated for student safety.
Re-Entry
Visit. If your student will be away for a long time and if the resources are available, visit. It is always a pleasure to see a familiar face, and your student will be delighted to share his or her experience with you. Stay informed. It is pertinent that you stay informed throughout the entire study abroad process. You should know: student’s address, phone number, onsite coordinator’s information, information for both host and domestic university, insurance policy numbers, student’s bank account information, student’s passport number, program itinerary, and the local physician’s information.
Re-Entry
When you meet your student at the airport to take him or her home, do not expect to receive
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the same student you sent away. Expect the new and improved version! Your student has just taken part in an experience that should have changed his or her entire world-view. Your student is going to have so much to share with you. Reverse Culture Shock As culture shock is expected when a student goes abroad, reverse culture shock is also to be expected upon your student’s arrival. This type of culture shock refers to the emotional highs and lows that your student may experience while trying to readjust to his or her culture. Although your student may be extremely pleased to return home, this time period may be difficult for your student as he or she may struggle between trying to balance new perspectives with the old. Your student may also struggle with missing new friends, peers, and faculty. Do not worry,
your student will soon readjust!
International Night. International Night is an annual event hosted by the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange and the Office of Student Life & Engagement. At this event, students, faculty, and staff have the opportunity to represent a culture through sharing the culture’s cuisine and traditions. Your student can volunteer to host a table. Study Abroad Fair. Students can participate at the Study Abroad
Photo/Video Contest. At beginning of each fall semester, the Office of International Education begins accepting contest entries. Students may enter photo/video from their study abroad experience for cash prizes. The photos are displayed in the Morgan University Center and at the Study Abroad Fair. Videos are displayed on our website. Bridge Program. The Bridge Program provides Austin Peay students the opportunity to be “First Friends” to exchange students coming from other countries. The program is a semester long commitment in which participants attend events, excursions, and meetings with their new international friends. Global Govs Recognition Banquet. This event provides us with the opportunity to recognize your student’s participation in a study abroad program. The banquet includes a meal, stole/pinning ceremony, and an opportunity to view study abroad students’ photos. Students are invited during their senior year at APSU. Study Abroad Again! There is no limit to how many times a student 17 Austin Peay State University
Re-Entry
How We Help With Re-Entry Involvement is one of the best ways to help students phase back into their lives at home. The Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange has several programs and events to help keep your student engaged with other students that may share similar interests or experiences. These programs and events include:
Fair that takes place in fall and spring semesters. Students may use this opportunity to share their experience with other students interested in studying abroad.
Re-Entry
may study abroad. If your student is interested in studying abroad again he or she may apply for the same program or a different program. How You Can Help Your Student With Re-Entry Give Them a Warm Welcome. Let your student know that you are glad to have them home. You might consider preparing their favorite meal or taking them to their favorite restaurant. Make them feel at home again as they transition back to their home culture and prepare to return to school. Be Patient. The numerous emotions that your student may be experiencing can seem overwhelming. Be patient while your student transitions back into his or her regular routine. Encourage Them to Get Back Out There. Your student may come back and feel foreign to his or her campus. While they were gone, their friends moved on, your student changed, and perhaps they do not share interests with their friends as they did before. Encourage your student to become involved in campus life in order to meet new people. Encourage your student to take advantage of the many programs, events, and clubs that Austin Peay and the Office of Study abroad and International Exchange has to offer. 18 Austin Peay State University
As you can see, a successful study abroad experience takes teamwork between your student, our office, and you; but it does not stop there. Austin Peay State University has a network of professionals ready to help you and your student. We have provided contact information for a few important offices. Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange Austin Peay State University Miller Hall, RM 223 P.O. Box 4485 Clarksville, TN 37044 Phone: (931) 221-6851 Fax: (931) 221-6853 InternationalEd@apsu.edu
Office of Financial Aid Austin Peay State University Ellington Building, Room 216 P.O. Box 4546 Clarksville, TN 37044 Phone: (931) 221-7907 Toll-Free: (877) 508-0057 Fax: (931) 221-6329 sfao@apsu.edu
APSU Bursar’s Office Austin Peay State University Browning Building, main floor P.O. Box 4635 Clarksville, TN 37044 Phone: (931) 221-6285 Fax: (931) 221-6171 bursar@apsu.edu
Student Life and Engagement Austin Peay State University Morgan University Center Room 211 P.O. Box 4695 Clarksville, TN 37044 Phone: (931) 221-7431 sllsw@apsu.edu
“S
tudying abroad with the service learning component of education is an experience unlike any other. Being able to study in London allowed me to not only learn the material, but to get to see what I learned in books happening in the real world. I have a busy life and was happy to find out that I could still get this practical experience because the time abroad was only during Spring Break.” Kaylee - APSU Student London Spring Break Program 19 Austin Peay State University
Campus Resources
Campus Resources
The Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange Austin Peay State University Miller Hall, RM 223 P.O. Box 4485 Clarksville TN 37044 Office (931) 221-6851 InternationalEd@apsu.edu
APSU does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age. For inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies, contact nondiscrimination@apsu.edu