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Before You Go

This section is designed to help you best prepare for your international experience.

Congratulations on completing the application process, but you still have some work to do. Use this section, along with the pre-departure orientation sessions hosted by OEA and your faculty director, to prepare for departure. The more prepared you are, the easier it will be for you to dive into your host culture and begin exploring and experiencing life as a study abroad participant.

Right now, it may feel that four or five months abroad is more than enough time to do all that you want to accomplish, but many students return from studying abroad wishing they could have done more. We want to help you make the most of your study abroad program!

Pre-departure Orientation

OEA will host a 1-day mandatory orientation session for all study abroad programs in the semester prior to departure. Parents and families of students going abroad will be welcome to attend. The day will cover many important topics including:

  • Academic Preparation
  • Health Concerns
  • Safety while traveling
  • What to take & how to pack
  • Financial considerations for studying abroad
  • Culture shock and adjustment
  • In case of emergency

Please save the following dates. More information will be emailed to you following acceptance.

Spring 2012 Programs - September 17, 2011

Fall 2012 Programs - March 24, 2012

Spring 2013 Program - September 22, 2012

In addition, your faculty will host several pre-departure meetings. Stay tuned for more information!