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Tips for First-time Travelers

HELPFUL TIPS

Studying abroad can be an amazing adventure, full of personal and academic growth. By following these following tips, you can make the most of your experience and create lasting memories.
 

► Talking with your Family about Studying Abroad

Your family many not understand your reasons for wanting to study abroad; they may view study abroad as a glorified vacation, rather than a critical opportunity for academic, personal, and professional growth. They may also have safety concerns.
Click here for some helpful tips for having this conversation with your family. 

► Applying for a Passport

Make sure you start working on this early!
It can take three months or more to receive your new passport after submitting your application. If you already have a passport, the expiration date should be at least six months beyond your program's end date.

Best Passport Tip: Apply at the Guilford Country Register of Deeds in downtown Greensboro.  No appointment necessary.  
Click here to get more information

► Budgeting

Refer to the bottom of your program brochure page for an estimated budget.  Funding Your Program has information on financial aid and scholarships.
Apply early for scholarships!

► First-Gen Experiences

Are you a first-gen college student eager to hear about the study abroad experience of other first-gen students? 
Check out these blogs here and here.

► Packing Tips

Not sure what to pack? Here's a good packing list.
Additionally, you should do some research on culturally appropriate clothing for your destination, as well as any dress codes and norms at your host school.  Students in the U.S. tend to dress a lot more casually than students in most other countries.

► Navigating the airport

Navigating through airports for the first time can be an overwhelming experience. Here are some tips that will help you save time, reduce stress, and make your overall travel experience more pleasant, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your destination rather than the logistics of getting there.

► Maximizing your Time Abroad

  • Create personal, academic and cultural goals. 
  • Seek out local connections while abroad.  
  • Find opportunities to participate in language exchanges, local sports clubs, etc. 
  • Engage your support network prior to departure and while abroad. 
  • Journal throughout your time abroad.