Study Abroad Tips

We recommend that you choose a study abroad program(s) with courses that best suit your major, because the benefits will be far greater to you.

Remember to choose a program that you want to participate in.  For instance, if you have no desire to travel in Mexico and know that you will not enjoy the trip, do not choose that program. Or, if you have already traveled throughout Europe, you may want to choose a program that goes to other destinations.

Do not forget that ASU offers more than just the summer programs. You can study for one or two semesters at one of our partner schools and earn credits that fit your degree plan. You will be even more independent than participants in the summer programs and will have the time to study the language and culture of your host country and make new friends.

Once you have chosen the program you want to participate in, make sure to get your application submitted as soon as possible. Summer trips tend to fill up much faster than academic year programs. For summer programs, we also advise that you talk to the coordinator(s) to get some basic information about the trip.

We also suggest that you talk with each of the coordinators for the summer programs to get a feel for what will go on during each trip. That way, you will have a better understanding and an easier choice to make. Each trip can and will benefit all its participants. It is up to you to make the most of whatever you choose.

Follow this helpful advice while abroad:

• Learn about local rules and obey them.
• Carry an ATM card for quick, easy access to cash, if needed. (If your destination has few ATMs, traveler’s checks may be a good alternative.) Call your bank or credit card company prior to departure to let them know of your travel plans and ensure that no security block is placed on your account.
• Do not flash large amounts of money while paying bills.
• Be sure your credit card is given back after each transaction.
• Conceal personal valuables (traveler’s checks, money, passport, etc.) in several places to avoid easy theft. Put them in different pieces of hand luggage, close to your body or in the hotel safe.
• Do not leave bags unattended in public areas. Packing light will help.
• Keeping a rubber band around your wallet or keeping it in zipped parts of a handbag makes it harder for a pickpocket to steal.
• Keep hotel and car keys with you.
• Report loss or theft to appropriate authorities, and keep a copy of the report for insurance purposes.
• Report the loss or theft of your passport to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
• Keep a low profile. Dress and behave conservatively, avoiding any sort of flashy items indicating that you are a wealthy foreigner (jewelry, luggage, rental cars, etc.).
• Be polite and low-key. Avoid loud conversations and arguments.
• Avoid dangerous areas that often involve shortcuts, such as narrow alleys and poorly lit streets. Try not to travel alone at night.
• Penalties for drug violations, including possession of small amounts of marijuana or cocaine, are severe in many foreign countries and are strictly enforced, so avoid engaging in such activity.
• Avoid taking pictures of police, military personnel and military installations.
• Learn some of the local language so that you can obtain help if needed.
• Contact the nearest U.S. Consulate if you have been arrested. Though consulate staff cannot get you out of jail, they can assist and advise you and provide a list of local attorneys to help you.