Tips for Studying Abroad
Each program is designed with the intent of allowing students the opportunity to study first hand in another country. Each program was developed within a specific department, and therefore offers classes relevant to that department. Overall any student can participate in any program. We do recommend that you choose the program(s) 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 as well. For instance, if you have no desire whatsoever 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 not want to participate in those programs. There are other programs that will benefit you. Do not forget that ASU offers more than just the summer programs. You can study for one or two semester at one of our partner-schools and earn credits that fit your degree plan. You will be even more independent than in the summer programs and will have the time to study the language and culture of your host-country and make many new friends.
Once you have chosen the program you want to participate in, make sure to get your application in as soon as possible, summer trips tend to fill up much faster than academic year programs. Also we do advise you talk to the trip coordinator to get some basic information concerning the trip, to make sure you want the specific trip. We also suggest that you talk with each of the coordinators for the summer programs and get a feel for what will go on during each trip, that way you may have a better understanding and 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.
- Learn about local rules and obey them.
- Carry an ATM card for quick, easy access to cash if needed (if your destination has few ATM's, traveler's checks may be a good alternative. Further, you'll want to call your ATM or credit card company prior to departure to let them know of your travel plans to 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 (travelers' checks, money, passport, etc.) in several places to avoid easy theft. Put them in different pieces of hand luggage, on your person, 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 pick pocket 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 the passport to the nearest US Embassy or Consulate.
- Keep a low profile; dress and behave conservatively, avoiding any sort of flashy items indicating that your a wealthy foreigner (jewelry, luggage, rental cars).
- 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.
- Avoid taking pictures of police, military personnel, and military installations.
- Learn some of the local language so you can obtain help if needed.
- Contact the nearest US Consulate if you have been arrested. Though they cannot get you out of jail, they can assist and advise you and provide a list of local attorneys to help you.
Look at our links, you will find more information on how to prepare for a study abroad program!