Contents:
1. Welcome and Contacts
pg. 2
2. Necessary Documents
pg. 3
3. Packing and Traveling
pg. 3
4. While You Are Abroad
pg. 7
5. Health and Safety
pg. 10
6. Emergency Procedures
pg. 18
7. Appendices
- Sample Packing List
pg. 20
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Dear student,
Congratulations on the choice to study abroad with The University of Texas at
Brownsville and Texas Southmost College! We’re happy and excited that you’ve
decided to venture out into the world, expand your horizons and broaden your education.
To prepare for your study, we encourage you to read this guide and follow its advice.
This will make your transition easier and your stay more enjoyable!
We want you to have the best experience possible while you are abroad, and we will do
our best to make sure you do. While we can’t promise everything will be perfect, we
believe if you are well-prepared for your stay and have the right attitude, you will make
new friends, have a lot of fun and gain insight into yourself, your education, and our
global world, just as other UTB/TSC students before you have.
Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns that weren’t addressed in this
manual.
We look forward to working with you!
UTB/TSC Office of International Outreach
Important Contacts:
Alla Paroiatnikova
Executive Director
Office of Global Engagement
Phone: 956.882.7686
Fax: 956.882.6817
Email: alla.par@utb.edu
Cell: (For emergencies only)
435.590.3109
Larissa F. Guijosa
Study Abroad Coordinator
Office of Global Engagement
Phone: 956.882.8955
Fax: 956.882.6817
Email: larissa.guijosa@utb.edu
Cell: (For emergencies only)
956.592.5500
Address:
Lightner Center 104
80 Fort Brown
Brownsville, TX 78520
USA
Websites:
Study Abroad
http://www.utb.edu/global
UTB/TSC homepage
www.utb.edu
U.S. Department of State
www.state.gov/travelandbusiness
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Necessary Documents
UTB/TSC requires the following documents before you leave on your study abroad.
- Agreement and Release Form
- Parental Release (if under 21)
- Emergency Contact Information Form.
The following documents are also necessary for you to study abroad:
Passport- If you don’t have a passport, you won’t be able to leave the country so this is
probably the most important document you need. If you don’t already have a passport,
you can obtain one at the city post office or courthouse. You will be required to bring a
completed application, some form of identification (driver’s license) and your birth
certificate. You can also bring two passport-sized photos or have them take your picture
there. The current application fee for a passport is $110 and a $25 execution fee.
It can take up to 8 weeks to receive your passport, so make sure you apply for it as soon
as possible. If there is a mistake on your passport, such as the misspelling of your name
or your birth date, you will have to return your passport to be changed and wait again.
The sooner you apply, the sooner you’ll feel the comfort of having your own passport
with you whenever you need it.
When you get your passport, make sure you sign it. Without your signature, your
passport is not valid. Always take care of your passport and keep it in a safe place. Take
copies abroad with you and leave at least one with a close family member in case your
passport is lost or stolen. Don’t carry your passport on you unless you are traveling to a
different country.
Registration form- You must complete a study abroad registration form to earn credit on
your study abroad program. Your program director has copies of this form. You will
need to arrange a meeting with your program director when he/she can help you complete
the form and sign it. Once the form is completed, return it to the Office of Global
Engagement.
Packing and Traveling
Students are responsible for making their own travel arrangements unless the cost of your
flight is included in the program price. If you need help finding flights, train tickets, etc.,
a list of travel resource websites is available at our office.
If you’re flying oversees, you’ll be fed onboard the plane, but it’s a good idea to bring
some snacks and a water bottle or two that you purchase inside the airport terminal.
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US Embassies/Consulates and Registering with the Department of State
It’s a good idea to find the nearest US Embassy or Consulate to your program location
before you leave on your study abroad. US Embassies and Consulates may be able to
help if you’ve lost your passport, need to evacuate the country or get in touch with
someone in the United States. They can also help during natural disasters, political crises
or other emergencies. The Students Abroad website, located at
http://studentsabroad.state.gov, is an excellent resource that explains what embassies can
and cannot do. Also visit http://usembassy.gov to find the US Embassy or Consulate in
your host country.
It’s also a good idea to register with the US Department of State before you leave the
country. This allows the Department of State to assist you in an emergency and allows
you to receive updates from the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Register at
https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/.
Packing
Leave valuables, jewelry and sentimental items at home. If you do choose to take any
valuable items with you, you may want to consider purchasing insurance that will cover
loss or theft while you are traveling. Do not pack items you can’t live without in your
checked baggage. Items such as contact lenses, glasses and medication should be packed
in your carry-on luggage.
Try to pack light. Make sure you check the baggage weight and size limits for the
airlines you’ll be flying with. Remember you’ll have to haul all of your own luggage,
and the less you take the easier this will be. Many train and bus stations in Europe have
no elevators or escalators, only stairs, so keep that in mind when you pack. Have clothes
for all kinds of weather, depending on where you’re going, but remember you’ll be able
to do laundry in your host country, so you don’t need to bring your whole closet. You’ll
also want to have some extra room in your luggage to bring back souvenirs, so don’t pack
your entire luggage completely full. After you pack, take it for a little walk around your
house or apartment to get a feel for how it will be to travel with.
Many personal items you normally use will be available in the country you’re traveling
to. You may want to consider bringing travel-sized items such as shampoo, conditioner,
soap, etc. and wait to purchase full-sized items when you arrive. The current restrictions
on packing liquids in your carry-on luggage is you are allowed a 1 quart-sized Ziploc bag
containing as many 1-oz containers as you can fit. The containers must be clearly labeled
with their size. If you have a 2-oz bottle that is only half full, you will not be allowed to
take it- the bottles must be 1 oz or less.
As for medicine, take any prescription medications you normally use with you, as well as
an extra prescription in case you’ll need a refill while abroad and for immigration
purposes if they ask you for proof of your prescription. Also take with you any
medications you regularly take, even ibuprofen, Tylenol, etc. While these are available
in other countries, some dosages are different.
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For your carry-on luggage, you may want to consider using a backpack. They are easy to
haul around, you’ll be able to use it when you start school, and you can fit everything
you’d need in a carry-on, including one change of clothes.
What to Take
Money- It’s wise to have some of the local currency with you when you first arrive. You
can order foreign currencies at banks such as WellsFargo and IBC. You can also
generally exchange money in international airports, but the exchange rate and fees are
usually very high. If you arrive on a weekend or at night, you may have to wait to
convert more money. However, there are ATM’s abroad and you can withdraw money
from these with your debit card. This may be the most cost efficient and easiest way to
access your funds. Don’t withdraw a ton of money at once, for safety reasons, but once a
week or so you can withdraw the money you think you’ll need for a while.
Clothing- When deciding on what clothing to pack, consider the weather conditions of
the country you’re going to. It’s a good idea to pack clothes that can be layered so you’ll
always be prepared whether it’s hot or cold. Many countries are more rainy and humid
than Texas, so it’s a good idea to pack some rain gear as well, at the very least, an
umbrella. Take at least one dressy outfit and definitely take comfortable shoes because
you will likely be walking much more while you are abroad.
Electricity and Electrical Appliances- You should only bring essential electrical
appliances with you, but realize that the voltage, current and electrical outlets are
different in most countries. You will need to purchase a voltage converter and adaptor if
you plan to bring your own appliance or you may want to purchase items such as curling
irons and blowdryers abroad. Even with a converter and adapter, some appliances may
be ruined by the different voltage.
Computers- If you are taking a laptop with you, you should review the following
information:
 You must know how to set up and use your computer. Computer support services
may not be available, and internet connections may not be available.
 You must be aware of the differences in the electrical currents in many other
countries. These differences can destroy your computer. You may want to
purchase a high-quality converter and adapter, but even this does not guarantee
nothing will go wrong with the electrical current to your computer.
 You must register the laptop with customs before you leave the U.S.
Computers are commonly stolen in airports, many times at security metal
detectors and conveyor belts. If your computer is valuable, you may want to
purchase appropriate theft and/or damage insurance prior to your departure.
What Not To Take
Animals or animal products, pets, artifacts, biological materials, agricultural products,
plants, weapons and illegal drugs are examples of what not to take. If you are
considering taking anything that might be considered unusual, you should check far in
advance regarding any legal issues that might arise from attempting to import or export
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items. These same items should not be brought into the U.S. from foreign countries.
Customs and Duty
The consulate or embassy of the country to which you are traveling will answer specific
questions about customs regulations. Usually visitors may bring personal effects that are
obviously used, including clothing, cameras, cd players, radios, etc. without paying duty.
If you ship any dutiable items ahead, you should declare them when you enter the country
or you may have to apply for an import permit and pay import duties when you try to
claim your package from the post office or customs depot.
When you re-enter the U.S., you will have to declare everything you have purchased
abroad. Keep all receipts. Anything you buy beyond a total of $800 U.S. dollars is
generally subject to a minimum of 10% duty charge.
Protecting Baggage
It is not uncommon for luggage to be separated from its owner. It is essential that you
place clear labels inside and outside your bags, showing your full name, as well as
address both in the U.S. and abroad. Choose a bright, easily recognizable sticker for your
bag so it will be immediately identifiable to you at a distance. Choose your luggage
carefully. Thieves may target new or expensive luggage. Do not carry all your
belongings in one bag. Never pack essential items such as required documents or
medications in your checked luggage. Pack at least one change of clothes in your carryon in case your checked luggage is lost. Never leave your luggage unattended while you
are traveling.
“Secret Pocket”
“Secret Pockets” or money belts are known by many names. They are generally small
pockets that you wear under your clothing. Important items such as your passport,
money, and credit cards should be kept in your secret pocket. Purses and waist pouches
are easily stolen and not recommended for truly valuable documents.
Money
Do not travel with large sums of cash and do not carry any amount of cash that you
cannot afford to lose.
ATM and Debit/Credit Cards- Major credit cards are accepted in most countries, and
you can use these to withdraw money from ATM’s. Always have the customer service
numbers for your credit cards in case any happen to get lost or stolen. Make sure you
have a number with an area code, not a 1-800 number. You won’t be able to access these
from overseas. Let your bank know you will be going abroad before you leave so they
can clear your card for overseas purchases and so they won’t place a hold on it for
suspicious activity (someone making purchases overseas with your card).
Budgeting- There are a few important things to keep in mind when you are planning
your trip budget:
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The dollar can fluctuate sharply
Keep a short record of your expenses here to help prepare a
budget. How much do you spend on entertainment? How
much on personal items?, etc.
- What are some of the expenses that are unique to study and
travel abroad?
1. souvenirs
2. weekend trips
3. local transportation
4. recreation
5. postage
You will typically need more in the first week you are abroad then later because you will
be buying the things you need, learning your way around and trying to get settled. It will
take you a couple of days to adjust to a new currency and understand its value. You will
quickly learn the best inexpensive restaurants, shops and how to obtain student discounts.
Talk to other students at your study site for tips.
While You Are Abroad
Jet Lag- When you make a large time change, it’s normal to feel disoriented and have
trouble sleeping during the first few nights. To minimize jet lag, drink plenty of liquids
to avoid dehydration and don’t drink alcohol, as it can further dehydrate you during your
flight. Melatonin is an easy way to get your body back on schedule. It is the chemical in
your brain that signals your body that it is time to sleep. You can purchase melatonin at
any pharmacy and take a pill about a half hour before you wish to go to sleep.
On Arrival- Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to seek help. Tourist and information
centers can be found in most airports, train stations and in large cities. You should also
have a pre-planned time contact or meet with your program director. They may even
have someone meet you at the airport or train station to pick you up.
Orientation- You will be provided with an orientation when you arrive at your study
abroad site.
Culture- (adapted from NAFSA Document Library – Sample Study Abroad Handbook)
http://www.nafsa.org/about.sec/migs/opo_sig_net/document_library_26/sample_ea/ea_ha
ndbook
Author Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. explains to us how important it is to learn about different
cultures.
“One thing I would really like to tell them about is cultural relativity. I didn’t learn until
I was in college about all the other cultures, and I should have learned that in the first
grade. A first grader should understand that his or her culture isn’t a rational
convention; that there are thousands of other cultures and they all work pretty well; that
all cultures function on faith rather than truth; that there are lots of alternatives to our
own society. Cultural relativity is defensible and attractive. It’s a source of hope.”
Culture is transmitted from generation to generation and our understanding of it helps us
to define a particular group. But we must avoid making our understanding of a culture a
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stereotype. Not all Americans are alike. Similarly we can’t expect that all members of a
given group will follow a list of traits we expect of their culture.
Further, there are no intrinsically right or wrong ways of living. For practical purposes,
there are only different solutions that have been learned in culture to provide for its basic
needs. In order to understand the different values and behaviors of a culture, it is
important to approach them non-judgmentally rather than automatically condemning or
accepting various aspects.
Living in another country for an extended period of time will give you an opportunity to
develop an in-depth understanding of another culture, confront different customs and
ways of thinking, and adapt to a new daily routine. An individual’s adjustment to a new
culture is a continuous, on-going, natural process. It never stops, and the adjustment
styles and techniques vary from one individual to another, from one culture to another.
You may be seeing and asked to participate in activities that will challenge your beliefs,
your values, and your sense of self.
Remember that as Americans we have our own culture. The people you encounter will be
adapting to your culture as you are adapting to theirs. Sometimes the adapting process
can make you uncomfortable. The more you know about your own personal values and
how they are derived from your culture, the better prepared you will be to see, handle and
understand the cultural differences you will encounter abroad.
Culture Shock- Culture shock is a typical reaction to time spent in a different culture. It
can be frustrating to try to navigate day to day activity in an unfamiliar setting. It can be
more difficult because you are far from your family, friends and support systems. At the
same time living in another culture is extremely exciting and rewarding. As a result
culture shock is normally described as a cycle of emotions, from exhilaration to
disillusionment, from discouragement to fulfillment, from one extreme to another.
You may or may not experience culture shock. It is commonly believed that culture
shock is marked by four phases:
1- “Euphoria”. This is the tourist phase. You are excited to be living in a new place,
and at first glance, the people and way of life do not seem significantly different
from your home environment.
2- After the initial excitement, you may start noticing more and more dissimilarities
between your new life and your life at home. You may become irritated,
frustrated, angry or depressed. Symptoms include homesickness, boredom and
withdrawal. Fortunately, most people experience only a few of these symptoms
and usually to a mild degree.
3- This stage is marked by gradual adjustment. Your perspective changes over time
and you begin to adapt. Once you identify some of the cultural clues and cues,
you will feel more at ease. Your self-confidence increases and you realize you
have some control over your situation.
4- The final phase is adaptation or biculturalism. Full adaptation has taken place
when you are able to function in two cultures with confidence. You may not
realize how much you’ve adapted until you return to the U.S. and experience
“return culture shock”.
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After you settle into a routine, some of the differences will make you feel out of place
and frustrated. This can result in homesickness, in some cases depression, lack of energy
or concentration, irritability, hesitation to go out, and even physical illness. It is important
to realize this is most often related to culture shock, and not “just you.” The most
important tools to combat this will be patience, flexibility, adaptability and humor.
Some Tips to Responding to Culture Shock
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Get to know your host country and look for the logic that lies behind their style of
living.
Once you have identified some of your host country’s values, share some of your
observations non-judgmentally with a native person whom you trust.
Do not fear losing your home values or personal values. Enjoying and partaking in
local customs will not make you less of an American. It will only open doors to
understanding.
Maintain a good sense of humor and be willing to laugh at yourself.
Keep your mind occupied and be active. If you are feeling down in the dumps, do
something to alleviate your depression such as taking a scenic trip to a nearby region
or country.
Find time to chronicle your experience through a blog, photos, journal, etc.
Make an effort to learn the local language and then look for opportunities to use it.
Don’t worry about making mistakes. You don’t worry when international students
make grammar mistakes here. People will appreciate your effort to use their language.
Remain open-minded and curious to find the differences.
Do not impose your values or norms on others.
Transportation
Public Transportation- Many students studying abroad will use public transportation
often to get to class, other program-related activities and just around town. You may
want to purchase a monthly pass, which will be cheaper in the long run than buying
individual tickets if you use public transportation frequently. Public transportation in
Europe is very well developed and safe.
Walking- Chances are, you will walk much more while abroad than you do at home.
Many of the places you’ll go every day, including classes, will be within walking
distance of your housing. Avoid walking alone at night.
Traveling Away From Your Program Site
Always use good judgment and caution when planning to travel away from your program
site. We encourage students to travel while they are abroad to get the most out of their
stay, always being careful. Don’t travel alone if you can help it and always make sure
you know the regulations of the country you’re visiting.
* Always let your director know where you’re going if you’re planning a day trip away
from the site.
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The UTB/TSC Office of Global Engagement doesn’t recommend you try driving in a
foreign country. Many of the traffic laws are different, and some countries drive on the
opposite side of the road, which can be confusing. Rather, use public transportation.
Europe and Asia have excellent rail systems with student discounts that will take you all
over the continents. There are also several discount airlines in Europe that will fly you
fairly inexpensively to wherever you want to go if you decide to stay in the country after
your study abroad trip is over.
Communicating with HomeEmail- You will have some kind of email access at most program sites. Check your
email regularly and email your family often so they know you’re fine and doing well.
Also email the Office of Global Engagement at times with your status so we know how
you are doing and if you have any questions or concerns.
Phone- In some countries, even local calls cost money so you’ll want to find out before
you make any calls. You can use pay phones to call home if private ones aren’t
available. The cheapest way to call the United States is with a phone card.
www.comfi.com has an assortment of affordable cards for you to choose from with
access numbers for every country. You may also wish to have your family and friends
call you since this will probably cost less.
Health and Safety
Before you go, visit the Center for Disease Control’s website at www.cdc.gov/travel to
find out if there are any health regulations or risks for the country you are planning to
visit.
Personal Health ConditionsYou should take care of all foreseeable medical, dental, gynecological or optical needs
before you go abroad. If you have allergies, reactions to certain medicines or other
unique medical problems, you may consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or carrying
a similar warning. It is also in your best interest to notify your travel companions so they
can be prepared in case of emergency.
Staying Healthy While Abroad (adapted from http://studentsabroad.state.gov/html-site/Health.html#HealthAbroad)
Enjoying local delicacies is part of the adventure, but eating certain things could make
you very sick. Many countries don’t have the same food handling and preparation
standards found in the United States. Here are some suggestions:
- Always use bottled water (even to brush your teeth) unless you are assured the tap
water is safe. Beware of fake bottled water – tap water sold as bottled. Also, if
tap water is not safe, neither is ice, and you should be wary of salads.
- Stay away from raw foods, dirty restaurants and “street” food.
- Wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizer.
- Don’t drink anything you did not open yourself or that you didn’t see being
opened.
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- Always watch your drink at parties and bars and get a new one if you leave it
unattended for awhile.
Get more health information from these expert sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov)
World Health Organization (www.who.int)
You should take some time to understand the health conditions in your host country
before you leave. Regardless of where you go, it will take some time for your body to
adjust to changes in food, water, altitude, weather conditions, etc. You may find that you
are more susceptible to colds as you adjust to your new environment. You can minimize
your risk of illness or injury by being aware of the health issues in the countries you will
visit. Avoid excessive exposure to heat or cold, drink plenty of fluids to avoid
dehydration and get plenty of sleep.
Safety Issues (adapted from NAFSA Document Library - Sample Study Abroad Handbook)
http://www.nafsa.org/about.sec/migs/opo_sig_net/document_library_26/sample_ea/ea_ha
ndbook
At all times be aware, be careful, and use common sense. No matter how safe you feel
and how trusting you are, you must always stay mentally alert so that you make wise
decisions. Don’t go out alone. The most important safety tip is to always go out with at
least one other person, and more is better. Be especially cautious at night. Realize that
you are easily identified as an American and might be targeted for that reason.
Some other safety tips are:
 Be careful about divulging information about yourself, your fellow students and
your study program to strangers
 It is important to realize that most cultures are very different from ours.
Memorize the emergency numbers in the countries you visit and keep changes for
the phone and cab money with you at all times.
 Be careful in helping to maintain security at your residence and other program
buildings. Keep your residence area locked.
 Speak the local language whenever possible
 Keep a low profile in demeanor and dress. College or fraternity shirts or
sweaters, baseball caps and U.S. athletic shoes identify you readily as a U.S.
citizen. Dressing in a revealing or unusual manner may draw unwanted attention
to you. Do not dress expensively, wear expensive looking jewelry, or carry
expensive cameras or other electronic equipment. Do not attract attention to
yourself through careless behavior
 Be discreet and polite, heeding signs and regulations in public places. Do not take
pictures of police or military institutions.
 Do not impair your judgment by consuming excessive amounts of alcohol or by
using drugs.
 Do not agree to meet a person whom you do not know in a non-public place. Do
not leave a public place with anyone you do not know.
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When traveling, do not leave your luggage unattended. Do not agree to carry on
or check any luggage or other items for anyone. If you see unattended luggage or
packages, report it to airport, train or bus station authorities immediately.
Know local laws. Laws and justice systems are not the same in each country, and
you are subject to the laws of the country you visit.
As is wise anywhere, do not walk alone at night or in remote and unfamiliar areas.
Stay near busy and well-lit areas. Do not try to cross through parks, parking lots
or other deserted areas, especially after dark.
Always be aware of the location of your closest exit.
Be especially careful when crossing streets or waiting to cross. Pedestrians do not
have the right of way in most parts of the world.
Do not hitchhike. Do not travel alone. Leave word with someone at home of
your travel plans, detailing your companions, itinerary, mode of travel and dates
of departure and return.
Be cautious when entering public restrooms or any isolated area.
Don’t get involved in controversial discussions/situations in public places. If a
crowd is gathering somewhere and you feel uncomfortable, leave the area.
Be wary of beggars. Many times the beggars, even the children, are expert
pickpockets or thieves. Giving money is a personal decision. Use common sense
and leave immediately if you feel uncomfortable.
Never count your money in public. Do not carry anything in a purse that you
cannot afford to lose.
Keep briefcases and purses in view or in hand when using telephones. If you are
using a credit card, block the view of the keypad when entering the number.
Use discretion and common sense when using ATM machines during daylight
hours. Use ATM machines during daylight hours and when there are other people
around. Guard your pin number and do not let anyone distract you while you are
using an ATM machine.
Consider traveling with an extra credit card to use for emergencies only. Keep
this separate from your other credit cards and money
Leave your travel itinerary with a friend and someone back home.
Have a rendezvous point. If someone gets separated from the group, decide in
advance where to go to meet up.
Take special care around tourist sites and possible terrorist target sites, such as
police stations, churches, synagogues and airports.
Inspect any gifts received in a foreign country before packing.
When at the airport, NEVER carry packages, luggage or any items for anyone.
Do not leave your luggage unattended. Do not carry anything that could be
considered a weapon.
Also, make sure you are aware of the following:
Political unrest There may be an increased risk of anti-American activity during periods of political
conflict that involve the US and other nations. You can minimize risks and avoid obvious
dangers by keeping a low profile, and not identifying yourself by dress, speech, or
behavior. Avoid large groups of other Americans and stay away from demonstrations.
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Stay alert Be aware of your surroundings, including unknown individuals hanging around your
building/residence. Be suspicious of unexpected packages, letters with no return
addresses and/or letters that appear to contain more than just paper. Visitors should be
screened and delivery persons should be asked for identification. Make sure to always
lock your doors. Take the same precautions as you would in any large city. Do not give
out your name or address and do not share program information with strangers. Know
where the nearest police stations and hospitals are, and keep emergency numbers handy.
Do not go into unsafe or unknown areas.
Sexual harassment Sexual harassment occurs abroad, just as it does in the US. Be aware that sexual
harassment laws are not the same in every country. If you receive unwanted sexual
attention, you should immediately distance yourself from the individual or situation,
speak up in a clear and firm manner, and, most importantly, report the incident
immediately to your program administrator or housing coordinator. Never walk alone at
night. Be aware that some men from other countries may mistake friendliness for
romantic interest. Dress appropriately. Do not accept drinks from strangers. Never invite
people you do not know to your apartment.
Sexual violence and Relationship Violence Having a full and engaged experience while studying abroad is important and can be
threatened by negative experiences. Sexual violence and relationship violence can
destroy your semester/term abroad. Many of us don’t think about potential dangers and
the contexts that aggravate certain crimes in other countries. While traveling abroad, you
may find that stereotypes about American women and men are common in other parts of
the world. The stereotypes, as you can imagine, are not always flattering. Rather, they
tend to suggest that U.S. women and men are very sexually active, heavy partiers (with
respect to alcohol and other drugs) and interested in romantic relationships with
individuals from other countries – This most likely comes from the prevalence of
glamorized TV and movies. Because of this common stereotype, it is even more
important to be educated and aware about the issue and context of sexual and relationship
violence.
Remember:
- Talking about sex or sexual encounters may be interpreted as a “come on”.
- Dancing in clubs may also be interpreted as a “come on”.
- Though hitchhiking may be more common in other cultures, it carries the same dangers
that it would in the United States.
- Kissing a friend “goodbye” or “hello” has different meanings in different cultures. Try
to be clear about the context of your own cultural environment.
- Be firm and assertive when you say NO. Be clear and direct to be certain that your
intention and the words are understood.
- Be aware that things which may appear as normal to you, such as getting drunk or
asking someone to walk you home, may be misinterpreted based on other cultural norms.
- Know that even when you say NO, certain people will not respect your words. Sexual
violence is not your fault in any context. Sometimes people are too afraid to say NO.
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Violence against women is a growing concern all over the world. Sexual violence
(including sexual assault against men) is prevalent in all cultures. Sometimes when
students are out of familiar environment, they are even more vulnerable to these crimes.
Please remember that if someone commits one of these crimes against you, you are not
responsible.
In an emergency, make sure to report it to your faculty/staff advisor.
Illegal Drugs
DO NOT TAKE ANY ILLEGAL DRUGS, DO NOT TRAVEL WITH ILLEGAL
DRUGS AND DO NOT HAVE ILLEGAL DRUGS IN YOUR POSSESSION AT ANY
TIME. UTB/TSC can assume NO responsibility for any student violating laws and
student conduct codes. Laws concerning drugs may be much more severe in other
countries. Penalties for drug possession, use or sale can range from the death penalty to
physical punishment to long jail terms. You are subject to the laws of the country you are
visiting. If you are arrested on a drug charge, the U.S. Consular Officer cannot demand
your release, get you out of jail or out of the country, cannot represent you at trial or give
you legal counsel, and cannot pay your legal fees or fines.
If you have a drug problem, or suspect that you might, you should not study abroad.
Alcohol
If you have a drinking problem, or suspect that you might, you should not study abroad.
Drinking ages vary from country to country, but excessive drinking is inappropriate in all
countries at all times. Excessive drinking can lead to serious consequences, including
dismissal from the program. Moreover, all cultures consider drunkenness as socially
unacceptable; most consider it foolish, even childish. If you do drink, do so in
moderation.
Prescription Medications If you are taking any prescription medications, ensure you have all the proper
documentation for bringing your medication into your host country. Not all medications
approved in the US are legal in other countries, and some countries have stricter
regulations than others. If your medication is not legal in your host country, you may
need to check with your doctor about switching to another medication in plenty of time.
If your medication is legal, you must: 1) bring your medication in its original containers,
which should be clearly labeled; 2) bring a copy of your prescription; 3) bring enough
medication for the duration of your time abroad; 4) bring a note from your doctor
explaining your medical condition, the medication and why you are carrying such a large
supply; and 5) be sure to bring all of these things in your carry-on luggage so that you
may present everything at customs. DO NOT PACK YOUR MEDICATION IN YOUR
CHECKED BAGGAGE. It is important to have all of these documents on hand so your
medication is not held up at customs. It can be very difficult and costly to get a new
prescription in your host country. It also may be illegal to have any medication shipped to
you.
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If you have allergies, reactions to certain medications, foods, or insect bites, or other
unique medical problems, consider wearing a “medical alert” bracelet. You may also
wish to carry a letter from your physician explaining required treatment should you
become ill.
Information on filling a prescription abroad and other health issues may be found at
http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1215.html.
Immunizations/Vaccinations It is YOUR responsibility to check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) website (www.cdc.gov) or check with a travel clinic to see what, if any,
immunizations and/or medical tests are routine, recommended or required for your host
country. It also YOUR responsibility to obtain any immunizations and/or medical tests
before you travel abroad. Be aware that some immunizations require more than one dose
spread over time, so do not wait until the last minute to check on your immunization
needs.
Mental Health (adapted from http://studentsabroad.state.gov/html-site/Health.html#HealthAbroad)
Traveling or studying abroad is not a cure for existing mental health conditions and will
most likely make existing conditions worse by adding stress, unfamiliarity, culture shock
and language barriers, and removing you from your normal support system. If you are
struggling with a mental health condition, you should consider not studying abroad, and
do not make a decision about studying abroad without first checking with your physician.
You should describe your intended study abroad plans, including which countries you
would visit, what you would be doing, and the duration of the program.
Local Laws (adapted from http://studentsabroad.state.gov/html-site/SmartTravel.html)
It seems obvious, but you MUST obey the local laws of the country you’re visiting. An
arrest or accident during a study abroad can result in a difficult – and expensive – legal
situation. It makes no difference if you did not know the law and your US citizenship
DOES NOT protect you from full prosecution. Many countries impose harsh penalties for
violations that would be considered minor in the US, and unlike the US, you may be
considered guilty until proven innocent.
Feel free to take pictures, but only if you know it’s okay. In many countries, you can be
detained for photographing security-related institutions, such as police and military
installations, government buildings, airports, border areas and transportation facilities. If
you are in doubt, ask permission before taking photographs. You should also ask
permission before taking photographs of local people. This shows respect and is polite.
Don’t accept packages from anyone, regardless of what may be offered or what story you
are told. You could miss your flight, your exams, or several years of your life behind
bars.
Avoid participating in demonstrations and other political activities. Even demonstrations
that are intended to be peaceful can sometimes turn violent, and you don’t want to be
arrested for involvement even if you just happen to be there.
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If you find yourself in a legal jam, contact the closest US Embassy or Consulate for
assistance. Keep in mind, US Consular employees cannot arrange for local officials to
release detained American citizens. Better still, don’t get yourself in trouble and stay
away from others engaged in questionable behavior.
Pedestrian, Hotel and Transportation Safety (adapted from http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1179.html)
Safety on the Street
Be especially cautious in (or avoid) areas where you may be more easily victimized.
These include crowded subways, train stations, elevators, tourist sites, market places,
festivals and crime-ridden neighborhoods.
Don’t use short cuts, narrow alleys or poorly lit streets.
Don’t travel alone, especially at night.
Avoid public demonstrations and other civil disturbances.
Keep a low profile and avoid loud conversations or arguments.
Do not discuss travel plans or other personal matters with strangers.
Avoid scam artists by being wary of strangers who approach you and offer to be your
guide or sell you something at bargain prices.
Beware of pickpockets. They often have an accomplice who will:
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jostle you
ask you for directions or the time
point to something spilled on your clothing
distract you by creating a disturbance
Beware of groups of children who create a distraction while picking your pocket.
Wear the shoulder strap of your bag across your chest and walk with the bag away from
the curb to avoid drive-by purse-snatchers.
Try to seem purposeful when you move about. Even if you are lost, act as if you know
where you are going. Try to ask for directions only from individuals in authority or store
employees.
Know how to use a pay telephone and have the proper change or token on hand.
Learn a few phrases in the local language or have them handy in written form so that you
can signal your need for police or medical help.
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Make a note of emergency telephone numbers you may need: police, fire, your hotel, and
the nearest US Embassy or Consulate.
If you are confronted, don’t fight back – give up your valuables.
Safety in Your Hotel and/or Housing Keep your door locked at all times. Meet visitors in the lobby.
Do not leave money and other valuables exposed in your room while you are out. Use a
safe if one is available.
If you are out late at night, let someone know when you expect to return.
Do not get on an elevator if there is a suspicious-looking person inside.
Read the fire safety instructions in your room. Know how to report a fire, and be sure you
know where the nearest fire exits and alternate exits are located.
Safety on Public Transportation If a country has a pattern of tourists being targeted by criminals on public transport, that
information is mentioned in the Country Specific Information published by the US
Department of State in the section about crime. Please visit travel.state.gov for more
information.
Taxis- Only take taxis clearly identified with official markings. Beware of unmarked
cabs. If they have a meter, make sure they turn it on. If they do not have a meter, ask in
advance how much the journey will cost.
Trains- Well-organized, systematic robbery of passengers on trains along popular tourist
routes is a problem. It is more common at night and especially overnight.
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If you see your way being blocked by a stranger and another person is very close
to you from behind, move away. If necessary, be loud.
Do not accept food or drink from strangers. Where possible, lock your
compartment. If it cannot be locked securely, take turns sleeping in shifts with
your traveling companions. If that is not possible, stay awake. If you must sleep
unprotected, tie down your luggage and secure your valuables.
Do not be afraid to alert authorities if you feel threatened in any way.
Buses- Be aware that the same type of criminal activity found on trains can be found on
public buses on popular tourist routes.
Insurance International Medical Insurance is required for all UTB/TSC study abroad programs.
Check with your insurance provider to see if they will cover you while you are abroad.
All summer study abroad students are enrolled in the Global Health and Safety Services
and Insurance Program, administered by HTH Worldwide (http://www.hthstudents.com).
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This is a specialized insurance plan for study abroad students and ONLY covers students
while they are outside the United States. The program is only valid for the duration of the
study abroad program. If you plan to travel abroad prior to or following the program, you
can request insurance for the extra days you’ll be abroad. The price for additional
coverage is $12/week. Enrollment in the program is included in the study abroad program
fee and UTB/TSC’s Office of International Outreach will enroll you into the program.
We recommend that you carry the contact information for your personal insurance
company with you while you are abroad. If you do go to a doctor or hospital, you may be
required to pay at the time of service and then be reimbursed by your insurance provider.
Make sure you have enough money on a credit card to cover emergency expenses and
KEEP ALL RECEIPTS so that you can be reimbursed if needed. The insurance that
UTB/TSC provides you with requires you to pay up-front for your medical care, then
submit a reimbursement claim. UTB/TSC’s Office of Global Engagement can help you
with this.
You can contact HTH Worldwide Insurance 24/7 at www.hthstudents.com,
globalhealth@hthworldwide.com, and 1-610-254-8771 (collect)
Emergency Procedures
1. Contact your program director
2. If you are unable to contact your director, contact the UTB/TSC Office of Global
Engagement. Our office number is 956.882.8955 and if you are calling after
hours, call 435.590.3109 (Alla) or 956.592.5500 (Larissa).
If the situation does not require immediate attention, please leave a voice mail at
956.882.8955. Please note that time differences abroad may create difficulties in
contacting you back.
3. When contacting any of these numbers, please provide the following information:
Your full name, the nature of the emergency, a number where you can be
contacted and how long you will remain at that location (provide the city and
country information)
4. If you are unable to contact the on-site director or other program offices
personally, attempt to have someone contact your director or UTB/TSC for you.
Emergency Evacuation: Natural, Political, or Other Crisis Situations
Know where your nearest American Consulate or Embassy is before you arrive in the
host country.
1. Contact and follow the procedures provided by your program director
If you are unable to contact your director, contact the UTB/TSC Office of
International Outreach. Our office number is 956.882.8955 and if you are calling
after hours, call 435.590.3109 (Alla) or 956.592.5500 (Larissa).
2. Follow on-site instructions given during orientation. You should provide your
contact information to the program’s staff whenever you travel away from the
host school.
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3. If you are unable to contact your program director or UTB/TSC, attempt to
contact the closest U.S. Consulate or Embassy for further instructions. Local
radio and television stations may also broadcast emergency information.
4. Stay calm and stay with other program students or program director if possible. It
is important that you attempt to contact your program director of UTB/TSC’s
Office of Global Engagement; however, it is more important that you remain in a
safe environment and follow the instructions provided by local government
authorities.
Instructions for Families (Parents or Legal Guardians)
UTB/TSC is aware of your need to keep in contact with your family members, especially
in emergency situations. If you need to contact your family member while they are
abroad due to a family emergency, you may contact the UTB/TSC Office of Global
Engagement for help. Our office number is 956.882.8955 and our hours are 8:00 AM5:00 PM weekdays. After hours, if this is an emergency, you can contact the Executive
Director for the Office of Global Engagement directly at 435.590.3109. Be sure to
identify yourself as a family member of a student on a UTB/TSC study abroad program.
If the situation does not require immediate attention, please leave a voice mail message at
956.882.8955. We will return your call the next work day.
The Family Rights and Privacy Act prevents staff members from providing certain
information to persons other than the student participant. It is necessary for us to balance
your needs as a family with the needs of the students to be treated as adults and to follow
the laws of the U.S. Our goal is to provide open lines of communication between you
and your family members. Please be assured that we will do as much as possible to help
you in any emergency situation.
Early Return/Withdrawal from Programs- If you are considering withdrawing from
your study abroad program, please contact the UTB/TSC Office of Global Engagement.
In order to receive credit for your study abroad program, you are required to satisfactorily
complete all course work and remain at the program site for the duration of the program.
You must plan your departure based upon the official ending date of the term. Generally,
program fees are non-refundable after the start of the program. Students withdrawing
from programs may be required to reimburse financial aid or scholarships to UTB/TSC.
All aid is based on attendance and successful completion of the study abroad program.
You should check with the UTB/TSC Office of Global Engagement if you are
considering withdrawing from your program.
Code of Conduct
While you are abroad, you will be participating in a UTB/TSC-sponsored program and
must adhere to the UTB/TSC code of conduct just as if you were on campus. Review the
code of conduct at http://www.utb.edu/sa/judicial/Pages/CodeOfConduct.aspx.
Remember, you will be representing yourself, UTB/TSC, and your country so behave in a
responsible manner. Failure to uphold the honor code may result in dismissal from the
program at your own expense.
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Suggested Packing ListSummer Studies Abroad
Most airlines will allow you to check up to two bags and also bring one carry-on;
however, you need to be able to carry all of your luggage, all at the same time, for long
distances and up flights of stairs. MAKE SURE YOU CHECK THE BAGGAGE
WEIGHT LIMITS AND FEES CHARGED BY YOUR AIRLINE. Do not pack anything
you would be devastated to lose. The following list is provided as a guideline, but you
need to pack what is essential for you.
Documents
Passport
Medical Insurance Card
Airline Tickets
Credit Card, Debit Card, some cash
Identification (Bring at least two of these)
Phone card with access numbers
Clothing
Essential:
Shirts
Sweater or Jacket
Pants/Shorts
Skirts/Dresses
Clean Underwear and Socks
COMFORTABLE Shoes for Walking
Flip-flops or Sandals
Swimsuit
Nice to Have:
Watch
Slippers
At least one dressy outfit
Medication and Personal Items
An adequate supply of any prescription medications you will need, plus written
copies of the prescriptions
Over-the-counter medications you use regularly
Band-Aids/small first aid kit
Hairbrush/comb
Other toiletries
Extra glasses/contacts/contact solution
Shampoo, conditioner and soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Razor, Razor blades
Sunscreen
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Deodorant, Cosmetics
School Supplies
Essential:
Pens, pencils
Foreign language dictionary
Folders, notebooks and paper
Knapsack, bookbag or backpack
Nice to Have:
Fun books to read
Binders
Disks/CD-R/RW
Post Its
White Out
A Little Extra Something
Hair care products that may not be available locally
Umbrella
Camera
Travel journal
Small address book
Pocket calculator
Travel alarm clock
Batteries
Luggage locks & tags
Moist towelettes
Hand sanitizer
**Remember: Most personal care items should be easily available in most locations.
Some items or specific brands of items may not be available or may be very expensive.
Medications may vary considerably in strength and availability in some countries.
Travel-size items may not be available. If you want or need specific items, you may wish
to take them with you.
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