Education Abroad
Pre-Departure
Orientation
Education Abroad Office
University of Michigan-Flint
Why is this important?
Safety is a major concern for all who are involved in study abroad
ventures - participants, their families, advisers, UM-Flint, the host
institutions, faculty leaders, Education Abroad Office staff, and UM-Flint
personnel associated with our programs. It is generally considered that
travel in a foreign country is no more dangerous than study in the
United States. However, there are risks that are unique to settings
abroad, and when incidents occur, the impact on participants and their
families is often more profound because of the unfamiliarity of the
context and the distance that separates participants from their primary
sources of consolation and support.
Congratulations on your decision to study abroad during your time at the University of
Michigan-Flint. To help prepare you for this educational and cultural experience, UM-Flint
requires all study abroad students participate in an online pre-departure orientation. The
purpose of this orientation is to address significant health, safety, cultural adjustment, and reentry issues related to international experiences. If you are participating in a group travel
program, a country-specific orientation will also be provided prior to departure.
All students, regardless of program and school/college, must review this online predeparture orientation. A 10-question quiz must be completed in M-Flint WorldLink after
reviewing this orientation.
The orientation consists of 7 sections:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
International Travel Policy
Prepping for Travel
Safety & Security Abroad
Conduct Code
Diversity Abroad
Culture Shock & Resilient Travel
Re-Entry
Section I:
International
Travel Policy
SPG 601.31
• The International Travel Policy applies to faculty, staff, and all students
traveling outside of the United States of America for University-related
purposes, which may include but are not limited to study, research,
internships, service, conferences, presentations, teaching, performances,
or athletic competitions. Schools, colleges, or business units may have
additional policies and procedures that support this overall policy.
• This International Travel Policy outlines the University’s requirements with
regard to the University’s policy subject to:
•
•
•
•
•
(A) the University Travel Registry;
(B) travel abroad health insurance;
(C) emergency evacuation insurance;
(D) University Travel Warnings or University Travel Restrictions; and
(E) international travel involving student groups
Travel Registry
• All students traveling abroad for University-related purposes must
register their international travel in the University Travel Registry before
the expected departure date. As changes occur, students should update
the University Travel Registry throughout the duration of the trip,
including additional countries added during travel.
• Registration in the UM Travel Registry allows the university to identify the
locations of and communicate with travelers and helps the university
deploy appropriate emergency response procedures
•
•
For students participating in UM-Flint group travel programs, the Education Abroad Office will
register the entire group
For students traveling individually on exchange programs or programs through other
institutions, you must register yourself
• Access the UM Travel Registry
•
Login with your uniqname and KERBEROS password
University Travel Abroad Insurance
• All students traveling abroad for any University-related purpose are required
to have travel abroad health insurance coverage from the University’s
authorized vendor. The University’s authorized travel abroad health insurance
must be purchased for/by students traveling internationally regardless of
whether the student traveler has other related coverage.
• U-M contracts with HTH Worldwide, a leader in international travel health
insurance, to provide this coverage.
• Cost for 2015/2016: $1.10/day + $5 administrative fee
•
•
For students participating in UM-Flint group faculty-led programs, the Education Abroad
Office will enroll you in the insurance plan
For students traveling individually on exchange programs or programs through other
institutions, you must enroll yourself
Access University Travel Abroad Insurance
University Travel Warnings & Restrictions:
For Students on UM-Flint Group Programs
• Based on current health, safety, and security resources, there are
certain countries and regions which indicate significant or extreme level
of risk
• Destinations Under a University Travel Warnings
•
Group leaders must complete a Group Travel Safety Plan
• Destinations Under a University Travel Restriction
•
Group travel involving undergraduates to these destinations are prohibited
View the Travel Warnings list and the Travel Restriction list
University Travel Warnings & Restrictions:
For Students Traveling Independently
• Based on current health, safety, and security resources, there are
certain countries and regions which indicate significant or extreme level
of risk
• University Travel Warnings
•
•
Students must complete an Individual Safety Plan
Students must sign a University Travel Warning Destination Liability Waiver
• University Travel Restriction
•
•
Undergraduate students are prohibited to travel on university-related purposes
Graduate students must complete a Individual Safety Plan
View the Travel Warnings list and the Travel Restriction list
In Summary:
For Students Traveling Independently:
•
•
•
•
Must register in the Travel Registry
Must have HTH insurance
Must submit Safety Plan and Waiver if traveling to destination under a “University Travel
Warning”
Undergraduate students cannot travel to destinations under a “University Travel
Restriction”
For Students Traveling in a Group:
•
•
•
•
Group will be registered in the Travel Registry by the Education Abroad Office
HTH insurance will be purchased for all participants by the Education Abroad Office
Program leader must submit Group Travel Safety Plan if they intend to take students to
destination under a “University Travel Warning;” students must submit a Waiver
Program leader cannot take undergraduate students to destinations under a “University
Travel Restriction”
Section II:
Prepping for
Travel
Packing List
What you bring to your program depends largely upon where you study and who you are. In general, past participants recommend the
following:
General Packing Tips
• Clearly identify your luggage inside and out with your name and US & overseas address. Colored tape can make it easy to identify
among similar baggage.
• Place a strap or piece of rope around your suitcase to secure it in case the lock breaks.
• Check airline regulations for weight, size and number of bags
• In your carry-on, keep a change of clothes, toiletries, valuables, important documents (passports, visas, arrival instructions) and
medications in their original containers
Miscellaneous Items
• $100 in local currency for when you first arrive
•
• Map of your host city
• Guidebook of your region and of the places where you will
•
travel
•
• Photocopy of your passport information pages. Also leave a •
copy at home.
•
• International calling card and access numbers for the countries •
where you will travel.
•
• Phone numbers to cancel credit cards in case of theft (800
numbers don't always work outside US)
•
• Camera
• Journal
• Addresses and photos of family and friends
•
• Favorite recipes (note metric & Celsius conversions)
Small items to use as gifts (e.g., UM-Flint decals, key chains,
magnets)
Travel alarm clock
Umbrella
Sunglasses
Small sewing kit
Money belt
If you bring a laptop, inquire about international voltage
converters at an electronics store
Power strip so you only have to purchase one converter (if you
plan to bring several items that require plug-in to an electrical
outlet)
Important contact information
Clothing
• Consider both the physical & social climate; dress accordingly. Persons in other countries tend to dress a bit more formally than we
do in the US.
• Dark colors do not show dirt as readily
• Take durable, drip-dry, no-iron clothes
• Take items that have multiple uses and (for colder climates) can be layered.
• Comfort and practicality are the keys for both clothing and shoes
• Bring one professional outfit in case of a site visit to a company or job/internship interview
• Bring comfortable walking shoes
Toiletries
• Don't overstock on toiletries; most things are available in major cities abroad. Women may want to bring a preferred brand of
tampons or pads, as they may not be as readily available abroad.
• Transfer liquids from breakable containers into plastic containers; use tape to seal the lids when traveling or pack them in Ziploc bags
to separate them from clothing
• Prescription drugs for the duration of your time abroad (in your carry-on)
• Extra eyeglasses
• Pocket pack of Kleenex
• A small plastic bottle of laundry detergent wrapped in Ziploc
Voltage
Most appliances you have purchased in the U.S. are designed to work on 110 voltage, while most of the world outside the U.S. and
Canada operates on 220 voltage. To convert the 220 voltage energy to 110 voltage (for your appliance to function), you will need to
purchase a travel voltage converter (or, if the appliance is relatively inexpensive, purchase a new one in the host country). Countries
that operate on 220 voltage include Austria, Chile, China, Denmark, Hong Kong, Norway and the United Kingdom. Countries that use
both 110 and 220 voltage within their borders include France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Singapore, Spain and Sweden.
Voltage isn't the only thing that varies from country to country. Electrical wall outlets also differ in shape, assortment and arrangement of
holes. To be prepared, make sure you get an adapter set to go with the converter.
Prescription Medicines
•
See your doctor regarding these and review medicine and drug laws of the country
Supplies to Prevent Illness or Injury
•
•
•
•
Insect repellent containing DEET (30%-50%) or picaridin (up to 15%)
Sunscreen (preferably SPF 15 or greater) that has both UVA and UVB protection
Antibacterial hand wipes or alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
Lubricating eye drops
Remember When
Packing:
• Airline baggage
limits
• Keep all your
travel documents
on you, not in the
luggage you check
in
First-Aid Supplies
• First aid quick reference card
• Basic first-aid items (bandages, gauze, ace bandage, antiseptic, tweezers, scissors, cotton-tipped
applicators)
• Moleskin for blisters
• Aloe gel for sunburns
• Digital thermometer
• Oral rehydration solution packets
Other Items That May Be Useful in Certain Circumstances
• Mild sedative or other sleep aid
• Medicine to prevent altitude sickness
• Water purification tablets
• Commercial suture/syringe kits to be used by local health-care provider. (These items will also require a
letter on letterhead stationery from the prescribing physician.)
• Latex condoms
• Child safety seats
• Bicycle helmet
Section III:
Safety & Security
Abroad
Personal Document Safety
Leave at home all credit cards, keys, and other items not needed abroad. Make
photocopies of your valuable documents and maintain an “emergency file” at
home containing: airline ticket, passport, checks, driver's license, blood type,
eyeglass prescription, name of doctor and dentist, supplemental insurance
policies, and the credit cards you take abroad. Leave one set at home and keep
another with you in a separate place from the originals.
• Leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with family or friends at
home.
• NEVER pack your passport or any other important documents in your
checked-in luggage or your carry-on luggage. Passports including visa page,
credit cards, and money should be worn in a pouch or a money belt as close
to your body as possible. If your passport is lost or stolen abroad, contact the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance.
Keeping Informed Before Departure
Between now and your departure, it is your responsibility to stay informed about developments in
the country/countries where you will spend time (including any countries you'll visit that are not part
of your study abroad program's itinerary). The U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs
assists American citizens traveling or living abroad. The Bureau also issues Consular Information
Sheets, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements that provide important information regarding
foreign travel.
•
•
US citizens should register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP
allows you to enter information about your upcoming trip abroad so that the Department of
State can better assist you in an emergency.
Register at https://step.state.gov/step/.
Know Your Host Country
By researching your host country thoroughly, you will be much more likely to
adjust faster, know what to expect and avoid unpleasant surprises. Read
books and explore websites about the country you will visit and about
traveling abroad. Become aware of cultural taboos in the countries you plan
to visit. For example, there are restrictions on photography in certain
countries. Be aware that certain reading material or literature may offend
officials of some countries. Know the location of the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate. Visit the U.S. embassy website at http://usembassy.state.gov/. In
addition, the US Department of State at
http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html provides
resources country-specific information.
Express yourself with patience, diplomacy, and an unassuming manner
in an effort to be perceived as a welcomed visitor.
Arrests
Arrests: Legal Rights Outside of the U.S.
Standard United States legal protections such as your right to due process, protections
against unreasonable search and seizure, right to a prompt trial, right to an attorney, and other
constitutional rights are not available outside the United States. If you are arrested in a foreign country,
ask the authorities to notify the United States consul. Consuls cannot get you out of jail, but they can
intercede with local authorities to make sure that your rights under local law are strictly observed and can
work to protect your legitimate interests and ensure that you are not discriminated against. They can
provide a list of attorneys, visit you, inform you generally about local laws, and contact your family and
friends. Consular officers can transfer money, food, and clothing from your family or friends to prison
authorities. And they can try to get you relief if you are held under inhumane or unhealthful conditions.
As in the case of arrest in the United States, if you are arrested for whatever reason you must also notify a
university official or the Department of Public Safety at UM-Flint, since this is considered an emergency
situation. It is also recommended that you contact an attorney since it is always best to have legal
representation whenever dealing with a possible arrest situation. Please remember that sometimes during
an emergency situation our emotions come into play. Whenever you’re speaking with those in authority it’s
always possible to say something or do something that may create a difficult situation for yourself and/or
the university, especially when they are outside the country and there may be differences in this host
countries legal system, customs, language and social context.
What Happens If You Are Arrested
You may say "it couldn't happen to me" but the fact is that it could happen to you if you find yourself saying one of the following:
"I am a U.S. citizen and no foreign government can put me in their jail."
"If I only buy or carry a small amount, it won't be a problem."
If you are arrested, the U.S. consular officer CANNOT get you out.
If you are arrested on a drug charge it is important that you know what the U.S. government can and cannot do for you.
The U.S. Consular Office CAN:
• visit you in jail after being notified of your arrest
• give you a list of local attorneys (The U.S. Government cannot assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of these individuals or
recommend a particular attorney)
• notify your family and/or friends and relay requests for money or other aid - but only with your authorization
• intercede with local authorities to make sure that your rights under local laws are fully observed and that you are treated humanely, according to
internationally accepted standards
• protest mistreatment or abuse to the appropriate authorities
The U.S. Consular Office CANNOT:
• demand your immediate release or get you out of jail or the country
• represent you at trial or give legal counsel
• pay legal fees and/or fines with U.S. government funds
• If you are caught using illegal drugs by UM-Flint on-site personnel, you may be immediately dismissed from the study abroad program. If you are
caught by local authorities buying, selling, carrying or using drugs it could mean:
• interrogation and delays before trial including mistreatment and solitary confinement for up to one year under very primitive conditions
• lengthy trials conducted in a foreign language, with delays and postponements
• weeks, months or life in prison (some places include hard labor, heavy fines, and/or lashings), if found guilty
• the death penalty in a growing number of countries
Alcohol Use & Misuse
Although alcohol misuse may not carry the same legal penalties as use of illegal drugs, it can create dire
circumstances for you, your participation in the program, your safety on site, and the future of the program.
Remember that you are serving as an ambassador of UM-Flint, Michigan, and the United States.
Although there may be no minimum or a lower drinking age in your host country, the customs regarding
alcohol use may be very different from ours. You may be tempted to slip into – or maintain – patterns of
alcohol misuse while abroad. Such use may occur for a variety of reasons: a mistaken impression of how
alcohol is used in your new surroundings; lower costs in some countries; a lower minimum drinking age;
more lenient laws against drunkenness; or a desire to experiment or fit in. Alcohol abuse and misuse are
not tolerated anywhere in the world and will not be tolerated on UM-Flint study abroad programs.
Violation of local laws and/or UM-Flint regulations or policies may result in (i) immediate dismissal from the
program; (ii) academic withdrawal from the University for the semester in progress; and (iii) disciplinary
action upon return to campus. During your orientation you will be informed of program requirements and
host country laws regarding alcohol consumption, as well as the consequences for misuse. Many
countries, with the exception of those with religious prohibitions, MAY tolerate social drinking but you
should first determine the minimum legal drinking age. Intoxication, public drunkenness and inebriating
behavior, however, are seldom allowed under any circumstances.
Alcohol Use & Misuse, continued
Alcohol misuse is defined as any use that is harmful or potentially harmful to self or others. Alcohol abuse is
planned, systematic misuse of alcohol. Alcohol misuse is present when:
• A student misses any scheduled event because of the effects of alcohol consumption;
• A student becomes ill due to the effects of alcohol consumption;
• A student is disrespectful of others sharing the same or neighboring housing, due to the effects of alcohol
consumption;
• A student engages in inappropriate behavior toward other individuals that is the result of alcohol consumption;
• A student engages in destructive behavior toward property that is the result of alcohol consumption;
• A student does not abide by the alcoholic beverage laws of the country in which he or she is staying;
• A student engages in behavior that causes embarrassment to the other members of the group, the faculty
member(s) or the in-country host(s) as a result of alcohol consumption;
• Students in a group encourage or ignore a fellow student who is misusing or abusing alcohol; or
• A student transports quantities of alcohol to program sites with the intent of sharing the alcohol with members
of the group.
Students are encouraged to use good judgment if consuming alcohol at private homes or other accommodations
during non-program hours. Student groups are encouraged to discuss issues related to alcohol abuse by other
members of their group with the faculty leader or resident director. Peers should look out for each other and keep
each other safe.
Illegal Substances
The University of Michigan-Flint has a zero-tolerance policy regarding the possession, use, manufacture, production,
sale, exchange or distribution of illegal drugs by students participating in UM-Flint affiliated study abroad programs.
Violation of this policy may result in (i) immediate dismissal from the program; (ii) academic withdrawal from the
University for the semester in progress; and (iii) disciplinary action upon return to campus.
Each year 2,500 U.S. citizens are arrested abroad. One third of the arrests are on drug-related charges. Many of
those arrested assumed that as U.S. citizens, they could not be arrested. There is very little that anyone can do to
help you if you are caught in a foreign country with drugs. You are operating under the laws of the host country and the
regulations of the local institution. Neither the U.S. government nor UM-Flint will be able to secure your release should
you be caught.
It is your responsibility to know the drug laws of a foreign country before you go, because "I didn't know it was illegal"
will not get you out of jail. Some laws may be applied more strictly to foreigners than to local citizens; therefore, don't
assume that just because local people are using drugs, it's acceptable for you to use drugs. Information regarding drug
penalties of your host country is available at the website:
http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/alertswarnings.html.
In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of women arrested abroad. These women serve as drug
couriers or "mules" in the belief they can make quick money and have a vacation without getting caught. Instead of a
short vacation, they get a lengthy stay or life sentence in a foreign jail.
If you are purchasing prescription medications in quantities larger than that considered necessary for personal use,
you could be arrested on suspicion of drug trafficking.
Tips to Keep You Safe
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•
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•
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•
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•
Use the same precautions abroad that you would in any U.S.
metropolitan area.
Avoid poorly lit places and walking alone. Stick to well-traveled
streets, and try to walk in groups at night. Be especially cautious
when you are new to a city and do not yet know what parts of town
may be less safe.
Don’t carry valuables, even in a backpack or locked luggage. If you
must carry cameras, radios, etc., don’t leave them unattended.
Don’t flaunt wallets, purses, or cameras. Wear a money belt,
concealed under your clothing.
Put valuables in the hotel safe or ask your local contact about storing
valuables at the program site.
Leave expensive or expensive-looking jewelry at home.
Be proactive in ensuring your safety. Be aware of your surroundings.
When possible, avoid traveling by car. More people are injured or
killed abroad in automobile accidents than through violent crime.
Express yourself with patience, diplomacy, and an unassuming
manner in an effort to be perceived as a welcomed visitor.
Section IV:
Conduct Code
The Education Abroad Program at the University of Michigan-Flint provides
students with an opportunity to pursue academic and other co-curricular
experiences outside the United States. Participating students are expected
to take advantage of the cultural opportunities offered and are responsible
for their behavior during their program. The International Center (IC) and the
Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution (OSCCR) have
developed the following Education Abroad Student Misconduct Guidelines
that all students are required to adhere to while participating in an education
abroad experience.
Students should understand that while participating on an education abroad
program, they are representing the University and their country and
therefore should act in a way that reflects positively on these
institutions.
General Information about Student Misconduct and Disciplinary Procedures
As participants of Education Abroad Program, University of Michigan-Flint students are
responsible for adhering to the following:
•
•
•
•
The University of Michigan-Flint Statement of Student Rights and
Responsibilities;
Academic and disciplinary regulations of home institution (e.g., College of Arts and
Sciences, School of Management, etc.);
Host institution’s academic and conduct expectations; and,
Host country’s laws
Students should note that policies for students participating in an education abroad program
may be stricter because of the broader consequences and implication of student
misconduct. For example, student misconduct may affect UM-Flint’s relations with the host
institution and local community or arouse anti-American sentiments. In addition, students
should note that disciplinary procedures to address misconduct may be expedited in
comparison to campus procedures.
To Learn About the Host Institution’s Academic and Conduct
Expectations:
• Visit the website of the host institution or request
To Learn About the Host Country's Laws:
• Visit the US State Department website at
https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html
• Visit the embassy website of the host country at
http://embassy.goabroad.com/
Section V:
Diversity Abroad
For the majority of students, study abroad is an amazing and sometimes life
changing experiences. But just like life at your home school, you may encounter
some discrimination on your travels. For some students when they study abroad it
will be the first time they will be in the position of being a minority.
Although you may be a minority in your host country, you may receive additional
attention depending on your background and ethnicity, which may or may not be
discrimination. People might judge you based on your ethnicity, disability, sexual
orientation, religion, or gender. Whatever happens, don’t let the possibility of
discrimination prevent you from experiencing the life changing benefits of living
abroad.
Learn more about Diversity & Inclusion abroad by visiting
www.diversityabroad.com/global-diversity-inclusion.
UM-Flint faculty/staff led programs: Specific information for women travelers,
students of multicultural backgrounds, travelers with accessibility needs and
LGBTQ travelers will be provided by your program leader during the countryspecific orientation.
Section VI:
Culture Shock &
Resilient Travel
Even the most prepared traveler experiences some type of culture shock. Use this
information to take the shock out of studying abroad.
Culture shock is a very natural phenomenon that can be expected when a person moves from a familiar
environment to a new setting where language, food, climate and even people’s actions are different.
No one enters a new culture simply as an individual -- the history, values and attitudes of the home culture are the
extra baggage you bring with you. Many attitudes, values and beliefs are so taken for granted that they are accepted
as the norm for all cultures. In reality each culture is different, but not better or worse, than the other.
Cultural Adjustment
During their study abroad program, students may experience physical and emotional discomfort from being in another
country or in a place different from their place of origin. In order to effectively manage that change, the following
suggestions are offered:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Be flexible; tolerate ambiguity; expect things to be different.
Be patient; don't try to understand everything immediately.
Give yourself permission to fail; experiment with new customs.
Develop a sense of humor; don't take things too seriously.
Identify cultural informants who can help you learn.
If problems arise, assume your share of the responsibility.
Cultural adjustment occurs in phases and students may experience the various phases with differing levels of intensity.
Students can also prepare for cultural adjustment before going abroad by reading books about the culture, travel guide
books, local magazines or newspapers and by meeting people from the country you will be visiting.
Rhinesmith's Ten Stages of Adjustment
Culture shock and its effects can occur in a number of stages. However, culture shock is not an exact
step-by-step process; every student doesn't experience culture shock the same way or at the same time.
The following 10 steps of cultural adjustment outlined by Steven Rhinesmith show how culture shock can
be like a roller coaster ride of emotions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
initial anxiety
initial elation
initial culture shock
superficial adjustment
depression-frustration
acceptance of host culture
return anxiety
return elation
re-entry shock
reintegration
Source: Returning Home, Canadian Bureau for International Education, 1984, p. 7.
The following section outlines the stages of adjustment that characterize culture shock, and suggests how you can help
yourself to make the most of your study abroad experience.
Honeymoon Period
You arrive overseas with great expectations and a positive mind-set. If anything, your expectations are too high, and your
attitudes toward the host country and your prospective experience are too high. Anything new is exciting to you at this stage
but you mostly notice similarities between cultures. This state of ‘e euphoria’ may last from a week or two to a month, but
the letdown is inevitable.
Try to write down all your initial experiences – it will be interesting and fun to look back on them in the future as you get to
know your new hometown better.
Culture Shock
Your focus turns from similarities to differences. You begin to see differences everywhere and the differences you notice are
troubling and unsettling. You blow up at the little things. Insignificant difficulties turn into major catastrophes. This stage is
identified as "culture shock," - you may experience any or all of the symptoms associated with this stage.
At this point, you will be noticing everything wrong with your new hometown and culture, and you may be contacting friends
and family often. Bear in mind that you seem to reach out to them only during your low points so try to remember to call
them when you’re feeling better so they won’t worry. We encourage you to be specific about what is going wrong and to
seek out help with local representatives for solutions to concrete problems not attributable to cultural differences. You should
student get involved with local clubs or groups to make connections with people with similar interests – it’s important to stay
busy and set realistic goals during this period. It’s not mandatory that you succeeds – only that you survive your study
abroad. Everyone goes through some level of culture shock – try to realize that there’s no shame in admitting you are
culture-shocked, and that many others have survived it.
Adjustment
The crisis is now over and you are on your way to recovery. This step may come so gradually that, at first, you will be unaware it is
happening. You b begin to orient yourself and are able to interpret some of the subtle cultural clues which you did not notice earlier the culture seems more familiar. You become more comfortable and feel less isolated. Your sense of humor returns and you realize the
situation is not hopeless after all.
Recognize that you are making it through the storm, and revel your successes, new friendships, experiences, travel, etc.! Your survival
seems assured! It would be fun to look back at your journal and see what you remember about your first days in your new hometown –
add some new impressions and reflections as well to your growing understanding of your surroundings.
Acceptance (biculturalism)
You can an now function in two cultures with confidence. You can maintain your own culture and recognize that members of other
cultures rightfully want to do the same. You find in many new ways of doing and saying things. Personal attitudes in your host culture
have become enjoyable and you will miss them when you return home. You can expect to experience "reverse culture shock" upon
your return to the U.S. In some cases reverse culture shock can cause greater distress than the original culture shock.
You might find yourself struggling to maintain some of the customs and habits you adopted while away – keeping those will fondly
remind you of you home away from home. Seek out ways to keep your international identity active.
Activities that can help you adjust to a new culture include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Share feelings with other foreign students or advisers.
Write in a journal or read a letter from family or friends.
Improve language abilities through talking to people, going to the movies, reading local papers and magazines.
Learn about the new school and the new neighborhood.
Pursue or develop a hobby.
Join a club or athletic team.
Volunteer for a cause you believe in.
Plan excursions.
Maintain a sense of humor.
Resilient Traveling: Managing Stress & Enhancing Your Experience Abroad
Resilience is the ability to adapt or rebound quickly from change, illness, stress, adversity or bad fortune.
Learn more at http://resilient-traveling.umich.edu/
Section VII:
Re-Entry
There are countless ways to use the interests and skills you gained while abroad.
Be creative in applying what you learned so your growth can continue:
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
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Talk with students from your program or others who have studied abroad.
Develop a website for the program.
Share your experiences by working as an Peer Advisor.
Engage with international students by joining international organizations and clubs.
Talk about your experience to clubs and groups, including adults and children.
Continue your foreign language or take courses with an international focus.
Consider pursuing a minor in International and Global Studies.
Write for the Flint Journal, the M Times, or your local home paper.
Continue studying your host country by taking related courses, reading international papers,
viewing films and videos, writing research papers, etc.
Volunteer to work in the community or on campus. Help organizations that support community
service and development. Look for groups working with immigrants, refugees, or the aged so you
can use your skills of listening, patience and empathy.
Start thinking about when and how you'll return. Some students have applied for Fulbright
Scholarships (http://www.cies.org) to study and conduct research in the host country; found
employment possibilities while they were on the program; joined the U.S. Peace Corps or just
returned to visit their host family and friends
Integrate the best of the two cultures. Don't feel you must give up one at the expense of another.
Explore membership in Phi Beta Delta, the first national honor society dedicated to recognizing
scholarly achievement in international education.