1. Southern Polytechnic State
University’s
Study Abroad Handbook
Career and Counseling Ctr.
Student Center Suite #A-170
678-915-7391
www.spsu.edu/careerservices
Office of Int’l Programs
Student Center Suite #A-160
678-915-3962
www.spsu.edu/officeintlprograms

2. A great way to enrich your college
experience is to have an
international experience by
studying abroad in a foreign
country. Our main words of
advice are to be FLEXIBLE and
OPEN-MINDED. Remember that
the host country is not the U.S.
You will be seen as ambassadors
for the U.S. and SPSU, so this is
your opportunity to be goodwill
ambassadors. A successful
international experience requires
much planning and preparation.
The Career & Counseling Center
and the Office of International
Programs staff are available to
assist you with making the most of
your work abroad experience.
PASSPORT
You must have a valid passport to
enter any foreign county. Allow a
minimum of 6 weeks for
processing – up to 10 weeks
during the peak summer travel
season. Expedited processing is
available at extra cost. If the
country where you will be
studying requires you to have a
visa, you must have your passport
prior to the visa application
deadline. If you already have a
passport, be certain it is valid for
the duration of your visit and any
additional traveling you may plan
to do.
For complete information about
obtaining a U.S. passport, please
contact your local U.S. Post Office
or go to: U.S. PASSPORT
Parent Passports
We encourage you to discuss with
your parents or family members
how they would be able to assist
you in the event of an emergency
while you are abroad. One or both
of your parents or guardians may
wish to have a valid passport for
the period you are abroad, in the
event of an emergency that would
require them to travel to the
country in which you are staying.
VISAS
Permissions from foreign
governments may be required for
you to enter their countries. You
must already have your passport
to apply.
Processing time varies from days
to two months depending on your
purpose for travel, your citizenship
and your destination. Every
country has different
requirements that are always
subject to change. If you will be
traveling to countries outside of
your country of work, you should
check on visa requirements for
these countries as well. We
recommend that you get a
multiple-entry visa for your
country of training.
FERPA AND YOU
The Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal
law that protects the privacy of
student education records. The
law applies to all schools that
receive funds under an applicable
program of the U.S. Department
of Education.
To waive FERPA so that an SPSU
Official can speak to your parents
in the event of an emergency, you
need to sign a FERPA Waiver.
MEDICAL CARE
BEFORE YOU
LEAVE

3. You will be required to have a
medical checkup before
departure. Your doctor or nurse
can advise you on what special
precautions you may need to take
to take based on your medical
history and where you are
studying abroad in the country of
your choice. You may need to go
to a special travel health clinic to
get clear advice on medical care
abroad and what challenges you
may face.
The type of medical care available
will vary from country to country.
In some areas of the country of
your choice, medical care will
seem similar to the type of care
you find in the United States. In
others, finding an English–
speaking doctor or appropriate
medical facility might be difficult.
You should ask your program
sponsor whether he or she can
provide advice on available
medical care and support in the
country of your choice. It is also
important to find out about
medical care during group or
independent travel.
MEDICAL INSURANCE
Medical insurance is extremely
important and SPSU requires that
all students have adequate
insurance while studying abroad.
Please call your medical coverage
plan customer service number to
fully understand your benefits and
services while abroad. If you
suffer from a chronic or serious
physical condition, you should
consult with your physician before
you make the decision to study
abroad. We cannot guarantee the
same level of care that you receive
here in the U.S. while you are
abroad.
Be certain to talk to the Study
Abroad Coordinator for more
details.
OTHER INSURANCES
Other insurances to consider
purchasing in addition to Major
Medical are: Emergency
Evacuation, Legal
Assistance/Liability Insurance, Lost
Baggage/Property Insurance,
Motor Vehicle Coverage,
Kidnapping and Terrorism
Insurance, Repatriation of
Remains and Accidental Death and
Dismemberment/Life Insurance.
EURAIL PASS
A Eurail pass is available from
most travel agencies and CANNOT
be purchased abroad. A Eurail
pass allows you to experience the
best of Europe if that is where you
will be staying. Comfortable trains
take you to the city center. For
more information, visit
http://www.eurail.com/eurail-
passes
VACCINATIONS
You may not be allowed to enter
a country if you don’t have the
correct immunizations. You are
advised to check
with the Centers
for Disease
Control and
Prevention (CDC).
They provide information for
travelers, including health
information for specific
destinations and information on
outbreaks, vaccinations and safe
food and water.
AIRLINE TICKETS
You usually must have a round
trip ticket between the U.S. and
foreign destination. Make a
photocopy of your ticket (or e-

4. ticket). Keep backup copies
separate from the originals.
MEDICATIONS
To avoid problems when passing
through customs, keep medicines
in their original, labeled
containers. Bring copies of your
prescriptions and the generic
names for the drugs. If a
medication is unusual or contains
narcotics, carry a letter from your
doctor attesting to your need to
take the drug. If you have any
doubt about the legality of
carrying a certain drug into a
country, consult the embassy or
consulate of that country before
you travel.
MONEY
Bring one major credit card, an
ATM card and about $ 300 in cash
to be exchanged into the local
currency when you arrive.
Do not flash large amounts of
money when paying a bill. Make
sure your credit card is returned
to you after each transaction.
Deal only with authorized agents
when you exchange money, buy
airline tickets or purchase
souvenirs. Do not change money
on the black market.
CREDIT AND ATM
CARDS
Call your bank and credit card
company (s) before you depart
and notify them of the dates you
will be out of the country and
using your cards. Keep a list or a
copy of cards, account numbers,
PIN numbers, and emergency
replacement procedures.
EMBASSY
REGISTRATION
All students working abroad must
register online with the nearest
U.S. Embassy or Consulate or their
home country embassy before
departure or in person upon
arrival. This allows the embassy to
contact you in case of an
emergency. If you are a U.S.
Citizen, please go to TRAVEL
ABROAD REGISTRATION.
INTERNATIONAL ID
CARD
The ISIC Association's main
product is the ISIC card, the only
internationally accepted proof of
full-time student status. It is
endorsed by organizations such as
UNESCO, the European Council on
Culture and the Andean
Community of Nations. The card is
recognized by universities,
academic institutions, student
organizations, national
governments and ministries of
education around the world.
The ISIC card is used by over 4.5
million full-time students in 120
countries every year. It gives
students access to tens of
thousands of student services and
benefits worldwide. To apply for
an ISIC card, go to isic.org and
FAQ’s
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Cultural understanding and
interaction is becoming more and
more a part of our everyday lives.
This is especially true of the
corporate world where
multinational companies are
becoming the norm.
While you are abroad, know how
to ask for help in the native
language of the country and
know local emergency telephone
numbers. It’s also greatly

5. appreciated and helpful for you to
learn greetings and a few
expressions while you are there.
Rosetta Stone is available in
SPSU’s language lab located in the
J Bldg. Take advantage of this to
begin learning some basic phrases
and vocabulary of your host
country.
WHAT TO PACK
Mark all luggage inside and out
with your name and address.
Travel as lightly as possible. Use
covered luggage tags to avoid
casual observation of your
identity or nationality. If possible,
lock your luggage.
An internal frame backpack is the
easiest to carry. Any luggage
should have wheels.
DO NOT pack medications,
important documents or anything
that you could not do without in
your checked luggage!! Put them
in your carry-on bag.
CLOTHING
People in other countries tend to
dress a bit more formally than we
do in the U.S. Plan to take a
limited amount of clothing –
maybe one week’s worth. Take
comfortable shoes, appropriate
clothing for class, going out on the
town, and the climate of the
country you are visiting as well as
one dressy outfit for special
occasions.
ELECTRICAL CONVERTERS
The voltage of electricity and the
design of electrical outlets vary
from country to country. Here in
the U.S., it’s 110 volts with a two
prong outlet. In other countries it
can be 240 volts with a three
prong outlet. Some electrical
appliances you use in the U.S. may
not work in a different country.
This can include electric razors,
cell phone chargers, musical
devices, etc. Department stores,
travel agencies, and office supply
stores sell electricity converter kits
that will allow you to use your
110-volt appliance in another
country. For more information,
please visit rei.com
FIRST AID KIT
Be sure to pack a small first aid kit
with you and include anti-bacterial
cream, sunburn medication, cough
and cold remedies, aspirin,
antacid, Pepto-Bismol, Band Aids
insect repellant, a digital or
electronic thermometer (mercurial
ones cannot go through customs),
antacids and a mild laxative.
When you travel abroad, the odds
are you will have a safe and
incident-free trip. No one is better
able to tell you this than the U.S.
consular officers who work in
more than 250 U.S. embassies and
consulates around the globe.
Every day of the year, U.S.
embassies and consulates receive
calls from American citizens in
distress. To prevent this, consider
carrying the minimum number of
valuables.
If you wear glasses, pack an extra
pair. Pack them and any medicines
you need in your carry-on luggage.
Make two photocopies of your
passport identification page,
airline tickets, driver's license and
the credit cards that you plan to
bring with you. Leave one
photocopy of this data with family
or friends at home; pack the other
in a place separate from where
you carry the originals.
Please go to Travel.state.gov for
detailed tips on safety on the
street, in your hotel, on public
Safety Abroad

6. transportation and when you
drive.
AVOIDING LEGAL
DIFFICULTIES
Not knowing the local laws can
get you into serious trouble. Be
aware of the drug and alcohol
laws of your host country. More
than one-third of U.S. citizens
incarcerated abroad are held on
drug charges. Some countries do
not distinguish between
possession and trafficking, and
many have mandatory sentences
– even for possession of a small
amount of marijuana or cocaine.
A number of Americans have been
arrested for possessing
prescription drugs, particularly
tranquilizers and amphetamines
that they purchased legally
elsewhere.
Some students find that they are
of a legal drinking age in their host
country. Students who are of a
legal age and choose to consume
alcohol should do so with the
knowledge that, like at home, they
remain responsible for their
actions at all times and are
expected to drink responsibly.
Excessive and irresponsible
drinking leading to intoxication
and behavior that interferes with
the program or the rights of
others is subject to immediate
disciplinary action, and may result
in dismissal from the program.
Note that the health insurance
typically does not cover any
injuries that occur while you are
under the influence of alcohol,
intoxicants or any drug not
prescribed by a physician. In
addition, intoxication is
considered offensive in many
cultures and even illegal in some.
Please click on Students Abroad
link from the State Department
and thoroughly read the
recommendations given.
TAKING PICTURES
Ask permission when in doubt
before taking pictures!! In many
countries, it is ILLEGAL to
photograph government
buildings, police and military
personnel, border areas and
transportation facilities.
SEXUAL ASSAULT
Students participating in a study
abroad program are bound by the
policies contained in the Student
Handbook pages 9-10. Be sure to
review this before you depart.
RELATIONSHIPS ABROAD
The "rules" of dating will vary from
culture to culture. Your behavior
in some situations may be viewed
differently than if you behaved the
exact same way at home. For
example, accepting a drink that
someone buys you in certain
countries may come with more
social obligations than it would in
America. In the United States
many people believe that it is
possible for a non-sexual
relationship (i.e. friendship,
companionship) to exist between
men and women. However in
many other cultures this belief can
be just the opposite; stated simply
it is difficult or impossible for non-
sexual relationships to exist
between men and women. It is
important that you be aware of
your behavior and inform yourself
as best as possible about how
dating and relationships generally
function in your host culture. This
knowledge will help you to better
identify and act in situations that
make you uncomfortable either
physically or psychologically.
INSURANCE
MENTAL HEALTH
Health
Concerns

7. Before traveling, create a
workable plan for managing your
mental health while abroad. The
availability and quality of mental
health services differ widely from
country to country. In many
countries, students will find it
difficult — and sometimes
impossible — to find treatment for
mental health conditions. With
your health services provider or
your school, put together a
workable mental health plan
before you go overseas.
If you have a medical or
psychological condition that may
require treatment while you are
abroad, discuss this ahead of time
with your doctor. A vacation or
work abroad is a great opportunity
to try new things but this is not
the time to experiment with not
taking your medicine or mixing
alcohol with medicine.
Research the social culture of your
destination to learn about how
mental illnesses are viewed.
Attitudes toward mental health
can greatly vary between
countries.
If you are studying abroad through
your university, talk to your
university about access to mental
health services at overseas
programs. Your work abroad office
can help you decide what program
would be best for you.
If currently receiving mental
health services — including
prescription medication — find
out if those services and/or
medication are available at your
destination.
Consider the support system you’ll
have in place while abroad. If
possible, know ahead of time who
you can consult with about your
mental health.
INTERNATIONAL
DRIVER’S LICENSE
We do not recommend that
students drive when they are
abroad. It is estimated that more
than 200 U.S. citizens die each
year because of road accidents
abroad. We’re not trying to scare
you, but it is important to be
aware of the rules of the road in
the country you’re visiting.
If you choose to drive while
abroad, make sure you obtain an
International Driving Permit (IDP)
before you go. Many countries
don’t recognize U.S. Driver’s
licenses, but IDP’s are honored in
more than 150 countries outside
the U.S. An IDP is not intended to
replace a valid U.S. State license
and should only be used as a
supplement to a valid license.
Before departure you can obtain
An IDP at a local office of one of
two of the automobile
associations authorized by the U.S.
Department of State: the
American Automobile Association
and the American Automobile
Touring Alliance.
INTERNATIONAL
YOUTH HOSTEL
MEMBERSHIP CARD
Your National Association or
Hostelling International (HI)
Membership card not only opens
the door to the world’s largest
network of safe, clean and
welcoming hostels, but in many HI
hostels, being a member now
gives you at least a 10% saving on
the cost of your accommodation -
just one of the great reasons to
become a member! In some
countries membership is
compulsory if you wish to stay in
HI hostels listed on this site.
STAYING CONNECTED
WHILE ABROAD
GETTING
AROUND
ABOUT

8. CALLING THE U.S.
When calling the United States
from another country, it is
necessary to dial U.S. Code 00 + 1
and then the area code and
number. TOLL FREE NUMBERS –
800 AND 888 NUMBERS DO NOT
WORK ABROAD.
CELL PHONES
Check with your cell phone
company before you leave to see
if your phone will work overseas
and what the cost is. Also, many,
many countries have call centers
which can be used to make
overseas calls - a lot cheaper than
using the regular cell phone signal.
EMAIL
Even though you will be abroad,
you are responsible for checking
your SPSU account email at all
times.
SKYPE
You may also use Skype to make
international calls, but in some
countries the 3G/4G signal is not
such that it will work with SKYPE,
so it may still be necessary to use
a different method.
INTERNATIONAL CALLING
CARD
Consider bringing an international
calling card to make phone calls.
It is a convenient and inexpensive
way of keeping in touch. You can
even purchase one before you
depart and then call your loved
ones to let them know you arrived
safely.
TRAVEL TIPS
JET LAG
Water - Drink lots of it- The
humidity on flights is literally
desert-like. Lack of proper
hydration is thought to contribute
to jet lag.
Less caffeine, fewer stimulants -
Going on the adage less is more,
keeping your body from getting
over-stimulated, or at times that
aren't in synchrony with the time
zone you are traveling to, may
help stave off the lag.
Less alcohol - Effects are stronger
in flight, which tends to
dehydrate.
Eat lighter - Cabin pressure is set
at a higher altitude than most
locations on earth, so you may
feel more bloated from heavier
meals, or more lethargic. On
longer flights, try not to eat out of
boredom which is easy to do when
your flight is more than 6 hours
long.
Sleep - Try and get a restful sleep
pre-flying. This is one I find hard to
follow, the blend of anxiety and
anticipation usually equal
insomnia for me.
Adjust your watch - Set your
watch to the time at your
destination after you get on
board, and get your mind set into
the time zone of your arrival.
Move it - Move around during the
flight to keep circulation going -
stretch, rotate your hands and
ankles. Even small amounts of
exercise are believed to lessen the
effects of jet lag.
Adjust your sleep / wake cycle - If
it is daytime at your destination
when you arrive, try and stay
awake until nighttime there and
then get a good night's sleep to
reset your clock. Try and follow
the time pattern of your
destination - if it is night there,
sleep, if not, stay awake.
Go outdoors - Get outside when
you arrive - It may help reset your
internal time clock faster if you
experience the time of day at your
destination as soon as possible.
Pace yourself - Give yourself time
to adjust and try not to plan
anything too strenuous on the day
you arrive.

9. Plan ahead - Start changing your
schedule a few days before you
travel to prep you for the time
changes to come. If your
destination is 8 hours ahead of
your usual time, try going to sleep
earlier several days before, and
also adjust your meal times. Again,
I find this one hard to follow, but
have heard of some success with
it.
LEARNING ABOUT YOUR
HOST COUNTRY
One of the most important things
you can do is get to know your
prospective host country. Learn as
much as you can. Read not only
travel guides, but also histories of
the country you'll be going to or
biographies of its prominent
citizens. Read some classics or
contemporary literature from your
destination. Look for English
language news sources from your
host country on-line. See some of
its most influential or recent
films. Find a cookbook and try
cooking the national dish! For
more tips on getting to know your
host country, click on: Host
Country
CROSS-CULTURAL
ADJUSTMENT
Most people who move between
cultures (for study, work, tourism,
or to take up a new permanent
residence) experience a period of
adjustment as they establish
themselves in their new
environment. The adjustment
period may be accompanied by
dramatic manifestations of
symptoms such as anxiety,
headaches, digestive problems,
and sleep disorders, or may bring
less severe symptoms such as
discomfort and a more volatile
temperament. Research shows
that most people who travel
outside their home culture
experience cultural adjustment in
similar ways which, when charted,
have come to be known as The U
Curve of Cultural Adaptation. It is
called a "U Curve" because people
generally start at a high point,
then experience a decline, or
depression, before a leveling off
period, then go through a critical
"recovery" stage and end up more
or less balanced, where they
began.
However, please remember
everyone is different!! Therefore
the symptoms and stages of
culture shock described below are
no way complete or universal.
Some people find cultural
differences interesting and
stimulating, and they want more!
Others, when experiencing
discomfort or confusion, have a
tendency to judge or evaluate
other people and to reach
negative conclusions. The
symptoms and stages of culture
shock are surely the first type of
person has the greater possibility
to gain the most benefit from his
or her stay in a host culture.
ANTI-AMERICANISM
ABROAD
When working abroad, many
students are unprepared for the
experience of negative opinions
about Americans and their
government, history or culture.
Anti-Americanism is a reality in
many countries and has existed
since before the Cold War, but it
often takes students by surprise.
Most anti-American opinions are
just that: individual opinions
about American politics or
culture. These usually are based
on current events, stereotypes,
the media or experiences with
other Americans. Occasionally,
classmates or even total strangers
may deride all American people or
you personally, either for the
purpose of irritating you, or out of
prejudice or ignorance.
Regardless of the nature of a

10. person’s statements, understand
that anti-American attitudes are
not by themselves a threat to your
personal safety. Even a classroom
debate or anti-American campus
rally, both of which can be
understandably intimidating, are
considered legitimate components
of the learning process in many
countries and are not intended to
threaten you physically. Before
going abroad, brush up on
American political and cultural
history, and learn the reasons
behind U.S. foreign policies. This
kind of knowledge will allow you
to participate in conversations
and debates without feeling
helpless or personally attacked.
CAREER PLANNING
On Your Resume
Whatever you decide to do, don’t
forget to include your study
abroad experience on your
resumé. Study abroad is a sign of
intercultural competence that is
appealing to potential employers
and graduate schools alike in our
increasingly interdependent
society. When including study
abroad in your résumé, think
about the skills you gained and
what you learned while abroad.
Did you become proficient in a
language? Did you gain research
experience through conducting an
independent study project? Have
you become well versed in some
aspect of your host country’s
culture? Remember that you must
make the connection to the actual
skills you gained through the
experiences you had—it won’t
always be obvious to an employer.
In Your Cover Letter
Use your cover letter to tell the
employer more about you. You
can refer to your experiences
abroad to highlight specific traits
or skills. For example, if an
employer is seeking a candidate
who is flexible and able to work
with all types of people, use your
experience abroad to illustrate
these qualities. For example: “My
experience taking classes in
Germany has enhanced my ability
to communicate and interact
effectively with a population that
is different from here in U.S.” Call
upon your experience to provide
descriptive, yet brief examples to
illustrate your point.
There is more power behind
statements supported by an
example. It’s one thing to say that
you are flexible, but it has much
greater validity if you explain why
or how.
IN THE CLASSROOM
Living abroad will be a life
changing experience. Realize that
the educational culture in
another country is to a great
extent a reflection of the national
culture. You may experience
classroom culture that is different
in comparison with what you
would experience in the United
States. It may be more formal,
with students referring faculty as
Dr. or Professor only. The United
States is often viewed as casual
and informal. It is extremely
important to follow the local
customs and culture in your host
country.
There will presumably be things
that you do not like about how a
different culture works. Note
these and note why you don’t like
them. But don’t forget also to
note aspects of this culture that
you do appreciate and would like
to implement in your career
moving forward
When talking with professors and
classmates, understand that
communication styles vary. In
some cultures (e.g., Asian), it’s
important not to confront others
too directly. Showing great
respect and allowing others to
“save face” are issues requiring
sensitivity.
Get clear on the objectives and
training planned for the semester.
Be sure you understand how and

11. when your class work will be
evaluated. Beyond the necessary
technical, language, and
interpersonal skills that are
required for success, remember to
be flexible, patient, and open-
minded. Observe with some
detachment, don’t be reeled in by
unrealistic expectations, and try to
reflect on what you’re learning.
FOR PARENTS
Studying abroad is an incredible
experience that will most likely be
a life changing event for your
student. As a parent, it is natural
to have apprehension about
sending your student across the
globe to go to school. But the
experience of studying abroad is
more than just studying; students
learn about:
-Themselves
-The culture of where they are
staying
-Their own culture
-How to handle new situations
-Team work and adaptability
-The possibilities available to
them
It is rare to find a student who
comes back after studying abroad
who has not been changed by
their experience, even more rare
to find a student who did not
enjoy their experience.
But studying abroad is not
something that can be done
quickly; it takes planning and time
to make it a reality. Students will
need to plan out their academics,
finances, and even make sure
their affairs are taken care of in
the US. It is very difficult for a
student to prepare for this life
changing experience if they do not
have the support of their family.
Parents are welcome to attend the
Study Abroad Orientation to have
their specific questions answered.
RECOMMENDED
RESOURCES
When Cultures Collide by Richard
D. Lewis, 3rd
Edition
StudentsAbroad.com
GlobalScholar.us
StudyAbroad.com
DiversityAbroad.com
CDC Traveler’s Health
Rosetta Stone
U.S. Customs
CIA World Factbook
What’s Up with Culture
www.pacific.edu/sis/culture
Keep your hands to yourself
www.getcustoms.com
Rick Steve’s Europe through the
Back Door
www.ricksteves.com

12.  Insect repellen
 Chargers for electronic
devices
Miscellaneous
 Music player/kindle
 iPad
 Favorite snacks
 Small flashlight
 Sewing kit
 Luggage locks and tags
 Umbrella
 Sunglasses
 Power strip so you on-
ly have to purchase one
converter (if you plan to
bring several items that
require plug-in to an
electrical outlet)
 Your advisor’s e-mail
address and cell #
 Water bottle
 Visor or brimmed hat
 Batteries
 Flash drive/Memory
stick
 Small bungee cord
 Pictures of family and
friends in the States for
your apt./room
Essentials and Documents
 Passport/visa
 Plane/train tickets
 Medical insurance card
(confirm your coverage be-
fore traveling abroad)
 Student ID and ISIC
 Photocopies of your pass-
port/visa
 Travel documents packed in
a different location from the
original documents
 Emergency contact infor-
mation
 Hostel membership card
 Money belt/neck wallet
 $300 of local currency
 Credit card/ATM card/debit
card
 International phone cards
and access numbers usable
in host country
 Backpack (with internal
frame)/
 Book bag
 Camera, batteries/charger
and memory card
 A small gift for your host
family, if applicable
 Electricity converter and
adapter kit
 Map of host city
Medicines and Toiletries
Keep in mind that toiletries
can be purchased overseas.
 Prescription medications
 Copies of prescriptions,
including eyeglass pre-
scriptions
 Toothbrush/toothpaste
 Comb/brush
 Dental floss
 Deodorant
 Lotion
 Cosmetics
 Fingernail clippers
 Hair products
 Shaving cream
 Hairdryer
 Feminine hygiene
products
 Cold medicine
 Contact lens products
 Diarrhea medicine
 Laxative
 Sunscreen
 Antibiotic cream
 Vitamins
Southern Polytechnic State University—Career Center
Study Abroad
Packing List
Clothes and Accessories
 Long pants
 Women: skirts
 Women: dress/dress
slacks
 Swim suit
 T-shirts
 Business casual tops
 Casual dress blouses/
shirts
 Cardigan/Lightweight
jacket
 Business suit (2)
 Underwear and socks
for at least a week
 Shoes (walking, dress,
flip flops, sandals, etc)
 Bath towels/washcloths
 Belts
 Hat

13. 800
1200
1600
2000
400
800
1200
1600
2000
400
800
1200
1600
2000
400
800
1200
1600
2000
400
800
1200
1600
2000
400
First Things
First
What to
Pack
Health and
Safety
I’m Here,
Now What?
Other
Stuff

14. True or False?
You get the flu while abroad and need to see a
doctor. Your health insurance benefits are the
same overseas as they are here in the U.S., so
there is no problem.

15. False!
You must call your health
insurance provider before
you depart to determine
if you have coverage and
if so, what it is while you
are overseas.
You may need to purchase
additional insurance
depending on your
destination.

16. Name at least three things you need to know
about your host country before you arrive.
Daily Double!

17. Subjective Culture
(Invisible to others)
1) Know which non–verbal behaviors are
considered inappropriate/rude and which are
commonly used (certain hand gestures, greeting by
bowing, kissing or shaking hands, etc.).
2) Some current events
as well as some history
3) Know the laws
4) What sites you
REALLY want to see
5) What culture shock is

18. True or False?
As long as you have your passport to prove
your identity, you should have no problems
using your ATM card or credit card
overseas.

19. False
You must call your bank and credit card
companies before you leave the U.S.
and notify them of your travel itinerary.

20. You plan to use your
phone overseas to
text friends and
upload photos to
What do you need to
do first?

21. .
Call your cell phone carrier and ask
about their international call plans
AND the cost associated with each.

22. True/False
There is no need to know the language of
the country you are visiting. English is a
universal language.

23. False!!
At the very least, you should know
how to ask for help, say you are
sick, ask for someone who can
speak English, etc.
Having a very basic command of
the language will help YOU feel
less isolated. Also, attempts to
speak the language are usually
met with much gratitude.

24. Since stealing
passports is big
business overseas,
what is the best way
to safely carry your
passport and your
money?

25. A money belt.
Can be purchased
at…

26. Name three items you will want to pack
in your carry-on luggage.
Daily Double!

27.  Passport
 Visa
 Tickets
 Money
 Returning plan tickets
 Prescription medication
 Glasses and contacts
 Other official documentation
 Anything else you cannot live
without

28. You want to experience night life in the country
you are visiting. You head out to dinner wearing
jeans and a polo. This should be okay.

29. Other countries tend to
dress a bit more formally
than we do in the U.S.
Many restaurants will not
allow you to dine in their
restaurant if you are
wearing jeans.

30. Name two reasons why it is important to
pack lightly for your trip abroad.

31. 1) So you will have room to pack things you will
buy (souvenirs, clothing and gifts, etc.) while
abroad
2) You don’t want to have to carry heavy
luggage with you

32. What is the electrical
currency voltage in
the U.S?
a. 110 v
b. 220 v
c. 280 v
d. 300 v

33. • 110 volts in the U.S.
• 220 volts in Europe
• You will need a currency
converter and an adapter
• Some electronic devices
have 110/220 voltage
• Can be purchased at…

34. True or False
You are studying abroad in Spain and
having a wonderful time. You happen to
witness a crime and need to call the
police. Calling 911 for help is universal.

35. False!
Most countries have
their own emergency
contact number(s).
Program that number
into your cell phone
before you leave the
U.S.
Spain – 112
Germany
-112 Ambulance
-110 is police
Kenya - 999
China
-120 ambulance
-119 fire
-110 police
-122 traffic accident

36. Daily Double!
International travel is stressful. Given the stressors
of travel, preexisting psychiatric disorders can
recur, and latent, undiagnosed problems can
become apparent for the first time. What are
three elements of a workable plan
to have in place before you depart?

37. 1. If you have a psychological condition that may require treatment
while you are abroad, discuss this ahead of time with your doctor.
Study abroad is a great opportunity to try new things but this is
not the time to experiment with not taking your medicine or
mixing alcohol with medicine.
2. Research the social culture of your destination to learn about
how mental illnesses are viewed. Attitudes toward mental health
can greatly vary between countries.
3. If you are studying abroad through your university, talk to your
university about access to mental health services at overseas
programs.
4. If currently receiving mental health services — including
prescription medication — find out if those services and/or
medication are available at your destination.
5. Consider the support system you’ll have in place while abroad, if
possible.

38. A person needs to pack their ADD meds and a
pain killer that contains a narcotic. In addition
to carrying the medications in their original
containers, what else do they need to bring so
they have no trouble going through Customs?

39. A letter from their
doctor that stating
that they need to
take the drugs.
The letter must list
the brand name
and generic name
of each drug.

40. You want to explore some night
clubs in you new country and
have read online about some that
look fun. Who else should you
ask for recommendations?

41. The staff at the hostel or place you are staying.
Be sure to ask about the cost as well and for
places that are student-oriented.
The internet is a great resource but does not
tell the whole story.

42. The concept of non-sexual male and
female friendship is universal.
Daily Double!

43. No!
That is predominately an
American idea.
Accepting a drink that
someone buys you in certain
countries may come with more
social obligations than it
would here.
In some cultures, a woman
allowing a man into her
apartment or home is the
same as allowing him
“into her body.”

44. True or False
Now that you are
here in your host
country, it’s a good
time to decide how
you will coordinate
communicating with
both your group and
group leader

45. Now is the ideal time!
Emergency study abroad number
Group leaders number
Hotel number
Others???

46. True or False?
Because you are
an American,
breaking the law
abroad isn’t a big
deal.

47. You must know about alcohol
consumption laws, public drunkenness,
drug use, drug smuggling, etc.

48. A popular way to
“journal” your
study abroad
adventures is…

49. Studyabroad.com
offers a free blogs for
current study abroad
students to share their
adventures with other
study abroad hopefuls
who visit the site.
Email
blog@studyabroad.com

50. The name of the identification card that
identifies you as a full-time student and
provides you with discounts on
cultural attractions.

51. International Student Identity Card
The ISIC is the only internationally accepted
proof of full-time student status. It is endorsed
by organizations such as UNESCO.
The ISIC is extremely popular and is used by
more than 4.5 million full-time students in 120
countries every year. It gives students access to
tens of thousands of student services and
benefits worldwide.
As a study abroad student, you will get
discounts and services on flights and public
transportation as well as discounts related to
museums, shopping and entertainment. It may
also save you money when booking trains,
buses, shuttle services etc. as you travel
throughout your study abroad trip.

52. True or False?
Your study abroad experience is
something of interest to a
potential employer

53. True!
Include your study abroad
experience(s) on your resume and
meet with a Career Services staff
member who understands the value of
education abroad to have your resume
critiqued.
Skills Gained from Study
Abroad
•Independence/Self-reliance
•Self-confidence
•Flexibility
•Perseverance
•Ability to cope with stress and
rejection
•Inquisitiveness
•Awareness of lifestyle choices
and global consequences
•Adaptability to new environments
•Appreciation for diversity
•Ability to establish rapport
quickly
•Open-mindedness
•Understanding and appreciation
of other perspectives
•Suspend judgment about people
and their actions
•Concern/knowledge of
international issues and politics
•Learn quickly
•Handle difficult situations
•Critical thinking skills
•Function with a high level of
ambiguity
•Achieve goals despite obstacles
•Take initiatives and risks
•Communicate despite barriers
•Learn through listening and
observing

54. Name two ways to help you finance
your study abroad experience

55. Raising $$$ for Study Abroad
• Write fundraising
letters to family
• Part-time job
• Fundraising Party
• Financial Aid
• Scholarships
• Get a Piggy Bank
• Other Ideas

56. What would you do?
Scenario – Sick in Rome

58. You have lost your passport while you are
overseas. What do you do?
Daily Double!

59. Contact or visit the local
U.S. embassy or
consulate immediately
and ask the American
Citizens Services (ACS)
unit to report the
loss/theft.

60. In other countries, the police have
the same powers as they do
here in the U.S.

61. No!
In other countries the police are very
powerful. They can impose a steep fine,
send you directly to the airport to return to
your home country or worse.
Be certain to know and obey local laws at
all times!

62. Now that you made your way back to American soil,
the first thing you will probably want to do is relax
after the long flight/s home. Once you've readjusted to
the time zone and fought off the lingering effects of
jetlag, you will likely be very eager to answer all of your
friends and family's number one question: How will
you tell your story?

63. Sharing Your Study Abroad Experience – High Tech and Low
Tech Options
• Produce a movie: Upload all of your pictures while recording your voice to narrate the significance of each
picture. This is a great way to sit your friends and family down to watch a fun video of the life you lived for
time you were abroad!
• Create a scrapbook: Take a trip to your local arts and crafts store and pick up some crafty items for you to
create a scrapbook of your trip abroad. Include pictures, objects that you brought home with your most
memorable quotes from the trip. You can also create a scrapbook online by easily assembling your desired
pictures without having to purchase any arts or crafts. This is a great way to let your book tell your story.
• Put together a photo album: When you buy a photo album you can place all of your pictures in chronological
order from your first day abroad till the very last day before departure. Tell your story while you flip through
the pictures so the listeners can really get a taste of your experience.
• Make a collage: Out of all of your photos, pick some of your favorites and assemble them in a large picture
frame. Once your collage looks perfect it is time to hang your amazing frame for display!
• Develop a slideshow: A slideshow is a great way to put your pictures on a disc and explain to each listener
what the significance of each picture means.
• Make a calendar: There are different applications on computers or you can download a free trial online to
make a calendar for yourself. This is a great way to document your trip and keep you most
memorable pictures as you flip through the pages of the year.

64. Jill F. Forest
Associate Director, Career Services
Southern Polytechnic State University
NAFSA Academy Class 10
Jforest@spsu.edu
Linkedin.com/in/jillforest

65. Study Abroad Jeopardy Game
Currently our university only has a couple of short-term study abroad trips that are done
annually and until now there has been no orientation provided for students. This game, booklet
and packing list are the first orientation materials to be created for SPSU.
Students planning to go abroad will be required to read the study abroad booklet before
coming to the study abroad orientation. I designed it in a colorful, three-column format so
students will be more likely to read the material.
Students will be told that by reading in advance they will be able to correctly answer questions
and be eligible to win prizes related to their trip for correctly answered Daily Double questions.
Daily Double prizes will be; a money belt, an electrical currency converter, an international
calling card, a country guide and a gift card to a travel store such as Mori Luggage store. They
will win smaller prizes for other questions answered correctly like ear plugs, luggage tags, a
neck pillow, candy, etc.
Rules of the Game
The first student to stand may select any category or any dollar amount. If they answer
correctly, they will receive a prize. They may ask for help from their peers if they are stumped.
If they answer incorrectly, the next person to stand can attempt to answer the question and
will win the prize if correct.
The goal of the game is to review materials they have read and to have students interact with
the material so they will retain more information. Students will have a short break once half of
the questions are answered.
At the end of the game, students will be grouped into two’s and will have to do a short research
assignment together on the country they are visiting. Topics will include: foods, popular
phrases and greetings, recent history, taboo topics, local laws (driving, drinking, etc.) They will
present this information to their peers at the next orientation meeting which will be at a local
restaurant.