Study abroad travel experiences?
Nov 16th, 2005, 09:20 AM
#21
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Maureen, you got some great enthusiastic endorsements of study abroad programs. While you don't care for the parenting advice, Bluehour has some valid points. A year in a foreign environment (particularly if another language is involved) takes a certain kind of kid. It's not for the timid. And when your student gets there, he/she will have to make a lot of independent decisions. So this has to be something they are passionate about. The more research they do, the better they'll succeed.
But that's not to say that the parent doesn't need to do plenty of research and feel good about this adventure your offspring is embarking on. The good news is that it is so much easier now than it was a dozen years ago. The internet makes keeping in touch so easy. I used 10 10 987 to call my student very inexpensively (compared to the phone bills I had in the 90's when my highschoolers were abroad). You can use Skype to talk to your student free online! One of my daughters kept an online blog to keep everyone at home up to date on her activites.
Now can I tell you my tiny pet peeve? Please stop trashing Summit County.
But that's not to say that the parent doesn't need to do plenty of research and feel good about this adventure your offspring is embarking on. The good news is that it is so much easier now than it was a dozen years ago. The internet makes keeping in touch so easy. I used 10 10 987 to call my student very inexpensively (compared to the phone bills I had in the 90's when my highschoolers were abroad). You can use Skype to talk to your student free online! One of my daughters kept an online blog to keep everyone at home up to date on her activites.
Now can I tell you my tiny pet peeve? Please stop trashing Summit County.
Nov 16th, 2005, 09:34 AM
#22
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Sorry, Catbert, I didn't mean to "trash" Summit County. We have lots of friends who have places there, and we even have Copper/Winter Park SuperPasses. It's just not my favorite spot, along with Vail. To each her own.
Getting back to topic-- I'm interested in study abroad travel tips and experiences-- not whether or not it's a good idea for everyone. Of course, it's a personal choice.
Is 10 10 987 still a current phone technique? Or is it possible to re-fit a Sprint phone for use in Europe? What is the easiest way to call to and from? How do you use Skype?
If you take your own laptop, I assume you connect to the school's system for access to the 'net?
Get ISIC card or not?
Sorry it's boring, but these nuts 'n' bolts questions are what I'm asking.
Getting back to topic-- I'm interested in study abroad travel tips and experiences-- not whether or not it's a good idea for everyone. Of course, it's a personal choice.
Is 10 10 987 still a current phone technique? Or is it possible to re-fit a Sprint phone for use in Europe? What is the easiest way to call to and from? How do you use Skype?
If you take your own laptop, I assume you connect to the school's system for access to the 'net?
Get ISIC card or not?
Sorry it's boring, but these nuts 'n' bolts questions are what I'm asking.
Nov 16th, 2005, 10:04 AM
#23
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MaureenB- Thanks for the clarification. I thought the ISIC card was worth it, but maybe others will disagree. A rhetorical question - why isn't your daughter doing this "nuts and bolts" research? She should check in with the study abroad office and talk to students who have went. These questions and even those that she hasn't anticipated will be answered.
Nov 16th, 2005, 10:08 AM
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Bluehour, I thoroughly enjoyed your post - as a college student and someone who has never traveled abroad, I found it refreshing and encouraging ... I'm 25, and I'm saving my student loans from the upcoming semester to backpack ALONE for 6 weeks across Western Europe. I'm somewhat scared, yet I'm looking forward to learning things about myself
Nov 16th, 2005, 10:10 AM
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Oops, I accidentally clicked on 'post my reply' before I was done!
Anyway, I just wanted to say thanks for your post, Bluehour ... Certainly, no one has a monopoly on what can and can not be included in one's post.
Anyway, I just wanted to say thanks for your post, Bluehour ... Certainly, no one has a monopoly on what can and can not be included in one's post.
Nov 16th, 2005, 10:30 AM
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No problem. It's just that I live here and I love it.
Check out www.1010987.com It will tell you where it's applicable. Also, note that it's NOT applicable for all cell phone numbers. My daughter did not bring her cell phone but got one there. Her program helped her walk through all of that. She also did not bring a laptop, although there were those who did. You will want to keep in mind that they need adaptors to work in other countries. There were planty of internet access places at her University (free) as well as internet cafes that she popped into from time to time.
For Skype, www.skype.com will walk you through the free download. It's like yahoo messenger (which also works this way). All you need is a microphone.
I agree with the others. The year is the way to go. It takes that long to adjust to the differences and feel like a local. Do you have an idea about what country your daughter is interested in?
Cheers from snow country, where weve had 3 feet in the last week. And it's miles to a fast food joint.
Check out www.1010987.com It will tell you where it's applicable. Also, note that it's NOT applicable for all cell phone numbers. My daughter did not bring her cell phone but got one there. Her program helped her walk through all of that. She also did not bring a laptop, although there were those who did. You will want to keep in mind that they need adaptors to work in other countries. There were planty of internet access places at her University (free) as well as internet cafes that she popped into from time to time.
For Skype, www.skype.com will walk you through the free download. It's like yahoo messenger (which also works this way). All you need is a microphone.
I agree with the others. The year is the way to go. It takes that long to adjust to the differences and feel like a local. Do you have an idea about what country your daughter is interested in?
Cheers from snow country, where weve had 3 feet in the last week. And it's miles to a fast food joint.
Nov 16th, 2005, 11:30 AM
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Thanks for the resources, Catbert. I'll look into them. The communications piece of it has been slightly puzzling to me.
She's probably going to Florence, to her own school's Villa Spelman, which is a one semester program.
I'm researching the details for my own enlightenment. I can't help being a journalist at heart, and gathering my own info.
She is asking her questions of her resources, attending meetings, talking with students, etc., and making her choices.
And, cheers from snow country is right! Have you ever seen so much snow this early in the season? I don't remember I-70 being CLOSED from Floyd Hill to Vail, do you? I'm glad my husband and son drove up and down on Sunday, before the storm raged. Should be good conditions for Thanksgiving, hurray! Don't we love Colorado?? (Shhh, don't tell anyone else.)
She's probably going to Florence, to her own school's Villa Spelman, which is a one semester program.
I'm researching the details for my own enlightenment. I can't help being a journalist at heart, and gathering my own info.
She is asking her questions of her resources, attending meetings, talking with students, etc., and making her choices.
And, cheers from snow country is right! Have you ever seen so much snow this early in the season? I don't remember I-70 being CLOSED from Floyd Hill to Vail, do you? I'm glad my husband and son drove up and down on Sunday, before the storm raged. Should be good conditions for Thanksgiving, hurray! Don't we love Colorado?? (Shhh, don't tell anyone else.)
Nov 16th, 2005, 03:23 PM
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Many have already posted my sentiments regarding study abroad. There is no substitute for the learning that takes place in such environments.
I wanted to suggest that you talk to the university and get in writing what credit will be received for classes that are taught abroad. I've had good and bad experience with this. When the program was specifically through the university I was attending, no problems. I knew without a doubt which credits I would be receiving. One of my study abroad trips was through a university I wasn't attending. I had trouble having my "home campus" give suitable credit for the work done. Prior to the trip I was told one thing. When I returned, the answer was different. Either way, I'm still glad I went.
I wanted to suggest that you talk to the university and get in writing what credit will be received for classes that are taught abroad. I've had good and bad experience with this. When the program was specifically through the university I was attending, no problems. I knew without a doubt which credits I would be receiving. One of my study abroad trips was through a university I wasn't attending. I had trouble having my "home campus" give suitable credit for the work done. Prior to the trip I was told one thing. When I returned, the answer was different. Either way, I'm still glad I went.
Nov 16th, 2005, 05:29 PM
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moldyhotelsaregross-- that's really a pain. Thanks for the heads up. You'd never think you'd need it in writing, would you?
We won't run into that particular problem, since the program is her own school's. This way she gets the GPA, as well as the credit. With other programs, she'd only get the credit.
We won't run into that particular problem, since the program is her own school's. This way she gets the GPA, as well as the credit. With other programs, she'd only get the credit.
Nov 16th, 2005, 06:49 PM
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Here is a similar post, initially asked about study abroad in Spain but covers some other issues:
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34701122
The question about the cell phones.... at this point in your/her research, is that really a priority? Part of the experience is to learn to use the local phone system and other aspects of daily living, from the negative (mail strikes) to the positive (open air markets).
Generally, I would discourage too much talking and emailing to people "back home" and more encouraging the student to take part in campus activities. I did a semester abroad, and I talked to my family 3 times the entire time.
My mom didn't lead my study-abroad search; it was all me, and definitely part of the learning experience. After a lot of delays on the college's part, Mom finally contacted them about a financial issue, but she otherwise read the things I showed her and asked questions.
Finally, many students travel the summer before or summer after their studies. I would suggest the summer after. They'll start off with an official welcome and beginning to their trip. Perhaps with a group flight, or orientation, or a homestay. Then it's to university or college, where the school structure is familiar. Most importantly, they will make friends they can later travel with, and time to figure out what they want to see.
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34701122
The question about the cell phones.... at this point in your/her research, is that really a priority? Part of the experience is to learn to use the local phone system and other aspects of daily living, from the negative (mail strikes) to the positive (open air markets).
Generally, I would discourage too much talking and emailing to people "back home" and more encouraging the student to take part in campus activities. I did a semester abroad, and I talked to my family 3 times the entire time.
My mom didn't lead my study-abroad search; it was all me, and definitely part of the learning experience. After a lot of delays on the college's part, Mom finally contacted them about a financial issue, but she otherwise read the things I showed her and asked questions.
Finally, many students travel the summer before or summer after their studies. I would suggest the summer after. They'll start off with an official welcome and beginning to their trip. Perhaps with a group flight, or orientation, or a homestay. Then it's to university or college, where the school structure is familiar. Most importantly, they will make friends they can later travel with, and time to figure out what they want to see.
Nov 16th, 2005, 07:14 PM
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I am not leading the process. As I said, I am doing my own research on study abroad. Please don't make assumptions that because one person asks questions, the other person doesn't do anything. Not true. She's on the other side of the country, doing her own work on it and making her own decisions.
I am investigating it on my own, for several reasons. Again, as I have already said, as a journalist, I see a story in everything, or a potential business venture.
So, if we could just discuss the information and not color it with judgement, it would be helpful. For example, re: information on cell phones, if that's the question, rather than saying why that's not a good idea. I'm looking for information, not advice.
Thanks again for everyone's help.
I am investigating it on my own, for several reasons. Again, as I have already said, as a journalist, I see a story in everything, or a potential business venture.
So, if we could just discuss the information and not color it with judgement, it would be helpful. For example, re: information on cell phones, if that's the question, rather than saying why that's not a good idea. I'm looking for information, not advice.
Thanks again for everyone's help.
Nov 16th, 2005, 07:44 PM
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No, it's not advice. It's an opinion based on actual experience. Students who were the most homesick called home the most.
This forum is simply that -- a forum. When you ask a question you get all kinds of answers, and some of them may not be useful to you. I'm sorry mine wasn't, but your response was rude. You may get away with that approach as an interviewing technique; however, this is meant to be a community.
This forum is simply that -- a forum. When you ask a question you get all kinds of answers, and some of them may not be useful to you. I'm sorry mine wasn't, but your response was rude. You may get away with that approach as an interviewing technique; however, this is meant to be a community.
Nov 16th, 2005, 09:45 PM
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My neice is currently in school in Copenhagen. My brother got Skype and it works great, and my neice has a cell phone and she has a program for it where we can call her on that phone for just a regular long distance call like if she was at home. I'm 775 area code and she's 707, so its just a regular long distance call. She has been there since August and has, as part of her school program..although the travel expenses are not included in her fees and are extra..been to Sweden for a week, and she just got back from Russia last Sunday. Her father WILL be bankrupt by the time she gets home.
She is having a very difficult time in school. She was on the Deans List and made mostly "A" s at home and in Denmark she has gotten "C" s on her exams and she is devistated. They have a very different style of teaching there and you just do NOT question the instructor and they won't even go over her exams to let her know where her weaknesses are so that's very frustrating for her. She is used to being able to have a dialogue with her instructers. She is going to grad school next year..she will graduate from Sonoma State in May and then grad school and she is very afraid the grades she is getting in Copenhagen will hurt her chances..so, its been wonderful and difficult at the same time. So that's enough from me, but wanted to give an experience of the good, the bad, and the ugly. Oh, by the way, one more thing: she participated in a work program through BUNAC..it was mentioned here...she was in London for 6 months, three years ago, and that was great. She worked in a hospital and rented a flat with three other kids and had a great time. So there's lots of opportunities out there.
She is having a very difficult time in school. She was on the Deans List and made mostly "A" s at home and in Denmark she has gotten "C" s on her exams and she is devistated. They have a very different style of teaching there and you just do NOT question the instructor and they won't even go over her exams to let her know where her weaknesses are so that's very frustrating for her. She is used to being able to have a dialogue with her instructers. She is going to grad school next year..she will graduate from Sonoma State in May and then grad school and she is very afraid the grades she is getting in Copenhagen will hurt her chances..so, its been wonderful and difficult at the same time. So that's enough from me, but wanted to give an experience of the good, the bad, and the ugly. Oh, by the way, one more thing: she participated in a work program through BUNAC..it was mentioned here...she was in London for 6 months, three years ago, and that was great. She worked in a hospital and rented a flat with three other kids and had a great time. So there's lots of opportunities out there.
Nov 17th, 2005, 04:08 AM
#36
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MaureenB,
I didn't think to mention this before, but my husband and I take 20 students on a summer course in Cambridge England. (He teaches 17th century Philosophy over there.) We have done it twice, and are going next summer as well. It isn't a "real" study abroad, as it is only 6 weeks. But I thought I could offer you perspective on what it is like to take and be with study abroad kids these days.
First, it is stressful for us. We constantly worry that they are out drinking all night, that they are not going to come back from their weekend in Paris/Scotland/Amsterdam, whatever. We have parents tell us before we leave that their child was a miracle baby and was only 4 lbs at birth and that they know s/he will be in good hands with us. There is lots of pressure to make sure nothing happens to these kids. Because of this we keep close tabs on them (covertly). And of course my husbands reputation at the university is on the line, if anything goes wrong, he may not be able to do the trip again. So we watch them as closely as we can. I think this is typical of any group leader in this situation, you just don't want to be the one that ruins it for everyone or has to contact a parent.
That said, I have been amazed at how responsible the kids have been both times we did the trip. Yes, they drink. Yes, they party, probably all night. But they came to class and did well. There have not been any serious incidents. What happens is they all become so remarkably close. They leave as strangers and come back as a family. (This happened on my own study abroad exeperience as well, I think it is common.) But when they are close like that they take care of each other. And worry about each other. For example, they lent each other money, cautioned against some trips, took large groups to travel--it was really something. And this happened in a few short weeks! It seemed like a fluke it went so well the first time, but the second time was just like that too. And we find it extremely rewarding...hence we are doing it a 3rd time in 2006.
Oh, and regarding communication, they all had computers in their dorm rooms, which I think is common these days? So they all emailed home. And they used the computers to find great weekend travel deals, it was actually amazing what they pulled off on thier small budgets. And sometimes when they went to London 10 of them would squeeze into one room to save money. Ahh the things you can do when you are just 18. . .
Anyway, I wonder/hope that gives you comfort as a parent. I know when I went abroad my mom was a nervous wreck. But although they are "adults" someone is watching them, rest assured.
Oh and by the way, I am a CO native, and I miss your mild winters.(I won't tell anyone.) Now I am in WI and have serious cold and snow that never melts. Thank goodness my parents still live there so I can visit and get some winter warmth. (I know...shhhh....)
I didn't think to mention this before, but my husband and I take 20 students on a summer course in Cambridge England. (He teaches 17th century Philosophy over there.) We have done it twice, and are going next summer as well. It isn't a "real" study abroad, as it is only 6 weeks. But I thought I could offer you perspective on what it is like to take and be with study abroad kids these days.
First, it is stressful for us. We constantly worry that they are out drinking all night, that they are not going to come back from their weekend in Paris/Scotland/Amsterdam, whatever. We have parents tell us before we leave that their child was a miracle baby and was only 4 lbs at birth and that they know s/he will be in good hands with us. There is lots of pressure to make sure nothing happens to these kids. Because of this we keep close tabs on them (covertly). And of course my husbands reputation at the university is on the line, if anything goes wrong, he may not be able to do the trip again. So we watch them as closely as we can. I think this is typical of any group leader in this situation, you just don't want to be the one that ruins it for everyone or has to contact a parent.
That said, I have been amazed at how responsible the kids have been both times we did the trip. Yes, they drink. Yes, they party, probably all night. But they came to class and did well. There have not been any serious incidents. What happens is they all become so remarkably close. They leave as strangers and come back as a family. (This happened on my own study abroad exeperience as well, I think it is common.) But when they are close like that they take care of each other. And worry about each other. For example, they lent each other money, cautioned against some trips, took large groups to travel--it was really something. And this happened in a few short weeks! It seemed like a fluke it went so well the first time, but the second time was just like that too. And we find it extremely rewarding...hence we are doing it a 3rd time in 2006.
Oh, and regarding communication, they all had computers in their dorm rooms, which I think is common these days? So they all emailed home. And they used the computers to find great weekend travel deals, it was actually amazing what they pulled off on thier small budgets. And sometimes when they went to London 10 of them would squeeze into one room to save money. Ahh the things you can do when you are just 18. . .
Anyway, I wonder/hope that gives you comfort as a parent. I know when I went abroad my mom was a nervous wreck. But although they are "adults" someone is watching them, rest assured.
Oh and by the way, I am a CO native, and I miss your mild winters.(I won't tell anyone.) Now I am in WI and have serious cold and snow that never melts. Thank goodness my parents still live there so I can visit and get some winter warmth. (I know...shhhh....)
Nov 17th, 2005, 05:48 AM
#37
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A few days ago I ran into some Syracause University students studying in London (I am an SU grad). I asked them about the program and they gave it a big thumbs up for the quality of the courses, the help they got with the nuts and bolts of settling in, etc.
My nephew is planning to study abroad and he is keenly interested in Queen's University in Canada...its UK study abroad program takes place in the university's own medieval castle--now equipped with all the modcons of course. http://www.queensu.ca/isc/
My nephew is planning to study abroad and he is keenly interested in Queen's University in Canada...its UK study abroad program takes place in the university's own medieval castle--now equipped with all the modcons of course. http://www.queensu.ca/isc/
Nov 17th, 2005, 06:21 AM
#38
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Crefloors, that's very interesting how different the education process is in Copenhagen. Not being able to go over an exam would make it impossible to learn from your mistakes-- she must have been really frustrated! I hope it worked out for her in the end re: her GPA. And, good to know there's a cell phone that can be programmed as you describe. IMHO a cell phone provides a certain level of safety and security. Thank you so much for your input.
StephCar, thanks for your experiences, too. It sounds like your own study abroad was a fantastic life-long learning experience. Now when you travel with students, it must come in handy for you, to understand the students' perspective. It's such a huge responsibility that you and your husband take on-- the other parents should thank you profusely! I guess students everywhere need their computers, non? Good point about being able to search for travel fares on the 'net.
That the kids bond together must be cool to see, and comforting that they take care of one another. My daughter's program is probably going to be very small- 12 students only, so I hope that dynamic takes place for her, too. Other friends of hers will be in Italy at the same time, too. (Shhh-- what mild winters??)
BTilke, thanks for your info., too. It's exciting how many study abroad opportunities are available, of all shapes and sizes. (Do you still follow Syracuse lacrosse? If so, we'll have a spirited Hopkins-Syracuse rivalry!)
YK, taking the MCAT in London sounds like quite an interesting experience, too.
Thank you everyone for your helpful input!
StephCar, thanks for your experiences, too. It sounds like your own study abroad was a fantastic life-long learning experience. Now when you travel with students, it must come in handy for you, to understand the students' perspective. It's such a huge responsibility that you and your husband take on-- the other parents should thank you profusely! I guess students everywhere need their computers, non? Good point about being able to search for travel fares on the 'net.
That the kids bond together must be cool to see, and comforting that they take care of one another. My daughter's program is probably going to be very small- 12 students only, so I hope that dynamic takes place for her, too. Other friends of hers will be in Italy at the same time, too. (Shhh-- what mild winters??)
BTilke, thanks for your info., too. It's exciting how many study abroad opportunities are available, of all shapes and sizes. (Do you still follow Syracuse lacrosse? If so, we'll have a spirited Hopkins-Syracuse rivalry!)
YK, taking the MCAT in London sounds like quite an interesting experience, too.
Thank you everyone for your helpful input!
Nov 17th, 2005, 06:39 AM
#39
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If she is writing an article I am sure she will give everyone their due credit & compensation as it is warranted. I'm pretty sure this board is not to be used for any type of commercial enterprise. Gathering info for an article would fall into that category, I believe. I'm w/5alive all the way. Rude is an understatement. "Just the facts for my article please"....
Nov 17th, 2005, 07:57 AM
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SAnParis, She's not doing this for an article. She's a mother (who happens to be a journalist, which she said by way of explaining her investigative nature) who wants to know what her daughter can expect. If you have a student who goes abroad, believe me, you'll feel the same way. I sure did.
