Overview

This book is designed to prepare the reader for a successful study abroad experience. Although study abroad programs usually have a pre-departure orientation, most of these are only a couple hours and are not able to sufficiently cover the myriad of questions that students and their parents have about study abroad. Our book is designed to fill that gap and inform the reader on many crucial elements that can make the difference between a fantastic study abroad trip and a lackluster stay. While this book is principally designed around the idea of study abroad, it can also serve as a guide for travelers planning an extended stay abroad. From the authors’ own experiences as study abroad participants, study abroad program leaders, and study abroad researchers, the reader will learn vital information about every step of creating an outstanding study abroad trip, from pre-departure to the return home. We cover the following list of topics: choosing the right program, understanding practical elements (for example, obtaining health care while abroad), deciding what to pack, dealing with culture shock, setting realistic goals and outcomes for the program, understanding necessary language preparation, studying abroad beyond college, maximizing time while abroad, making the shift back to the home country, and using study abroad experiences in one’s future career. In our work with students, we’ve seen first-hand that without the proper preparations and continued support while abroad, students may flounder and find the experience less than what they dreamt. It is our hope that by considering the advice in this book, students can go abroad with goals, strategies, and information that will help them make study abroad the experience of a lifetime that we know it can be.

Full Product Details

9781538181188

Table of Contents

Reviews

This thorough introduction to studying abroad is aimed at undergrad and graduate students. The authors, both academics, have experience as overseas study students and as international-program supervisors. They assume no previous knowledge and offer straightforward advice on issues ranging from what to consider when choosing a program, how to go about getting a passport, what and how to pack, and strategies for dealing with culture shock, language hurdles, local customs, social norms, and legal systems. The first two chapters address basic concerns (How does currency exchange work? How far might you need to lug your suitcase?) along with more nuanced considerations (choosing a LGBTQ+ friendly location; identifying menu items for individuals with dietary restrictions). Following chapters focus in on specific aspects, including a section on non-university affiliated programs (Fulbright Scholarships; the Peace Corps). User-friendly features include check-off lists, subheadings, and chapter notes. Public and academic collections will want to consider this helpful guide for prospective travelers--and their parents. -- ""Booklist""

Author Information

Melanie L. D'Amico is associate professor of Spanish and linguistics at Indiana State University. She researches second language acquisition focusing on study abroad, learning contexts, and language learning motivation. She has studied abroad at the University of Salamanca in Spain and the Torre di Babele language school in Rome, and she has led a program at the University of Salamanca. She lives in Terre Haute, Indiana. Joshua Pope is associate professor of Spanish at Doane University. He researches second language acquisition during study abroad, particularly when related to linguistic variation and identity. He studied abroad at the University of Alcalá de Henares in Spain and has co-led international experiences in Spain and Mexico. He lives in Crete, Nebraska.

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available