Traveling abroad can be an overwhelming experience. Even if you are arranging your program through an agency, there are still many areas that require meticulous planning. In an effort to increase global awareness, the United States government has launched a new website (http://studentsabroad.state.gov/) dedicated to study abroad.

Perhaps most important of all, this website provides up-to-date information about passport and visa requirements, what to do if you lose your documents, and even a program that locates your nearest passport office. In addition, the site includes information on how to register your trip with the United States embassy, a smart choice that allows the embassy to contact you should there be any sort of emergency while abroad.

Many students often wonder what vaccines they should receive before arriving in their new country. Due to ever changing medical opinions, many travel agencies and schools are hesitant to provide information. However, this website provides information about basic requirements and links to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the foremost authority on required and recommended immunizations.

Finally, this website provides general information that every student should know, such as where to purchase travel insurance, how to secure an absentee voter ballot if you will be out of the country during an election, local laws, and current travel warnings.

The key to a great, unstressed trip is planning everything before you leave, so that you are free to enjoy your trip worry-free. This website allows you to do just that, so be sure to bookmark it and plan accordingly!

Now that we’ve learned how to greet someone, here are some practical words that you can use to ask or say something. Even if most of the sentence needs to be in English, it always makes a good impression to try to add at least ‘please’ or ‘thank you’ in German. Germans will be very pleased that you are making an effort to speak their language. They know how difficult it is!

English	German
No	Nein
Yes	Ja
Thank you	Danke
No thanks	Nein danke
Welcome	Wilkommen
Sorry	Entschuldigung
Please	Bitte
Great!	Toll!
I don't understand	Ich verstehe nicht

For those of you that are planning a trip to the German-speaking world, maybe for skiing or snowboarding, or just to enjoy the apres-ski :) I thought I’d write down some basic German words that can be helpful to you while staying in Germany, Switzerland or Austria.

English	German
Hello	Hallo
Good morning	Guten Morgen
Good evening	Guten Abend
Good day	Guten Tag
Good bye/Hope to see you soon	Auf Wiedersehen
How are you?	Wie gehts?

Continued from Money Advice while Abroad - Part 2 - by Beth Klemick

In addition or in lieu of, cash and/or travelers checks, I may also travel with a credit/debit card. A credit card can be your back up "just in case" emergency form of currency. Debit cards that are on the Cirrus or Plus system (MasterCard/Visa) are widely accepted at many foreign bank machines (ATM's). Please check first prior to departing to see if there are banking machines in your destination compatible with your card.

Worldwide ATM locators may be found at the AmeriSpan Get Ready page.

If you plan to travel with a credit/debit card, especially for long periods of time and/or while in multiple travel destinations it is a good idea to contact your bank/credit card company to inform them of your travels. Keeping them informed, depending on your bank, may avoid the possibility of a hold or freeze on your account. Some banks will place a hold or freeze on your account based on their suspicion that fraudulent activity is occurring on your card/account since you will not be in destinations that are seen on a frequent basis. Also if using a debit card it is very important to remember the numerical pin number, most ATM machines abroad do not have letters. I am guilty of this, I must admit the first time I traveled to Europe I was naive and lets just say thank goodness I was traveling with a friend. Live and learn.

Part 1 - by Beth Klemick

One of my least favorite things about preparing for an upcoming trip/travel is figuring out the how much money to bring along and in what forms (for example: cash, debit card, credit card, travelers checks). This isn't always an easy task, especially if you are very unfamiliar with the destination you will be traveling to. As a world traveler I have yet to find the perfect solution or amount. It has been said that we are a global, interconnected society so for some it is hard to imagine that cold hard cash cannot be gotten from ATMs or purchases of souvenirs paid for by credit card in some nations.

Overall, it does not hurt to bring along a combination of US dollars (small amount, as sometimes the easiest currency to exchange), US dollar-denominated traveler's checks, and a credit card or ATM card (tied to Visa or MasterCard). As always there are pros and cons for each form.

Travelers checks as a form of currency have a plus and minus side. One downside is that not every establishment will accept travelers' checks. Another is the exchange process is typically more involved and usually will entail having to go to a bank and provide your original passport not a copy. The downside is not so much having to go to the bank but dealing with the banking hours in many countries, which is not as "customer service" oriented as here in the United States. If you are staying a high-end hotel they may be able to exchange travelers checks as well. The plus side is if your traveler’s checks are lost or stolen they are insured and you can recoup the losses, very important to copy down the serial numbers and give them to a friend or family member who will not traveling with you, a luxury cash does not afford us.

There are very little if any pros to traveling with cash. The general rule is to travel with as little cash as possible. If you prefer cash verse the ATM/credit card route, go with traveler's checks. It is a good idea to have some smaller denominations of US and local currency on your person upon arrival for things like taxis, tips, phone calls, and so on. Best to invest in a money belt which you can fit under your clothes verse carrying cash in wallets stored in pockets, purses and backpacks, and best when venturing out for the day to only bring as much cash as you will need for the day for public transportation, food, etc.

To be continued...

Semester in Chile - Part 1 - by Elizabeth Gregory

There are many reasons why Chile should be considered as a destination for study abroad. In this 3 part article, we will look at some background information on Chile and Santiago (where many programs are located) as well as program highlights in one provider's program courtesy of AmeriSpan.

At any time of year, Chile offers tourists something special. In springtime (September through November), Santiago and the central area of the country are splendid, whereas summer (December through March) is the ideal time to enjoy the beaches of Viña del Mar and the natural environment of Torres del Paine National Park, in Chilean Patagonia.

Winter (June through August), on its part, offers the ideal season of the year for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, who happily coast along the ski runs in the snowy valleys on the outskirts of Santiago, the country's capital city.

The central area including Santiago has a Mediterranean-type climate, with rainfall between May and August and an annual average temperature of 14° Celsius, whereas wind, rain and snow are daily occurrences in Chilean Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego.

This and additional information on Chile can be found here.

Remember, the season's in Chile are opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere. This means that you will be skiing during our summer time.

..Additional information coming up soon.

with a companion - Part 3 - By Beth Klemick

Learn to enjoy your travel time together and don't fret over the little things, like their incessant tacky souvenir shopping. Remember everyone copes differently in stressful situations. Just think you are away and can escape the everyday routine and enjoy cultivating your relationship. Happy and safe travels!

with a companion - Part 2 - By Beth Klemick

Leave it to ehow.com to have clear instructions on "How to Choose a Travel Companion". On the other hand if you have already have chosen your travel companion to avoid disagreements and tension before you arrive to your vacation destination, make sure when planning the trip you do it together and plan one that is within everyone's budget involved along with outside interests. While planning but most importantly while at your destination learn to compromise and experience both person's travel/vacation interests. Traveling with someone is generally a constant trade off; even happily married couple have interest differences. Let each person pick a particular day's activities and then switch for the next day, or sight see in the morning and spend the afternoon on the beach, to have the best of both your ideals of a perfect day. Often times travel does not allow for privacy, everyone needs some down time alone now and then so don't be afraid to go solo for a little bit. The time apart can reenergize both parties and give each person something new and exciting to tell the other about.

with a companion - Part 1 - By Beth Klemick

Last year my fiance and I traveled to Portugal together, prior to our departure several family members kept referring to our trip as the, "trial honeymoon", or "good thing you are taking a test drive". Traveling with a companion whether it is a romantic interest, friend, family member or acquaintance can be a blast and a rewarding travel experience but it will have it's high and lows.

To quote a colleague, her advice is, "think long and hard before going with someone, especially on a longer trip/adventure". From her previous solo travels and those with someone, the latter may prevent both parties from meeting new people and venturing out beyond the comfort zone. It is impossible to ensure that traveling with a companion will go smoothly. There is also no foolproof way to choose the perfect travel companion, but thankfully with the internet along with this article a few tips can be provided and referred to.

Part 3 - Continued from "5 Good Independent Study Abroad Organizations" - By Beth Klemick

Council on International Education Exchange (CIEE) is the longest standing organization of the group, founded in 1947 as the Council of Student Travel. Today, CIEE creates and administers programs that allow high school and university students and educators to study, volunteer, work and teach abroad. CIEE is distinct as it is designated by the US Department of State as a sponsor of Work & Travel, Trainee and Secondary Student programs. Their varied program offerings feature destinations such as Argentina, Austria, Belgium, China, Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, India, South Africa, Taiwan and much more.

AmeriSpan created in 1993 by and for lovers of language immersion, travel, and cultures. Starting as a two-person operation with a passion for Latin America, AmeriSpan has grown to be one of the leaders in educational travel and study abroad with over 25,000 past clients. AmeriSpan is noteworthy as every AmeriSpan staff member has studied and/or lived abroad for extended periods of time, they are the study abroad veterans. Individually and as a group, the staff has accumulated experiences and knowledge related to studying abroad. They have traveled to more than 65 countries - every continent except Antarctica - and speak 10 languages. Their program offerings are extensive, offered at more than 75 overseas locations with flexible and competitive prices.

In your research and as noted above, you may find that the program you want is offered by several organizations. Therefore, you should select the one with the best service and value, and with whom you feel the most comfortable. Here are some questions for you to ask when evaluating different study abroad providers:
* Are they reputable? (Ask for references, how many students they
send, years in business)
* Are your questions answered in a complete, friendly, and timely
manner?
* Do they demonstrate a good understanding of the location and the
finer details of the program?
* What do you get for your money? Do they provide extra services?
(excursions, cell phones, in-country transportation, extra activities,
other lodging options, etc.)
* Are the payment and refund policies flexible? (credit cards, late
registration, postponements, etc.)

Part 2 - Continued from "5 Good Independent Study Abroad Organizations" - By Beth Klemick

Cultural Experiences Abroad (CEA) was founded in 1996 to create and facilitate opportunities for personal growth and global understanding through quality international education and cultural experiences. They are one of several leaders in the industry with program offerings at 35 universities in 11 countries including Argentina, Australia, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, England, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Mexico and Spain. The CEA difference focuses on four aspects: academic quality, customer service, cultural immersion and your well-being.

International Studies Abroad (ISA) has been around for close to twenty years sponsoring academic programs to Spain, Italy, France, England, Australia, Mexico, Costa Rica, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and the Dominican Republic. A great quality about ISA is that they also provide study abroad programs for high school students. The high school programs are provided through their sister company, Learning Programs International (LPI). At ISA they ensure that the high school programs are academically challenging and culturally rewarding at the host universities abroad. Students choosing to participant in an ISA program will have the support of qualified, full-time resident directors who are committed to their overall academic & cultural experience.

Academic Programs International (API) Programs are available for quarter, semester, summer, and academic year terms, as well as for two-week and month-long terms in countries like Costa Rica, Hungary, Poland, Mexico and the United Kingdom to name a few. Each program includes tuition, housing, medical and life insurance (including medical evacuation and repatriation, as well as 24-hour support services for medical issues), local social activities, multiple cultural excursions and events, pre-departure and on-site orientations and support services, an on-site director, mobile phones. API programs can provide beginning to high-level coursework (including graduate work) for both the language and the non-language student.

More to follow...

5 Good Organizations - Part 1 - By Beth Klemick

If you spend the time researching, you can find dozens of different organizations that offer study abroad programs. Obviously, each organization will provide a different level of customer support and program offerings.

Generally speaking, independent organizations offer more options, increased flexibility and better value than Private/State University programs. While it is simpler to earn academic credit with Private/State University programs, the better Independent Study Abroad Organizations have made the process as effortless as possible. [Hint: a transcript issued by a US University is more widely accepted than foreign institution transcript]

A sampling of the largest independent study abroad organizations and their highlights are listed below. We have chosen to review the following: Cultural Experiences Abroad (CEA), International Studies Abroad (ISA), and Academic Programs International (API), Council on International Education Exchange (CIEE) and AmeriSpan to review. Collectively, these organizations have sent thousands of students abroad and have good reputations with past students, universities and various academic organizations.

To be continued...

Continuing from " Volunteering Abroad or Working Abroad?" - Part 3 - by Chris Smith

If you are open to the option of working abroad for free or for a small compensation, it would increase your options of obtaining a position in the area that interests you. Again, there are many programs out there. For recent graduates, your Study Abroad office or tutor can help you in making international contacts. For those not blessed with international contacts in the professional areas of their preference, again, there are companies that are specialized in this and which can help you! Especially in the community service and development aide and nature conservation areas there are a lot of possibilities. The big international aid organizations virtually all receive volunteers and will be happy to provide you with information. But also, smaller, local initiatives have found their way to the internet and email. And again, a plethora of organizations who act as an intermediary between you and organizations which receive volunteers and interns.

In addition to professional development, working for a smaller organization, especially in developing countries, can be a great gift to the people. Organizations which do fantastic work but don't have the financial means to hire international, highly educated and experienced staff, or staff period, can benefit greatly from your help. Not one of us can change the world but we can all help a little, can't we? Especially for those who have a well-developed professional career and can offer their expertise as well as learn, this can be a very rewarding experience.

Continuing from " Volunteering Abroad or Working Abroad?" - Part 2 - by Chris Smith

To give (young) people the chance to experience (professional) life abroad, many governments have created bilateral agreements for internship or young professional experiences, giving out limited and short-term visas for this purpose. To qualify for such a visa you need to go through certified organizations who can apply for the visa on your behalf. You have to pay a fee to the organization. On the upside, they usually also include a whole range of services and guarantee you a job. One of the most interesting possibilities of organized work abroad experiences is to obtain your ESL certification and teach abroad. Depending on what your goals are, certain jobs can be more or less suitable. For example, the type of job an agency can find for you may not be in your own profession which is a disadvantage if you want to use your international experience to find a position back home. If you are out to get to know a new culture and/or learn a language, your contact with the local people would be more important than the actual tasks you’re performing. Find a program that suits your personal goals.

The distinction between 'work abroad' and 'volunteer abroad' is not always very clear. There are many jobs that only pay room and board, or give you a small stipend, and there are also volunteer positions that offer the very same kind of compensation. So if your focus is more on the experience than on the financial side of things, both options are worthwhile to explore. As volunteer experiences do not always require you to apply for a special visa, you have a wider range of options and countries to choose from, and you can arrange it quicker and at a lower cost.

To be continued...

..or Working Abroad? - by Chris Smith

If you want to go abroad for a while, you have several options. Studying Abroad has been covered in several blogs already, so I wanted to focus this time on the options that are available to those not currently enrolled in higher education or are looking for a professional rather than an academical environment.

Working abroad is more popular than Volunteering abroad, due to the obvious attraction of receiving a salary for your efforts. However, it's not easy to find a paid job in another country. In today's 'Global World' the true global citizen is becoming more and more of a rare species, simply because it's very difficult to find a job if you don't have a legal work permit in the country where you're in, and it's even more difficult to obtain a work permit!

When preparing for your time abroad, think about what your goals are. Do you want to learn another language? Build your resume? Share your professional experience with others? Or just be 'away from it all' for a while?

More to follow..

Continuing from " What to do and not do..... if you hate your teacher or courses abroad" - Part 3 - by Elizabeth Gregory

Hate your instructor?

Here are some suggestions on what to do
* Try to keep at least one positive thought in your mind. Usually "not everyone gets along with everyone" is a good general positive thought.
* Talk to a neutral party who may be able to give some insight. I've used the "is it just me or did so and so seem really nasty today." You'd be surprised how often the answer to that is "nah, that's just the way they are, don't take it personally" comes as a response to that.
* If it's really THAT BAD see if another section of the same course is open. You may be able to switch to a class to a different instructor.
* Find out if this person will be your teacher for the entire semester, term, etc. Many programs rotate instructors on a weekly, monthly, or semi-semester basis. This means you may not be "stuck" with this person the entire time.

And what not to do:
* Do not "challenge" them. Keep a poker face when interacting with them. Don't make it common knowledge that you hate them. You may only make things worse for yourself.
* Don't assume that they hate you too. This many times is not the case.
* Don't give up hope. You can "suck it up." Remember, you don't have to live with this person.

Continuing from " What to do and not do..... if you hate your teacher or courses abroad" - Part 2 - by Elizabeth Gregory

So you hate your courses abroad (or just one course for that matter)

What to Do

* If this is a required course, you may not have a lot of flexibility. Find out what your options are by speaking to the advisor at your home college or university to see if an alternate course would be acceptable.

* Figure out what you don't like about the course. Is this something that could be rectified by speaking with the instructor or some classmates? Maybe not understanding the material is making you hate it. Get to the root of the problem.

* See if there are options to change courses and take something different that may be more appealing to you. If so, decide if you would enjoy that course more. Maybe ask to sit in on one session (if it fits into your schedule) to see what it's all about.

What Not to Do

* Don't complain non-stop to anyone who will listen. This is for 2 reasons: first of all, it will make it worse for you by constantly dwelling on the negative aspects and second of all, you will lose friends quickly in your class.

* Don't drop the course without finding out the repercussions or establishing a back-up plan first. If you drop it hastily without researching these things, it could be as bad as meaning you won't graduate on-time. Not good!

* Don't freak out! Panic makes everything worse. Step back and regroup. Figure out a plan to solve things. Speak to an onsite administrator and/or your academic advisor back home. Sometimes you need an outside party to put things into perspective and maybe brainstorm with you for ideas you may not have considered.

To be continued...

.. if you hate your teacher or courses abroad - Part 1 - by Elizabeth Gregory

Writing about what to do and not do with regards to your host family during my last blog made me realize that there are other areas where someone or something may not be your favorite during your time abroad. Therefore, I decided to give some advice this time around on what to do and not do if you hate your teacher or courses abroad. Now, let me start out by saying that many times the reason for your unhappiness or dissatisfaction with a course or instructor may solely be because you have been misplaced. That is to say you may very well be in a class that is too easy or too hard for you. Therefore, before you decide that you've given up and made the biggest mistake of your life by choosing to study abroad, take a step back and ask yourself…are these classes too easy for me? Do I feel like the instructor is talking down to me because I am at a level that is too easy? Am I misunderstanding key points because I am in a class that is too difficult? If the answer to any of these questions is "yes," it's clear you are at an inappropriate level. Speak to the administrative staff at your academic institution and make arrangements to get switched. Give specific examples of how and or why things are too easy or hard. If the answers to these questions is "no," then you'll have to keep reading for some much needed advice.

More to come...

...continuing from " Agent or Direct"....- Part 3 by Anne-Marie Dingemans

Committing to a total immersion program means a significant commitment for most people, both in time as in money. You want to make sure your rights are protected. Before booking a program, read the terms and conditions of the contract you are entering into (because that's what you're doing). Be aware of which services are included in the price and what costs extra. Familiarize yourself with the policies and costs associated with changes and cancellations.

If you need guidance in picking the best program, extra services, and the ease of mind that you're booking with a high quality program, I'd recommend working with an agency. If you know exactly where you want to go, and like and have the time to do your own research, then booking directly with the school is also a good option.

...continuing from " Agent or Direct"....- Part 2 by Anne-Marie Dingemans

One of the easiest and maybe also most natural criteria is price. Browsing on the Web will give you access to the websites of many schools, agencies and school listings, many of them clearly displaying the prices. Especially school listings can be helpful at this stage. Be careful though, as some organizations have hidden fees that you'll only discover when you are already committed.

Assuming that your ultimate goal is to dramatically improve your language skills, you may also be interested in what quality the program of your choice has to offer. As it's easy to make a good-looking website these days, it may be difficult to judge which programs are legit, who employs the best teachers, which schools truly care about the student's progress, etc. It's important to contact the school and ask any questions you have before deciding.

Agencies can be a great help when you're unsure of a school's quality. Those agencies that have been around for a long time, such as AmeriSpan, have a reputation to protect and will not decide to represent a school if they are not convinced that it offers great quality. Also, staff at agencies can advise you with impartiality which school or which location suits your needs best. They offer a wide range of options so they do not sell you on just one or a couple of destinations.

More to come..

Choosing a total immersion program - By Anne-Marie Dingemans

One of the great advantages of the great expansion and accessibility of the internet and email is that now one can easily communicate with people in all corners of the world, without having to worry about excessive phone costs, poor connections and time differences.

For the 'total immersion programs' community this meant that language schools could reach out to interested (potential) students directly, without having to work through an intermediary. Through websites, email and online booking form they can now directly communicate with you.

For you as a consumer this means that instead of having a couple of (specialized) agencies you now have hundreds of options to choose from. While it is great that you have all these options at your fingertips, the problem of choosing is also exponentially bigger. How to make the best choice?

To Be continued...

...continuing from " What to do and not to do if you hate your host family"....

By Elizabeth Gregory

So we've looked at what to do. Let's take a look at what not to do. First of all, let me stress that all of these are general rules and may change or vary depending on what the actual circumstances are. These are listed in no particular order.

Don't get upset. - As with anything in life, nothing is perfect. When you were planning your semester abroad you probably had visions of living in a utopia. After the newness of the place wore off, you may have been left with feelings of culture shock or feeling down. Problems with a host family may have compounded these feelings, but try not to get too upset. Things are fixable and usually are not as bad as you think they are.

Don't try to force the issue - in other words, if you are not having any luck trying to figure out what's going on, and you are not getting any help from on-site staff, don't take it upon yourself to have things straightened out. If things really are that bad and you feel that they cannot be rectified, sometimes the best option is to switch families. (Note, that normally this is the last resort).

Don't let this ruin your stay. - whether you wind up switching families, or staying on with the same one once problems have been solved, don't dwell on the bad. Move on and try and put the problems in the past. Your overall stay should not suffer because of a conflict or misunderstanding with a host family. I'm willing to bet that years from now, you may even be able to look back on the situation and laugh. OK, maybe not laugh, but at least you may have a good story or will be able to give some good advice to someone else.

...continuing from " What to do and not to do if you hate your host family"....

By Elizabeth Gregory

So let's say you discover after a few days that a member of your host family "rubs you the wrong way." What should you do? I can tell you from past experience, that 9 times out of 10 this is a simple miscommunication that is easily solved. However, there is that fact of reality that not every single person in the world gets along with every other single person. So, what to do:

* Make a note of what happened. (either a mental note, or write it down) Was it something they said that you're not sure if you translated the right way? Or was it a rule that was explained to you that you're thinking shouldn't be the case? For example, laundry service may be included and your host mother may be telling you that it is not included (once in a while, these types of things can happen). Main reason being that host families often work with more than one organization or have in the past, so it can be confusing when each organization has its own sets of guidelines and what to provide for the student as far as host families go.

* Speak to a program administrator. If you have a series of events that have occurred, this is especially important. However, I cannot stress enough that you should get this cleared up immediately to avoid further confusion or problems. It is best to speak to them rather than confront the family. This is true for several reasons including: 1. you can do it in your own language 2. they may have to call the family to clarify any confusion (ie the laundry example, they may be a new family, etc).

* Let it go. If it's a simple misunderstanding, it's best to forgive and forget.

Next time, we'll discuss what not to do....

...if you hate your host family.

By Elizabeth Gregory

Is this your first time studying abroad? Will you be staying with a host family? Are you asking yourself "what if I don't like them, or they don't like me? What if we get on each other's nerves? Can I really live with strangers?!?" Believe it or not, these kinds of thoughts are normal. I can tell you as someone who has stayed with host families in six different countries, some of these thoughts go through my mind every time. (Usually en route to their house!) In the end though, I always come to realize that when you have realistic expectations and have a plan in your head of what to do and not to do, things always seem to go smoother. Over the next few entries, I will share with you some important advice on what to do and what not to do when it comes to your host family experience and making it a wonderful experience you will treasure for many years to come.

To Be continued...

By Anne-Marie Dingemans Part 4

As always, it depends on the particulars of your personal circumstances. Important to know is that both are viable options. However, if your main goal is language learning, the language school will often turn out to be the most sensible investment. Before deciding on your study abroad program, please do comprehensive research on which options are available to you, what the benefits and the drawbacks are of each program, and most importantly, what's the best program for you. Dare to think outside the box!

By Anne-Marie Dingemans Part 3

1. Many reputable language schools also have established relationships with US and European universities, which will issue credits which you can then transfer to your own school, or obtain direct approval from your Study Abroad office;
2. The focus is entirely on the language. Although current events, literature and music will be discussed, especially at the higher levels, the focus remains on language acquisition;
3. Tuition costs are very reasonable, as little as about $800/month for 4hrs/day classes AND room and board! (this is the program in Antigua, Guatemala from AmeriSpan)
4. Excursions can be arranged and paid for onsite, after school activities are plentiful and cheap, and there is always onsite staff available to help you with questions or problems.

To be continued...

By Anne-Marie Dingemans Part 2

1. When you're a college student, your school may have established relationships with foreign universities, making enrollment and more importantly, transferring credit, much easier. However, they may not offer your preferred location;
2. Apart from language classes you may have the option to take electives in the field of your interest, such as literature, business, history or art;
3. Tuition costs can be high;
4. Many study abroad programs include non-curricular extras in their program, such as excursions, after-school activities, American onsite staff, a cell phone, etc. Pleasant, but judge if you need them and if they’re worth the extra money.

By Anne-Marie Dingemans

When you want to seriously improve your language skills, going to the country where it's spoken is often the most logical choice. When onsite, for your formal language tuition which is a very important part of the overall experience, you have the choice between a private language institute or enrolling in a local university. Although it may seem logical, especially for college students, to enroll at a university, it may not always be the optimum choice. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, which I will discuss at the following blog...

By Elizabeth Gregory - Part 4
Clothing - It may sound silly, but check the weather where you are going. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing. By appropriate, I'm not only talking about weather related, but also culturally appropriate to the country where you are going. For easy packing, be sure you can mix and match outfits without bringing your entire closet. In addition, if you plan to be in various climates or gone over an extended period of time, the ability to layer is key.

Empty smaller bag/suitcase (i.e. duffel bag or overnight bag). This is an item you must pack and be sure that it is empty. You will definitely need this if you are going away for a long time. You will accumulate a lot of things and may not have room in your luggage. In addition, this is a great thing to have for quick weekend getaways.

Technology optional - Sure you may want to bring your digital camera, laptop, and cell phone, but you can still get along in most places without them. (In other words, pay phones and a calling card work and may be cheaper than a cell). Many student facilities at study abroad campuses have computers for student use on email. Weigh your options and do your research. Is it really worth brining your laptop when you may not have time to use it, it could get lost or stolen, or not work properly on a different current. Same with cell phones – do your research to insure that your phone will work if you choose to bring it and that it will not be outrageously expensive. Bringing technology is absolutely optional.

By Elizabeth Gregory - Part 3
Reference materials - Sure, it sounds boring, but is actually very practical. If you are going to a non-English speaking country a bilingual dictionary is a must!! Additional helpful grammar resources include: verb books and grammar guides. As far as non-language reference materials go, a good guide book can be invaluable. I recommend searching out these materials at a large bookstore prior to departure. Leaf through them and pick out the ones that are most user friendly and budget friendly to you.

Document copies - Keep a xeroxed copy of your passport, e-ticket, traveler's checks numbers and any other important papers stored separately when you travel. It is always a good idea to leave a second copy of this information with someone at home in case you lose everything. In addition, you should know where the closest US Embassy is in relation to where you will be staying.

Emergency contact numbers - Plan to have at least 2 people that you can contact in case of an emergency. At least one of these people should have a complete and detailed list of contact information and account information for any credit and/or debit cards you are carrying. This is invaluable in the event that you lose your entire wallet, or worse it gets stolen.

To be continued...

By Elizabeth Gregory - Part 2
Extra glasses - If you wear contact lenses or glasses, you should always travel with a spare pair just in case. You never know when luggage may get lost, glasses get lost or broken, contact lenses rip, etc. If you wear disposable contacts, you may be best with an extra supply just in case. I know may people who did not bring extra eye wear and believe you me, they were sorry.

Prescription medicine - It is wise to pack any medication (over the counter and prescription) in their original containers. This can avoid any problems at customs or with police. If you are taking prescription medication, it may not be enough to just drop off a refill at a pharmacy where you are or a prescription for that matter. Many times, medications overseas are known by different names than what they are called at home. It is a good idea to have your prescription list the chemical formula of the medication (since this is usually universally understood). In any event try to bring an extra supply of your medication so you avoid the pharmacy route.

Your favorite toiletries - If you can't live without your favorite shampoo, toothpaste or deodorant, bring extra!! Chances are, even if you can find the same brand it may not be exactly the same in another country as it is here. This is especially true with feminine hygiene products. When in doubt, a good rule of thumb is to pack double of what you think you'll need. This way, your chances of running out are slim, and you can extend your trip if the opportunity presents itself without worry of running out of these items. In addition, depending on where you go, you may be able to get these items cheaper at home anyway.

Continue on to the next blog...

By Elizabeth Gregory - Part 1
This article is all about what you need to bring with you, pack, or leave behind when planning to go on your semester or immersion abroad program. Many of these things are common sense, but often these are the "problem items" that get left behind or forgotten about altogether. These items are listed and discussed below and are in no order of importance.

Money - ATMs are prevalent in most places that are not off the beaten path. However, do some research before you go to find out what your best options are for spending money. Some banks charge triple the normal ATM withdrawal fee for an overseas transaction. In some countries, a transaction fee (usually a percentage of the purchase price) is added to any amount charged on a credit card).

On a recent trip to Europe, I had a tough time finding stores that would take Mastercard or Visa. They were only accepting the Euro card. In cases like these, traveler's checks may be best. I normally recommend a combination of cash, traveler's checks and some credit card spending. Be sure that you have enough funds to cover you (and an emergency cushion too). Normally, $100-$200 per week should be sufficient (if you have some meals included). The exact amount you need to bring will depend on your spending habits and the cost of living in the location where you are going.

Article to be continued...

Time and budget available kind of go together so let's explore those two topics next.

Time available
Although many students want to study abroad the unfortunate reality is that many majors (the sciences come to mind) do not have the course flexibility to allow students in those majors to commit to a semester abroad. Fortunately, this is changing to a degree. Your best bet is to speak with your advisor to make sure you choose a time to go when you will not be missing classes only offered sporadically and in turn throwing off your graduation deadline. Many students find that junior year is the best time to study abroad. If you are in a major where you can'tget away for an entire semester, try shorter summer study abroad programs. Although they're not as long as a semester, most times these programs include the same types of courses and activities as a semester program. They may not offer as many credits, which may be a good thing if you're on a tight budget. Theoretically, you could participate 2 years in a row in a summer program and earn about the same number of credits as you would in a traditional semester program.

Budget
When I went on my semester study abroad, I was able to do so for the cost of a regular semester at my university plus airfare. This meant that I was able to earn the same number of credits and have room and board included for the same price as if I had stayed on campus. The only difference was the airfare. While this may be helpful for you to know, you may also not realize that you can participate in a semester program for less than the cost of staying on campus for a semester.

Ultimately, the key here is researching what's available for how much and when. To be continued on the next blog...

Many students are faced with making the decision of whether or not study abroad is right for them. Most students choose to make this decision in their undergraduate years. There are many factors that go into preparing to study abroad. Before you go, you must consider the following factors:

* Outcomes you want to achieve
* Time available to study abroad
* Budget available
* Finding and choosing the perfect program for you

Outcomes you want to achieve
What specific goals are you looking to accomplish through your study abroad program? Maybe you want to improve language skills, build your resume through an international experience or maybe just travel to a new place to see what life is like elsewhere. These are all important things to consider when preparing to study abroad.

Over the next few entries, we will look at these remaining topics in more detail. With so much information out there and so many choices to make, we hope to help you focus on the basics of preparing to study abroad. To be continued..

The Center for Global Education has a fantastic site with study abroad tips and resources. They've listed their top ten health and safety tips, and I think they're really worth repeating.

1. Choose a Quality Program Provider
2. Have Adequate Insurance and 24 Hour Emergency Assistance
3. Take Care of Your Physical, Dental and Mental Health
4. Be Able to Communicate at All Times
5. The Effects of Alcohol and Drugs Can Hurt You
6. Make Sure Your Mode of Transportation is Safe
7. Avoid Crime and Violence, Including Sexual Harassment and Assault
8. Be Prepared to Respond to Emergencies
9. Avoid High-Risk Activities
10. Be Informed About the Country, City and Safety Issues Abroad

Check out their website for lots of valuable information.

When narrowing your study abroad destination down, it's always reassuring to know that the location you're leaning toward is popular.

Open Doors has tallied the top destinations for academic travelers, and here are the top five:

1. United Kingdom
2. Italy
3. Spain
4. France
5. Australia

The U.S. Senate, by unanimous vote, declared 2006 as the "Year of Study Abroad". The resolution (S. Res. 308), introduced by Sen. Richard Durbin (D-IL) and Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-TN):

• recognizes the important role that study abroad plays in shaping American education and global leadership, and
• encourages all U.S. citizens, higher education institutions, secondary schools, businesses, and government programs to promote and expand study abroad opportunities.

Studying abroad is often cited as one of the most effective tools for public diplomacy and language development, not to mention cultural enrichment and international knowledge. Although more and more U.S. students study abroad each year, that number still lingers around 1 percent of the undergraduate student population.

Studying abroad can often be the ultimate educational experience. College students who decide to study abroad do so for a myriad of reasons, and the benefits are just as plentiful: the opportunity to study at a foreign university, to add diversity to a resume, and to experience, firsthand and in-depth, a foreign country.

There's nothing quite like studying abroad. However, there's a lot more to studying abroad than simply picking a program and starting your journey. You've got a lot of planning to do before you ever actually step on that plane.

Following are some helpful tips to help you prepare for your trip overseas:

Start planning early. Preparing for your study abroad experience takes time. Make sure you start researching programs as early as possible, to ensure you meet deadlines.

Financial Aid. In some cases, your normal financial aid package is enough to cover your semester or year studying abroad. However, this isn't always the case, so you want to be prepared. Start looking for scholarships (a great place to start is www.fastweb.com). You might also want to consider holding fundraisers i.e. a bake sale, a raffle or a car wash are three simple examples.

Apply for your passport. If you don't already have your passport, you'll want to apply for one as soon as possible. Once you receive your passport, fill out the Emergency Information page. Then, make several copies to give to your parents or other family members, just in case you lose your passport or something else happens. (Keeping copies of everything with your parents is a smart idea. Also, keep a copy of the front ID page of your passport with you, ensuring it's separate from your passport.) Depending on the country you’ll be going to, you may also need a visa. Make sure to check with your program director to find out what documents you'll need.

Be aware of the local laws and customs. Before you get on the plane, make sure you do some research on your destination. Read up on the local laws and customs. Of course, you don't have to spend hours memorizing the laws, but it's good to have a basic idea of what to expect. You want to ensure you're safe while overseas and comply with all laws, especially those related to drugs. According to the State Department, more than 2500 Americans are arrested every year while on foreign soil. The most important thing to remember is you're in their country now, so you must abide by their laws. To learn more, check out
http://travel.state.gov/travel/living/drugs/drugs_1237.html.

Research your destination. You'll want to be aware of any travel warnings or political problems currently occurring in your destination country. The State Department issues a list of travel warnings for countries. You can find a current listing of travel warnings at:
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html.

Be responsible. Sure, you're going overseas to study, but you'll likely want to have a little fun as well. Remember to be as responsible as you would be at home. In other words, don't take risks or engage in reckless behavior. You're in foreign territory and are, therefore, required to abide by their rules and laws. You don't want to end up in trouble, or even worse, in jail.

Be safe. The State Department suggests all travelers register with the closest U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate. It will only take you a few minutes, and it will give you the peace of mind you need. If you lose your passport, the Embassy or Consulate can help you get a new one.

These tips should help you get started on planning your study abroad adventure. Doing the proper research is critical to ensuring you have a successful experience. Start early, research, keep an open mind, and soon you'll be on the adventure of a lifetime.

Funding your study abroad experience is just as important as the experience itself. I highly recommend checking out Student Aid on the Web to find out what your options are regarding federal aid.

It's also a great idea to talk to someone in Financial Aid at your school to ensure that your student aid will be credited to your trip abroad. You might want to ask them about scholarship resources for studying abroad too.

If you've ever considered studying abroad for a summer or even a semester, now is the time to act on your whim. Finding an international study program that will suit your needs and educational requirements is definitely possible - if you know the right questions to ask and are willing to do a little research.

First, think about your reasons for wanting to pursue the opportunity to study abroad. Do you love to tr