Visiting the Study Abroad Office

Buy this book »

So, you're thinking about going abroad. You may not be 100 percent sure yet that study abroad is for you, but you are certainly interested in investigating what study abroad opportunities are out there. But I'm sure you're wondering where you can go to find out what you want (and need) to know. Fortunately, finding information about studying abroad is much easier than finding a needle in a haystack. A good place to start your search is at your home university's study abroad office (sometimes is referred to as the international study office).

If a large number of students at your home university study abroad during their college experiences, chances are your school has a study abroad office and a study abroad director. So I encourage you to find out where they are and go pay them a visit! The study abroad office and its director are probably the best resources you can have when planning to study abroad. Not only is the office familiar with any existing study abroad programs, but it also is familiar with your home university's academic expectations and regulations.

Words of wisdom from a former study abroad office employee

My on-campus job during my senior year of college was as a peer adviser in Wellesley's study abroad office. I happen to think it was the best on-campus job out there because I got paid to talk about my year abroad and to act as a pseudo-travel agent, helping other students plan their abroad adventures. Besides answering general questions on Wellesley's study abroad policies, I also answered questions such as, "Should I buy a Eurail pass? What's the best way to travel from London to Paris? Do you know anyone who studied in Beijing?"

Now, while the study abroad director is usually quite knowledgeable and helpful regarding administrative and regulation questions, I recommend seeking out peer advisers for general student-related travel questions — they're the ones who have been abroad most recently and managed on a student budget. Also, peer advisers tend to be the ones who have their finger on the pulse of study abroad at your home university. They know what the re-entry process is like, how it feels to be an international student, which classmates of theirs have studied where, and who would be the most helpful for you to talk to — about Beijing, for example. So, seek them out!

Looking at the study abroad office's role

The study abroad office typically is responsible for and provides assistance to the following students:

• Students from the home university who are:
  • Planning to participate in the university's study abroad program
  • Participating in the program currently
  • Returning home from their studies abroad
• International students who come to your home university to study

If you fit into any of these categories, the study abroad office is the place for you. It helps you prepare to take your studies abroad and adjust to the idea that you'll soon become an international student!

Your host university probably has its own international student office that can help out visiting students. This office looks out for you and helps you adjust to your new home. If your host university doesn't offer such an office, feel free to get in touch with the study abroad office at your home university.