Parents & Families
Thank you for supporting your student’s decision to study abroad. We know this is an exciting step, and one that may come with questions. The UW-Platteville Education Abroad team is here to guide students through every stage of the experience, and we value the important role families play along the way.
Studying abroad is more than a semester away, it’s an investment in your student’s personal growth, academic development, and career readiness. The skills students gain such as independence, adaptability, cultural awareness, and confidence last a lifetime.
Programs range in length from two weeks to one year and all programs provide students with the opportunity to learn more about themselves as well as the world around them. From homestays to language partners and from co-curricular activities to educational excursions, we aim to immerse students in their new culture so they can grow as global citizens.
Affordability & Planning
We strive to keep global experiences financially accessible. In many cases, the cost of studying abroad can be comparable to a semester on campus.
Students may use:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Scholarships and grants
- Loans
For many students, college is the most affordable time in life to pursue an international experience.
How we communicate
Our office is student-centered. We communicate essential program details directly with students, as they are responsible for managing their application and preparations.
We encourage families to:
- Ask their student first: they often have access to information through their online application portal.
- Encourage their student to contact our office with any questions.
We are happy to speak with parents and family members. However, federal privacy laws (FERPA) may limit the student-specific information we can share without written consent.
Supporting your Student
Parents and family members can be key supporters of student's education abroad experiences. The UW-Platteville Education Abroad staff hopes that by reading the information below and speaking to their student, parents and family members will better understand the education abroad process and can support their student accordingly.
The UW-Platteville Education Abroad office is student-centered and communicates all essential information to students directly as they are the ones embarking on the international experience. As such, students often times already have access to information that parents may be curious about via their UW-Platteville Education Abroad online application. Family members are encouraged to first approach their student with questions, and if the student does not have the answer, encourage them to contact the UW-Platteville Education Abroad office themselves.
While the UW-Platteville Education Abroad staff members are more than happy to speak to and meet with parents and family members to answer questions, in some cases, student-specific information cannot be shared because of the U.S. government's Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Your encouragement and perspective matter. Here are ways you can support your student before and during their experience.
Before Departure: Prepare Together
For peace of mind, consider creating a shared “education abroad folder” (digital and/or physical) that includes copies of:
- Passport
- Visa (if required)
- Flight itineraries
- Accommodation information
- Credit and debit cards (front and back copies)
- Bank contact information
- Health insurance card and policy details
- UW-Platteville Education Abroad contact information
Having organized documentation helps everyone feel prepared.
Stay Informed
Learning about your student’s host country can ease concerns and spark meaningful conversations.
Consider researching:
- Local customs and culture
- Current events
- Transportation and safety information
- Time zone differences
Understanding the context helps families provide thoughtful support from afar.
Communication Expectations
Internet access and cell service vary worldwide. While staying connected is important, constant communication may not always be realistic—or beneficial.
We recommend:
- Setting a regular weekly time to connect
- Using WiFi-based apps when possible
- Encouraging your student to fully engage in their host culture
Periods of limited contact are normal and often a sign that students are settling in and building independence.
Visiting Your Student Abroad
If you plan to visit, we recommend scheduling your trip during:
- Program breaks
- Long weekends
- After the program concludes
This allows your student to balance academics and hosting responsibilities without added stress.
Understanding Culture Shock
All students experience some degree of adjustment when living in a new culture.
Culture shock may include:
- Frustration or homesickness
- Emotional highs and lows
- Periods of excitement followed by fatigue
Homesickness often peaks two to three months into the experience. During these moments, students may reach out home more frequently.
It’s important to remember:
- Adjustment takes time.
- Culture shock is temporary.
- Growth often comes through discomfort.
With support and patience, students typically emerge more resilient, self-aware, and globally minded.
Our Commitment
The UW-Platteville Education Abroad team supports students:
- Before departure
- While abroad
- Upon return
We are committed to student safety, preparation, and meaningful global learning experiences.
If you have general questions, please reach out to our office. We’re glad to partner with you in supporting your student’s journey.