Resources

The Education Abroad office has sent students of all kinds abroad to study, including actively serving students, such as Guardsmen, and we have also in the past sent veteran students on our education abroad programs. Some of you, such as veterans, may have traveled several times, while some of you may not have traveled outside the country yet. Whatever is the case, the Education Abroad office is here to help! Education abroad programs provide students with opportunities to explore and learn about cultures, languages, and more while in an academic setting.

Many veterans are still able to use the benefits provided to them to aid in funding their education abroad opportunity. For more information and resources, refer to the Robert and James Wright Center for Non-Traditional and Veteran Students in third floor Royce Hall or refer to contact information. Students can also refer to the VA Benefits Fact Sheet on Post 9/11 GI Bill and Study Abroad, detailing how the GI Bill can help you get closer to your plan to study abroad. The UW System website also provides an overview for information regarding all varieties of questions, including the GI Bill and benefits.

UW-Platteville defines a non-traditional student as an individual who attends at least part time for the academic year, works full time (35+ hours) each week, is deemed financially independent, has dependents other than a spouse, is a single parent, does not have a high school diploma, or is a combination of any of the aforementioned traits. Non-traditional students may face different issues and concerns when applying or even considering an education abroad program, as many balance academics with other responsibilities in work and at home. No matter the situation, the Education Abroad office is available to help find the perfect education program for you.

• A few things to consider when choosing a program:
• Am I allowed to take a minor child or partner with me while I study abroad? Are there programs where this accommodation is possible?
• May I request to not live with a roommate or be placed in a homestay of similar interest and age range?
• Will other non-traditional students participate in my program?
• What skills should I gain or improve upon during my time abroad?

Recommended Article

No Age Limits for Study Abroad – an article about a 29-year-old woman's study abroad experience in France.

Being a first generation student means the first in their family to attend college, and this also means the student is likely to be the first in their family to pursue education abroad. These circumstances may lead to differing concerns from family and friends. Be sure to speak with an Education Abroad Advisor, but also be sure to do your own research to aid in resolving some of these concerns. The Education Abroad Advisors are here to help answer your questions about programs and provide advice on what you may experience during your time abroad.

Some questions to answer and some points to consider while selecting a program:

• If my family has never studied abroad, who can I turn to in order to help answer some of my questions and some of their questions as I plan?
• Are you looking to retain cultural similarities while abroad, or are you looking to explore and experience a culture far different from your own?
• Is distance important to you while you are abroad?
• How do you plan to involve your family in the decision to enroll in an education abroad program? This may be essential, especially if they plan to finance a portion of your time abroad.
• How do you plan to keep in contact with family and friends while you are abroad?
• How will you apply your international experience into life at UW-Platteville upon returning, especially if it is your first time abroad?

Many students choose to study abroad to learn more about their ancestry — these students are known as heritage seekers, a term referring to students who are drawn to study abroad in a particular country and culture "not because it is unfamiliar and new, but rather because it is somewhat familiar." Participating in an education abroad program will provide a chance to learn more about your ancestral history and the culture today firsthand.

Often times, going to your ancestral homeland can be an emotional experience, because you chose the location not just for the academics but also for very personal reasons. Some students went abroad to learn the language of their parents so that they can feel more connected their family and culture. The type of experience you will have abroad may vary, as some students feel more connected to their ancestral roots while others became more appreciative of their American roots. Some students will be able to meet with relatives, while others will just be learning more about their ancestral history.

Heritage seekers at times have idealized views of their ancestral homes, so it is essential to go into the country with an open mind. Heritage students should be prepared to be seen as an outsider, although often a welcome one, in the local community. Some local community members may have high expectations regarding the cultural knowledge and linguistic capabilities of heritage seeking students. In the US, people often ask about your ancestral background but abroad you will be seen as an American.

Some Points to Consider:

• How will I be perceived in my home country?
• How will I handle it if relatives ask for favors or money while I am there?
• Will there be other heritage students in my program?
• I will be studying in the country my family is from, but I have never been there before and I don't speak the language. How do I navigate this situation?

Recommended Resources

Heritage Seeker: Hmong Among Many - A video highlighting the story of a first-generation Hmong student's experience in Thailand

Degree-seeking international students have the option of participating in an education abroad program through UW-Platteville. Students may choose to go back to their home country, but there is the option to be able to explore other parts of the world.

If you choose to study abroad here are some things to remember:

• Programs vary in length to a couple of weeks to one year, so there are plenty of options for students looking for a specific duration in an education abroad program.
• Be sure to talk with International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) regarding your education abroad program to complete appropriate paperwork and make sure U.S. visa stipulations will be met and how your visa status might be impacted.
• This may impact your U.S. student visa status and ability to re-enter the United States
• Student visa requirements vary by country, so be sure to explore what will be needed before the program. You may need to apply for "transit visas" to pass through a country on the way to your final destination. Carefully think through what your travel will be to get to your study abroad destination.

Questions to ask your academic advisor:

• What classes must I take on campus for my major?
• Are there any core or major requirements I can take abroad?
• What pre-requisite courses do I have to take, if any, and how will education abroad impact that?
• How many elective credits do I have remaining in my major? What level are the credits?
• Can I fulfill any breadth/depth requirements abroad?
• How should I follow up with you as my study abroad plans are confirmed?

There are many different factors for students to think about when choosing a study abroad program, and LGBTQ+ students may have unique questions and concerns. Living abroad will open up opportunities to think about LGBTQ+ identity in a whole new context. It is helpful to think about what kind of support may be available to you in your new environment.

LGBTQ+ Issues and Concerns

Countries view gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation in many different ways. Some host cultures may be more welcoming and tolerant of LGBTQ+ identities than in the US, but others may have laws that criminalize non-binary identities or homosexuality. It is important to do research on those prior to departure. Learn the laws of your host country regarding LGBTQ+ issues, same-sex sexual behavior and expressions of LGBTQ+ identity and community. It is important to remember that you will no longer be protected by US laws once you leave to go abroad. If same-sex acts are illegal in your host country and are reported for engaging in them, you could be arrested and imprisoned in that country. (See a map of LGBTQ+ rights around the world). Regardless of the laws of your host country, it is always important to research whether an environment is affirming and welcoming.

Some things to consider:

• It is helpful to think carefully about your goals for study abroad.
• Are you only willing to go somewhere that is very tolerant and affirming of LGBTQ+ identity?
• What if the perfect program for you is in a place that openly discriminates against LGBTQ+ individuals?
• Get to know your destination before you leave. Explore LGBT travel guides and internet resources to get a better idea of social norms and customs of your host country.

Here are some questions to ask yourself, the Patricia A. Doyle Center for Gender and Sexuality, and/or your Study Abroad Advisor when choosing a study abroad program:

• What are the cultural and local attitudes towards Americans, tourists and sexual orientation and gender identity in my host country?
• What is the attitude of the police towards LGBTQ+ visitors?
• What is the social perception of lesbian, gay, and bisexual people in my host country?
• How open will I be about my sexual orientation and gender identity with my teachers, peers, friends, host family and others?
• The LGBTQ+ population is often misunderstood by others. To what degree am I comfortable with educating others and dispelling myths?
• Are there situations in which I would not disclose my sexual orientation?
• How important is it to me to find other students and friends who share my identity while abroad? How will I make connections with other sexual minority students, local residents, or community organizations?
• Are there LGBTQ+ friendly establishments in my host country? How can I find them?
• Will I need access to any medications, supplies, or services to properly care for my medical needs, including those related to physical transition, like hormones? Are they available in my host country? If not, will I need any additional documentation to travel with any medications or supplies? Will it be possible to travel legally with these supplies?

Recommended Resources

Patricia A. Doyle Center for Gender and Sexuality

NAFSA: Association of International Educators, Rainbow Special Interest Group- A website maintained by UIN and international educators who specialize in LGBTQ+ issues

Department of State LGBT Travel Information

International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Intersex Association- A network of national and local groups dedicated to achieving equal rights for LGBTQ+ people everywhere

Global Gayz- An online journal documenting the travels of LGBT individuals around the world

GayGuide- A worldwide directory to help gay locals and tourists find places to stay and to go

National Center for Transgender Equality- Social justice organization dedicated to advancing the equality of transgender people through advocacy, collaboration and empowerment

Spartacus World's Gay Travel Index- This website ranks all of the countries in the world in terms of LGBT travel friendliness.

The Education Abroad office encourages all students to study abroad but recognizes that students of varying racial and ethnic backgrounds may face unique challenges as definitions of race vary from culture to culture.

Students may encounter a broad range of attitudes regarding diversity issues that may result in stares, comments, or even worse blatant prejudice by the host population. There may even be people who will be eager to touch your hair or skin. Often people in your host country will be curious, and some may ask questions about your cultural heritage that feel insensitive. Keep in mind that people in other countries have different cultural norms and are often more blunt and less "politically correct" compared to the United States. We encourage students to do research into social norms and cultural practices of the host country before leaving to study abroad. EA staff members are available to answer questions about the study abroad process and to help you to understand how diversity issues may be experienced and understood differently abroad.

Here are a few example questions to help you think about race and ethnicity abroad:

• What is the relationship between my host country and the United States?
• What does it mean to be perceived as an American in a foreign country?
• How is my ethnic group perceived in my host country? What kind of stereotypes are there?
• What types of experiences do students of color typically have on the programs (or in the country) I am considering?
• Will I experience discrimination in the country I study in? Is there a history of a particular type of discrimination in my host country? Who will I contact if I face racial or discriminatory incidents?

Your Support Network Abroad

Leaving your friends and family at home to go to another country can be a daunting decision. We encourage you to carefully select the program that will best fit your needs. The Education Abroad office offers programs with varying levels of support on-site. Programs range from those for very independent students who want to study directly in another university to those for strictly UW-Platteville who need or want lots of support, with a multitude of options falling in between. Speak with an Education Abroad Advisor about the level of support you would like on a program, and they will help you select the right program for you. Build a support network with other study abroad students on your program, so that if you do experience discrimination you'll have support to deal with it.

Your Support At Home

Some students are hesitant to study abroad because of family responsibilities or commitments to friends and family. As you are deciding to study abroad, be sure to include your family and friends. Get them excited about your program too. The Education Abroad office has resources for parents as well that we are happy to share with you.

Recommended Resources

UW-Platteville Division of Diversity and Inclusion

All Abroad - This site offers mentors who are students, parents, and advisers and are comfortable with addressing diversity concerns in the context of learning abroad. Also available are specific resources for African-American, Asian/Pacific Islander American, Hispanic-American and Native-American students.

Top 10 reasons for African-American Students to go abroad

PLATO - This website lists scholarship and financial aid information for students of color in higher education and study abroad.

Race Abroad- A look into statistics, stories, and other information on perceptions of race abroad for students looking to travel or live abroad.

Religion plays a role in many countries and cultures, and depending on where you travel, this may be a larger or smaller role than in the U.S. It is a good idea to research religion in your host country before you go abroad. One place to start can be the CIA World Factbook. This website allows you to search by country and provides statistics on religion - you can also find other helpful facts related to your travel on this website. Additionally, you may have religious practices that you would like to observe abroad. Be sure to talk with your Education Abroad Advisor if you have specific questions about how accommodations may be made for you, if needed (ex. dietary restrictions, prayer times).

Remember to stay open minded about different beliefs you may encounter and consider how your own beliefs will be received abroad. Learning about a country's major religions can be a good opportunity to learn more about its culture. If you plan to worship abroad, do some research on what locations are available.

Things to consider:

• What is the degree of religious tolerance in your host country? What is the dominant religion in your host country? Are all religions tolerated?
• Will you be part of the religious majority or minority?
• Is it safe to wear religious symbols and/or clothing?
• How are atheists and agnostics perceived in the host country?
• Are there laws regarding religion (ex. proselytizing Christianity is banned under Chinese law)?
• Is there separation of religion & the government?

Recommended Resources

International Religious Freedom - The state of religious freedom, country by country, as seen by the U.S. Department of State.

BBC, Religions – This list by the BBC provides detailed information on various beliefs and religions

Medical Care & Auxiliary Aids

1. Are replacement parts for auxiliary aids readily available in the event of loss or damage?
2. Can your current treating specialist refer you to possible agencies or professionals who may assist you in the event of an emergency?
3. Can you bring your prescribed medications through customs and to your host country?

Service Animals

1. Are there any laws in the host country which support service animals?
2. Are there veterinary services conveniently available in your host country?
3. What vaccines, documentation, and tests are required to bring your service animal into your host country (or other countries) and back into the US?
4. Will public transportation allow service animals in all the countries you may be visiting?
5. Research the different rules and regulations that may impact service animals during international travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Should I disclose my disability when I apply for a study abroad program?
  Disability information is an educational record protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) which governs the privacy of student educational records. Students may disclose disability information and are strongly encouraged to do so. FERPA authorizes the Education Abroad to seek confirmation of disability status and need for accommodation as it has a legitimate educational interest and need to know in order to fulfill their professional responsibilities. Disclosure permits the study abroad advisor to work with you and answer important questions about what access is available in the countries and programs you are considering. Protections available in different countries depend on the laws in that country.
• Can I be denied admission to a study abroad program on the basis of my disability?
  Not all study abroad programs are accessible to every student. When a program has a specific educational requirement, a reasonable accommodation may not be attainable to provide reasonable access for a student to meet the essential course standards. Likewise, if a student does not provide sufficient notice to allow accommodations to be arranged, the student may not be able to attend. However, a student may still be allowed to attend in these same situations - each situation is unique and requires careful and thoughtful review. Creative solutions have been identified for many students needing complex accommodations when sufficient time is available to collaborate and problem solve.
• What do I do if I am denied access to academic accommodations for my disability once I arrive at my host institution?
  Accommodations should be determined prior to your departure. However, if an accommodations denial occurs, document when the denial was made and in what manner it was made (keep any documentation available). Call or email your education abroad advisor and/or Services for Students with Disabilities. Let them know what happened, providing any detail and documentation that you have. Although UW-Platteville cannot guarantee a particular result, the EA office can follow up with the program to determine the source of the denial and to determine alternative solutions.
• What if I decide not to use accommodations abroad?
  The choice to use accommodations is entirely up to the student. However, if refusing accommodations while abroad could pose a risk to the personal safety of the student or others. It is also important to remember that if a student declines to use available accommodations provided during the study abroad experience, and does poorly in classes, the grade earned will stand.

Recommended Resource

Mobility International USA (MIUSA) - Resources for Americans going abroad and how to plan and prepare.

Transfer students can study abroad! The Education Abroad office has a straight-forward application process and each year we have a number of transfer students on our programs. Be sure to talk with your academic advisor about what will work best for you.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• There are program options from a couple of weeks to one year, so there are durations available for all students.
• You can even study abroad your first semester at UW-Platteville as long as you meet the eligibility requirements.
• You will receive UW-Platteville credit for all course work completed on an education abroad program.
• You are able to do internships or student teaching abroad.

Questions to ask your academic advisor:

• What classes must I take on campus for my major?
• Are there any core or major requirements I can take abroad?
• What pre-requisite courses do I have to take, if any, and how will education abroad impact that?
• How many elective credits do I have remaining in my major? Are those elementary, intermediate, or advanced?
• Can I fulfill any breadth/depth requirements abroad? What would be best?
• How should I follow up with you as my study abroad plans are confirmed?

Application Fee

All UW-Platteville students applying to study abroad through the UW-Platteville Education Abroad office are required to submit a nonrefundable $75 application fee (cash or check payable to UW-Platteville). For students applying to affiliate programs, the program provider may also charge an application fee, and applicants should check the program provider’s website for the current application fee. If you have demonstrated high financial need, you may consider visiting the Education Abroad Office to discuss financial assistance.

Nonrefundable Confirmation Deposit

Students applying to UW-Platteville Education Abroad programs will be asked to submit a $500 nonrefundable confirmation deposit to the UW-Platteville Education Abroad office within two weeks of being notified of their official acceptance to the program. Students applying to UW-Platteville exchange programs, and affiliate programs will be charged a $550 nonrefundable confirmation deposit to their PASS account after they have officially committed the program. Students are asked to pay this deposit within two weeks of being notified of their official acceptance into the program. Please note that students will be prompted in their online application to submit payment once they have officially been accepted, so no payment is due until then. Students who are not accepted into the program upon application review are not liable for the deposit. This fee covers:

• support from UW-Platteville Education Abroad office before, during, and after studying abroad.
• the mandatory pre-departure orientation and re-entry sessions.
• eligibility for the UW-Platteville International Study Grant.
• general administrative expenses.
• the mandatory CISI health and medical insurance.

Students who choose to withdraw from the program after submitting their nonrefundable confirmation deposit will not be refunded the $500 or $550. Students who choose to withdraw or not continue with their application after the two weeks following their acceptance will still be responsible for payment, even if it has not yet been paid.

In addition, students applying to affiliate programs may be charged an additional nonrefundable confirmation deposit fee upon acceptance. Please check the program provider’s website for the program provider’s current administrative fees.

Students applying to UW-Platteville Short-Term Faculty-Led programs will be charged the entire program fee to their PASS account upon successfully registering for the course. Additional information and exact costs will be provided to student upon acceptance.

Program Payments

The exact payment schedule will vary from program to program but in general:

Students applying to UW-Platteville Education Abroad programs, will be billed their program cost through their UW-Platteville PASS account and will pay in the same manner as they pay for a semester on-campus.

Students applying to UW-Platteville Short-Term Faculty-Led programs, will be billed their program cost through PASS, and payments are subject to the regular payment deadlines of the Cashier's Office. All regular registration and late fees will apply. Please visit the Cashier's Office for exact payment deadlines.

Students applying to UW-Platteville Exchange programs and affiliate programs, will be billed their program cost by UW-Platteville Education Abroad. The exact payment schedule may vary from program to program, but in general, is as follows:

• Fall and Academic Year Programs: The program cost is billed in early June and is due in early July.
• Spring Programs: The program cost is billed in early November and is due in early December.
• Summer Programs: The program cost is billed mid-April and is due mid-May.
• Winterim Programs: The program cost is billed in early November and is due in early December.

Partial payment plans are available to break the program cost into installments, and interested students can contact the UW-Platteville Education Abroad Office for details.

Applicant Withdrawal & Refund Policy

Once an applicant has officially confirmed their participation by committing via their UW-Platteville Education Abroad online application, they become subject to the standard cancellation policy as follows. Please note that the “program start date” is defined as the date that program participants are scheduled to arrive in country as set by the program.

• Withdrawal 61 or more days prior to the program start date: The student is responsible for the application fee and nonrefundable confirmation deposit, as well as any additional costs accrued on the student’s behalf.
• Withdrawal 1 to 60 days prior to the program start date: The student is responsible for 50% of the program cost plus the application fee and nonrefundable confirmation deposit, as well as any additional costs accrued on the student’s behalf.
• Withdrawal on the program start date or after the program has begun: The student is responsible for 100% of the program cost plus the application fee and nonrefundable confirmation deposit, as well as any additional costs accrued on the student’s behalf.

Withdrawal Appeal

Concerns or appeals with regard to fee payment, refunds, or other UW-Platteville Education Abroad program policies should be directed to the Director of UW-Platteville International Programs in writing. A written decision will be issued back to the concerned or appealing person(s).

UW-Platteville Education Abroad Program Cancellation Policy

UW-Platteville Education Abroad considers student safety its highest priority. Therefore, as the program provider, UW-Platteville Education Abroad reserves the right to cancel any UW-Platteville Education Abroad program in a location considered unsafe. If UW-Platteville Education Abroad cancels a program for safety reasons, every effort will be made to refund program costs to participants.

Any costs that are not included in the program cost and have been committed out-of-pocket by the student (e.g. visa, airfare) will not be refunded by UW-Platteville Education Abroad. Students are encouraged to consider flight cancellation insurance at the time of booking.

Application Fee

All students applying to a UW-Platteville Education Abroad program are required to submit a nonrefundable $75 application fee (cash or check payable to the UW-Platteville).

Nonrefundable Confirmation Deposit

All students applying to a UW-Platteville Education Abroad program will be asked to submit a $500 nonrefundable confirmation deposit to the UW-Platteville Education Abroad office within two weeks of being notified of their official acceptance into the program. Please note that students will be prompted in their online application to submit payment once they have officially been accepted, so no payment is due until then. Students who are not accepted into the program upon application review are not liable for the deposit.

Students who choose to withdraw from the program after submitting their nonrefundable confirmation deposit will not be refunded the $500. Students who choose to withdraw or not continue with their application after the two weeks following their acceptance will still be responsible for payment, even if it has not yet been paid.

The program cost listed on the UW-Platteville Education Abroad website includes the nonrefundable confirmation deposit.

Program Payments

Students from the following institutions will pay their program costs to their home institution as they will pay UW-Platteville Education Abroad directly on the student’s behalf. Please note that the payment agreements with these institutions are subject to change, so please contact the UW-Platteville Education Abroad office with questions. Students should also check with the education abroad office at their institution for more information on billing.

• Clarke University
• High Point University
• Loras College
• Marian College
• Mary Mount University
• Minnesota State University-Mankato
• University of Dubuque
• University of St. Thomas
• University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (*NUFS Nagasaki, Japan applicants only, students applying for any other UW-Platteville Education Abroad program will be billed by UW-Platteville directly.)
• University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

For all other students, the exact payment schedule may vary from program to program, but in general, is as follows:

• Fall and Academic Year Programs: The program cost is billed in early June and is due in early July.
• Spring Programs: The program cost is billed in early November and is due in early December.
• Summer Programs: The program cost is billed mid-April and is due mid-May.
• Winterim Programs: The program cost is billed in early November and is due in early December.

Partial payment plans are available to break the program cost into installments, and interested students can contact the UW-Platteville Education Abroad office for details.

Applicant Withdrawal & Refund Policy

Once an applicant has officially confirmed their participation by committing via their UW-Platteville Education Abroad online application, they become subject to the standard cancellation policy as follows. Please note that the “program start date” is defined as the date that program participants are scheduled to arrive in country as set by the program.

• Withdrawal 61 or more days prior to the program start date: The student is responsible for the application fee and nonrefundable confirmation deposit, as well as any additional costs accrued on the student’s behalf.
• Withdrawal 1 to 60 days prior to the program start date: The student is responsible for 50% of the program cost plus the application fee and nonrefundable confirmation deposit, as well as any additional costs accrued on the student’s behalf.
• Withdrawal on the program start date or after the program has begun: The student is responsible for 100% of the program cost plus the application fee and nonrefundable confirmation deposit, as well as any additional costs accrued on the student’s behalf.

Withdrawal Appeal

Concerns or appeals with regard to fee payment, refunds, or other UW-Platteville Education Abroad program policies should be directed to the Director of UW-Platteville International Programs in writing. A written decision will be issued back to the concerned or appealing person(s).

UW-Platteville Education Abroad Program Cancellation Policy

UW-Platteville Education Abroad considers student safety its highest priority. Therefore, as the program provider, UW-Platteville Education Abroad reserves the right to cancel any UW-Platteville Education Abroad program in a location considered unsafe. If UW-Platteville Education Abroad cancels a program for safety reasons, every effort will be made to refund program costs to participants.

Any costs that are not included in the program cost and have been committed out-of-pocket by the student (e.g. visa, airfare) will not be refunded by UW-Platteville Education Abroad. Students are encouraged to consider flight cancellation insurance at the time of booking.

PHYSICAL EXAMS AND VACCINATIONS

UW-Platteville Education Abroad policy does require students who have been accepted into an education abroad program to have a physical exam before going abroad, and it also may be required for certain countries and/or visas. Students can make an appointment with their primary physician or on-campus physician to complete the necessary steps and should discuss any concerns prior to departure including physical and mental health.

Students should also consult with their physician about any vaccinations that are necessary before leaving for the countries in which the student will be studying or visiting. It is ultimately the student's responsibility to have all the necessary shots prior to departure.

PRESCRIPTIONS

Students who take prescription medicine regularly, or expect to take any while abroad, need to bring a sufficient supply upon departure or consult their physician about the availability of their prescription abroad. Even if the prescription is available abroad, it may be easier to take an adequate supply from the U.S.

Be sure to keep all prescription medications in their original bottles to facilitate clearance through customs. Students are also advised to carry a letter from their physician stating why the prescription medication is needed, and students should pack a copy of all current prescriptions, including eyeglasses. In addition, all prescription medicine should be packed in carry-on luggage in case checked baggage is lost or delayed.

FOOD AND DIETARY NEEDS

Though food is safe in many countries, there are some basic tips to help keep students healthy:

• Avoid uncooked food purchased from street vendors
• Be careful with dairy products that are not refrigerated or pasteurized.
• Do not drink water unless students are sure that it is safe to drink; bottled water is recommended.
• Avoid ice cubes in soft drinks unless students know that the water is safe to drink.

Once students are more comfortable with the country's culture and food, they may decide to be more liberal in their approach to food. Vegetarians or students on a special diet need to be aware that their dietary needs might not be easily met in some countries.

CULTURAL INSURANCE SERVICES INTERNATIONAL (CISI)

All students studying abroad through UW-Platteville Education Abroad are enrolled in the mandatory Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) health and medical evacuation insurance. CISI's comprehensive plan provides students with all the coverage and security needed while traveling abroad, including the following:

• 24-hour emergency crisis support with multilingual representatives
• Medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• Payments in foreign currencies
• Foreign hospital guarantees
• Consulate letters for help in obtaining visas
• Coverage for independent travel
• Benefits payable at 100% of costs without co-payments

This insurance in mandatory and students are advised to remain on the insurance plan they use in the U.S. as the CISI insurance will not cover any medical assistance that students may need upon any unexpected return to the U.S. for health reasons.

The UW-Platteville Education Abroad Office is dedicated to maintaining the personal safety and security of each education abroad participant. The staff takes necessary precautions to remain in close contact with the on-site staff abroad and works with them in case of an emergency.

RESOURCES

U.S. State Department Travel Resources: The U.S. government provides accurate and timely information for travelers on passports, living abroad, emergencies, country specific information, and other helpful tips.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): STEP is a free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to or living in another country and allow travelers to enter information about upcoming education abroad so that the Department of State can better assist in an emergency.

U.S. State Department Travel Warnings: Travel Warnings are issued by the State Department to recommend that Americans avoid travel to a certain country. It is strongly recommended that education abroad participants closely monitor travel warnings.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC is a federal agency that works to protect public health and safety and to promote health through partnerships with state health departments and other organizations. Students can visit the CDC website for important health and safety information.

SAFETY-RELATED ISSUES

The UW-Platteville Education Abroad staff monitors the U.S. State Department's Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) reports and will contact on-site staff any time there is an update. In addition, students should stay in regular contact with their on-site staff and monitor the U.S. State Department website themselves.

Most large cities as well as remote areas, both in the U.S. and abroad, suffer from common crimes. Students should use the same precautions abroad that they would in any large metropolitan area. The following are some general safety precautions:

• Know where you are going and research before traveling: read guidebooks, look at maps, check with local staff, etc.
• Leave expensive or expensive-looking jewelry at home.
• Do not carry valuables, even in a backpack or locked luggage and do not leave computers, camera, phones, etc. unattended.
• Do not flaunt wallets, purses, cell phones, or cameras.
• Put valuables in a safe place such as locked suitcase, or ask the on-site staff about storing valuables (when possible.)
• Avoid unlit places and walking alone. Stick to well-traveled streets and walk in groups at night, and be especially cautious when you are new to a city and know little about what parts of town may be less safe.
• Participants may want to consider having insurance to cover damage or theft of personal property, which they take with them abroad. Although occurrences are rare, students have encountered personal property loss due to a fire or other incidents in the local residence overseas. Insurance company policies vary widely on the circumstances and amount of coverage for personal property abroad. In some instances, a homeowner's policy or the student's own renter's insurance policy is enough to provide limited coverage. In other cases, a special policy must be purchased.

SAFETY AND WELFARE OF PARTICIPANTS

The UW-Platteville Education Abroad office will provide extensive information for program participants. However, UW-Platteville Education:

• cannot guarantee or assure the safety of participants or eliminate all risks from the study abroad environments.
• cannot monitor or control all of the daily personal decisions, choices, and activities of individual participants.
• cannot assure that U.S. standards of due process apply in overseas legal proceedings or provide or pay for legal representation for participants.
• cannot assume responsibility for the actions of persons not employed or otherwise engaged by the program sponsor for events that are not part of the program or that are beyond the control of the sponsor, or for situations that may arise due to the failure of a participant to disclose pertinent information.
• cannot assure that home-country cultural values and norms will apply in the host country.

Additional information about health and safety policies of the University of Wisconsin System.

We are committed to supporting study abroad for all students including students managing various mental health concerns. Just as cultures differ, so does the degree of access to counseling and mental health services in the countries and communities a student may consider for their study abroad experience. Certain medications that are legal in the United States may be considered illegal in other countries. Many students have successfully studied abroad with existing mental health conditions, but not every study abroad experience is a good fit for certain types of care.

PRE-DEPARTURE PLANNING

• Talk to your support system that you have at home. Plan how you'll be able to get in touch with friends and family while abroad.
• Research cultural practices and mental health in your host country. You may also wish to do this before you select which program you will go on. It is important to look into how mental health is generally viewed in the host country and what types of care are available there.
• Disclose with your Study Abroad Advisor if you feel comfortable doing so. They can tell you more information about opportunities for meeting others (host family, buddy program, other U.S. students, etc.) and also what kind of support or care options are available on your program. See more details below.
• Review MIUSA about medication and international travel if applicable. Remember some medications that are legal in the U.S. are not legal in other countries and you may not be able to take them in country or have them sent to you.
• Contact your insurance company to get enough of your medication for your entire time abroad. You should not plan on getting prescriptions filled while abroad or having the medication mailed to you.
• Work with CISI, the UW-System sponsored health insurance, to find names of English speaking psychiatrists, psychologists, or counselors in your host country

RESOURCES

Preparations for Traveling with a Mental Health Condition

Student Health Services

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 Application Process

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).

Pre-Departure

As a backup and for family members' peace of mind, it is helpful to prepare an "education abroad folder" with copies of all the essential documents and information for both the student and the family. It is suggested that copies of each of the following are on hand:

• U.S. Passport
• Visa and corresponding documents (if applicable)
• Credit and debit cards photocopies (front and back)
• Banking account information (it is also recommended that a parent or other trusted family member be made a co-signer on the account while the student is abroad.
• CISI health insurance information (copy of the card and the policy)
• All flight information and itineraries
• Accommodation information (if the student is traveling before or after the program)
• UW-Platteville Education Abroad office contact information

While Abroad

Even though students are thousands of miles away, there are still ways in which parents and family members can support their student while they're abroad:

Stay Informed

Parents and family members are encouraged to find out more about their student’s host country and to stay informed about current events in the country and region. Gaining more knowledge about the destination may help to answer questions and address concerns. For recommendations on health, safety, and staying informed about the student’s host city and country, please see the Health and Safety page.

Communication

Online communication via e-mail, Skype, social media, etc. can be easy if both the family and the student have access to the internet. However, it is important to understand that internet access abroad may not be as readily available as it is in the U.S. Furthermore, daily online contact is not always recommended; encourage students to limit their time communicating home and set a weekly “date” to Skype, e-mail.

Visiting Students Abroad

For families who want to visit their student abroad, UW-Platteville Education Abroad recommends arranging visits to coincide with vacation times or after the program has ended. Then students do not have to make the difficult choice between academic work and having fun showing visitors their host country and culture.

Culture Shock

All students, regardless of maturity, previous experience abroad, or knowledge of the country in which they will be living, experience some degree of culture shock. Culture shock is a term used to describe some of the more pronounced reactions to spending an extended period of time in a culture very different from their own.

Culture shock can be characterized by periods of frustration, adjustment, and even depression. The worst homesickness often occurs two to three months after students leave home, and it is common for students to call or write home more during moments of low morale. Consequently, families often picture a more negative situation than actually exists. There is no one way to experience culture shock. It may be acute or barely noticeable. Parents may find it returns once again after they thought their student had already passed through all the stages or may not even be aware that the student is going through culture shock or to what extent. Simply be aware that culture shock exists, that it will probably affect the student in one way or another, but that it does not last forever. Culture shock can be a very valuable experience, which can leave people with broader perspectives, deeper insight into themselves, and a wider tolerance for other people.

Upon Re-entry

Although it may seem like a long way off, UW-Platteville Education Abroad suggests that parents start thinking now about their student's return to the United States after the program ends. Students often go through a phase of "reverse" or "re-entry" culture shock when they return home, which can be sometimes more challenging than what they went through abroad. They expect to go through adjustments in foreign countries, but do not always realize that life has continued on without them at home and there may be changes for which they were not prepared. As with culture shock, one way to alleviate the difficulty of re-entry shock is to keep the student aware of what is going on at home. Students often go through periods of mild depression once they return home because of feelings that no one is interested in what they experienced in their time abroad.

Faced with questions such as "How was your time in...?" a student often can only answer "Great!" before conversation moves on to another subject. Encourage friends and family members to ask more specific questions like "What were the best things about living abroad? The most difficult? What places did you visit? Are people's daily lives the same as in the United States? Do you have any pictures?" Have a party where the student can show off food, customs, and souvenirs from their travels. Not only will such questions and activities remind students they had a worthwhile experience and help them to readjust, it will help others in the community or family learn more about the world.