Tips to Talk to Parents about Study Abroad

Tips to Talk to Parents about Study Abroad
Tips to Talk to Parents about Study Abroad

Safety Abroad

A top fear that parents and students alike may have about studying abroad is student safety. Going to a new place where you might not speak the language can be scary, but when you're with a Nebraska-affiliated program, you will have ample support.

Vetted programs: The Global Experiences Office has long standing agreements with the programs we send students on. These program providers have years of experience providing opportunities for students to safely experience life in a new country.

Dave Long, Global Safety and Security Director, analyzes and develops crisis response plans for student and staff travelers to ensure that UNL can provide support to travelers in the case of an emergency or crisis. Dave prepares for the worst so that every study gets to experience the best!

Pre-Departure Orientation: Before you leave, you will attend a pre-departure orientation the UNL Global Experiences Office where staff will review safety tips, among other relevant topics.

In-Country Support: You won't be alone abroad - a network of people will be there to work with you and support you the entire time you are outside the U.S. Many of our program affiliate partners have resident staff members on-site who are ready to assist students with any questions, concerns, or emergencies as they may arise.


Costs and Funding

Another area students and families have questions around is the cost of studying abroad. Costs vary across programs and locations, so shop around! There are many different types of funding are available to help you realize your dream of studying abroad.


Specific scholarships:
-UNL (GEO and Colleges) - The Global Experience Office routinely offers the Global Experience and MAPS Scholarships every semester. These awards can fund a substantial amount of a study abroad program!
-Program Affiliates: Many of our program affiliate partners offer awards to applicants of their programs.
-Private
-Federal: The federal government offers many opportunities for students to fund their study abroad, such as the Gilman Scholarship, Boren Awards, and more!
-UNL Financial Aid: Many forms of financial aid are able to be used toward a study abroad experience. Set up an appointment with Husker Hub to discuss the specifics of how your financial aid may be able to apply!
Contact Husker Hub at 402-472-2030 or huskerhub@unl.edu


Academics

Coursework abroad may be rigorous, but it's worth it when there's so much to learn!

Many universities offer unique courses hat are not offered at UNL, including courses specific to the host country’s history, culture, language, etc. If there is something specific you want to gain more expertise on, you could find the right program for you through education abroad.

These courses can provide networking for future opportunities, through relationships developed with professors and classmates. Global Studies and your academic advisor are here to help you explore how Study Abroad can fit into your degree progress.


Professional Development

Many programs offer internship opportunities that can teach students how their field operates in a different country and on a global scale and offers opportunities to network with professionals.

Regardless of which program you choose, studying abroad can help you become more independent and more self-sufficient - skills that will transfer well to any job, regardless of the field! Spending time abroad in a new culture will develop intercultural competency, a skill vital as the world becomes more globally interconnected.


With study abroad, the world is at your feet! Connect with your Global studies Coordinator to answer any questions that you and your parents/caregivers may have.

More details at: https://globalexperiences.unl.edu/