The opportunity to study abroad is wonderful. International experiences can leave students with a sense of knowing the world and an ability to understand and learn about new cultures—and it certainly looks good on a résumé. Within reason, most countries are not going to be any less safe than the United States. However, safety issues often come in the form of language barriers and the isolation of being an outsider. Studying abroad is a “know before you go” sort of situation. And there are several things that parents should discuss with their students before a trip to help them stay safe and still have a great time while studying in another country.
Language barriers
US students should know at least a little bit of a country’s language before they leave for their semester abroad. Even if the school has a translator, they will find themselves in need of effective communication at some point during their trip. They don’t have to have perfect vocabulary or pronunciation, but they should know some basic phrases. Many translation phrase books are small and can be carried in a pocket, purse, or wallet. Language apps are also great, but students should carry a paper backup in case their phones run out of battery. Certain emergency numbers are also different and should also be learned; for example, “911” in the US is “999” in the United Kingdom.
The Embassy
Students who are going abroad should know where the closest US Embassy is located. Most travelers won’t need to use the Embassy at all, but some will need to visit if their passport is lost or stolen or if they have other paperwork issues. Calling the US Embassy may result in being put on hold for a long time, so students should be prepared to visit in person in case of emergency.
Related: How to Be Extra Safe While Studying Abroad in College
Common sense
It isn’t safe to be wandering alone in Los Angeles or New York or Chicago at 3:00 am. It’s also not safe to be wandering around Rome or London or Tokyo at 3:00 am. Common sense is universal. Students who are studying abroad with a program should stick together with their peers and have plans to meet up or check in at certain times. Basically, everything that kids learned in kindergarten holds true about stranger danger and trusting your gut. They just need to be smart.
Keeping in touch
Your students keeping in touch while they’re abroad will provide peace of mind. Modern technology makes this very easy without worrying about expensive international calls. Simply use tools like Facebook Messenger and add an international text-and-talk plan if it’s not too pricey. Then set up a time each day or week to chat with your kids and see how they’re doing.
Cultural norms
Cultural norms and customs vary throughout the world. Some may seem highly unusual to students, while some of ours may seem highly unusual to other cultures. For instance, most metropolitan cities in Europe do not serve “tap” water, so students should expect to pay for water at the table. In Italy, customers must carry their paper receipts with them until they are about 400 yards away from a shop or stall. And many European trains will have a small restroom that passengers can use for free, but the station restroom often costs one euro to use. Learning local customs can make studying abroad less stressful.
Related: 5 Unique Locations to Consider for Your Study Abroad Travels
Meeting locals
Students who study abroad often stick within their American group of friends and don’t venture out to meet any locals. Without getting to know local people, travelers are really missing out. Students who are less adventurous can chat with local shopkeepers or café servers to get to know the area. They can also meet students from around the world who are studying abroad as well. Coffee shops and school libraries are a great place to meet new people in a comfortable environment.
Local transportation
Students studying abroad heavily rely on their own two feet and the resources at their disposal, so they should get to know the local transportation system. Most European cities have excellent public transportation, but it can be confusing to read the bus or train maps in a foreign language. Many smaller towns may stop their city-to-city trains after certain times of night. Travelers should research this prior to leaving and always travel with a friend for areas they’re unfamiliar with.
Related: Study Abroad Health Insurance: What You Need to Know
Studying abroad is an exciting adventure, but it can admittedly also be nerve-wracking for you as a parent. Send your student off with practical but smart advice, take a deep breath, and trust that they are in good hands with their college program. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for them and they’re sure to make the most of it.
Did you know there are also a ton of scholarships available to help your student’s study abroad dreams come true? Get searching today with our Scholarship Search tool!
