What your student will gain

Only 10% of college students study abroad each year; your student’s study abroad experience will make them stand out from the crowd. Whether it is on a resume, in a job interview, or at a dinner party, they will always have an interesting story to tell. While abroad, your student will also gain greater independence as they learn to navigate the city and engage in cross-cultural communication.

Another benefit of study abroad is the lifelong friendships made along the way. Even if your student doesn’t know anyone when they step on the plane, they will make connections and build a community with a diverse group of friends that will follow them back to Tallahassee and for the rest of their life.

A wide range of course offerings taught by faculty who are experts in their field will give your student the opportunity to have a unique academic experience. During study abroad, the instructors will use the city as the classroom, offering your student the chance to immerse themselves in another culture. When your student returns to the US, they will return as a global citizen. FSU provides opportunities for your student to further reflect upon their experience abroad with programs like the Global Citizenship Certificate.

Communication

Responsible communication is the foundation for a successful experience abroad. It is important for family members to understand FERPA and note that all communication from FSU International Programs goes directly to your student.

We encourage you to establish open communication with your student throughout the pre-departure process to receive updates about their program. While they are abroad, empower your student to seek assistance from our on-site staff if they encounter a problem. You may be asked by your student to contact our office on their behalf with questions or concerns, but we urge you to let them take the reins before and during the program. You might consider this an opportunity for your student to become more independent and self-sufficient. Reference the Communication Discussion Topics for ideas on how to begin this conversation with your student.

Understanding FERPA
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of students’ educational records. Student records are restricted to access by the student and those the student approves through signed privacy release documents.

It is important to understand that FSU does not release information regarding your student without permission to ensure the protection of your student and family.

For more information, visit https://registrar.fsu.edu/records/ferpa/.

FINANCES

The financial aspect is often the biggest factor in deciding when and where to study abroad. We have resources available to you and your student as you navigate the finances of study abroad, including a Finances Team, information about scholarships and financial aid, deferment information, and more! Visit the Money Matters section of our website for details.

Health & Safety

At International Programs, your student’s safety is our top priority. From building security and accessible staff to comprehensive health insurance, we’ve got it covered. IP’s Director of Emergency and Risk Management affirms that, “the safety of our participants is set at the focal point of every decision we make in International Programs. This is true from the first moments of program development all the way through until students are on their way back home.” You can guide your student to learn more about safety in the program packet they will receive before going abroad and in the pre-departure orientation.

PREPARATION

We offer a wide variety of programs that differ in location, term, length, price, courses offered, and program type. Visit the Students section of our website for information about the different types of programs, courses and academic advising, the application process, immigration requirements, and more. Students can learn more about how to prepare for their program during the pre-departure orientation and by reading their program packet.

We understand that sending your student abroad is a big decision. As part of our comprehensive plan regarding the health, safety, and success of your student, we have compiled a list of topics to discuss with your student before they embark on an International Programs adventure. As an added resource, we encourage you to view the questions under each tab and discuss them with your student.