Study abroad is a big decision. Here’s some info to help put you at ease.
Study abroad is a unique, transformative, and life-changing experience. International Programs recognizes the key role family members play in your student’s success abroad. To assist you in supporting your student, we’ve compiled information for parents and families – from resources about finances and safety to discussion topics for you to talk through with your student. We hope this information will help you as you encourage and support your student throughout their study abroad journey!
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"My son thrived in the new found independence. He learned so many life skills. He travelled and saw many different places and he made friends with people I am sure he will know for the rest of his life. [... The program] was very well organized and I never once worried about my son."
— Kelly, Mom of an FSU London Student -
"What impressed me most was how much [my daughter] grew in such a short time. She learned how to navigate a new country, travel independently, meet people from all over the world, and adapt to situations outside her comfort zone. The confidence and maturity she came home with are things you simply can’t teach in a classroom."
— Maureen, Mom of an FSU Valencia Student -
"[Study abroad offered a] life changing experience that will forever have an incredible impact on my daughter in becoming the best version of herself. This program exposed her to what every child should know [and] experience [that] the world is an incredible place and culturally diverse."
— Beth, Mom of an FSU IP Student
What Your Student Gains When They Study Abroad:
Immersive learning experiences in small class sizes where the average student to faculty ratio can be as low as 12:1
Global perspective as your student goes outside the classroom for experiential learning in their host city
Sharpened problem-solving skills and increased independence as they live in another country and travel
Community while abroad and friendships with other FSU students that will last a lifetime
A network of expert faculty who can connect your student to future opportunities & write recommendations
Only 10% of college students study abroad each year which helps your student stand out from the crowd on job applications
Students who study abroad typically start at higher salaries when they enter the workforce
Cross-cultural communication skills and increased understanding of foreign language and other cultures
Resources
Study abroad is an exciting and amazing growth opportunity, but there’s a lot of planning that goes into it. Here are some resources to help you navigate the process with your student.
Discussion Topics
We understand that sending your student abroad is a big decision. Whether you studied abroad yourself or are brand new to the process, we’re here to help your student have a safe and enriching experience.
We have compiled a list of discussion questions organized by topic below to help you better prepare your student for their study abroad experience. We encourage you to talk through the topics with your student before they leave so you can both be on the same page about expectations for their experience.
- What are some things you will need to spend money on versus things you will want to spend money on during the program?
- How much money do you see as an appropriate amount to spend monthly for recreation? (includes food, shopping, entertainment, etc.)
- How will exchange rates affect your budget (if applicable for your location)?
- How will you access your money?
- What are some of the safety resources available to you (emergency contact card, etc.)?
- How do you plan to stay safe as you explore your host city?
- What are some steps you can take to promote your safety while abroad?
- Have you established a communication plan that will ensure you have reliable cellular coverage throughout your time abroad?
- What form of communication should we use to keep in touch (e.g., FaceTime, WhatsApp, instant message, phone calls, etc.)?
- How often do you plan to communicate with us and your loved ones/support systems while abroad?
- What steps can you take to ensure you feel comfortable speaking with on-site staff in your program location if you’re in trouble or need help?
- How will you be respectful of others’ decisions to drink or not drink?
- Do you plan to consume alcohol while abroad? If so, what are some strategies you can use for safe alcohol consumption?
- What are the local views surrounding alcohol consumption in your host country?
- What are some risks and consequences associated with drinking?
- Do you understand that FSU’s zero tolerance policy regarding the use or possession of drugs and illicit substances applies, regardless of local laws? Are you aware of the consequences for violating this policy?
- How are the laws different from the US in your host country? How will you research differences in laws?
- How do you define peer pressure? How do you identify it when it is happening?
- How have you experienced peer pressure in the past?
- How will you avoid or say no to negative influences?
- How do you plan to honor your own needs while on the program even if others are trying to influence you?
- What do you hope to achieve from your time abroad?
- How do you plan to stay motivated throughout your coursework?
- How will you manage your time abroad between classes and excursions?
- How will you adjust if you become unorganized or lose focus?
- How do you appropriately and respectfully communicate with people who have values or beliefs different than your own?
- What is your definition of consent? Do you understand FSU’s definition of consent?
- Do you know how to clearly communicate your consent or lack of consent?
- What are the consequences of engaging with someone without their consent or other forms of sexual misconduct?
- Do you know what personal health resources are available to support you during your program?
- How do you plan to remain physically, emotionally, and mentally healthy while abroad?
- What does sexual health and safety mean to you?
- Who do you talk to when you’re feeling stressed?
- How do you manage your stress?
- What do you anticipate being the most stress inducing part of this experience? How can you prepare yourself for that?
- What is your reason for choosing to study abroad?
- What classes will you be taking and what about them interests you?
- Do you understand the responsibility of being a student while having this international experience?
- Which class(es) are you most excited about?
- What are you most looking forward to during this experience?
- Are you looking forward to meeting new people? How do you plan to engage with other students and locals while abroad?
- What final steps do you need to take to feel more prepared for your program?
