Important Resources
Families play a vital role in helping their students prepare to study off-campus. The Center for Global Study & Engagement encourages students to discuss their plans with their families and we invite families to learn about programs, policies, health and safety, and more.
Below are helpful resources and information the CGSE has shared with students. Families are encouraged to review this information together with their student.
Tips for supporting your student abroad
1. Encourage Self-Advocacy
Encourage your student to take charge of their own experience by practicing self-advocacy. While it may be challenging at times, this is a key opportunity for them to build independence, gain confidence, and develop valuable problem-solving skills that will benefit them long after their study abroad experience.
2. Support Open Communication
Effective communication is an essential part of self-advocacy when studying abroad. The Center for Global Study and Engagement (CGSE) primarily communicates directly with the student, providing information about safety, courses, stipends, and other important details. Unless it's an emergency, we generally do not communicate with families beyond the family webinar and our health & safety emails. While on campus, we encourage students to communicate with CGSE staff. While abroad, they should reach out directly to onsite faculty and staff, who will be best equipped to address any issues.
3. Embrace Uncertainty
Studying abroad can come with a fair amount of uncertainty. Encourage your student to embrace ambiguity and trust the process. By tolerating uncertainty, they'll become more adaptable and resilient, learning to handle challenges with greater confidence.
4. Wait to Plan Family Visits
We understand that studying abroad is an exciting opportunity for families to visit their students! However, we encourage families to wait until after the program begins before making travel plans. Unless students have a long break and have confirmed their schedule regarding required excursions, we suggest students wait to plan personal travel until they arrive onsite, as they’ll have more information about the program and academic excursions. This also gives students the chance to connect with others in the program or at their host institution to plan travel together.
5. Understand Insurance Coverage
Dickinson provides insurance for all students studying abroad through a policy with CHUBB ACE Insurance Company. Coverage is automatic, and the cost is included in the program fee. In addition, students receive medical and travel security assistance through International SOS. Students are still required to maintain their primary health insurance, whether purchased through Dickinson or independently. For more information, please visit our Health, Safety and Insurance page.
6. Communicate about finances and budgeting
Navigating budgets and expenses can be a big adjustment for students, and your involvement in the conversation is invaluable. We encourage you to discuss budgeting with your student—especially when it comes to personal expenses. Clear communication about costs, expectations, and available resources is essential.
Our financing study abroad website offers helpful information on costs, budget, and finances abroad, and we encourage you to review this information together with your student. The CGSE regularly communicates directly with students about financial matters, including stipend information (if applicable). Encourage your student to share the information they receive and set expectations together about how to manage their finances throughout their study abroad experience.
A conversation about budgeting can help set your student up for financial success and avoid surprises later on!