First Generation College Students

Being the first person in your immediate family to attend college is a significant accomplishment. As you consider studying abroad, you may be excited about the opportunities it offers while also navigating questions or concerns that feel unfamiliar to you, your family, or your support network.

Some first-generation students feel motivated to take advantage of every opportunity college offers, including education abroad. Others may find it challenging to explain the value of study abroad to family and friends, navigate the planning process, or balance financial considerations. If you are also a student with high financial need, you may find additional resources in our Students with High Financial Need section.

There is no one "right" way to approach study abroad, and you do not have to navigate the process alone. We offer the questions and resources below as a starting point. As always, your Education Abroad Advisor is available to answer questions, discuss options, and help you identify resources that align with your goals.

Questions to Ask Yourself and/or Your Education Abroad Advisor

Planning

Why do I want to study abroad, and what do I hope to gain from the experience?
What type of program, location, or support structure will help me be successful abroad?
Who can I turn to for advice and support as I prepare, especially if no one in my family has studied abroad before?
How does studying abroad fit into my academic, personal, and career goals?

Family & Friends

How will I talk with family and friends about my decision to study abroad?
What questions or concerns might my family have, and how can I help answer them?
How involved do I want my family to be in my planning process?
How will I stay connected with family and friends while I am abroad?
What resources are available for my family and support network?

Funding & Logistics

How will studying abroad fit into my overall college budget?
What costs should I plan for beyond the program fee, such as a passport, visa, transportation, meals, or personal travel?
What scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities might be available to me?
What steps can I take now to make studying abroad more affordable?

Tips

Ask questions. No one is expected to know everything about studying abroad before they begin exploring options. Asking questions is an important part of the process.

If this is your first time traveling internationally, that's okay. Many students study abroad without having traveled outside their home country before. It is normal to feel excited, nervous, or overwhelmed as you prepare. Your Education Abroad Advisor, on-site staff, and fellow students can help you navigate everything from obtaining a passport and packing to adjusting to life in a new country.

Learn the basics before you go. Familiarize yourself with your destination's customs, transportation system, currency, local laws, and cultural norms. A little preparation can help you feel more confident and comfortable when you arrive.

Build a support network. Connect with other students, Global Ambassadors, faculty, staff, and your on-site program team. Having people you can turn to before and during your experience can make a big difference.

Give yourself time to adjust. Even experienced travelers can experience culture shock, homesickness, or moments of uncertainty. Adjusting to a new environment takes time, and it is okay if you do not feel completely comfortable right away.

Practice problem-solving and asking for help. You do not need to have all the answers before you arrive. One of the benefits of studying abroad is developing the confidence to navigate unfamiliar situations. Remember that program staff, host families, local university staff, and other students can be valuable sources of support.

Keep important information organized. Before departure, make copies of important documents such as your passport, visa, insurance information, and emergency contacts, and make sure you know how to access them if needed.

Stay connected to home. Before you leave, talk with family and friends about how and when you plan to communicate. Setting expectations ahead of time can help everyone feel more comfortable.

Remember that your experience is your own. You do not need previous international travel experience or family members who have studied abroad to be successful. Many first-generation students thrive abroad and find the experience transformative both personally and academically.

On-Campus Resources

Talk to your Education Abroad Advisor
Reach out to a Global Ambassador
Connect with the Office of Equity and Inclusivity
Campus organizations and groups

General Resources

Resources for First-Generation College Students

I'm First! • Resources, advice, and stories for first-generation college students

Global Study and Engagement

Student Identities Abroad