Are you ready?

Make the necessary preparations for a Study Abroad trip

• Are you up to date on vaccinations?
• Are you covered under health insurance?
• Do you have a current and valid passport?
• Do you have appropriate apparel for your destination?

Study Abroad trips are not just your typical vacation; they require a lot of preparation beforehand. One must also be prepared to be far away from home, sometimes with limited contact, depending on your location.

Make sure you are mentally, physically, financially, and spiritually ready for a Study Abroad trip. Remember to keep an open mind; you will be introduced to new cultures and experiences on your trip. The best way to cope with everything is to simply keep an open mind about it all.

Safety

Make Copies of Your Documents

• Make several copies of important documents (passport, driver's license, military ID, student ID etc) and carry those on your person. Also leave a copy of all documents with your parents.
• Never carry the originals with you unless absolutely necessary. That way if you lose one of the copies you can easily replace it instead of the actual document itself.
• Also never carry all your money on your person. This includes traveler's checks. Just bring what you'll need for the day, and keep the rest stowed away in an inconspicuous place at where you're staying.

Know Where You are and Where You are Going

Leave for the day with at least a general idea of the area. In addition to difficulty due to language barriers, asking strangers for directions (making it known that you are lost) can be dangerous. When traveling in groups, pay attention to what is going on and don't let yourself get left behind. Keep up and try to have the group leader in your sight at all times.

Be Aware of Local Laws

As students and representatives of UMHB, you are expected to act with faith-informed discernment; using integrity and good morals wherever you go.

In a different culture, some new rules might be in play. Sometimes there are cultural conventions that one must abide by in addition to different rules and regulations. Being aware of these conventions will not only help guarantee your safety and the safety of those around you, but will also be respectful to your host culture.