Academic Advising for Study Abroad
INITIAL CONVERSATIONS
- We encourage all academic advisors to ask their students if they’ve considered study abroad during their advising sessions. (See also Benefits of Study Abroad).
- Help students identify the best time to study abroad based on their degree plan.
- Are there specific courses that would work well for the student to take abroad?
- Talk to students about study abroad and its benefits. In addition to the personal benefits, how will it enhance their degree? How will it enhance their intended career?
- Students should get involved globally while on campus to prepare for their international experience, students should check out these On-Campus Global Opportunities.
- Do you teach a class or advise a student group? Invite a PackAbroad Ambassador to come to your class.
DISCUSSING PROGRAM OPTIONS
- Be familiar with one or two study abroad programs that are good for your students.
- Check out Programs by Area of Study to start narrowing program options!
- Encourage students to visit our website (including the funding information) or come to a Study Abroad 101 session.
DEBRIEFING THE EXPERIENCE POST-STUDY ABROAD
- Many students will benefit from assistance from their advisor to process how study abroad has impacted them – it can be a transformative, yet challenging experience that continues to affect them upon return. Advisors can support students by asking some targeted questions to help students reflect upon their experience and by providing a listening ear.
- Tell me one highlight of your academic experience abroad – tell me something you learned?
- Was there anything that really surprised you about living abroad?
- What did you think of your classes when you studied abroad?
- Do things feel different now that you’ve returned back to campus?
- How do you feel about your continued studies and career plan now that you’ve returned?
- What’s something you wish you would have done differently?
- Do you have any advice for other _____ majors who are considering study abroad?
- We hope students will continue their global learning by getting involved with On-Campus Global Opportunities.