Welcome Letter - Study Abroad Pre-Departure - Grand Valley State University


Padnos International Center Study Abroad Pre-Departure International Students International Scholars
Introduction Welcome Letter Before Departure Pre-Departure Checklist Visa Information Insurance Information Power of Attorney Money Tips Packing Calling Home Skype PicCell Wireless Brightroam Calling Cards Partnership Program Information Academic Policies Course Equivalency Financial Aid Flight Information Flight Arrangements Airline Information Baggage Regulations Tips Immigration and Customs Information Fighting Jet Lag Health & Safety Health Information Safety Culture Shock Immunizations Info on the Mexican Flu (Swine Flu) Info on the Avian Flu Links Know Your Destination How informed are you? Language Preparation Education Systems Glimpse.org While You're Abroad Do You Know What To Do? On-Site Orientation Checklist Be A Good Representative Communication Homestay Tips Gifts Gender Issues Minority Student Issues Embassies and Consulates Hostelling International Assumption for Risk and Release for Off Campus Activities After Your Return Check in with PIC upon your return GVSU International Mentoring Program GVSU Cultural Organizations Connect to other students University Policies Barbara H. Padnos International Center 130 Lake Ontario Hall Allendale, MI 49401 Phone: 616-331-3898 Fax: 616-331-3899 studyabroad@gvsu.edu	Congratulations! You have made the decision to study abroad and are now in the midst of preparing for a journey of personal and intellectual discovery. First and foremost, we want to commend you for making the decision to take on this exciting opportunity. There is no better way to learn about the world and people who share it than by first-hand experience. Understanding more about others is, perhaps, one of the greatest contributions one can make towards a more peaceful world. It is safe to say that it would be nearly impossible for us to prepare you for every single situation that you may confront while you are abroad. Experienced travelers will agree that unexpected situations will arise and that you will have to learn to handle them with confidence and savvy. Our goal is to ensure that you have the tools and resources to be a well-informed traveler and that you have taken into consideration the necessary steps in planning for your sojourn abroad. Unknown variables have a tendency to make things very exciting for some and may create anxiety for others. Just remember, you are not alone! There are over 191,000 US students studying abroad each year. Of those, over 500 are from GVSU. While you may not have control over what happens to you, you do have control over how you react to any given situation. Consider putting the following into practice: Keep a positive attitude Maintain flexibility Be open to new experiences, ideas, and ways of living Avoid making judgments Be respectful and conscientious Learn tolerance Be patient Be prepared HAVE FUN!
	Last Modified Date: April 3, 2009
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