Thank you being supportive of your student as they embark on the life changing experience of studying abroad! We recognize the important role that parents, guardians, and family members play in supporting students pursuing international experiences through study abroad.
 
The staff at the Barbara H. Padnos International Center facilitates meaningful international experiences for Grand Valley students. More than 500 Grand Valley students complete some kind of study abroad program each year — with most students identifying their experience overseas as not only the best thing they’ve done at Grand Valley, but also the best thing they’ve done in their entire lives.

This page will help address common questions and concerns, as well as going over why study abroad is such an impactful experience for students.

Study abroad enriches students on a professional, academic and personal level. Students enhance their competitive edge in the career world, as more and more sectors of our economy involve working with international companies, collaborating or working with foreign teams, or working as part of a multinational or multicultural organization. Gaining meaningful international experience is one of the best ways to prepare for the increasingly global market your student will enter after graduation.

Study abroad combines both ac

Skills Developed Abroad

• Develop a capacity for living in a world that is increasingly diverse, complex, and interdependent
• Learn about another culture and become more accepting and open-minded to foreign customs and traditions
• Take on a challenge that will develop valuable soft and hard skills
• Intercultural communication skills
• Becoming more adaptable and independent
• Increased confidence and self-assurance
• Teating a career field
• Networking and friendship opportunities
• Readiness to participate social activities on and off campus when returned
• Build a more competitive resume

PIC staff members are happy to speak with and/or meet with parents to answer questions. Contact the Padnos International Center

Study abroad program costs vary depending on the program and location in which your student wishes to study. With research and early planning it can be affordable. In addition to the many Scholarship and Grant opportunities for study abroad, any financial aid or scholarships a student already receives at GVSU can be applied to their program. While some are more expensive or similar in cost, 15 programs actually cost less than spending a semester at GVSU.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Student health, safety and security is Padnos International Center’s highest priority. PIC staff regularly monitors the latest travel warning information from the U.S. Department of State and has protocols in place should a crisis occur. Over 270,000 United States students earn credit abroad each year, and the vast majority have a wonderful and safe experience. 

What does PIC do to make sure your students are safe?

• PIC monitors the safety and security situation at all of our overseas study sites and maintains communication with overseas exchange institutions, provider programs and GVSU faculty leaders while GVSU students are abroad.
• PIC requires health insurance coverage and emergency medical evacuation coverage for all GVSU study abroad participants. Students have access to an app through the insurance provider that gives them access to 24/7 assistance.
• PIC requires that students participate in pre-departure and on-site orientations, during which they are provided with safety and security information.

Find out More About Health and Safety Here!

What should you know about Academics abroad?

• There are programs for every academic major GVSU, students are not limited to studying within their major.
• Students can receive credit for their major, minor, electives, and General Education courses.
• Students can pursue an internship or get involved in research abroad.
• Students will get to learn outside the classroom, as experiential learning and learning about culture is hugely prioritized in study abroad programs.

The level of support available to students while they are abroad depends on the type of program they are participating in.

Learn about the different programs by watching our program types video. This will give you an intial idea of how the programs differ.

You can always explore our website content as well. You can start at Explore Programs and then follow the steps through to see other relevant content to questions you may have.

Explore Programs

If you ever have questions, we encourage that you contact our office and we are happy to assist you.

Padnos International Center

130 Lake Ontario Hall 

8:00AM - 5:00PM

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 616-331-3898