Study Abroad Parent Guide

Studying abroad can be one of the most challenging, rewarding and transformative experiences in a student's college career. The Study Abroad & Exchange staff is dedicated to helping students take advantage of the opportunities that study abroad affords. But deciding to study abroad can feel daunting, both for students and for their families. Study abroad is a big decision. However, for those parents and students who are willing to take on the challenge, the rewards are immense.

Families play an important role in supporting the international experiences of their student. We recognize that many of you provide financial, logistical, and emotional support in order to make study abroad possible. As a result, it is just as important for you to be informed as well. We invite you to download our Parent Guide to help you on this journey.

The Parent Guide is meant to provide you with information about the study abroad experience. Everything outlined in the guide is available to your student through our info sessions, one-on-one advising, information provided via our online student portal, study abroad interviews, pre-departure orientation meetings and re-entry sessions. One of the goals of the Study Abroad & Exchange advisors is to foster in our students the independence and responsibility necessary to be successful abroad. Therefore, we consider students to have the primary responsibility for keeping their families informed of their plans and for sharing information related to study abroad. All communication is sent to students as the primary agents in their own experiences abroad. We kindly ask for your assistance in encouraging this independence by appointing your student as the primary contact with us, but we are also happy to answer your questions and address any concerns you have.

We look forward to working with you and your student before, during and after the time spent on study abroad. We hope you will reference this handbook to assist in your preparations and your adjustment to your student's journey through the study abroad experience.

Download the Study Abroad Parent Guide in PDF format

Mary Hicks, Associate Director
mhicks4@tulane.edu

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