Hosting a pre-departure orientation - International Programs ...

Passports and Visas
Hosting a pre-departure orientation
Topics to cover
• Study Away MUST HAVE A PHOTOCOPY of student’s passport on file
• If your passport is expired or within a year of expiring, get it renewed immediately
o Be sure to check the expiration date of your passport!
• Student Visas—applications and requirements for visas will vary by country; it is your
individual responsibility to obtain your travel documents
• The Program Director has registered you online with the U.S. Department of State
Communication
o In the event of an emergency or natural disaster, the U.S. Embassy will know
which Americans are in the country
• Keep in touch with family and friends: Social Networking, Skype, International Phone
Cards, Cell Phones, Global SIM Cards
• Try to limit yourself to a maximum of one hour per day corresponding with friends and
family back home
Health and Safety
• Health: Know your limits, take care of yourself!
• Alcohol and Drugs: Neither the Study Away Programs nor Missouri State University
endorses the use of illegal drugs and alcohol. Nevertheless, we are aware that some
students will choose to partake in these activities, whether they are illegal or not in their
host country. Should you choose to use alcohol or drugs, please abide by these tips:
o Know the laws, the customs, your rights, your limits, your inhibitions
o Look out for your friends
o Be safe and always use common sense!
• Always know your surroundings, do your research on the country, and be safe

Packing
• Limit Weight: pack as little clothing/shoes/extras as possible, and make sure that they
are seasonally and culturally appropriate
• Documents: passport, visa, travel documents
• Medications: Keep meds in original bottles, put what you don’t need immediately in
your checked luggage
• Leave room for souvenirs because you’ll bring home lots of these!
Culture Shock