The Education Abroad team is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for every student on campus or while studying abroad. Whether you are thinking about studying abroad, or if you have already been accepted to a program, it is important to prepare and familiarize yourself with different historical and cultural understandings of issues in the country where you plan to study. You should be aware that customs, beliefs, laws, facilities, and social practices are likely different than at the 猎奇重口.
Before you depart for your international experience, we encourage you to do the following:
- Research your host country, including local laws, customs, and cultural expectations.
- Examine your expectations and consider how realistic they may be. Do they align with the realities of your chosen destination?
- Make use of both UM and external resources that will assist you with this research and offer advice, personal narratives, and other information.
- Reach out to students who have studied abroad in your host country (Education Abroad can provide names of former study abroad students).
- Review relevant safety information about your chosen location
- Understand local laws and regulations that may affect your daily activities.
- Consider cultural adjustment strategies for your host country.
As you consider your own backgrounds, think about these questions in relation to your prospective education abroad destination:
- What topics are considered appropriate or inappropriate for public discussion in your host country?
- How will you respond respectfully and with cultural sensitivity if you encounter unfamiliar cultural practices or perspectives?
- What cultural adjustment challenges might you face, and how will you address them?
- What support resources are available through your host institution?