38l by Jieli Luo

STUDY ABROAD

SURVIVAL GUIDE

Name Contact Phone Wechat The US Address

FOREWORD

Hi, my name is Jieli Luo. Just like you, I made the decision during college to venture out of China and experience the world. I had such a great experience at my college in San Francisco. But undeniably, I was suffering culture shock and language barrier when I was just arrived and I thought others must be too. So I made this book to help me help them. Good luck and safe travels!

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

3-6 months before departure Apply for your passport

Contact local health department

Duplicate medical records

Learn commonly used phrases

Learn about the culture

Create a budget

Break down the dollars

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

2-3 months before departure Talk to academic advicor

Apply for a study abroad student visa

Book study abroad flights

Find housing

Get students discount card

2-4 weeks before departure Pack for study abroad

Pack for travel documentation

Give a goodbye

6-month planner 6-month planner instruction

3 – 6 M O N T H S B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

“Studying abroad is a unique and life changing experience.” – Nate Nault

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3-6 Months before departure

Apply for your passport

Contact local health department

Duplicate medical records

Learn commonly used phrases

Learn about the culture

Create a budget

Break down the dollars

3 – 6 M O N T H S B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Apply for your passport If you don’t already have one, a passport is what you should look into way in advance of actually needing it for travel. You will need a passport to complete many other parts of your abroad preparations from booking flights to applying for a visa. Everything you need to know as far as what qualifies as evidence of Chinese citizenship and personal identification, and what size and quality your photos need to be can all be found online. Lastly, if you do already have a passport, make sure it’s valid for at least six months beyond the entire time you’re going to be abroad.

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Contact local health department Contact your local health department to determine if you need vaccinations before heading abroad. Sometimes you are required multiple doses of a vaccination, so plan ahead. 03

Duplicate medical records Make duplicates of your medical records, especially if you have any health conditions that need daily medications.

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3 – 6 M O N T H S B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Learn commonly used phrases Learn some key phrases that are commonly used in the city where you will be living. Worried you might forget them when put on the spot? Record yourself saying it on your phone so you can play it back if you are in a bind. 05

Learn about the culture Don’t want to look like a tourist? Keep in mind, gestures and actions mean different things in different countries so if you don’t want to look like a tourist, become familiar with the culture.

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3 – 6 M O N T H S B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Create a budget Whether, you are traveling abroad to study or you are traveling for pleasure, you’re bound to run into a few financial hurdles along the way. But if you make a plan and stick to it. It may be possible to see the world without going broke.

CA LCU L AT E YO U R “ BI G PI CTUR E ” NUM BE R

Before you breaking down your study abroad budget, you need to know how much money you will have for the duration of the trip. Whether it’s something you are funding on your own, or with the help of your family. knowing the total budget will make it much easier to itemize expenses later on. CO N V ERT YOUR C U R R E NCY

Most people are surprised by the vast difference between currencies. Before you start making an expense list, take your “big picture” number and see what it converts to in the local currency.

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F I G U R E O UT YO UR NE E DS

Housing accommodation’s, food, transportation. The cost of necessities should be calculated before you start thinking about the fun stuff. Your study abroad program may set you up with some sort of housing arrangement. Check to see if your current financial aid package can be applied to your study abroad university. If it does, funding for on campus housing abroad may be included in the package. You will also want to set aside 10-15% of your overall budget for emergencies. F I G U R E O UT YO UR WANTS

Now’s the hard part is figure out everything you want to do. Obviously, you’re in a new country and you will want to see and experience everything. To determine how to budget your “fun money”, be sure to consider the following things: Excursions: There’s a lot to see and do in a new country. Plan ahead for bigger excursions on your “must do” list. Be sure to include the cost of transportation there and back, meals, and entrance for each trip as well. Nights out: Most days abroad will be spent in class or visiting sites, but you still want to have money to do fun things with your new friends. Set aside some money for random events that pop up while you are abroad. It may help to create a monthly budget for your “party” money to be sure you don’t run out by month two! Souvenirs: Chances are you’re going to want to bring back some gifts for friends and family, as well as souvenirs for yourself. And be sure to set aside some extra spending money. M A N AG E YO UR BUD G E T

Now you have your necessities budgeted, you have your emergencies savings set aside, and you have all of your fun money budgeted out for different activities. Now all you have to do now is stick to your budget. Keep a copy of your budget with you while abroad so you can make sure you’re on track. Save receipts and track your spending as well. It will help you stay honest, and stay on budget.

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Break down the dollars There are three main potential sources for funding your time abroad. And don’t forget about the old-fashioned savings option. Once you de-cide where and when you will be studying abroad, you can start working to save up for your trip. Whether it be a work-study job on campus or babysitting the kids next door, you can budget and set aside your pay check for financing your trip abroad. But let’s be realistic, saving up just might not be enough funding. That’s where our three other options come in. SCH O L A RS H I PS

Scholarships are a great resource that a lot of students neglect simply out of laziness. While you may be overwhelmed at the thought of more applications, you should absolutely take the time to research scholarships. Speaking with an advisor at your school’s international office is important. Talking to an advisor ensures you getting the information you need from a reliable source. F IN A N C I A L A I D

Then there’s the option of financial aid, but be careful because each university is different. Your best bet is to ask your financial aid office if there is anything you can do and how you can apply for any special aid packages that might be available. The only way to be sure is to ask and work with the financial powers that be to get more money. LOA N S

And lastly, loans can also be a viable option. However, anytime you consider loans, be cautious about it. Just remember the difference between financial aid, scholarships and loans is that you will have to pay back every dollar of your student loans after you graduate.

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2 - 3 M O N T H S B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

“One‘s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” – Henry Miller

2 - 3 M O N T H S B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

2-3 Months before departure

Talk to academic advicor

Apply for a study abroad student visa

Book study abroad flights

Find housing

Get students discount card

2 - 3 M O N T H S B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Talk to academic advisor Talk to your US academic advisor to discuss both the courses you will be taking abroad, and those courses you will need to take when returning. Most students find that studying abroad is most beneficial when the courses you take abroad count for credit at your home college or university. Not all courses may count, in which case, your time abroad is still valuable for other reasons, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s often best when your effort spent in the classroom is going toward your degree back home.

2 - 3 M O N T H S B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Apply for a study abroad student visa Visas are official documents issued by a country that allow you to travel abroad for a specific period of time. You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be allowed to a country without it. Browse the Chinese department of the US embassy website to find out the details. Be prepared to send out your visa application at least two months in advance, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to make copies of your visa and visa number just in case! Also, set aside some money for visa fees.

2 - 3 M O N T H S B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Book study abroad flights In terms of priority, booking study abroad flights and getting your visa should be at the top of the list. All you really have to do is pick a date and time, throw down your passport information, and type in your credit card number to book an international flight. Before you go book your flight, take these things into consideration. It will save you a lot of time, money and headaches in the long run.

C H EC K LU G G AG E COSTS

Most airlines will let you check two suitcases with no charge on an international flight. However, for some people, you may have to check a third bag and that can be costly. There isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really a way around this. Just be aware of what the costs are, and compare airlines as thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a chance some might charge you even for a second bag.

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A M E N D YO UR TR AVE L DATES

The start date of the semester is usually set in stone, so there’s no question when you’ll need to be there. The end of the semester is a different story. Some airlines will charge you big bucks to change your return date, others might do it free of charge. And hey, you never know what might pop up over the course of your semester or year that would require you to change your flight home. You can also consider not booking a return flight until once you’ve started your semester and can get a feel for what the rest of your schedule will be like. A F E W PI ECES O F ADVI CE

The first piece of advice is to take advantage of your or your parents’ sky miles that have been collecting dust. Be prepared for high rates, and remember the longer you wait, the more expensive it could be. Then pay attention to baggage weight restrictions. Many airlines require bags to be 50 pounds or less or you will be subject to pay for overweight baggage fees. Keeping these points in mind as you book your study abroad travels can help you remain calm and confident during a time that may sometimes be overwhelming.

2 - 3 M O N T H S B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Find housing Moving to the US to study is an exciting adventure and you’ll get to experience living in American culture. Although many international students decide to live with family or friends already residing in the US, there are students who prefer to look for their own housing accommodations. International students who wonder where to find housing don’t need to look any further.

YO U R SC H O O L’ S ST U DE NT HO US I NG

Your best option for finding student housing is through your school’s housing residence department. Not only will they have on campus housing but many schools offer off-campus housing and have partnerships with building managers and developers in town. Often times, schools will require students to live on-campus the first year which relieves a lot of stress for students.

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H OM ESTAY PRO G R A MS

Many students choose to live with an American family through a homestay program. This offers international students a unique experience as they get to participate in the daily life of an American family and also enjoy the comforts of living in a home. Students work on their English, learn about American culture and bond with the family, building lifelong relationships. Many schools have a homestay program or work with one. You can contact your prospective schools to find more information. ST U DE NT.COM

Another fantastic option for finding a range of different student housing accommodations is Student.com. This website allows you to browse different properties available for housing in neighborhoods near your college or university. They will guide through the entire process of selecting housing, signing the contract, contacting your landlord, how to pay your rent, and checking in to your new home. A I R BNB

Although Airbnb is primarily for short term rentals, you can find some hosts on Airbnb who will rent their spare bedroom or apartment for long term rentals. This option will take more thorough searching and communication with your Airbnb host to make sure they are comfortable with a long term rental.

2-3 MONTHS BEFORE DEPARTURE

2 - 3 M O N T H S B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Get students discount card In most other parts of the world, students are encouraged to â&#x20AC;&#x153;learn by doingâ&#x20AC;? with huge discounts on everything from museums and galleries, to landmarks and historic sites. You can got discounts in every major city in the US.

I N TERNAT I O N A L ST UDE NT I DE NTI FI CATI O N CAR D

The International Student Identification card is the only internationally accepted proof of full-time student status. It is endorsed by organizations such as UNESCO, the European Council on Culture and the Andean Community of Nations. The card is recognized by universities, academic institutions, student organizations, national governments and ministries of education.

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I S E CAR D

For over 50 years, the ISE Card has been recognized as an international student identification card by universities, world attractions, museums, public trains, bus and airline transportation, and various other travel hot spots. The ISE Card offers students over 100,000 different kinds of discounts in countless countries around the world. What really makes this card stand out, though, is that the discounts are guaranteed. Basically, they guarantee that all discounts and benefits listed on their website will be granted to you by the establishments listed. If, for whatever reason, the establishment refuses the discount, ISE will reimburse you double the amount of the difference and extend the validity of your ISE Card by one year, free of charge. Now thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service! ST U CAR D STUDE NT TR AVE L I D CAR D

The StuCard is a travel insurance and discount card exclusively for students and teachers. It is recognized by programs, organizations and institutions all over the world. It includes 24/7 travel assistance, covering travel medical assistance, worldwide travel assistance and travel emergency assistance. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always nice to know you have it. You can call the international number on the back of your StuCard, and have access to services 24/7 anytime day or night, at home or abroad.

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“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

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2 - 4 W E E KS B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

2-4 weeks before departure

Pack for study abroad

Pack for travel documentation

Give a goodbye

2 - 4 W E E KS B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Pack for study abroad Start packing! While packing wisely can be a tedious step, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also one of the most exciting preparations. Be sure to pack appropriate clothes based on the weather of your new hometown and be careful to not over pack because you want to leave room for souvenirs.

2 - 4 W E E KS B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Pack

C LOTH I N G

TO I L E TR I ES

E XTR AS

▫ Underwear

▫ Shampoo / conditioner

▫ Wallet

▫ Socks ▫ Undershirts ▫ Thermal underwear ▫ Long sleeve shirts

▫ Soap ▫ Deodorant ▫ Feminine products

▫ Outlet adapter ▫ Cell phone ▫ Laptop and charger

▫ Brush / comb

▫ Camera / Cords and charger

▫ Shaving supplies

▫ Sheets / bed linens

▫ Contact lenses and solution

▫ Enough prescription drugs

▫ Glasses

▫ Sleeping bag

▫ Nail clippers

▫ Plastic bottles

▫ Makeup

▫ Journal

▫ Over-the-counter medicines

▫ Water bottle

▫ Pajamas ▫ Coat / Jacket

▫ Tissues

▫ Outfits for formal occasions

▫ Medications

▫ Short sleeve shirts ▫ Sweatshirt / Hoodie ▫ Skirts ▫ Belts ▫ Sweaters ▫ Shorts ▫ Workout clothes

▫ Flip flops ▫ Sneakers / Dress shoes / Boots / Rain boots ▫ Cold weather gear

▫ Backpack ▫ A few hangers

OT H E RS THI NG S YO U WANT TO BR I NG

2 - 4 W E E KS B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Pack for study documentation Are you ready to study abroad? If so, it is time to pack the right travel documentation for your trip. You may need a Chinese passport, an F1 Visa, or student ID card. Find out more by looking at your schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website to ensure you bring the right documentation.

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C H I N ES E PASS PO RT

No matter where you go outside China you will need to have a passport. A passport is an official document issued by the government that certifies your identity and citizenship. T R AV E L VI SA

Travel visas are official documents issued by a country that allow you to travel abroad for a specific period of time and grant you temporary authorization to stay in that country. You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be allowed out of China without the US F1 visa. Each countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visa has a different application, so you will have to work with the embassy of the US to visit to find out the details. P H OTO CO PY AND S E PAR ATE D O CUM E NTS

Make at least three photocopies of the travel documents, identification and the informational pages of passport. Carry one copy of each with you but separate from the originals. Leave one in your home in China, and put one at your home abroad.

2 - 4 W E E KS B E F O R E D E PA RT U R E

Give a goodbye Last but not least, leave time aside to give a proper goodbye to your friends, family and favorite foods that you will be leaving for the time being.

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6-MONTH PLANNER

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6-month Planner 6-month Planner Instruction

6-MONTH PLANNER

6-month planner instruction Following is a 6-month planner. Students can use it to keep track of their process and accomplish their tasks for study abroad.

MO N T H

5 - 6 M O N T H S A W AY

MONTH

5 - 6 M O N T H S A W AY

3 - 4 M O N T H S A W AY

MONTH

3 - 4 M O N T H S A W AY

1 - 2 M O N T H S A W AY

MONTH

1 - 2 M O N T H S A W AY

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Bibliography Apply for your passport https://blog.placeit.net/book-mockups/ Contact local health department http://www.iciba.com/bibliography Duplicate medical records https://www.pexels.com/photo/adult-bed-bedroom-blanket-341515/ Learn commonly used phrases https://www.flaticon.com/search?word=passport Learn about the culture https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbYmsrWdwNptv1sOYqnYiIA Create a budget https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLMx5ZV5tiE Break down the dollars https://blog.placeit.net/book-mockups/

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Talk to academic advicor https://globalgraduates.com/articles/the-most-useful-pre-departureadvice-from-university-staff Apply for a study abroad student visa https://www.migrationpolicy.org/article/international-studentsunited-states Duplicate medical records http://www.fontspace.com/m-fonts/m-2p Book study abroad flights https://michaelhyatt.com/intrinsic-motivation/ Find housing http://www.designlazy.com/category/featured/ Get students discount card http://www.designlazy.com/category/psd-templates/ Pack for study abroad https://readcereal.com/category/travel/ Pack for travel documentation http://iambrillyant.tumblr.com/ Give a goodbye https://www.flaticon.com/search?word=passport

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