Read the handbook

While you’re abroad

Checklist

  • If you are on an exchange or direct-enroll program, update your international contact information in your myStudyAbroad account.
  • Contact your MU academic adviser and International Admissions about any changes to your courses for approval.
  • Take photos to enter in the annual Study Abroad Photo Contest (cash prizes!).
  • Keep in contact with the MU study abroad staff — and not just about problems, share your successes as well.
  • Register for the semester you return to MU on myZou.
  • Verify with your host university/organization that your transcript will be sent to Mizzou Study Abroad when your grades have been processed (not applicable for students participating in faculty-led programs).
  • Have a positive attitude and keep an open mind so you can have the best study abroad experience.
  • Update your itinerary in your myStudyAbroad account with any independent travel you do while abroad.

Cultural adaptation

Intensity factors

It is important to consider cultural differences between your home culture and new host culture. Dr. R. Michael Paige’s “10 intensity factors” lists the contrasting cultural circumstances that can have significant psychological impact on your study abroad experience. Paige named these circumstances intensity factors because they have the ability to affect your stress levels while adjusting to your host country’s culture, thus affecting the intensity of your experience abroad. For example, if you are in a country where the native language is not English, the language barrier may have an impact on the intensity of the adjustments you have to make to assimilate to the new culture. The greater the contrast in cultural circumstances, the greater the cultural intensity you will feel. Consider how these factors may impact your time abroad:

  1. Cultural difference
  2. Ethnocentrism
  3. Language
  4. Power and control
  5. Cultural immersion
  6. Cultural isolation
  7. Prior intellectual experience
  8. Expectations
  9. Visibility and invisibility
  10. Status

Culture shock

The W-curve of cultural shock
W-curve of cultural adjustment: Click on image for full description in Flickr.

Traveling abroad can be one of the most exhilarating learning experiences of your life. Or it can turn out to be a series of bewildering and frustrating incidents that leave you longing for home. By thinking about and preparing for the process of cultural adjustment, you can enhance your study abroad experience.

What causes culture shock?

The difference between your expectations and what you actually experience is where you may begin to find problems in adjusting abroad. In spite of the fact that you may have already visited your host country, you will find it different to actually live there. It is easy to become frustrated by the differences in daily life. The easily-accessible facilities taken for granted in the U.S. may not always be available, and this can prove upsetting and stressful. Take this as an opportunity to find out one of the reasons why most students find study abroad so rewarding — it forces you to learn about your personal limits and strengths.

Stages of culture shock
  • The “honeymoon” period — initial euphoria; you are fascinated with the new things you are experiencing.
  • Irritability and hostility as you reject the foreign culture and people to focus on problems and differences — leads to culture shock.
  • Learning to decipher foreign behavior and custom.
  • Adaptation/biculturalism — acceptance and enjoyment of the foreign culture.

Adapting to the host culture

  • Maintain flexibility and be open-minded.
  • Keep your sense of humor.
  • Stay busy and set concrete goals. Resist withdrawing into yourself or surrounding yourself with other Americans.
  • Be friendly and outgoing. Try to make a friend in the host culture.
  • Instead of looking for an extended vacation, discover the satisfaction of immersing yourself in a different way of life. Be more than just a tourist.
  • Remember that you are a visitor in this country. Do not expect special privileges.
  • Get involved with aspects of the host culture that you can’t easily do a home, such as participating in or observing a special ceremony or ritual.
  • Respect the customs and opinions of the people you meet abroad.
  • Engage in familiar sports and activities to keep from feeling overwhelmed by a completely foreign situation.
  • Keep in touch with family and friends at home (but don’t spend too much time online).
  • Take care of yourself by getting enough sleep, exercising and eating healthy meals.
  • Acknowledge that culture shock is normal and will pass. If these feelings increase in severity, seek help from your overseas contact person. If you are not receiving the help you need, contact your study abroad adviser right away.
Stereotypes

Study abroad includes dealing with your host culture’s stereotypes about you, and also involves coming to grips with your own stereotypes about your host culture. Here are some common stereotypes about Americans:

  • Outgoing and friendly
  • Informal
  • Loud, rude, boastful
  • Immature
  • Hard working
  • Extravagant and wasteful
  • Racially prejudiced
  • Ignorant of other countries
  • Wealthy
  • Generous
  • Promiscuous
  • Always in a hurry

The following are some unflattering questions and generalizations about the U.S. that you may hear in another country. If these or similar questions are posed to you while abroad, try not to become defensive. Instead, try to address them by being patient, open-minded and gracious. Remember that you are abroad to learn about another culture, not to promote and become entrenched in your own. It is important to be mindful of current events in the United States to best address these questions in an informed way. Don’t forget that you are acting as an ambassador of the United States and MU while you are abroad.

  • We’ve heard so much about how easy your schools are. How can such a great nation have such a poor education system?
  • Why do you put your old people in homes? Don’t you care about the elderly?
  • How can such a rich country have so many poor people?
  • Why are Americans so ignorant of the world?
  • How can you talk so much about human rights when you have racial problems in the U.S.?
  • America is well-known to us from TV and films. With all the sex and drugs going on, you must be immoral.
  • Why are you always trying to force your form of government on everyone else?
  • Do you own a gun?
Discrimination

Some stereotypes can lead to active hostility against a group with a given identity. Some students may encounter active hostility toward Americans while they are abroad. This hostility can take many forms. Verbal insults are usually the most common and least dangerous. Students who find themselves in such situations need to escape the situation as quickly as possible. If a situation becomes openly hostile or dangerous, contact the local authorities or your on-site coordinator as appropriate.

Personal space

In every culture, there is a conception of what is considered appropriate personal space. Learn the etiquette of personal space in your host culture by doing your research before you go and observing other people once you are abroad. Don’t be offended if someone invades your space by accident. Remember that in some cultures the American norm of wide personal space translates to aloofness and standoffish behavior. Your habits in regard to personal space could be telling other people something that isn’t really true.

Polite behavior

Every culture has an idea of what is considered polite, what is informal and what is rude. These fine shades of social behavior take years to learn, even for natives; don’t be discouraged if it takes you a while to adjust to these norms. Remember that some people, even in their own cultures, never quite get the hang of these distinctions. Some things Americans typically do that may be considered rude in other cultures include pointing, smiling at strangers, asking personal questions, teasing each other, shouting and calling people by their first names.

Topics of conversation

Many cultures have taboo subjects that may or may not make any sense to you. Try to find out what can be safely spoken about in polite conversation and what might be considered offensive or rude. Political discussions can become especially heated. If you are not sure where you stand on an issue or aren’t willing to discuss it, simply back out of the conversation. The last thing most people want is to hear an ill-informed American talking loudly about an issue in local politics on which you have absolutely no idea.

Humor

Senses of humor differ drastically from culture to culture. What may be funny to you is not always going to be funny to an Australian, for example. Conversely, what an Australian considers hilarious, you may find rude and offensive. Be careful about what you joke about overseas and observe the joking behaviors of your friends. Learn from other people’s mistakes. It’s best to err on the side of caution when it comes to humor.

Food and eating

In some countries, it is impolite to keep your hands under the table and improper to put your knife and fork down to change hands after cutting a piece of food. Words used in the U.S. may mean something different abroad, and you may also encounter a few food surprises. For example, spaghetti in Italy is a first course, and French fries might be served with mayonnaise rather than ketchup.

Menus may state whether a tip or taxes are included in the bill. Check the customs of the country you are visiting, as tipping practices vary. Take time to explore local restaurants and eateries. You can learn a lot about countries by their cuisine and the clientele they serve. At the same time, be aware of food and water safety precautions. Also, watch out for extras. In some places, you may pay extra for a napkin or a glass of tap water. Food is available on most high speed trains, but may be more expensive. Plan ahead and bring something with you. In big cities, restaurants inside and around the train station are generally more expensive. Trekking a bit down a few side streets may lead you to something a little more special and in your price range. Travel guidebooks can often contain good information about restaurants.

It may be wise to bring any special dietary supplements or food items you are accustomed to, but keep in mind it is illegal to carry perishables or plants across country borders.

Health abroad

You should follow basic health and wellness practices while abroad: eat balanced meals, get enough sleep, wash your hands often, exercise. If you become ill while abroad and need to see a health care provider, contact your on-site program coordinator or use the search on the GeoBlue Students website to find a provider nearby.

Mental health

Whether you are currently being treated for a mental health condition or have experienced mental health concerns in the past, preparing for and participating in a new experience like studying abroad can bring around a return of or increase in symptoms. Factors such as changes in diet, climate, elevation or air quality, stress related to adjusting to a new culture or language, or lack of your usual support network and familiar routine can make it more challenging to manage an existing mental health condition or result in a new mental health concern.

After you are accepted to your study abroad program, share any ongoing mental or physical health concerns in the health information form in myStudyAbroad. The Office of International Health, Safety and Security will assist you in arranging continuing care abroad through your international health insurance. MU’s student international health insurance covers the cost of in-person counseling abroad and offers remote counseling sessions at no additional cost. If you are currently seeing a mental health care provider, you should talk to them about your upcoming study abroad experience. All Mizzou students are encouraged to utilize Student Health and Well-Being’s resources.

Additional resources

Disabilities

Many MU students with documented disabilities study abroad each year. However, you may find that accessibility and accommodations abroad differ from what you are used to in the United States. Research the host culture’s attitude toward your disability (additional resources below).

If you anticipate needing a reasonable accommodation abroad:

  1. Consult with the MU Disability Center early in your planning process. You must register with the Disability Center to discuss possible accommodations for study abroad.
  2. After you are accepted to your study abroad program, complete the accommodations request for students with disabilities in myStudyAbroad.
  3. Your request will be reviewed by an access adviser in the Disability Center and you will meet with them to discuss the accommodations you need. Then the MU Office of International Health, Safety and Security will work with your study abroad program and communicate with you and the Disability Center about available accommodations.
Additional resources

Sexual health

Although sex is not necessarily planned, safe sex should be, and you should always be prepared. Therefore, even if you are not planning to be intimate with anyone while abroad, you may want to bring appropriate protection, as what is available in America may be safer and more reliable than what you would find abroad. Do not be afraid of being perceived as promiscuous if you carry condoms or other sexual protection, and do not expect a partner to always have their own. It is important to take safe sex seriously.

In addition, remember that HIV and several STDs, including herpes and genital warts, can be transmitted during oral sex. A dental dam can significantly reduce the risk of coming in contact with a sexually transmitted disease.

Alcohol and drugs

Attitudes toward alcohol and drug use vary considerably from culture to culture. Remember, you are subject to the laws of your host country; be sure to understand the laws surrounding drugs and alcohol. Although some countries have more liberal laws concerning drugs and alcohol, in many countries the laws and penalties are more severe. You are an ambassador of MU and the United States. You will be held to the MU Standards of Conduct Code, which you agreed to by signing the UM System Assumption of Risk and Release.

If you are of legal age to drink alcohol in your host country, do so responsibly. Serving sizes and alcohol content vary by country, which, when coupled with your new environment, may cause alcohol to affect you differently than you are used to. Be cautious and don’t over indulge. Never let your beverage out of your sight — drugging drinks happens throughout the world.

Possession and use of illegal drugs will result in your immediate dismissal from your study abroad program. Drugs account for one-third of Americans arrested overseas, and penalties can be severe. Remember, never agree to carry a suitcase or package for someone else.

Water and food precautions

In countries where the tap water is not safe to drink, do not drink the water, avoid ice cubes and use boiled or bottled water to brush your teeth. Review the food and water safety guidelines specific to your destination in your program- or country-specific handbook. In countries where the tap water is safe to drink, the slight difference in mineral content might be enough to upset your system. diet or environment affects your health adversely when you first arrive in a new country. If you do have a reaction to the local food or water, monitor your symptoms closely. It may just be your body adjusting, but if your symptoms become severe, seek medical attention.

Blood- and fluid-borne diseases

Given the potentially fatal consequences, blood- and fluid-borne diseases — such as HIV and hepatitis — warrant special attention. To be safe in dealing with blood or other bodily fluids, follow this rule of thumb: If it’s wet and it’s not yours, don’t touch it.

Tattoos and body piercings

Before you decide to obtain a tattoo or piercing abroad, it is vital that you consider the potential health risks posed anytime a needle punctures your skin. The most serious risk is that of blood-borne diseases. If the equipment used to create your tattoo or piercing is contaminated with the blood of an infected person, you can contract a number of serious blood-borne diseases, including hepatitis C, hepatitis B, tetanus, tuberculosis and HIV. For more information, see the Mayo Clinic website.

Over-the-counter medications and first-aid kit

It’s a good idea to take a small first-aid kit and over-the-counter medications that you use regularly. Products and availability differ by country. The MU Student Health Center recommends you consider taking these items (but check to be sure everything you pack is legal in your host country):

  • Decongestant
  • Benadryl for allergic reactions and motion sickness
  • Topical antibiotic cream and bandages for cuts and scrapes
  • Imodium or Pepto-Bismol for diarrhea
  • Acetaminophen/ibuprofen for aches, pains and fever

Safety abroad

The law abroad

While you are in another country, you are subject to its laws. Legal protections and rights that are taken for granted in the U.S. are left behind when you depart. American embassies and consulates are very limited in the assistance they can provide. They can provide the names of attorneys and doctors, but they can’t provide financial assistance in paying for legal or medical services, nor can they intervene on your behalf in the administration of justice in the host country. Bail provisions as you know them in the U.S. are rare in other countries. Pretrial detention without bail is quite common in other countries. Prison conditions are often deplorable in comparison to conditions in the United States, and the principle of “innocent until proven guilty” is not necessarily a tenet of the legal system abroad.

It is your responsibility to become familiar with and obey the host country laws. At every MU and affiliated program site, there is a primary contact person who is responsible for MU students (e.g., resident director, host university contact person or faculty program director). This person should be your main resource in providing information about how host country laws may differ from U.S. laws. In addition, U.S. Department of State country-specific information can provide details about host country laws.

Arrest or detention of a U.S. citizen abroad

Nearly all countries where MU students study have signed the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, which provides U.S. citizens who are arrested or detained abroad with the right to speak to a consular officer from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate without delay. More than 170 countries are part of the VCCR. Many, but not all, of the 20 countries that are not part of the VCCR have some other bilateral agreement with the U.S. that addresses consular access.

Adhere to the following procedures if you are arrested or detained abroad:

  • Do not make any statements to the country police prior to contacting a U.S. embassy or consulate (or your home embassy or consulate, if you are not a U.S. citizen) and do not make any statements without your lawyer present. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate immediately, tell them you have been arrested and request assistance. The embassy will almost always consider the arrest of a U.S. citizen abroad to be an emergency and will send a consular official within 24 hours. In addition, the U.S. embassy maintains a list of attorneys, but does not verify the quality of the professionals who ask to be included on the list. Contact your AIG Travel Guard insurance emergency number for additional legal assistance.
  • Call your on-site contact person and the MU 24/7 emergency number as soon as possible. International Programs will work with MU campus experts to assist you to the greatest degree possible.

It is important to understand that neither the U.S. government nor MU can get you out of jail if you are arrested abroad. It is critical that you understand and obey the laws of your host country and any countries you plan to visit while you are abroad.

U.S. embassy and consulate services

Should you encounter serious legal, political, health or economic problems, the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate can offer limited assistance. They can provide you with a list of local attorneys or physicians, contact next of kin in the event of an emergency or serious illness, contact friends or relatives on your behalf to request funds or guidance, provide assistance during civil unrest or natural disaster, and replace a lost or stolen passport. An embassy or consulate is the primary source for information on where to obtain advice; however, it cannot give advice directly.

Emergency contact

MU International Programs:

  • During business hours: +1 573-882-6007 (8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday)
  • After hours: +1 573-882-7201 (MU Police will contact International Programs staff)

Additionally, you should always carry the contact information for the following:

  • On-site program coordinator/office
  • Emergency phone number for host program/institution
  • Nearest U.S. embassies/consulates to where you are studying or traveling
  • Family members
  • Local 911 equivalent
  • Local recommended hospital
  • Local recommended taxi service

Staying safe

For your general well-being, it is advantageous to become familiar with your program site as quickly as possible. You should also familiarize yourself with cities you will be visiting before you begin to explore them. You should review the country-specific information for any country you will be visiting on the Department of State website. You may want to purchase travel guides before leaving the U.S.; they may be more expensive or unavailable in your host country.

Cities in other countries, just like American cities, have their safe and less safe neighborhoods. You can find out what areas to avoid by asking at an information booth in a train station or airport when you arrive, or by asking your on-site primary contact person. Use your common sense and do not take risks.

Be cautious when meeting new people. Don’t give out your address and phone number to strangers or divulge too much personal information.

When withdrawing money from an ATM, go with a friend who will help you stay alert to your surroundings. Pick your ATM locations for safety, not just convenience.

Do not attract attention to yourself by speaking English loudly in public places or wearing expensive-looking jewelry. These mannerisms will likely attract thieves, or worse. If someone does try to rob or mug you, remember that your life is always more important than any of your possessions. Let them go and run away if necessary.

Taxis are not safe everywhere, especially late at night. In some places, women do not ride in taxis by themselves. Anyone can be robbed or assaulted by taxi drivers. In many cities, taxis have become so dangerous that people call for and identify reputable taxis. It is hard to resist the temptation of just flagging down a taxi on the street, but the wait is worth it. When you call a taxi, make sure to get the identification number or other information so you can be sure to get in the right one.

In general, do not frequent well-known American hangouts (e.g., restaurants, bars, clubs and associations, consulates and embassies). You should especially avoid these places if there is a terrorist threat, the U.S. has just participated in a military action or there is a warning about an impending terrorist threat. During times of international crisis, many U.S. embassies and consulates are picketed or threatened.

Do not hitchhike. Many people may tell you that it is perfectly safe — it is not. Do not be afraid to be assertive when confronted with unwanted situations. Do not let anyone push you into taking risks. If you feel unsafe, you probably are, so listen to your instincts.

Some factors that increase risk are being:

  • Intoxicated
  • Alone at night
  • Alone in an isolated or high-crime area
  • Asleep in an unlocked place
  • Out after a local curfew
  • New to the country
  • Unable to speak the local language
  • In a new place and making new friends
Political or social protests

When you digitally signed the Program Confirmation and Conditions of Participation, you agreed not to participate in any political activities while abroad. Even peaceful political or social protests can unexpectedly turn violent. Your participation in a demonstration is cause for dismissal from your program. You should also avoid aiding, abetting or associating with those involved in espionage or insurgencies.

Sexual harassment and misconduct and other forms of discrimination

The University of Missouri policies prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability and veteran status are still in effect while you are abroad. This includes sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, intimate partner violence, stalking, sexual exploitation or invasion of sexual privacy. Information, support and resources related to these types of discrimination, including the online incident report form, are available through the Office for Civil Rights and Title IX. In the event of an emergency, call the University of Missouri 24/7 emergency assistance line through the MU Police Department at +1 573-882-7201 and ask to speak to an International Programs staff member.

Swimming

Many drownings on beaches abroad are due to the fact that foreign swimmers are unaware of what the local population knows about undertows or particular dangers in that area. Do not count on lifeguards; there likely won’t be any in most of the places you visit. Swimming in early morning, at night or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs increases your risk of drowning. In addition, in some countries, fresh water may be contaminated by parasites that carry diseases.

Fire safety

Fire safety codes differ from country to country. The U.S. has stricter first safety codes than what you may find in other countries. Take time to familiarize yourself with your new environment and know where the exits are. If you would like to have a fire safety kit sent to your international address, go to the Fire Safety Foundation website.

Driving and road safety

MU strongly recommends that you do not drive while abroad. Differences in local laws and driving behavior put you at high risk. Trauma resulting from traffic accidents is the number one cause of death for U.S. citizens abroad. For road safety information from 150 countries, go to the Association for Safe International Road Travel website.

Virtual kidnapping

Virtual kidnapping is the practice of extorting funds from unsuspecting family members without an actual abduction. Social media sites allow would-be extortionists to extract personal information about upcoming travel, as well as names and contact information of prospective victims. Virtual kidnappers often wait until a victim is in a location with limited or nonexistent cell phone communication. The virtual kidnapper then makes a phone call to a family member in the U.S., claiming to have abducted the student and demanding funds be transferred to a non-traceable account in exchange for the victim’s safe return. Recently, there has been an increase in calls of this type made to the grandparents of students studying abroad. The requests are usually urgent and time sensitive; for example, claiming the student will be killed within an hour if payment is not made. Because the family often has no easy way to determine the truth of the claim, payment is usually made.

Avoid becoming a victim of virtual kidnapping:

  • Do not share information about your upcoming trip online.
  • Leave a detailed itinerary and contact information with your emergency contact.
  • Maintain regular contact with family and friends back home.
  • Do not share personal information with unknown callers.
  • Establish a code word that could be used to verify kidnapping claims, like the name of your first pet.
  • Never travel alone, particularly in areas where virtual kidnappings are becoming more prevalent.

If you or a family member receives this type of call, you should:

  • Remain calm; remember that, in nearly all cases, this is a scam.
  • Not share any personal or financial information with the caller; ask questions so that you can obtain as much information as possible.
  • Never transfer any funds to the caller.
  • Ask to speak to the alleged victim or for answers to proof-of-life questions that would require the caller to ask the alleged victim.
  • Hang up as soon as possible.
  • Immediately try to contact the alleged victim; if you cannot communicate with them, call International Programs.

MU Student International Travel Policy

The U.S. Department of State issues a travel advisory for each country, as well as regions within countries, and assigns each a rating of level one to four based on risk indicators, including crime, terrorism, health concerns, civil unrest and natural disasters. To minimize health and safety risks, students planning to participate in study or university-related travel abroad programs in regions with a Department of State travel advisory level three (reconsider travel) or level four (do not travel) or a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warning (level three) must request approval from MU’s Student Travel Abroad Review Committee. Failure to do so could result in not having access to university support or resources in case of an emergency. Refer to the Student International Travel Policy for more information.

Identity abroad

International Programs believes all students should have the opportunity to study abroad because it can be one of the most profound ways to grow academically, professionally and personally during your time in college. Our goal is to support you by providing resources that will empower you to take your different backgrounds, talents and experiences to a new community abroad; to bring new knowledge and skills gained abroad back to MU; and to become a successful global leader.

The University of Missouri policies prohibiting discrimination are still in effect while you are abroad. If you encounter an issue of discrimination related to your identity while abroad, contact the MU Office for Civil Rights and Title IX.

Gender and sexuality abroad

If you identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or queer — or if you are still exploring your identity — it’s important to reflect on how your host country/culture views gender, gender identity and sexual orientation. While many countries are very accepting, others are not. When traveling abroad, you may find different gender roles and norms that you are accustomed to. It’s possible that you may be treated differently or be expected to treat others different based on your (or their) gender identity.

Take the time to learn about the cultural norms, laws, gender roles, stereotypes, customs and appropriate dress to better understand the host culture. Think about how those differing ideas, attitudes, behaviors and laws might impact your experience abroad.

Additional resources

Race and ethnicity abroad

Understanding how race and ethnicity are perceived in your host country will help you prepare for your time abroad. You might be identified as American first and by your race or ethnicity second. You might be mistakenly associated with groups that you do not identify with. For the first time in your life, you may find yourself a part of a racial or ethnic majority or minority. Do your research so you are as prepared as you can be.

Additional resources

Religion, spirituality and faith abroad

Religion and culture are intertwined in many countries and studying abroad provides a unique opportunity to learn about world religions and the role they play in different cultures. Exposure to different belief systems while studying abroad may prompt questions about your own religious identity and may cause you to reflect on your religious or spiritual practice.

Research religious life in your host country before you go abroad. For the first time in your life, you may find yourself a part of a religious majority or minority. Learn about your host country’s laws and cultural norms relating to religious practices, symbols, dress and tolerance.

Additional resources

Communication

Mizzou technology abroad

Review Mizzou technology abroad for information about multifactor authentication, VPN and eduroam internet access.

In-country communication

While having a cell phone is not required by Mizzou Study Abroad, some programs may require you to purchase a cell phone on-site, and many MU students decide to use or purchase cell phones abroad. If you are planning to take your cell phone with you abroad, contact your current provider to see what options are available. In addition, it may be possible to unlock your American phone, or you can rent or purchase a phone once you arrive in your host country. In most countries, if you unlock your phone or rent/purchase one abroad, you will need to buy a pre-paid SIM card that allows you to purchase minutes as you need them. Most offer free incoming calls and minutes can be purchased in varying increments. There are also a number of local messaging apps that may help you stay in contact with your friends or homestay family while abroad.

Be sure to check your MU email account regularly — this is the primary way Mizzou Study Abroad and MU will communicate with you while you are abroad. If you are on an exchange or direct-enroll program, you should update your international contact information in your myStudyAbroad account.

Communication with friends and family in the U.S.

Technology is a great tool to keep in touch with friends and family in the U.S. while you are abroad. But be careful not to spend so much time communicating with loved ones back home that you miss out on great experiences in your host country.

Blogging

A blog is a great way to share your experience with a large number of people at once. It can also serve as a reflection tool and online journal for you to remember your experience when you return. Students on International Programs-administered programs are encouraged to submit posts to the Study Abroad Blog.

Social media

Social media sites are an easy way to stay connected with your loved ones. Be careful not to spend too much time on social media, as it limits your opportunity to connect with your host culture and may increase homesickness. Remember that your study abroad experience is a time for you to learn about yourself and the world, so spend as much time as you can living and interacting with those around you.

Web and smartphone apps

Apps such as Google Hangouts, Skype and Facetime make it easy to video chat with friends and family in the U.S. for free, and can also be used to make voice calls over data or Wi-Fi connections (for free in some cases). You can also purchase minutes through Skype to make voice calls from a computer at a reasonable cost. Other apps such as WhatsApp and Viber are also popular choices among students.

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