Preparing to Go Abroad
With the application process completed and confirmation of acceptance in hand, your student—and you—will next turn your attention to pre-departure preparations.
Some of those preparations will be task-oriented: taking care of post-approval requirements for Cal Poly and the study abroad program, securing necessary visas or permits, and, for your student, completing the mandatory Cal Poly Pre-Departure Orientation, which includes a webinar and an online course in Canvas, as well as possible program-specific pre-departure meetings and an optional Meet and Greet event where they can meet other students preparing to go abroad.
However, to have a truly successful study abroad experience, your student will need to pay serious attention both to the details of preparing to go abroad and of preparing to be abroad. You can certainly help by making sure your student takes care of business (such as completing and submitting forms in a timely manner), but much more importantly, you can help your student prepare themself intellectually, emotionally, and in practical terms for their time abroad.
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NOTE: Cal Poly recommends that at least one parent or family member have a valid passport for the duration of the study abroad program so that they would then be able to travel abroad in an emergency. |
Remember, though, that a little bit of help goes a long way. It is important that, as your student prepares for an extended time abroad, they take responsibility for those preparations. It can be difficult to step back, but by taking the lead in the months and weeks leading up to departure, your student will be much better prepared for the opportunities and challenges that await them. Encourage them to ask questions, remind them of upcoming deadlines, and sit down to talk about goals and concerns, but we ask that not complete tasks for your student.
Useful Links
- Our Pre-Departure resources, which includes a page on Health & Safety.
- Inclusivity & Diversity Resources page.