Insurance and other Reference Information
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Today's world is increasingly unpredictable, with local conditions that can rapidly change. Total safety cannot be guaranteed abroad just as it cannot be in the United States. The Study Abroad Office is committed to take the necessary steps to maximize student safety through working with our study abroad partners both here and abroad, scheduled student advising and orientation sessions, and materials distribution. The top five things every student should do before going abroad are:
- Research the country you are going to and find out as much as possible about its contemporary life. There are many sources for this information, but a good place to start is:
(a) the US Department of State website http://travel.state.gov/index.html , and the
D-Space tab on the SAO homepage(b) local news papers - look for links under the World News tab on the SAO homepage, and(c) the Center For Disease Control http://www.cdc.gov/(d) Contact a Study Abroad Alum and talk to them about their experience. Ask an SAO advisor for namkes and contact information. Many of our program affiliates also have alumni contacts with students from all over the US who may have gone on the program you're thinking about. - Reconfirm your curriculum plan with your SAO and/or college advisor for the time you are abroad.
- Visit your doctor and/or a travel clinic and discuss your medical history and travel plans. An on-campus option is the UIC School of Public Health Travel Clinic.
- Register with the US Embassy or Consulate in your program country through the State Department Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This can be done on-line at https://travelregistration.state.gov
- Attend a pre-departure orientation. All students going abroad through the Study Abroad Office are required to attend a pre-departure orientation meeting in order to be registered as a continuing UIC student while abroad. At this session the SAO staff review all university policies regarding academics and behavior, and safety issues.
