Application Short-Term CGE - Atlanta Laboratory for...

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CGE STUDY ABROAD APPLICATION

Short-Term Program: Part One

Instructions: Complete the Application Form Parts One and Two, and the Authorization Form and return to the CGE. Sign the

Release Agreement and Student Responsibilities Form and return these to the CGE, along with a copy of your health insurance

card and a color copy of the photo page of your passport. Retain all other paperwork (FAQs and Checklist) for your use.

Note: PLEASE BLOCK PRINT Date:

Name: Student ID#

Email address: @oglethorpe.edu Date of Birth:

Cell Phone: Cumulative GPA:

Year at OU (So/Jr/Sr): Expected Graduation Month/Year:

Major: Academic Advisor:

Gender - Circle one: Male Female Other Passport Gender, if different:

(Be aware that some nations will only acknowledge the gender specified on the official documentation.)

Are you on Facebook? □ Yes □ No

Demographic Information: How would you describe yourself? (Optional – for statistical purposes only)

Name of Study Abroad Program/Class & Professor(s):

Program Dates & Semester (ex: Tokyo Summer 2016):

Were you born in the USA? □ Yes □ No If no, where were you born?

□ Native American or Alaskan Native □ Asian or Pacific Islander (Including Indian Subcontinent)

□ Black, African American (non-Latino) □ Latino (including Puerto Rican)

□ White, Caucasian □ Other: (Please Specify)


Do you have a current passport? □ Yes □ No If no, you have: □ Applied □ Not yet applied (Apply now if you

have not done so!)

Passport No.: (Attach color copy to this application if you have a passport.)

Country of Issuance: Expiration Date:

Emergency Contacts: (2)

1. Name: Phone:

Relationship: Email:

2. Name: Phone:

Relationship: Email:

Travel Specifics:

Departure date from the US Return date to US:

Please indicate Yes or No on the following questions by checking the appropriate response:

Have you ever traveled outside the US before? □ Yes □ No If yes, where and when:

Will you be working in the medical or dental field with exposure to blood or other body fluids? □ Yes □ No

Will you be working with exposure to animals? □ Yes □ No

Insurance Information

My current health insurance coverage is with:

(Note: you must provide a copy of your current health insurance coverage to the CGE with this application.)

Are you currently enrolled in a health insurance plan that covers you while outside the United States with

repatriation coverage? □ □Yes No

(Note: Oglethorpe University requires all students who study abroad to carry repatriation of remains and emergency evacuation insurance, the cost for which will be charged to your OU account when you register for a study abroad course. In the event that your domestic medical insurance will cover these charges, or your destination program includes this coverage on your behalf, you may file a Petition for Exemption Form, available on the A_LAB web site. The CGE requires proof of coverage for our files, even if the University is purchasing additional coverage on your behalf. )


Medical Information

This information will be kept confidential. Indicating your special needs allows us to make arrangements that best

serve you. It does not impact your eligibility for admission. If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, please

attach a separate page if necessary describing the condition and the treatment you receive.

Be sure to share your study abroad plans with your regular physical and/or mental health providers in order to

prepare for any alterations that may become necessary to your health care regimen or to prepare for particular

needs of your specific destination.

Are you currently under medical treatment for any reason? □ Yes □ No

Are you currently under the care of a professional for a psychological or emotional condition? □ Yes □ No

Do you have allergies, dietary restrictions, physical or learning disabilities about which we should be aware? □ Yes □ No

Will your participation in full-time academics or other program elements be limited in any way because of health

issues or special needs accommodations? □ Yes □ No If yes, please explain:

Do you have any serious or chronic illnesses, surgery, or injuries that may affect your health or ability to

participate while abroad? □ Yes □ No If yes, please explain:

Have you been hospitalized in the last 5 years? □ Yes □ No If yes, please explain:

Do you have any mobility challenges? □ Yes □ No

Do you have any allergies, such as hay fever, food allergies, or asthma? □ Yes □ No If yes, please list:

Do you have any allergies to drugs? □ Yes □ No If yes, please list:

List your current prescription medications and medical condition treated: (include birth control pills, and

continue on reverse if necessary). Bear in mind that not all medications and supplements available in the United

States are legal abroad. Consult with your physician about your needs for your destination. If you are being treated

for a serious mental or physical condition, you will need to be cleared for study abroad by your clinician.

Current Prescription medications Condition or reason for use


Travel Precautions, Immunizations and Vaccinations

While there are unavoidable risks in study and travel outside of the United States, there are also precautions that can be

taken. Oglethorpe University follows the guidelines set by the U.S. Department of State, which posts travel alerts and

warnings online at http://travel.state.gov. The Center for Global Education also subscribes to the DOS alert system for all

countries in which we currently have students abroad. Oglethorpe University will not fund, recognize or grant credit to

students traveling internationally to areas under a U.S. Department of State Travel Warning, a Center for Disease Control

Warning Level 3, or areas which may, in the sound judgment of Oglethorpe University be deemed high risk.

While there are likely no immunizations and vaccinations required for your study abroad experience, Oglethorpe University

requires that you are current with vaccinations for Tetanus or Diptheria, Hepatitis B, Varicella, Measles, Mumps, and

Rubella. For more information on recommended immunizations and vaccinations for traveling abroad, please visit the

Center for Disease Control web site at www.cdc.gov or the World Health Organization at www.who.int.

Regularly used Non-prescription medications or supplements. List

regularly used non-prescription medications (over-the-counter, herbal,

homeopathic, vitamins, etc.) and/or supplements.

Condition or Reason for use


SHORT‐TERM PROGRAMS

Part Two: INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

(Please answer these questions truthfully and directly. Answers are kept confidential).

Why do you wish to travel and study abroad?

What is your present classification in terms of hours at OU, your age, your GPA, and your major?

Credit Hours Completed: GPA:

Age: Major:

If we need to check academic references, what two professors would you use as references?

Have you traveled abroad before, and where?

Do you speak any languages other than your native language?

What do you perceive a short‐term program as enabling you to do in your future endeavors?

Would you rather travel abroad with classmates or by yourself, and why?


Do you have any medical conditions of which we need to be aware, and if so, are you taking medications for it? (Only

your program director and/or the Director of the CGE will have access to this information).

Do you have need for special accommodations of which we should be aware?

Do you smoke or drink?

If you were to get lost in another country, what would you do?

Do you have legal issues or any convictions in the US that may hinder you from going abroad? (You do not have to

reveal the nature of the conviction here, and any information discussed will be strictly confidential.)

Do you feel capable of enduring long days of touring, museum visits, and walking in foreign cities?

Do you fully understand that short‐term programs are NOT entitled vacations, and that you must follow your leader’s

instructions, the OU Code of Conduct, and the Honor Code at all times?

Do you understand that you will be attending programs or study abroad for academic credit?

QUESTIONS/ CONCERNS

Please list additional questions or concerns that you might have regarding your travel (i.e. international voltage requirements, currency, dealing with seasickness, etc., using the reverse if necessary.)


Declaration:

I certify that I have had the full opportunity to read and consider the contents of this application. I understand that

by signing this form, I am confirming my authorization that the University may use and/or disclose the protected

information described in this form concerning any emergency, medical, academic, disciplinary, financial, legal or

health-related issue involving or relating to me, or to any conduct, misconduct, alleged misconduct, student

disciplinary proceeding(s), academic proceeding(s), or legal proceeding(s) involving or relating to me in any

manner. The confidentiality of this information will be maintained consistent with the University’s need to provide

program services.

I understand that I will be required to attend a mandatory orientation session given by the CGE as a condition of

being approved for studying abroad through Oglethorpe University.

I understand by completing this form that if I decide to cancel my study abroad plans for the current program I

will need to submit a Cancellation Form to the Center for Global Education.

Furthermore, I certify that all of the responses made on this form are true and accurate, and that I will notify the

Center for Global Education hereafter of any important changes in my health or conduct status that occur prior to

the start of the program.

Applicant Signature: Date:

For CGE Office Use ONLY: Submission Date:


Student Responsibilities

Short-Term Study and Travel Abroad As an officially enrolled student at Oglethorpe University, I will abide by and agree to the following conditions upon any study or travel abroad program or extended stay sponsored by CGE and Oglethorpe University:

1. I will abide by the same principles of self-governance and behavior as stated in the student handbook and the Honor Code of Oglethorpe University.

2. I will turn in all forms and documents related to programs in a timely manner and abide by all

deadlines.

3. I will read and confirm understanding of the Oglethorpe A_LAB Study Abroad web site in its entirety.

4. I will discuss any issues related to special needs on any program with the CGE Director.

5. I will pack bags and equipment according to airline regulations.

6. I will avoid any act that might endanger the safety or rights of self or others.

7. I will avoid any involvement with non-prescribed or illegal drugs or substances while

participating on any program designed by CGE and program agencies.

8. I will travel to and from any countries of destination with my group, unless special arrangements have been made prior to the program with my professor and the CGE Director.

9. I will stay with my travel and study group throughout the full length of the program and

participate fully in activities set up for academic study and credit.

10. I will not ask the Director or my professor to be excused from any scheduled touring of exhibits, museums, sites, or any activity or travel lecture while on the program, unless I am ill and need to stay in my room.

11. I will abide by all national and international laws inside and outside countries of study and travel, and during all flights to and from destinations.

12. I will act as a representative of my country, Oglethorpe University, and my group, and not

engage in or become part of any activity at any time which may damage the reputation of the university or reflect negatively on US citizenry.


13. I will carefully manage my spending money on any program, allotting money for drinks, special evening events not covered in the program cost, shopping, or incidentals needed while traveling or living in an international setting, including cash for emergencies.

14. I will pay for any and all international calls from hotels or phones and will settle my bill with

the courier at the hotel before we depart for another city.

15. I will use only the housing arrangements as arranged and approved for as accommodations on any program, unless a problem occurs with housing which negatively affects me or my roommate. I understand I will be sharing a room on short-term programs with another person of the same sex, chosen by me, unless I elect to pay for single accommodations, and that I will use this same sleeping arrangement throughout the program. I will consult with the Director and the courier on any program if rooming problems occur.

16. I will agree to walk in cities at night with another member of my group, in small groups, or

with the courier, and never alone.

17. I will not engage in any suggestive or sexual behavior or in any activity which may be construed as sexual harassment or in poor taste with anyone not associated with the travel group, with couriers, with hotel, restaurant, or airline employees, with fellow students, leaders, or professors during any program.

18. If I intend to swim during this program, I will provide proof of my ability to swim (available from the YMCA) prior to travelling with the group.

19. I will not indulge in any activity which might implicate me as incapable of making adult and

mature decisions about drinking alcohol during any program. Drunken behavior and disorderly conduct is absolutely forbidden, and become grounds for early dismissal from the program by the leaders, courier, or Director at any time, and I understand that I will be sent home at my own expense.

20. I will be on time for all scheduled events, and will not hinder the timing of events or the

physical movement of our group in any way.

21. I will notify my courier and Professor or Director of any theft, loss, or injury immediately. I understand that any hospital visit or doctor’s examination may not be covered by my present medical insurance, and that I will pay for any medical services rendered at the time of service.

22. I will not openly criticize, deride, satirize, or belittle any custom, ritual, religion, mores, habits,

hotel, or food while in the presence of the group, the courier, my professor, or the Director, or make any discourteous remarks to any employee in any hotel or restaurant, during air, bus, boat, or train travel, or to any affiliate working on my behalf on any program.

23. I will abide by all special instructions given to me by my professor and will attend all lectures at

all sites as stipulated in the syllabus, and will accept full responsibility for missing any sponsored activities.

24. I will not complain about any aspect of the program or the duration of bus rides, the weather,

or any circumstance beyond the courier or Director’s control. I will make this program exciting, positive, and life-enhancing both for myself and my fellow group members.


25. I will obey all laws concerning returns to the US, including following customs regulations of certain items bought in international locations.

26. I will be responsible for my own luggage throughout the duration of this program, from the

point of departure, to the return to the airport.

27. I will understand that if parents or friends or significant others accompanied me on this program, they must abide by all of the above rules and regulations unrelated to lectures or scheduled events, and that they must pay full price for the program and follow the same deadlines in paying for the program. I understand that, in some instances, CGE cannot guarantee places on programs for non-Oglethorpe members who may wish to attend.

28. I will attend all mandatory pre-program meetings, unless I contact the Director and my

Professor beforehand about my needed absence and arrange for receiving the information covered.

29. I will read all materials given out at any pre-program meetings, sign all necessary forms, and

pay all program costs BEFORE THE PROGRAM BEGINS.

30. I will pay full tuition for any program I take for credit, understanding that any program cost DOES NOT INCLUDE THE TUTION I WOULD NORMALLY PAY TO OGLETHORPE UNIVERSITY FOR THE CLASS. Since I am taking the program for credit, I will accept the number of hours of credit assigned; do all research projects as required by the professor upon my return, and turn in my work before the deadline as given in the syllabus.

31. I will agree to meet with my professor throughout the following term or semester

independently as stipulated in the syllabus for the program. I will not ask for any substitutes for any work assigned, unless first suggested by the professor.

32. I will complete an evaluation of any program upon return and return it to the CGE Director.

I have read the Student Responsibilities Form for all CGE programs, and acknowledge that I have entered into this agreement freely. I will abide by all of the rules and accept my responsibilities as a student and/or participant on any program. Student or Participant Parent or Guardian if Minor Date


RELEASE AGREEMENT

(Short-Term Study Abroad)

Oglethorpe University is concerned for the safety, comfort, and general well-being of students, faculty, staff, alumni, any and all relatives, friends, and/or non-students who travel with and participate on any short-term study abroad program.

As a participant on this program, I hereby agree to the following guidelines:

1. I will avoid any act that might endanger the safety or rights of self or others.

2. I will abide by all national and international laws inside and outside countries of study and travel, including following Customs regulations of items bought in international locations.

3. I will avoid any involvement with non-prescribed or illegal drugs or substances while participating on any short-term program abroad.

4. I will not drive or operate any motorized vehicle while on this study abroad program.

5. I will use only the specific housing accommodations arranged for and approved by the program coordinator, and will assume full responsibility for any damages I may cause to any accommodation or related facility.

6. I will abide by all rules of conduct and behavior as stated in the OU student handbook and the Honor Code.

7. I will comply with any special instructions or directions of an academic nature particular to this study abroad program.

8. I confirm that I have read and understand the Oglethorpe University A_LAB Study Abroad web site.

9. I will attend all lectures, museums talks, field trips, and special excursions as necessary requirements for credit on this study abroad program.

10. I understand that if I am required to return to the United States before the originally scheduled departure, I will do so at my own cost. Possible reasons for return include but are not limited to: violations of codes of student conduct, premature end to the program, or US State Department travel warning for the location of the study-abroad program.

RELEASE

I plan to participate in a short-term study abroad program, scheduled for:


(dates/duration).

I HAVE VOLUNTARILY ELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS SHORT-TERM STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM. This will transfer as a part of the OU curriculum, and will be credited as academic hours. I agree I will pay normal tuition costs to Oglethorpe University for receiving academic credit for the program.

I, by my signature below, and intending to be legally bound, hereby acknowledge and agree that I am unconditionally releasing Oglethorpe University, the Center for Global Education, affiliates, related entities, their officers and directors, agents and employees, coordinators and professors, couriers, and all personnel involved on this program, from all other claims, suits, and/or damages, and any connection with the program, or as a result of any NEGLIGENT ACTS OR OMMISSIONS ON THE PART OF THE UNIVERSITY, ITS EMPLOYEES,OR AGENTS, relating to me. I accept those risks and assume full responsibility for such injuries and other consequences.

I further agree that Oglethorpe University may release my photos on the University web site or for publicity purposes.

I have read the agreement and understand it. I acknowledge that I have entered into this agreement freely and without coercion or duress. I have also read and agree to abide by the Student Responsibilities document.

Date: ______________________

Participant (Please Print):

Participant (Please sign):

Parent or Guardian of Minor:

Printed Name:


STUDY ABROAD AUTHORIZATION FORM

Oglethorpe University students applying to study abroad should read this form thoroughly before acquiring

the appropriate signatures. This form must be submitted to the Center for Global Education in the A_LAB,

TLCC Room 240.

Student Name: Student ID#:

Requests to study abroad: Term & Year: Location:

Academic Advisor – The above named student has been informed that it is his/her responsibility to keep

apprised of current graduation requirements for his/her particular degree.

Academic Advisor Signature Printed Name Date

Enrollment Services Office – Lupton Hall Ground Floor

The above named student has / has not applied for financial aid from Oglethorpe University.

The above named student (check all that apply):

□ Is in good academic standing (≥2.0 overall GPA) Current GPA:

□ Has completed 16 or more credit hours at Oglethorpe (Second term Freshman or Transfer student,

or above)

□ Has been informed if, how, and when financial aid will be applied and the requirements for these

funds.

□ Has been informed what requirements must be met (i.e. credit load) to guarantee that these funds

will be available.

□ Has no financial holds on their account.

□ Is aware of any study abroad fees that may be applied to his/her account.

□ Has how many transfer and transient credits from other institutions? ________

Enrollment Services Officer Signature Printed Name Date


Campus Life – TLCC Ground Floor

The above named student is not on conduct probation.

Assistant Dean of Students Signature Printed Name Date

Student and Center for Global Education

I certify that I understand the billing procedures, tuition, study abroad fee, financial aid regulations,

scholarship rules, academic requirements for my major, student conduct code, and the registration

process for my study abroad experience. I know that I must be in good academic and social standing

and current on my financial obligations at the time of my study abroad and that Oglethorpe University

may rescind my approval to study abroad in the event that I fail to meet University standards prior to

my departure, and that I would be responsible for any non‐refundable deposits or fees paid on my

behalf by Oglethorpe University. Failure to complete this form by the deadline may jeopardize your

ability to transfer in these credits to Oglethorpe and your access to financial aid, if otherwise eligible.

Student Signature (Sign in presence of CGE) Printed Name Date

Ronald P. Bobroff

Director, Center for Global Education Signature Printed Name Date


STUDY ABROAD CHECKLIST

Short-term Study Abroad

__________________________________ _________________________________________Printed Name Program & Semester Abroad

(Check each step after completion, and return to Director of the CGE when complete.) These steps are not necessarily in order!

Documentation to be turned in to the CGE Office is in THIS COLOR!

_____Read the OU A_LAB Study Abroad web site and confirm understanding of its contents.

_____Complete and turn in Study Abroad Application Form with Signed Release and Student Responsibilities Forms

_____Complete Study Abroad Authorization Form and turn in to Director, CGE or Global Education Coordinator.

_____Calculate the Costs & Finance Your Study Abroad

_____Check whether your domestic health insurance covers you abroad

_____Copy of proof of domestic health insurance for CGE (including proof of repatriation coverage, if you already have it) CGE will purchase international insurance for you unless you petition for exemption from this purchase. See Coordinator or Director for this petition form.

_____Purchase Airline Tickets & copy for CGE

_____Apply for and Obtain current Passport & supply a copy in COLOR for CGE

_____Apply for visa, if necessary

_____FERPA form signed w/ Registrar’s Office

_____Register at STEP.State.gov

I have completed all of the above steps for study abroad. As part of the completion of my study abroad requirements, I will submit an evaluation of the program to the Director of the Center for Global Education.

Student (Signature and Date)

Director, Center for Global Education (Signature and Date)


FAQs FOR CGE SHORT-TERM PROGRAMS ABROAD

Note: Pages 16-21 are for the student to keep. Do not turn in to the CGE.

1) Where do I obtain an itinerary for a program?

You can get an itinerary, release forms, etc. from Dr. Ronald Bobroff, Director, Center for Global Education, in the A_LAB, TLCC. office phone 404-364- 8899 cell: 336-905-1292

2) Who can go on these programs?

Anyone affiliated with Oglethorpe University community, students, alumni, faculty, staff, and relatives. First priority is given to OU students earning credit for the program. Family members and friends can also enroll for these programs, with the assumption that they are going for an educational experience, and not necessarily to obtain academic credit.

3) Will I earn academic credit for these programs?

Yes, each program will be assigned a number of credits by the Academic Program Committee. You will know how much credit each program is worth by the first mandatory pre-program meeting, and then you will be awarded these credits after the program and upon completion of your paper or projects related to the program during the following semester.

Each program will have an itinerary, a syllabus, reports, etc. and the student must fulfill the requirements set by the professor leading the program. Your transcript will indicate that this was a study abroad experience under a special topics course, or as a fulfillment of a core curriculum course.

4) What are the dates for these programs?

Usually, the programs will be planned for the spring, summer, and winter breaks. Typical examples are an Italy program during the spring break, or a Greece or Spain program during the May break, or an Art and Culture program or London Theatre and Shakespeare program in June and July. The exact dates will vary, so it is important to check each itinerary and enroll early.

5) How will I hear about these programs?

You will hear about these programs in a variety of ways. CGE (Center for Global Education) maintains a website which gives descriptions and deadlines for the programs, the Director of the CGE will give presentations at orientations and in selected classrooms, and a series of announcements will be made via bulletin boards, emails, and the campus newspaper.


Can I use financial aid to help pay for the program?

If you qualify, you may be able to use financial aid to help defray the cost of the programs. Please see your financial aid advisor for details.

6) Will I need a passport?

Yes, all international travel requires one, and if you have not applied for one, do so now, or come by the office of the Director of the Center for Global Education in the A_LAB to obtain information on how to apply.

7) Will I need to know the language of the countries in which we will travel?

No, you will have both professors and couriers who can converse in the languages, but if you do speak a language other than English, this is the perfect opportunity for you to practice, and if you do not, you will be given introductions to conversational language you may wish to use on the programs.

English is a quite common language in most of the countries CGE groups will visit, so you will have no problem communicating.

8) Will I attend any pre-program meetings?

Yes, and these are vitally important. The pre-program meetings are mandatory, and often take place on a Saturday morning at Oglethorpe, since many students as well as non-students have too many variations in schedules to attend during the week. You will be notified well ahead of time about the meetings.

These meetings will cover topics like: packing, airport security, rooming, food, cultural customs to expect, tipping, medications to bring, what not to bring, academic expectations, tickets, and a host of other smaller items to make the program one both problem-free and memorable.

There are at least three meetings before each program.

9) Will I have a roommate on these programs?

Yes, one you select, and only two per room on each program. On occasion, hotel accommodations in some of our host countries may require a temporary arrangement of three per room, but this is not the norm. If you desire a single room, you will incur extra cost of course to the agency managing the program, so you need to let the Study Abroad Coordinator know what you wish to do long before the program commences.

All students and non-students must stay in the same hotel, and no one will be allowed to stay with friends or families inside the country visited during the program.

10) Will I miss any of my normal semester classes while on the program?

You usually will not miss any classes, although there may be instances when you may miss the first day of class on some of the programs due to flight schedules. Should this occur, all professors will be notified about your absence.

11) Will family and relatives know where I am at all times, in case of emergencies?


Yes, the CGE office publishes all the hotels, telephone numbers, and a contact for your family and friends, and this info is given to you to photocopy.

In addition, the Director of the CGE carries a globally-networked cell phone for emergency calls, and the courier also carries a published number for necessary contacts. Some of the group members carry laptops, and these of course can be used at internet cafes and sites in the host countries for contact with family in the US.

12) What do I pack, and what do I leave behind?

People tend to over pack, so during the pre-program meetings we will give you some great advice on what to pack, the kinds of clothing you will need, and what not to bring. Our advice is based on many programs and what works, so attending the meetings will be essential. You are always responsible for your own luggage while traveling.

13) What kind of camera do I bring?

Any 35mm will do; digital cameras are the best for these programs, since you can download with a laptop and have immediate communication with family and friends. We will show you how to pack cameras, and how and when and where to buy film in other countries.

14) How, and when, do I get the plane tickets?

Tickets are sent to the Director of the CGE. Most often, the tickets are given to the faculty member leading the program and disbursed to you when you arrive at the airport.

15) Will we fly reputable airlines?

We usually fly Delta, British Airways, Air France, etc., in cabin class.

16) What if I do not like my roommate?

Please inform your courier and the directing professor on the program about any changes in rooming on the program. If you pay for a double room, you must stay in a double room throughout, but we can usually switch roommates if requested.

What about the food?

The food is always excellent—you will pay through your total package price for two meals a day; lunches are at your expense, but lunches in nearly all of our tours are relatively inexpensive. Some excursions also automatically include lunches, and these you do not pay for. You will be notified about these at the pre-program meetings.

Special accommodations can be made for anyone who needs a vegetarian or kosher menu, so tell us early about your needs.

Wine and other beverages at dinner - including soft drinks and bottled water - in most countries will be an extra expense.


17) Can I explore on my own?

Yes, of course, and the itineraries give you the days or times in which you can explore on your own. However, since you will be taking this program for credit, you must always attend the lectures, be at the sites, go to the museums, etc.

Plenty of time for rest, walking, or shopping will be available. We will provide all the info on the best theatres, clubs, shows, etc., you will need for the evenings, but remember to go in groups or in pairs, never alone. You must be up and ready, usually by 7am, on our long excursion days, or otherwise you will be left in the hotel, and will miss what you paid to see as well as requirements for credit for the class. The bus-driver leaves on time, and rarely waits for sleepy stragglers.

If you miss a trip to a museum, etc., you will of course be responsible to your professor for the absence and the missed material.

You will never be left if we are moving from city to city of course—we will come and get you out of your room, but understand that this kind of behavior delays the bus schedule, affects our planned arrivals, and is considered highly discourteous by most couriers. So, please, set your alarms, and be on time.

18) What are some extra costs I may incur on these programs?

Your total program cost is all inclusive of airfare, all ground transportation, hotels, food, museum passes, tickets, etc.

You will need to budget for the following:

Tips, snacks, film, shopping, lunches, drinks, postcards, etc.

Emergencies: Suggested amounts to bring in case of emergencies vary from country to country, and will be discussed in the pre-program meetings. Borrowing from fellow students can often lead to hurt feelings and mistrust.

What about the kinds of credit cards or checks to bring?

Most countries, unless we notify you in meetings, usually accept major credit cards. Understand that if you purchase an item with a credit card in another country, you will be charged a little extra for the transaction. Always ask for and get the receipt.

Savvy travelers rarely use travelers’ checks anymore. It is much easier to use credit debit cards, and ATMs are plentiful now in most countries to which we travel. If we go on a program where ATMs will not be available, we will give you info in the pre-program meetings on the best monetary methods to use.

The best and easiest method is to use your debit card, keep receipts, and carry this one card everywhere.

At the meetings, we will also tell you about the currency in any country in which we travel, and how to get the best exchange rate, etc.

If you lose your wallet, money, or card, please inform the courier and your professor, and we will help where we can. Do not let a loss like this damage your program. Please inform us of any loss, and we will help you take the necessary steps to get emergency funding through your bank.


19) What if I get lost during the program?

At the orientation meetings, we will give you the hotel numbers and the cell phone numbers of the Professor, Staff Member, or Director of the CGE who are travelling with the group as well as that of the courier so that all you have to do is get to a phone and we will come find you, or give you walking directions to us.

Otherwise, enjoy being lost, and carry the hotel card in your pocket to give to a taxi driver.

Never worry—we will find you.

20) What books will I need to bring?

Books are heavy, and cumbersome in travel, so bring only some photocopies of materials you wish to discuss or learn. The professor may have other stipulations though about what to bring. You can examine the texts once you are back and often the group leaders will bring a text for everyone to use share and use, and places that text with the hotel personnel for you to check out if needed.

21) Will there be a curfew?

No, you are adults and will be treated as such. Late night walking alone in cities should never be considered; walk in groups and take taxis or buses if need be. Just remember, the bus leaves early quite often the next day, so be on time for breakfast, and prepared to fully participate in class activities for the day.

22) What if I get sick during the program?

This can and does happen. First, let us know, and don’t just disappear into your hotel room. Second, we will take you to a hospital if hospital care is needed, but understand you will have to pay on the spot for most medical treatments in most countries. OU requires that you have medical insurance that will cover you while you are abroad. In addition, you must have evacuation/repatriation insurance, which OU will purchase on your behalf. This fee is included in the program cost.

Please consult with your doctor before you go on any of these programs about any specific medical conditions you may have and any medications you may need to bring with you. In addition, check the US State Department web site for information on prescription medications that may not be allowed in particular countries.

23) Can I go out with any one I meet in a country on these programs?

This is highly inadvisable and the reasons for not doing so are based in sound judgment. First, remember, you may or may not know the customs or the expected behaviors in personal or social relationships in certain countries, and no matter how well-read you are, you may still not know all of the nuances in any given situation.

It is best not to engage in any behavior that could compromise you, the university, or the country you represent. Think twice before going out on dates with anyone you do not know—good advice anywhere.

24) Under what circumstances could I be sent back home?


While this has never happened, mainly because Oglethorpe students are motivated, mature, and capable of adjusting to different cultures and customs, it could.

The only time the courier and the agency or the professor may insist on your returning early would occur when you have flagrantly violated the guidelines of the program, endangered others, or broken laws within that country.

If you know the guidelines—and we will discuss them and you will sign a statement indicating you will abide by them—then the program will be both illuminating for everyone and trouble-free.

Remember, these programs are not to be construed as vacations or time-off; rather, you are paying for an unparalleled learning experience. Yes, you will have fun, and yes, you will also be doing some serious exploration of the culture.

Most importantly, students must abide by the same standards of conduct as expected of them while on Oglethorpe campus.

28) How will I know what to do when I get back to campus?

Your accompanying professor will provide you a syllabus, course requirements for the program, and expected outcomes: a visual project, a journal, and/or research papers are typical examples of what may be required.

When you return, you will work independently on what you experienced, meet occasionally with your professor, turn in the work by the announced deadline, and receive the credit and the grade for that course on your transcript, marked as a course you took while studying and traveling abroad.

29) Will such programs help me in the job market?

Most assuredly—such programs offer you introductions to international travel and experience, global awareness, and important insights one can only get while actually seeing the art, the buildings, the historical landmarks, and visiting economic and governmental institutions which shape the modern world.

Many companies examine resumes for any international experiences or study abroad experiences, and see them as indicative of someone who is flexible, capable of adjusting to new situations, and aware of global cultures.

30) Will I have fun and learn?

Yes. We have many testimonies you can read about our programs from former students. These programs are life-changing, exciting and fulfilling.

Going alone would cost you much more, but going with a group you know and with friends you love only enhances the experience.

Call or email the Center for Global Education (CGE) at www.oglethorpe.edu (keyword: study abroad) and embrace the world.

Date post:	29-Jun-2020
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