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Information for ParentsWelcome to Study Abroad! Study abroad is the single most effective and inspiring experience students can have to broaden their international and intercultural awareness. As participants prepare for and participate in their overseas experience, we encourage friends and family members to refer to the information provided on this website and to contact us in the International Education Office if questions remain. “To study abroad has been my daughter's dream since she was a small child, and through her own hard work and studies, and because of your concern and the University's generosity, she will be able to fulfill her dream. And, as you probably are aware, a child's dream becomes a parent's dream as well.” Communication Be sure you each have addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, and best times to make contact with the other. Be sure to take into account the difference in time zones. Finances Most expenses for UMD study abroad programs are billed directly to students' accounts. The student can check the status of their account, pay the amount due and check billing dates on the Accounts Receivable website. Parents can also make payments on behalf of their students. To learn more, visit the UM Pay website. All students are responsible for incidental expenses while abroad. Make arrangements with your student on how you would transfer additional or emergency funds, if the need arises, as well as the source of those funds and their potential uses. If the source of funds is the student's bank account, consider a short-term Power of Attorney so that the student's signature isn't needed for withdrawals. Parents and students should read information on Using Money Overseas. See Financing for Financial Aid and Scholarship information. Safety The safety and well-being of students, faculty, and staff who are participating in UMD programs abroad is of the highest importance. For more information on how to stay safe while traveling abroad, see Safety. Cross-Cultural Learning Going abroad can be one of the most exhilarating learning experiences of one’s life; it can also be bewildering and frustrating leaving a participant longing for home and you feeling helpless. You can better understand, support and enhance your student’s study abroad experience by investigating what he/she is likely to encounter in terms of cross-cultural experience and adjustment, both in the host country and upon return. See Cross-Cultural Learning for more information. |
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