Pre-Departure Orientation

Mandatory Pre-Departure Orientation

Pre-Departure Orientation is only for students who have been accepted and committed to an education abroad program.

Examples of general topics covered include:

• Planning for departure
• Health, Safety, and Security
• Physical and Mental Health
• Immigration
• Social media and website dos and don'ts abroad
• Travel Packing and Logistics
• Cultural Adjustment
• Financial Considerations
• Identity Abroad
• Important UHCL procedures, such as enrollment, credits, transcripts, and UHCL Code of Conduct
• Guest speakers, when available, such as UHCL education abroad alums, current UHCL exchange students from foreign destinations, or host institutions.
• Q&A

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UHCL Education Abroad Pre-departure Orientation Sessions

Special Accommodations

Any person needing an accommodation for a disability in order to participate should contact Education Abroad at 281-283-2740 or educationabroad@uhcl.edu to arrange for the accommodation.

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Site-Specific Orientation

Some education abroad programs require program-specific, pre-departure orientations in addition to the mandatory pre-departure orientation. This requirement applies to all UHCL faculty-led programs. Check with your program director or education abroad to ensure you attend the appropriate pre-departure orientation.

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On-site Orientation

Most education abroad programs and exchanges provide on-site orientations with in-country staff or program directors.  Ensure you arrive at your program destination in time for the on-site orientation. These orientations serve to introduce you to the new environment, help you adjust to your new home, and provide on-site resources and support.

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Resources

U.S. Department of State Country-Specific Information - The U.S. government's information page on every country worldwide.

U.S. Department of Justice FBI Student Travel Resource (PDF) - Safety and Security for U.S. Students Traveling Abroad.