Cultural History Tours Student Handbook
The Office of Academic Programs Abroad can assist with your inquiries, concerns and questions about your study abroad experience. You may make an appointment for a meeting with our Study Abroad Advisor during weekdays. Peer advisors from universities and colleges throughout the country, as well as Eastern Michigan University students who have already participated in Cultural History Tour Programs, are available to advise you via e-mail or telephone. You may leave voice mail at any time. We also may be contacted through e-mail, fax and our toll-free line. Additional information about our programs, as well as printable application forms are available from our Web site. The Office of Academic Programs Abroad maintains business hours Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Academic Programs Abroad
Eastern Michigan University
103 Boone Hall
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Voice: 734.487.2424 or toll free 800.777.3541
FAX: 734.487.4377
E-mail : Programs Abroad
Web
site: www.emich.edu/abroad
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This handbook has been developed specifically for Eastern Michigan University's Office of Academic Programs Abroad. Cultural History Tour and EMU Adventures Abroad Program participants are expected to print the handbook, read it thoroughly and return the completed agreement form (attached at the end of the handbook) to the Office of Academic Programs Abroad, 103 Boone Hall, Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197.
The Office of Academic Programs Abroad (APA) is the study abroad office of Eastern Michigan University. APA staff members plan, coordinate and direct EMU-sponsored study abroad programs, perform administrative responsibilities connected with programs and advise students on study abroad opportunities available through EMU and other universities. Academic Programs Abroad sponsors the nationally recognized Cultural History Tours, interdisciplinary programs that travel extensively throughout Europe and Asia and offer EMU credit in the humanities and social sciences. We also offer Intensive Language programs and Student Exchange Programs as well as faculty-led Winter Break and Spring and Summer programs.
About the
The Summer European Cultural History Tour (ECHT) is a completely unique approach to university study abroad. It combines a thorough tour of major cultural and historical sites throughout Europe and the Mediterranean with intense academic study of the culture and history being experienced. The Cultural History Tours integrate reading, writing and lecture with direct involvement to provide a richer understanding of the academic subjects than book learning alone could possibly provide. The Summer programs have several options available: four, five and ten week options in Europe or Asia. Most summer tour options offer courses and credit in art and history.
The EMU Adventures Abroad European Summer Programs are innovative programs providing an ideal learning environment that integrates reading and writing with direct involvement in the context of history and art, in addition to the course discipline offered on Adventures Abroad. The programs are integrated modules of the longer Summer European Cultural History Tours. These are special tours for EMU students, and only students with two semesters of credit at EMU can participate in this program.
Roles and Responsibilities
Dr. George Klein, Director of the Office of Academic Programs Abroad directs administrative decisions regarding programs and practices of the Office of Academic Programs Abroad.
Dr. Gordon Knutson, Director of the Cultural History Tours directs the planning and administrative decisions regarding the programs and practices of the Cultural History Tours, directs tours and teaches courses on CHT programs and fulfills other duties specified by the Director of Academic Programs Abroad.
The Cultural History Tour Program Director implements the logistics of the program, such as lodging, meals, group movements and transportation; plans the daily itinerary; maintains the budget and accounts; mediates among faculty, staff and students; conducts disciplinary hearings when necessary; assigns such penalties as are deemed necessary; and performs other duties designated by the Director of the Cultural History Tours. The Director works in consultation with faculty and staff, but final decisions on disciplinary matters are made by the Program Director in consultation with the Director of the Cultural History Tours and the Director of the Office of Academic Programs Abroad. The decisions of the Program Director regarding scheduling, room assignments, program meals, and other program decisions are final.
The Tour Manager helps the Program Director to implement the logistics of the program, such as lodging, meals, group movements and transportation; plans the daily itinerary; maintains the budget and accounts; mediates between staff and students; and performs other duties designated by the Tour Program Director.
Other staff, such as: Assistant Tour Managers are responsible for helping the Tour Manager and the Program Director to implement the logistics of the program, such as lodging, meals, group movements and transportation. They help plan the daily itinerary; maintain the budget and accounts; mediate between staff and students; and perform other duties designated by the Program Director or the Tour Manager.
The Academic Advisor (who may be the Program Director or another faculty member) coordinates the Core Session component of the program and may be responsible for taking attendance, advising or mentoring students, and coordinating faculty requests for lecture classes to be submitted to the Program Director.
The Faculty of the Cultural History Tour teach courses in an environment of collegial scholarship, promote and participate in the Core Program, and support the larger academic and cultural aims of the program and the decisions of the Program Director.
Students enrolled in the CHT are responsible for showing respect for faculty, staff and fellow students of the Cultural History Tour. Students are expected to complete full participation in Core Program activities, classes and sessions, and are held responsible for violations of the Student Conduct Code. Further, students must exhibit and maintain respect for the host culture.
All students must complete the required forms and paperwork in order to be allowed to attend their tour. This includes the handbook sign off sheet, The ISIC form, and the agreement and release form. See the information for your specific program for any other requirements.
Even if you have been accepted into a Cultural History Tour program, Eastern Michigan University students with outstanding holds will not be permitted onto the program without first settling their accounts with EMU. Failure to do so will mean that those students cannot register for classes, thus making them ineligible for our programs.
Students who have failed to pay the entire Cultural History Tour program cost or have not worked out a payment schedule through financial aid will likewise be ineligible for our programs.
The Cultural History Tours offer students and faculty opportunities to contextualize course information through hands-on experience of important destinations in regions of the world. Unlike traditional residential programs, the CHTs travel intensively. The extensive itinerary of each Cultural History Tour has been planned carefully and requires a strong spirit of cooperation among faculty, staff and students in order to succeed in its academic mission.
Although there isn't a "typical" day on the Cultural History Tour, there are logistical details, planned activities, lectures, and a balance of work and play that serve as operating principles for the program. Most of the day's activities are group efforts. We expect all students, faculty and staff to participate in all scheduled Core Program Activities and Sessions.
Pre-departure Orientation. Students accepted into a program receive mailings from the Office of Academic Programs Abroad. The mailings include: Flight information: On all CHT programs the student must purchase a flight to the point of orgin of the tour. Please do not make this purchase until you have received information about departure and return dates from our office or have contacted our office by phone or e-mail. Students also receive: syllabi, textbook requirements and the Student Handbook. Near the departure date for their program, students receive lists of other participants on their program, including faculty and staff, and two lists of program accommodations with contact numbers. Students are also provided with maps and directions to the site of Orientation abroad, and meeting times.
Orientation
Orientation is scheduled to begin the first day of each program abroad. The vital operating procedures for the semester abroad as well as academic information and program policies will be discussed in depth. Introductions and team-building exercises play an important role in the orientation process, and set the framework for the tour. Your questions are expected and welcomed. Participation is mandatory. The topics covered in detail in Orientation include:
Within these initial hours of contact, there will be the first of our group meals, the first interactions between students, faculty and staff, and there is likely to be a short visit or tour of a site. The tour begins to coalesce very quickly after these "firsts" have been accomplished.
We'll also have some free time. Our general operating principle on the Cultural History Tours is that those who work hard deserve to unwind. It should be remembered, however, that disrespectful, disruptive or violent behavior will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
An important part of this unique learning opportunity is interaction and dialogue among students and faculty who experience the itinerary of the program as a group. Therefore:
Living and traveling together as a group requires of each member a strong spirit of cooperation and a willingness to place the needs of the group above personal preferences. Since there is often so little privacy on the program, respectful behavior toward other members of the tour is especially important.
Lodging and
Accommodations
Accommodations
provide participants with a variety of living experiences. Most accommodations
are multiple occupancy. International Youth Hostels usually provide dormitory-style
rooms with multiple beds, a common sink and shared restroom and shower facilities.
Pensions are privately-run small hotels. Accommodations are chosen for their
central location. Some accommodations have lock-out periods during the day and
curfews at night. Participants will be expected to abide by the rules and regulations
established by the Program Director at each of the locations. A disregard of
these rules may lead to dismissal from the tour. Our philosophy about assigning
rooms is that living with others offers an opportunity to get to know others
outside class and group activities. We assign student rooms randomly, and endeavor
to "mix it up" so that all males get to room with all other males, and all females
get to room with all other females on tour. Faculty will room with students
from time to time, and may have student roommates more often than not. We believe
that the advantage to having faculty room with students is that it helps to
develop positive student-faculty relationships. Students and faculty are required
to stay in the accommodations provided by the program, and the Program Director's
decisions regarding room assignments are final.
Travel
Days
The
night before a travel day, choose your clothes for the next day and repack your
backpack so that you aren't rushed in the morning. Know what time the group
is meeting, and be on time. You will be carrying your backpack, and walking.
We may use public transportation such as: metro, bus or tram to the ferry or
train station. At the station, the Program Director will confirm the departure
track/port and time. If there is enough time, a packpile will be made, with
program participant guards posted, and a meeting time to board the train or
ferry will be announced. Be sure to be return at the announced meeting time.
Road Rules
The basics:
Cultural Issues
Since this is a "Cultural" History Tour, we expect participants to be receptive to the experiences offered on the program and respectful of the peoples and cultures visited.
Students must abide by the customs, rules, and laws of each country visited. Students must show a concern for the customs and social patterns of the host culture, by dressing appropriately in religious buildings, exhibiting proper behavior in public places, obeying curfew and other lodging regulations, and in general showing respect for the host culture.
INTERNATIONAL
STUDENTS
This section is for non-US citizens, for whom there are special considerations
when participating in a study abroad program. US students may skip to the next
section.
Immigration Status
International students studying in the United States with F-1 or J-1 visa status
must secure permission from the Responsible Officer for international students
at their primary U.S. host institution. It is likely that you will need to ask
the Responsible Officer to "update" your I-20 or DS-2019 form before
you depart the US, in order to ensure that you won't have any difficulty returning
to the US at the conclusion of your study abroad program.
Health Insurance
It is MANDATORY that international students studying in the United States with
F-1 or J-1 visa status have health insurance that meets specific criteria. Whether
you are enrolled as a degree candidate or as a "guest student" at
Eastern Michigan University, EMU provides mandatory health insurance that is
automatically charged to your account. The cost of the health insurance provided
by EMU is, as of 2005-06, $359.00 per term for the Fall or Winter semesters;
and $359.00 for the Spring and/or Summer terms, even if you are only registered
for one of those terms. If a program extends across multiple academic terms,
insurance will be billed for all applicable terms. The details of the policy
and costs are available each term; please request them from the Snow Health
Center.
If you already have insurance that meets the federal requirements and you do
not want to purchase the student health insurance provided by EMU, you may request
a waiver. Again, please contact the Snow Health Center for instructions and
deadlines for application. There are ten (10) criteria that must be met to waive
the EMU mandatory health insurance requirement (see WAIVER APPLICATION for Student
Health Insurance). The statement of compliance and the policy description must
be in English and should be sent directly to the Snow Health Center.
If you do not apply for a waiver and provide a statement of compliance from
your insurance provider (as outlined in the WAIVER APPLICATION for Student Health
Insurance) on or before the waiver deadline, the EMU mandatory insurance will
be assigned automatically. The appropriate charges will appear on your student
account; charges are not reversible.Acquiring Visas
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you are responsible for obtaining all required
visas yourself.
Naturally, we will give you as much assistance as we can.
Please keep this information on requirements, policies, procedures and standards of conduct for all the Cultural History Tours and Adventures Abroad Programs for future reference.
EMU Adventures Abroad
Courses will emphasize placing individual disciplines in the larger cultural and intellectual context. Students must be enrolled in at least one course at all times while on tour. Participation in daily activities is required. See the section on participation for more information.
Summer Cultural History Tours
All courses will emphasize placing individual disciplines in the larger cultural and intellectual context. Students must be enrolled in at least TWO courses on the Cultural History Tours at all times while on tour and a maximum of two courses may be taken, provided those courses are in different disciplines (Summer ECHT students may take two courses on each half of the tour for a total of four). Students with no previous credit in a discipline should select the 100-level courses. Participation in daily activities is required. See the section on participation for more information.
Core Program
The
Core Program activities and sessions, along with related lectures and discussions,
will constitute an interdisciplinary foundation for all the courses offered
on the program. A grade will be given for the core program that will become
a part of the grade for each course the student takes. Participation in daily
activities is required. See the section on participation
for more information.
Participation
All students are
expected to participate in program activities. Though some activities may appear
on the surface to be more relevant to a particular subject, remember that program
activities are fundamental to all courses. The perspective gained from the museum
visits will be essential for the courses that you have selected. The same holds
true for visits to historical sites, as well as cultural performances that are
deemed to be official program activities by the program staff. The staff will
determine the exact schedule of activities based on transportation demands,
business hours of sites or museums to be visited, and the need to balance program
activities with class and study time. The program may not be able to visit every
site listed in the itinerary. At the beginning of each day, the faculty will
inform the students of the day's activities. Because the program activities
provide the broad cultural perspective that is basic to every course offered,
students cannot receive a passing grade in any course if attendance at program
activities is unsatisfactory. This will be determined by each teacher and will
be stated in their syllabi. Students are also expected to attend class sessions
and to complete all academic work assigned by the faculty. Specific academic
requirements for each course will be detailed in the course syllabi.
The grades for all courses will be based on:
Letter Grades
Letter grades will be awarded for course work completed; there is no pass/fail option. The grading scale is as follows:
A….. 4.0 C….. 2.0
A-…. 3.7 C-…. 1.7
B+…. 3.3 D+…. 1.3
B….. 3.0 D….. 1.0
B-…. 2.7 D-…. 0.7
C+…. 2.3 E….. 0.0
Academic Credit and Adjustments
Summer European Cultural History Tour Programs
Grade of "Incomplete"
Transcripts and Transfer of Credit
Drugs
Eastern Michigan University's Cultural History Tours have a zero-tolerance policy regarding the use, manufacture, production, sale, exchange or distribution of illegal drugs by tour participants. A student who violates this policy at any time during the tour will be disciplined under the tour's Student Conduct Code, which may result in the immediate dismissal from the program and academic withdrawal. In addition to the program discipline, a student using illegal drugs abroad runs the risk of being severely dealt with by the host country. For a further discussion of these risks, see "Controlled Substances" under the Health and Safety section of this handbook.Alcohol
Any student who chooses to use alcohol is expected to behave in a mature and responsible manner, obeying all tour rules and laws of the host country. A student who abuses alcohol or violates any rule or law while under the influence of alcohol will be dealt with by the Program Director who may refer the student for discipline under the tour's student conduct code.
Student Conduct Code for Tour Participants
The following behaviors and acts will be considered violations of the Student Conduct Code for Tour Participants and will subject the student to discipline under the Code:
a) Possession or use of firearms and other weapons
b) Possession or use of firecrackers, gunpowder, explosives or incendiary devices, or other materials that endanger health or safety.a) Tampering with or misuse of fire alarm systems or fire fighting equipment.
b) Intentionally setting fire to, or recklessly burning in any building.
a) Violation of any other provision of the Tour Handbook.
b) Violation of any law or statute in the host country.
c) Commission of an act that would be considered a felony under any U.S. federal, state or local law.
An allegation that a student has violated the Student Conduct Code will be handled in the following manner:
It is highly recommended that you have adequate health insurance before you leave the United States. Make sure you know what your insurance plan covers and how it works. If you need medical attention while abroad, it may be necessary make a full payment to the doctor or hospital treating you even if you have insurance. In this case keep your receipt so that you can file a claim with your insurance company to be reimbursed later. Check with your home study abroad office for more information on insurance.
As part of the program every student will receive an International Student Identity Card (ISIC). This card provides basic medical coverage including emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains. Students also receive supplemental insurance through CMI.
For more information check: www.counciltravel.com or call 1.800.551.0824.
Health Recommendations
A general physical exam, particularly for those with prior known conditions, is recommended before leaving the United States. It is also advisable for you to schedule an appointment to visit your dentist. If you need prescription medication while traveling, be sure to bring an adequate supply with your physician's explanation of the generic and brand names of the medication and dosage information. Always carry prescription medication in its original container. It is also a good idea to carry an extra copy of your eyeglass prescription.
It is absolutely essential that participants with known conditions alert tour managers of these conditions. This information will remain confidential, but is necessary in the event of a medical emergency.
Travel clinics provide immunizations and consultation to international travelers and are a good source of information.
Travelers from the U.S. to destinations abroad sometimes experience stomach distress at first. Ask your doctor about taking some daily Pepto Bismol or equivalent tablets throughout the trip as a preventive, and about bringing an antibiotic such as Cipro (with a prescription) in case of gastrointestinal infection.
Water is considered safe to drink from the tap in most European cities. The exceptions are Venice and all of Turkey, Russia and Egypt. Bottled water is readily available in all of these places however, as it is throughout Asia, where we strongly recommend that you not drink any tap water. Another important thing to remember about places with unsafe drinking water is to refrain from eating fruits and vegetables that have not been washed with bottled water. Bottled water is available in most towns, but it is a good idea to bring a water bottle and iodine tablets (available in camping supply stores) for water purification in rural areas.
Discrimination and Sexual Harassment
Although discrimination against minorities is illegal in many countries, it still occurs. If you believe you are being discriminated against, please discuss it with the Program Director, Manager, or another member of the faculty. Discrimination is built on negative stereotypes that are influenced by a variety of factors, including the media. Although these attitudes may be frustrating at times, remember that one of the main reasons for your participation in study abroad is to learn about other cultures. This includes both the positive and negative aspects. Misunderstandings do occur however, so remember that what you may perceive as a discriminatory act or remark may not necessarily be one in the context of the host culture, but rather a cultural difference.
The legal definition of sexual harassment is any unwanted sexual gesture, physical contact or statement that is offensive, humiliating, or an interference with required tasks or career opportunities. Again, if you believe you have been a victim of sexual harassment, please discuss the matter with the Program Director, Manager, or another member of the faculty.
Any form of discrimination or sexual harassment within the group will not be tolerated and will be dealt with appropriately.
Diversity
Students should be aware that, as in the United States, some societies and groups are more open to accepting diversity than others. People react differently to things they are not accustomed to, or things that appear different from the usual. Regretfully, you may have to deal with the possibility of outright racism abroad, the likelihood of insensitive attitudes and inadequate facilities for disabled students, and the presence of homophobia towards gay students.
You may find that your "Americanness" is a more important factor in determining your treatment abroad than your racial or ethnic heritage or physical abilities. You will find that the United States is not the only country with a complex of minority cultures. It is best to be aware of these attitudes and customs that you may encounter. Remember that everybody in the group will be experiencing similar feelings as the tour goes on.
It is important to note that different cultures have different norms in regard to gender. Women and men should both be aware that the ways people interact vary widely by region and country. Observing interpersonal interactions within a culture can be useful in helping you choose the way you communicate verbally and non-verbally with others in that country.
Issues around dating and sexuality can be particularly difficult on a cross-cultural basis. Such things as eye contact, the way one dresses, and body language can send very different messages by region and culture.
Don't be foolish in assuming that you are invulnerable because you are a visitor in the country and no one is judging your behavior. If you choose to be sexually active, use safe sex and protect yourself and your partner against unintended pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and misunderstanding about the meaning of the relationship. This applies to relationships both within the group as well as with local residents of the cities we visit. Also remember to be responsible using alcohol or other drugs because they can effect your behavior and ability to make decisions.
DrugsAs stated in the section titled Drug and Alcohol Violations, Eastern Michigan University’s Cultural History Tours have a zero tolerance policy toward drugs. If you choose to use drugs abroad, there is very little that anyone can do to help you if you are caught. You are operating under the laws of the host country and neither the U.S. government nor Eastern Michigan University will be able to secure your release should you be caught.
It is your responsibility to know what the drug laws are in a foreign country before you go, because "I didn't know it was illegal" will not get you out of jail. Some laws may be applied more strictly to foreigners than to local citizens; therefore, don't assume that just because local people are using drugs, it's acceptable for you to use drugs.
A number of the Americans arrested abroad on drug charges in 1994 possessed marijuana; many of them possessed one ounce or less. The risk of being put in jail for just one marijuana cigarette or for other illegal substances is not worth it. You may not only endanger yourself, but you may actually endanger your roommates or the program as a whole.
If you are caught using illegal drugs, it could mean:
Fitness
Fitness is important for the Cultural History Tours due to extensive walking around cities, sites, and museums. In addition there may be times when you will be expected to carry your large backpack for up to a mile. This can be particularly strenuous in the Mediterranean where temperatures can be very high. Any attempt to get in better physical shape before the trip can only help you.
Safety
Large cities in Europe are generally much safer in terms of violent crime than large cities in the United States. This does not mean that there is no danger due to the fact that as a foreigner you are more of a target for pickpockets and thieves. The highest risk areas for this sort of petty theft tend to be tourist sites and train/metro/bus stations. For all program participants it is advisable to keep your money and passport in a pouch hidden under your clothes, and do not leave your bag out of sight. During Orientation we will discuss other safety precautions.
All of these issues are things to be wary of, but not overly worried about. Use common sense and avoid spending time in seedy areas. We will cover more safety issues during Orientation.
Before You Go
On all CHT programs the student must purchase a flight to the point of orgin of the tour. Please do not make this purchase until you have received information about departure and return dates from our office or have contacted our office by phone or e-mail.
SUITCASES ARE NOT ALLOWED ON CHT PROGRAMS.
A large camping-style backpack is a requirement for the CHT programs as a means for carrying your luggage throughout the tour. Backpacks are particularly useful when transferring one's belongings from our various forms of transportation to lodgings.
How to choose a pack
Most former study-tour travelers recommend a backpack with an internal frame, although external frame packs work as well. The size of your backpack should probably be between 3000 and 7000 cubic inches, depending on the amount of belongings you bring and your body size. When choosing a pack remember that you want something that is comfortable for you. Make sure it has adjustable straps (it's a good idea to have these straps adjusted to your body before you leave the store) including a strap that goes around your waist. Also, make sure it is rugged. Our backpacks take a lot of abuse as we travel, and replacing your pack abroad can be difficult and expensive. Even in America, these types of packs can be very expensive ($100-$500) so you will want to choose your backpack carefully. You don't necessarily have to buy a top-of-the-line pack. Many former students have used less expensive packs and had no problem. This is a decision you have to make. If you plan on travelling like this regularly, then maybe making an investment in a pricier pack is a good idea. But if you don’t expect to use your bag much beyond this tour, a more economical pack might be better.
Daypack
In addition to a large backpack, you will want to carry a small day backpack or similar bag of some kind. Use this for your camera and other breakables or for personal items on the plane and while on site during program activities. Throughout the duration of the tour, you must be able to carry all of your belongings in your backpack and a small daypack. Having any additional luggage could cause you space problems on crowded trains, metros and buses.
Here is basic list of important documents that you should bring with you: (*Remember to make copies of all of your important documents and pack them separate from the originals.)
Documents
Make photocopies of your airline ticket, passport, traveler's checks, and the credit cards you take abroad. Leave one set of copies at home and keep the other with you in a separate place from your actual documents. Our office will soon be sending you a final itinerary with a list of the addresses and phone numbers where we will be staying on the tour. Leave a copy of this at home for your family to contact you in case of an emergency and take a copy with you to use during the program. It is a program rule that all participants keep a copy of this itinerary on them at all times in case they get separated during travel and need to know where to rejoin the group.
NEVER pack your passport or any other important documents in your checked-in luggage or your carry-on luggage. Passports, credit cards and money should be worn in a pouch or a money belt as close to your body as possible.
Clothing
Most travelers pack too much clothing. Take only what you expect to wear. Although public laundry service is available in some places where we will be staying, we advise students not to solely rely on these services. On most programs it is also recommended that you bring dark colors that will not as readily show dirt. Your clothing should be hand washable and not require much care or drying time. Concentrate on coordinated outfits that you can mix and match and that are easy to layer if needed. You may want to have a set of clothes that look nicer for evening concerts or performances. Europe in the summer can be chilly in late spring and early summer, particularly in the northern and western regions. In the Mediterranean the weather is generally pleasant and dry. For all tours, you should be prepared to travel and walk around outside on rainy days.
Remember, if you take it, you have to carry it, so the basic rule is less is more -- lay out everything you think you have to take and then disregard half of that. Then put all the remaining items in your pack and wear it while walking at least a mile. If you can't make it, make do with less or get in better physical condition. The following list is a helpful guide and should be adjusted according to the seasonal weather you will experience during your time abroad.
Packing List Suggestions:
1 Backpack
1 Day backpack or similar style bag
1 Lightweight jacket: It should be water and wind proof. A poncho can also be useful, as it can cover both you and your large backpack.
1 Hat
5 Shirts: It is a good idea to take both long and short sleeved varieties.
1 Sweater/Sweatshirt: Good for layering on cold days in Western Europe. A fleece, flannel or turtleneck will also work.
2 Pairs of pants: Make sure they are comfortable, durable, versatile, and easy to wash, as you will be spending an awful lot of time in them.
1 Pair of shorts: Be forewarned that some cultures find shorts to be unacceptable apparel, so be careful where and when you wear them. Longer shorts are recommended. *In some warm countries, men should opt for lightweight pants rather than shorts. Some religious sites require men and women to cover their legs and shoulders. Lightweight long pants and a sleeved shirt for men will be sufficient. Women may choose to wear long pants or an ankle length skirt. A large scarf can be used to cover the head or shoulders and can also be used as a lightweight skirt.
1 Bathing suit for the Mediterranean Tours
6 Pairs of underwear
6 Pairs of socks: If your feet get cold easily, a pair of wool socks is recommended.
2 Pairs of shoes: Make sure they are good for walking and very comfortable. Break them in at least two weeks before you leave.
1 Pair of sandals/flip flops: Good for shower rooms or hot days.
1 Money belt or neck pouch: For your passport and money. Keep your money belt or neck pouch under your clothes. Do not use a fanny pack for valuables.
1 Towel: A thin easy drying towel is best. Lightweight non-terry cloth or swimmer’s towels are good options.
(Optional) 1 Sheet and pillow case. The sheet could be a double sized bed sheet so that it can be folded over to serve as both a top and bottom sheet. It is a good idea to sew up the bottom and half way up the side of your sheet so that it is somewhat like a sleeping bag. A ready-made silk sleeping bag liner is another good option.
Miscellaneous Items
Optional Items
Packing Tips
Diversify your funds. Be sure to have a mix of traveler's checks, ATM cards, credit cards and some cash. The amount of spending money required varies with each student. Students should consider their spending patterns at home and take additional funds for personal expenses. Please note that students must pay for their own drinks (including water) at most meals except breakfasts. See the website for your particular tour for a table of estimated costs. For advice on budgeting your money abroad contact friends with foreign experience or former CHT participants. For conversion tables, consult the foreign exchange listings in a financial newspaper such as the Wall Street Journal or www.oanda.com
ATMs
Many students access home funds through automated teller machines (ATMs) and they can be very useful, but should not be used as your only source of funds. Since many ATMs abroad will only access a checking account, do not leave your funds in a savings account before departure. Otherwise, ATMs are used the same as they are here: your home checking account is debited for your withdrawal and you secure local currency. You are charged a service charge and most banks will charge an International Transaction Fee. The current exchange rate is used in the transaction. Check with your local bank concerning use of ATMs abroad. Remember: In some places it may be difficult to find ATMs, and some machines may not accept your card, so you don’t want to rely on them as your sole source of money. And, if your card is de-magnetized, lost, stolen, or kept by the ATM machine, you could be in real financial straits.
Traveler's Checks
You should take enough traveler's checks (in denominations of $20, $50 and $100) to last you the entire program if this will be your primary source of funds. American Express traveler's checks are recognized and accepted in every country in which we will travel. You will not be able to cash personal checks unless you are at an American Express office -- and only then if you have a specific type of American Express Card. You should inquire as to the services your American Express Card offers overseas. Leave a copy of the serial numbers of your traveler’s checks at home and take another with you separate from the checks themselves. As you cash in the checks, keep a tally of which ones remain unredeemed. Remember, they are fully reimbursable for cash at home if you don't use them on tour.
Credit Cards
Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express are honored abroad. We suggest you carry a major credit card on tour for making purchases and in case of emergencies. Seek advice from the issuing company as to the card's applicability abroad and the billing rate for converting the amount of purchases abroad into dollars. Find out from your credit card company your credit limit and be sure not to charge over that amount on your trip. Please be aware that many small stores, restaurants and street vendors do not accept credit cards so you still need a supply of traveler's checks and cash. Cash advances on a credit card will incur very high interest rates, often beginning with the day of withdrawal, so do not use them in place of an ATM card.
Cash
You should also bring some cash in U.S. dollars ($150-$250) in small denominations. Carrying American singles, fives, and tens is very convenient for changing money in airports and train stations where high commissions on traveler’s checks can be a problem. You don’t want to carry too much cash, however. Traveler's checks and credit cards are replaceable, but cash is not.
Please take sufficient money
The best way to assure yourself of adequate funds is to take more than your proposed budget. If your money runs out and you have a credit card, you may be able to access funds. If you are a credit cardholder, you can take your card to a foreign bank for a cash advance. You may also withdraw foreign cash from some ATM machines with your credit card. To do this you will need to know your PIN number, which is issued to you by your credit card company. If your money runs out and you do not have an ATM card or credit cards to access funds, you have several alternatives, all based on the assumption that someone at home can send you money. Funds can be transferred or wired from home, but this process is very costly, time consuming, and complicated. Money can be wired to you through any bank, but this takes about two weeks to receive. Using the local American Express office, you can receive funds in about a day, but high fees may apply. Our tours move so fast that we have often moved on to the next city or country by the time your money arrives. Avoid the expense and hassle by bringing the necessary funds and sticking to a budget.
Mail can be easily sent to or from Europe, but will take longer to reach its destination than mail within the United States. Letters should be marked "air mail" to ensure prompt delivery (usually 2-4 weeks). If it is not marked, mail may be sent by ship and can take up to three months to be delivered. Mail sent internationally must include the destination country as a final line in the address to help ensure delivery.
In an upcoming communication from the office you will be given the contact addresses and telephone numbers where we will be staying abroad along with instructions for friends and family members who may wish to send you mail.
Throughout the world there are an increasing number of Internet cafés. At these establishments, it is possible to pay a fee and access the Internet. For this reason we recommend that all participants get an e-mail address that is accessible from the World Wide Web. There are places to do this for free such as; www.yahoo.com and www.hotmail.com and others. This can be a less expensive alternative to telephoning as a means of keeping in touch with home.
Tips on Telephoning
Before you leave you may want to get a phone card from a U.S. telecommunications company that has access numbers abroad. Your home number will be billed, but be warned: these calls are not cheap. There are also international prepaid phone cards available in the U.S.
In most countries you can purchase a prepaid phone card. In some cases, the cards are inserted into a phone slot and debited as you place calls. With other types of cards, you will use an access number. Many students report that prepaid phone cards purchased in the host country are inexpensive, but can be tricky to activate and use. You can purchase these types of cards at local post offices, kiosks and shops for a fixed price.
Some students bring their cellphones from home with them. Be sure to contact your carrier to learn whether your handset will work abroad. In most cases, calls will be more expensive than those made with locally-purchased phone cards. If you do bring a cell, we require that it be turned off during site visits, museum tours, concerts, performances and lectures.
Some students may wish to rent an international cellphone. You will find a number of prepaid international cellphone packages on the internet. Comparison shop for best coverage and price.
Avoid calls from hotel phones; there is usually a surcharge. If you plan on using a prepaid phone card at a hotel phone, be sure you know the hotel's policy on phone charges.
Arrive at the airport AT LEAST two hours before departure. Go directly to the ticket counter to check your bags and learn about any flight schedule changes. Don't leave your luggage unattended. It is good idea to have a luggage tag with your name and address on your baggage, and a copy inside with telephone number, as well as having a patch or other identifying markings on your big pack to make it easier to locate at luggage claims. However, you don’t want to have any American flags or other markings that will easily identify you as an American (see section on safety).
You will have to carry your own luggage. It is a good idea to pack your bags a few days early and try to carry them when you are tired. Eliminate items that are not essential. Don’t take anything you would hate to lose. Leave at home all unnecessary credit cards, expensive jewelry, or irreplaceable family objects! It is also a good idea to leave some extra room in your pack if you plan to buy items along the way.
NEVER pack your passport or any other important documents in your checked-in luggage or your carry-on luggage. Passports, credit cards and money should be worn in a pouch or a money belt as close to your body as possible.
Study Abroad: The Cultural Experience
Adjustments
Studying abroad is an invaluable experience: a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live in foreign countries, to learn about their customs and cultures, and to adapt to new surroundings. The success of your experience depends partly upon your own efforts to acclimate yourself to living and studying in the foreign cultures we visit. You will have moments of exhilaration and moments of real frustration. Gradually, as you come to terms with the cultural differences, the frustrations will become fewer and fewer. One of the greatest benefits from living in a foreign country is an added depth of appreciation and understanding of U.S. culture. The insights into yourself will be of immeasurable value.
Some Key Resources
These are some of the timeless tips for a speedy acclimatization and a more meaningful stay abroad:
Survival Strategies
Going abroad requires that you adjust to the same sorts of things as if you were moving to another part of the United States: being away from family and friends, living in an unfamiliar environment, meeting new people, adjusting to a different climate, and so on. These changes alone could cause high stress levels, but you will also be going through cultural adjustments. At some point during your time abroad, you may experience what is called "culture shock."
While living abroad, you will often find that your everyday "normal" behavior becomes "abnormal" within another cultural context. Unspoken rules of social interaction have been changed, and the attitudes and behavior that characterize life in the United States are not necessarily appropriate in the host country. These "rules" concern not only language differences, but also such wide-ranging matters as family structure, faculty-student relationships, friendships, gender and personal relations.
One way to handle these social and personal changes is to understand the cycle of adjustment that occurs. The initial period is filled with details of getting used to the way that our program works and meeting new friends.
As the time abroad goes on, some students will go through a stage of unhappiness or even depression. They often write letters, send e-mails, or call home indicating that they are having a terrible time adjusting to the tour. Most students weather the adjustment period and begin to make greater personal and academic growth as the program progresses. By the program conclusion, most students agree that the program has been one of the most valuable experiences of their lives.
Knowing that culture shock can happen to you will certainly ease some of the strain, but there are also several short-term strategies you can use when your recognize culture shock and are faced with the challenge of adjustment.
Examine your motives for going
Remember that our program is not an extended vacation. Strong academic motivations for studying abroad are critical since much of your time will be spent studying.
Expect to feel depressed sometimes
Homesickness
is natural, especially if you have never been away from home. Remember that
your family and friends would not have encouraged you to go if they did not
want you to gain the most from this experience. Don't let thoughts of home occupy
you to the point that you are incapable of enjoying the exciting new cultures
that surround you. Think of all you will share with your family and friends
when you return home.
Expect to feel frustrated and angry at times
You
are bound to have communication problems when you are not using your native
language or dialect. Moreover, people will do things differently in countries
we visit, and you will not always think their way is better than yours. Once
you accept that nothing you do is going to radically change the different cultural
practices, you will save yourself real frustration. Remember that you are the
foreigner and a guest in the other culture.
Keep a Journal
One
of the best ways to deal with cultural adjustments and to reflect thoughtfully
on the differences between U.S. culture and foreign cultures is to regularly
write in a journal. As you write, you'll think your way out of the negative
reactions that may result from your unfamiliarity with language and cultural
behavior. Keeping a journal will force you to make meaningful comparisons between
your own culture and the host country. When you return home you'll have more
than just memories, souvenirs, and photos of your time abroad, you'll have a
written record of your changing attitudes and process of learning about the
foreign culture.
The government requires you to pay duty on goods purchased abroad and brought into the United States. You should know and understand these requirements before leaving so there are no problems when you return. You must declare expensive and/or foreign goods before leaving the United States so that you are not charged duty on them when you return. If you are taking imported articles such as cameras, binoculars, watches, computers etc., you may want to register these foreign-made articles with Customs (before leaving the U.S.) to avoid extra duty charges upon re-entry.
Upon your return, pack purchases together and keep receipts for them ready for Customs inspection. Should you bring back foreign pharmaceuticals, have the prescriptions ready to present. You must declare everything acquired abroad, at the price paid, including gifts given to you and articles worn or used. If you fail to declare or understate the value, penalties may be severe. You cannot bring meat, fruits, vegetables, or Cuban cigars into the U.S.
Read Know Before You Go, a free pamphlet available online at: http://www.customs.ustreas.gov/travel/travel.htm
As difficult as it is to adapt to an entirely new culture, it can be just as challenging to come back home after being away for any period of time. It is best to know what you might encounter in order to prepare for this adjustment period.
Expect to experience some measure of reverse culture shock. Remember that the world at home hasn't stopped for you while you were gone. Upon your return home, you may find you aren't the only one who has changed during your absence. Everyone and everything else will have changed too. Remember to take time for yourself to readjust slowly.
You'll notice that you think differently about the U.S. You'll spend time reflecting on the differences between the U.S. and the countries you visited. Friends and family may be interested in stories or pictures for awhile, but they often "really don't understand." It may be difficult to express your feelings in words. Remember that many people may have difficulty relating to what you are saying because it hasn't been a part of their experience. You might find talking with others from the program helpful. You could also consider volunteering to help in your study abroad office or international student office on campus.
You may consider becoming a peer advisor at the Office of Study Abroad, or write for the Study Abroad magazine. And of course you can start thinking about when and how you'll return. Some students have applied to graduate schools in a country in which they visited, have found employment possibilities while they were on the program, or have just returned to visit places and friends they encountered on the program.
We strongly urge you to maintain contact with friends you've made on the tour. Don't forget to let the Office of Academic Programs Abroad know how you are doing. Keep us in the loop, and let us know when you change your E-mail address or move. We love to keep in touch with our alumni, and welcome your E-mails!
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