CEAT Study Abroad
Resources
These online resources are helpful to students studying abroad for academic programs or for personal travel.
- Guides for Countries and Regions
- The CIA World Factbook provides information on countries and regions
- The U.S. State Department's Country-Specific Pages and Background Notes provide information on countries
- The State Department Traveler Resources
The State Department offers an extensive website to help travelers prepare for their trip and to manage their safety while abroad
- Plane tickets
- Students with disabilities
- Sexuality and gender expression with abroad
While Abroad
- Being a Good Representative
- No matter how you see yourself, remember that while you're abroad, you're a representative of the United States, Oklahoma State University and the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology. People in your host country might view you as a reflection of American culture and Oklahoma State University students specifically. It’s crucial to be respectful at all times, as your behavior—whether positive or negative—can impact Oklahoma State University’s reputation and influence future participants for years to come.
- Tips for making a good impression:
- If you are traveling to a non-English speaking country, try to learn some of the language, even if it is just general greetings.
- If you are traveling to an English speaking country, be mindful of the variations in dialect.
- Be mindful that you are a guest in another country and there will be cultural differences. Learning the local customs will assist you in not intentionally offending the locals (ex, ways of dressing, leaving a tip, etc.).
- Familiarize yourself with local laws, as some regulations might be unexpected but can help you avoid potential issues.
- Be aware of your actions and how they might affect others around you (ex, some locations do not talk on public transportation, certain cultures do not shake hands with the opposite gender, etc.).
- Refrain from sharing negative opinions or making far-reaching generalizations about the host country. Focus on understanding the culture without judgment.
- Show generosity by learning how to give thanks. This could be learning to say “thank you” in the host countries language or other actions such as bowing or smiling.
- Social Media
- Feel free to capture and share photos and videos of your journey for your personal memories. If you’re open to it, you can tag @osu_ceat in your Instagram posts or email photos to ceatstudyabroad@okstate.edu for a chance to be featured on CEAT’s social media, website, and more. Don’t forget to use the hashtags:
#ceatstudyabroad #PokesAbroad
#okstate #studyabroad
- Exchange Rates
- An exchange rate reflects the value of one currency when traded for another and fluctuates based on international trade, import prices, and tourism. For instance, on June 4th, $1 might be worth €1.07, but by June 5th, it could only be worth €1.04.
- To make sure you're getting the best value while abroad, it's a good idea to have a currency converter app on your phone to help you evaluate the cost of items.
- Check exchange rates in real time here.
- U.S. Embassies and Consulates
- The primary purpose of a US Embassy and Consulate is to assist American citizens who travel or live in the host country.
- While each US Embassy offers different services most of them can assist in times of emergency while abroad.
Some of these services include assisting with;
- Expired, lost or stolen passport
- Arrest of a US Citizen
- Emergency evacuation
- Victims of crime
- Contacting family or friends in an emergency situation
To better understand what a can and cannot be done during a crisis situation, click here.
- To locate the US Embassy closest to you, click here.
- Translation Resources
*Note that not all translations are always fully correct but can be helpful
- Emergencies
In the case of an Emergency
- Contact your Program Leader/ Instructor(s). They will provide you with their best means of contact while abroad.
If you are separated from your group or Program Leader/ Instructor(s)
- Go to the listed emergency meeting location. This will be shared with the group while abroad and is unique to each location you will be.
If you must visit a hospital or doctor
- Inform your Program Leader/ Instructor(s) and they will assist you with getting to the nearest English speaking hospital. If you are having issues locating an English speaking hospital in the area, call the 24/7 Travel Assistance Services with your insurance, Gallagher Global Assistance. This number is located on your insurance card.
Note that most international health services require a payment upfront and your travel insurance will reimburse you after proper paperwork has been filed and receipts have been kept.
- For assistance with being reimbursed by your travel insurance, you can call the 24/7 Travel Assistance Services number on your insurance card.
24/7 Travel Assistance Services
1-866-693-6873 (From outside the US)
1-312-935-9242 (From inside the US) GallagherGlobalAssistance@ajg.com
If your passport is lost or stolen
- Inform your Program Leader/ Instructor(s) and they will assist you with getting to the nearest US Embassy or Consulate to gather a replacement.
Important numbers:
- OSU Police 1-405-744-6523
- OSU Victim Advocates 1-405-564-2129
- Health and Safety
Use Sound Judgment
- Stay vigilant about your surroundings and location, as it's easy to get distracted in a new environment. Be mindful of your destinations and the people you interact with, as some countries may have higher risks of scams or theft targeting tourists.
Ways to avoid this include:
- Never leaving your items unattended
- Placing your wallet or valuables in your front pockets
- If you're carrying a bag, ensure it has a strong strap
- Backpacks aren’t advisable since you are not able to keep your eyes on it at all times
- Be aware on public transportation as being in a confined space can make it difficult to secure your items.
- Always be aware of how to return to your accommodations. Be sure your phone is fully charged and have your accommodation pinned. You can also save the address in your phone.
- Use the buddy system. You should always have at least one other person with you, especially at night.
- Each country, city, and neighborhood presents its own distinct safety risks. Before you travel, visit travel.state.gov to research your destination, understand local crime trends, identify areas to avoid, and find tips on how to stay safe.
- Vaccine Requirements and Health Notices
- Be sure to search the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for country specific health items. (Travelers' Health | CDC)* link to name
24/7 Travel Assistance Services
1-866-693-6873 (From outside the US)
1-312-935-9242 (From inside the US) GallagherGlobalAssistance@ajg.com
- S.T.E.P.
- Every student is required to sign up for the State Department’s S.T.E.P. (The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program). It is a free program that allows U.S. citizens to register their time abroad with the U.S. Embassy/ Consulate abroad. They will be able to easily contact you in the case of a national emergency. (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (state.gov)) *link to name
- Insurance
- All students will be provided with travel insurance while abroad through Gallagher Global Assistance. They can provide several difference services including but not limited to;
- A referral to a hospital or doctor
- Need to guarantee payment for medical expenses
- Need to be evacuated or repatriated
- Experience local communication issues
- Your safety is threatened due to political or military events
- Taking Medications Abroad
Before You Depart
- If you taking over the counter or prescription medications on a regular basis, you should research if it is legal to take abroad.
- Some countries do not allow certain medications within the country and may require a medical provider note and/ or documentation.
- Be sure you have plenty of your medication to last you while abroad if you are attending a short term/ faculty led study abroad program.
Traveling with Medications
- Medications should always be kept in their original containers with your name clearly labeled. Avoid mixing different medications into one container to save space.
- Pack your medications in your carry-on bag to mitigate the risk of loss or delay of checked luggage.
- Students with diabetes or those who use injectable medications should carry a doctor's letter at all times, explaining the need for needles and syringes.
- If you carry medications that are considered illegal in your destination, even if they are legally prescribed or purchased in the U.S., or if you lack the appropriate documentation, there is a risk that they may be confiscated by authorities. This could result in serious consequences, including arrest or deportation. To avoid these issues, research the regulations regarding medications in your destination and ensure you have all required documentation, such as a doctor's note or a copy of your prescription.
- Flying
Security
- Be sure to follow all TSA rules. You can locate them here.
- Click here to see what you can bring.
Delayed or Canceled Flight
- If you are departing the U.S. to your abroad location, be sure to contact your Program Leaders/Instructors.
- Speak with your airline to about options for the next flight to your destination. If there are no other available flights, discuss authorizations for another carrier.
- You can contact your OSU’s 24/7 Travel Assistance Services through your health and travel insurance.
24/7 Travel Assistance Services
1-866-693-6873 (From outside the US)
1-312-935-9242 (From inside the US) GallagherGlobalAssistance@ajg.com
Lost Luggage
- Inform your Program Leaders/ Instructors.
- Speak with your airline’s baggage claim booth about your bag’s location.
Making an International Call
Before You Go
- Packing List
Carry on
- Passport (have a digital copy too)
- An additional form of ID (State ID or Driver’s license)
- OSU Student ID
- Insurance card
- Credit/ Debit cards
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- Ensure you activate the cards if they are new
- Have the PIN numbers
- Communicate with your bank that you will be abroad (or any other location you will have a layover)
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- Cash (currency of that country)
- Prescription Medications
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- Plan to bring extras in case of delays or cancelations
- Be sure it is in the original packaging or have a copy of your prescription
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- Chargers and power convert(s) with correct voltage for the country abroad
- International phone plan
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- Some phone companies include this in your plan and others charge around $10 per day internationally
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- Travel journal (will be provided for you)
- Pens/pencils
- Travel toiletries
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- TSA-approved 3oz containers and quart-sized bag (to place liquids in for security)
- Soap
- Shampoo/ conditioner
- Face wash
- Deodorant
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Band aids or moleskin (for feet)
- Hand sanitizer
- Packets of laundry detergent (if you’d like to do laundry)
- Lip balm
- Lotion
- Sunscreen
- Tampons/pads or other personal care items
- Additional contacts (and/or backup glasses)
- Tissues (travel sized)
- Upset stomach medication
- Painkillers (ibuprofen or Advil)
- Razor
- Allergy medication
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- Things to make air travel/ hotel more enjoyable
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- Ear plugs
- Sleep mask
- Headphones (air fly for air pods)
- Portable charger
- Compression socks
- Neck pillow
- At least one outfit (in case of lost luggage)
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Checked Bag
- 2 pairs of comfortable shoes
- Hat
- Plastic bag (I like to store my dirty clothes in one so they don’t mix with my clean ones)
- Day bag (cross body, fanny pack or purse)
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- be sure it is comfortable on your shoulders and bearable to carry
- Think about what you want to carry (a large/ everyday backpack might not be necessary)
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- Business casual/ smart casual outfits for company tours
- Swimsuit (if swimming, beaches are optional)
Depending on if you do laundry the below items are suggested if traveling for 5-10 days:
- 5 tops
- 2 bottoms
- 8 underwear
- 1 bra
- Jacket or light sweater
- 5 socks (if bringing tennis shoes)
- Smart Casual-
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- No jeans or leggings
- Long pants (no shorts)
- polo/ collared shirt
- Nice and clean tennis shoe or loafer (something comfortable to walk in)
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- CDC Travel
Required Vaccines and COVID-19
- Be sure to search the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for country specific health items.
- Apps to Download
What’s App
- Free and easy way to communicate with friends and family back home
Google Translate or other translation app
Duolingo
- Help you learn and practice basic words of the host country
Currency Plus
- Calculator that can assist with converting currency
Your airline’s app
- Have your ticket easy to access and receive the most up-to-date information
Alert Traveler
- App that gives you safety updates and allows OSU to easily communicate with you in times of an emergency. A link to download the app will be given to you once it becomes closer to your departure.
Google Maps or other maps app
- Google Maps isn’t available in every country
Mobile Passport Control
- An easy way to reenter the U.S. and avoid long lines.
- Culture Shock
What is it?
- Culture shock is the disorientation and discomfort people often experience when they are immersed in a new and unfamiliar culture. It can arise from differences in language, social norms, customs, and daily practices. The experience typically involves several stages:
1. Honeymoon Phase
- Initial excitement and fascination with the new culture.
2. Frustration Phase
- Realization of cultural differences and difficulties in adjusting, leading to feelings of frustration or anxiety.
3. Adjustment Phase
- Gradual adaptation to the new culture, finding ways to cope and navigate daily life.
4. Mastery Phase
- Feeling comfortable and competent in the new cultural environment.
Culture shock can affect anyone living or traveling abroad and can impact one’s emotional well-being and interactions with others.
Coping Strategies
- Stay connected with friends and family back home
- Be open-minded. Try the new foods, learn about local customs and embraces the differences you encounter
- Prepare for your time abroad by researching your host country(ies)
- Be patient. Everything takes time to adjust.
- Make a list of all the positive aspects you are experiencing.
- Jet Lag
Jet lag is a temporary condition that occurs when your body's internal clock is out of sync with the local time at your destination. This usually happens after traveling across multiple time zones, disrupting your natural sleep-wake cycle.
How to Mitigate Jet Lag
- Adjust Your Schedule Before You Leave
- Gradually shift your sleep and meal times closer to the schedule of your destination a few days before departure.
- Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight to help combat dehydration, which can worsen jet lag symptoms.
- Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
- Both can interfere with your sleep patterns and make it harder for your body to adjust.
- Get Sunlight
- Exposure to natural light helps reset your internal clock. Spend time outdoors and adjust your exposure to light according to the new time zone.
- Take Naps Wisely
- Short naps can help alleviate fatigue, but avoid long naps that can disrupt your ability to adjust to the new time zone.
- Use Sleep Aids Cautiously
- If needed, consider using sleep aids like melatonin, but consult with a healthcare professional before using them.
- Adopt the New Schedule
- Try to follow the local schedule for meals and sleep as soon as you arrive to help your body adapt more quickly.
Apps to Help
- Timeshifter
- JetLag
- Currency Exchange
- It is highly recommended to have the cash form of currency for the country you are visiting. Be sure to research if debit/ credit cards or cash are a preferred method of payment in your host country.
- The most affordable ways to exchange money is to request it through your bank (if your bank offers this service) or to take money out of an ATM when you land at your final destination.
- Passport
- A passport is required to travel outside of the United States. Additionally, it must be valid for at least 6 months after you return from your time abroad and have at least one page available in your booklet.
*Note: A U.S. Passport Card cannot be used for international travel. A Passport Book is required.
Photo
- When applying for or renewing a passport, you’ll need to provide valid passport photos. Please note that photocopies or scans of your current passport’s photo page are not acceptable as substitutes for official passport photos.
Locations in Stillwater
- Walgreens
- CVS
- Stillwater Post Office (S. Lewis St.)
Applying
- To apply for your first adult (over 18) passport, click here. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/apply-in-person.html *link
Cost
- Passport Book $130
- Execution (Acceptance) Fee $35
- Expedited service $60 (optional)
*Note that only a check or money order can be used to pay for your passport book and expedited service
Locations to apply in Stillwater
- Stillwater Post Office (S. Lewis St.)
- Oklahoma State University Mailing Services
- Payne County Courthouse
Renewing
- To renew your adult (over 18) passport, click here.
Cost
- Passport Book $130
- Expedited service $60 (optional)
- Shipping 1-2 days after issuance $21.36 (optional)
*Note: Only a check or money order can be used to pay for your passport book and expedited service
Once You've Returned
- Re-entry
- Re-entry is the process of readjusting when returning home after being abroad. Sometimes returning can be easy but others might find it more difficult after adapting to a new way of life.
Coping with Re-entry?
- Tell others about your experience. We are always looking for stories to share with prospective students. Email ceatstudyabroad@okstate.edu for more information.
- Remain an international learner
- Get involved with clubs and organizations on campus to continue your international experience.
- Continue to be educated about global matters through documentaries, reading and lectures.
Journal
- This is the most effective way to reflect on your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
- Resume and Your Career
- Studying abroad can enhance your ability to stand out to an employer with the following
attractive qualities:
- Highlights your global perspective and value for diverse viewpoints and practices
- Ability to use cross cultural communication skills
- Enhanced problem solving abilities
- Willingness to embrace new challenges
- Demonstrated commitment to personal growth by investing in experiences that broaden horizons
- Adapted in new and challenging environments
- Be sure to add this experience to your resume and work with CEAT Career Services
- Studying abroad can enhance your ability to stand out to an employer with the following
attractive qualities: