Pre-departure Orientation
Overview
As a study abroad student, you are required to attend an in-person orientation where EA advisors will review topics of health and safety while abroad. For your convenience, some of these topics are also covered in the following orientation videos. We also suggest that U.S. Citizens planning to study abroad review the International Travel Safety Information for Students published by the U.S. Department of State.
Appointments and paperwork associated with physical and mental healthDuring the pre-departure orientation and in meetings with your EA advisor, you will cover the following topics:
- Researching political and cultural norms in your host country
- General safety practices abroad
- Emergency procedures and review of insurance policies
- Important documents to bring abroad
Video resources
Section I: Making the Decision to Study Abroad
Section II: Physical Precautions to Support Your Safety Abroad
Additional Resources
- Arizona State University Safe Housing Toolkit and Safe Housing Checklist
- University of Maryland's Fire Marshal: Fire Safety Tips
- Jasmine Jahanshahi Fire Safety Foundation
- Association of Safe International Road Travel (ASIRT)
- U.S. Department of State's Driving and Road Safety Abroad
- World Health Organization's Global Status Report on Road Safety
Section III: Your Everyday Life Abroad
View our insurance abroad page for more information on CISI insurance.
Section IV: Your Physical & Mental Health Abroad
Additional Resources
Section V: Sexual Harassment, Assault & Other Misconduct
- Harvard University's Center for Gender Equity
- Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) Support Line: +1 201-501-4444
- Use the AlertTraveler App (24/7)
- Call Education Abroad (business hours apply): +1 301-314-7746
- Contact the Office of Civil Rights and Sexual Misconduct (business hours apply): titleixcoordinator@umd.edu or +1 301-405-1142
- Use any of the 24/7 emergency contacts
If you are in danger, call the 911 equivalent immediately.
Section VI: Alcohol, Drugs & Socializing Safely
Section VII: What to Do in an Emergency
Review the emergency response page for more information.