Parent and Family Guide
This guide is designed to answer the questions we receive most frequently from parents and family members.
Dear Parents and Family Members,
We are thrilled that your student has chosen to study abroad. The importance of an international education in our increasingly globally connected world cannot be understated. Studying abroad is often one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences a student will have during their college years and a high impact way to gain intercultural competencies, and develop confidence and independence. Students who participate in study abroad programs acquire skills and new perspectives that make them more competitive in achieving their professional goals. The Education Abroad staff at Penn State is here to assist and support your student throughout the entire study abroad process so that they receive the maximum benefit.
While we encourage students to take ownership of the preparations for their international experience*, we understand that support from parents and family members is an important part of ensuring success. With that in mind, we have created this Parent and Family Guide which you can access on the Global Programs website to address some of the most frequent questions we receive.
We thank you for being a part of your student’s journey. If you have questions or concerns that are not addressed here, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,
The Penn State Education Abroad Office
*The Education Abroad staff are here to assist and support your student, but advisers must adhere to federal student-privacy regulations and therefore when possible, questions from parents should be communicated to Education Abroad staff through the student. An important part of the study abroad process is establishing independence and personal accountability. Ultimately, it is each student's responsibility to adhere to deadlines, attend pre-departure meetings, and to read all communications regarding their program.
Contact the Education Abroad Office
Penn State Education Abroad
422 Boucke Building, University Park
(814) 863-9327
EducationAbroad@psu.edu
