Katie Wu's blog: 2013

The study abroad programs listed below are offered through the Center for International Education/Study Abroad at Truman State University. All Truman State University students must enroll through the Center for International Education at Truman if you wish to participate in a C.C.I.S. program. Students from other institutions may also enroll through the same office.  DO NOT CONTACT THE SPONSOR OF THE PROGRAM BEFORE CONTACTING US.

If you are not a Truman student, we will be happy to send you information on programs that we sponsor. For other programs please contact the appropriate sponsor directly.

• IIf you wish to participate in any of the following programs, you must enroll through the Center for International Education if you are a student at Truman State University. Students from other institutions may also enroll through the same office. The internship programs listed below are offered through the Center for International Education Abroad at Truman State University. For additional information on these programs contact the CIE office. Do not contact the sponsor of the program before contacting us.  If you are not a Truman student, you are welcome to apply to these programs. For more information please contact ciea@truman.edu.  The programs listed below are academic (for credit) internships. Although we guarantee that if you are accepted in any of these programs you will be placed in an appropriate institution or company, we cannot guarantee a placement in a specific company in advance.  In most cases you will not know which company or institution you will be working for in the country of destination prior to arrival. You must go through a job interview process, in most cases, and your potential employer will have the final say in the hiring process.  Most internships are not paid. In fact, in many cases the internship program is more expensive than the regular study abroad program at the same location. This is due to the fact that finding internships, and supervising them, is a time consuming process requiring a full time staff position.  If you are looking for a non-credit internship, please contact the CIEA Office. Browse our lists of: Study Abroad Programs, Exchange Programs, Summer/Interim Programs, Internships Abroad, Teaching Opportunities Abroad

• Request a general brochure to choose a destination suitable to your major, language ability and cultural interests.

• Determine whether you want to go a summer, semester or academic year.

Make an appointment with someone at the Center for International Education:

• Meet with Dr. Patrick Lecaque: France, Bulgaria.

• Meet with Alci Arias: Australia, Costa Rica, England, Ireland, Scotland, Spain, Morocco and all Council on International Educational Exchange (C.I.E.E.) programs.

• Meet with Rosa Virginia Mendez: C.C.I.S. Study Abroad programs (College Consortium for International Study Abroad) or I.S.E.P. (International Student Exchange Programs).

All three advisors can speak to you about programs and countries not listed above.

• Call 660-785-4076

• Email ciea@truman.edu

• Come to the Center for International Education in Kirk Building 114.

To make an appointment with an advisor!

• Discuss your plans with your academic advisor before you apply to a program. They are able to work with your schedule to tell you the best semester to study abroad.

• Check with the Financial Aid Office. Call 660-785-4130, email finaid@truman.edu or drop by McClain Hall 103 to discuss your options for financial assistance.

• Apply!

Truman State University has many partners around the world and is a member of several consortia and organizations providing additional study abroad opportunities. Special agreements with other universities in the U.S. help us to offer additional programs. The following list provides links to the web sites of our partners with more details on the programs they provide.

• Globalinks Learnign Abroad: Offers a wide range of programs in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

• C.C.I.S. - College Consortium for International Study Abroad: Offers study abroad programs worldwide. Truman State University offers several programs under the C.C.I.S. umbrella.

• C.I.E.E. - Council on International Educational Exchange: Offers study abroad programs worldwide.

• I.S.E.P. - International Student Exchange Programs: Offers exchange programs worldwide. Please note that Truman does not participate in the direct placement program through I.S.E.P.

• MOCON - The Missouri Consortium for International Studies and Education : MOCON sponsors the Missouri-London Program, Missouri-Ghana Program and the Missouri Greece Program.

• Semester at Sea: Operates three study abroad voyages a year on board the MV Explorer

• St. Olaf College - Budapest Semesters in Mathematics 

Wayne State University - Junior Year Abroad in Munich

Truman has exchange agreements with several partners around the world. During an exchange program, you are enrolled at a host university and a student from that university may study at your institution in the United States.

There are many advantages of exchange programs, both for the institution and for the individual students. If you are looking for an immersion program, especially in non-English speaking countries, this is the best option. Also, in terms of cost, the price is either the same, or very close to what it would be at Truman.

You should also consider the disadvantages of exchange programs. Exchange programs are sometimes very competitive and you must apply early. Also, the language of instruction in non-English speaking countries is the native language in most cases. Therefore, your level in the foreign language must be above third-year college level in that language.

Exchange Programs: Pros

• If you are looking for an immersion program, especially in non-English speaking countries, this is the best option.

• In terms of cost, the price is either the same, or very close to what it would be at Truman.

Exchange Programs: Cons

• Very competitive.

• Must apply early.

• The language of instruction in non-English speaking countries is the language of the country. Therefore your level in the foreign language must be above third-year college level in that language.

For a list of Exchange Programs click here.

During a study abroad program in non-English speaking countries, you are enrolled at an institution that caters to international students and non-native speakers. With a few exceptions, study abroad programs can accommodate all qualified students applying to a given program. Most study abroad programs in non-English speaking countries are accessible to the students regardless of their level in the language of the country.

There are also disadvantages with a study abroad program. Typically, all students in these programs are American or international students, so these programs are not as immersive. Also, the cost is based on the cost at the host institution, which is usually more expensive than the cost would be at Truman.

Study Abroad Programs: Pros

• With a few exceptions, study abroad programs can accommodate all qualified students applying to a given program.

• Most programs in non-English speaking countries are accessible to the students regardless of their level in the language of the country.

• The grading system is similar to the US system.

Study Abroad Programs: Cons

• All students on these programs – with a few exceptions – are U.S. or international students.

Cost is based on the cost at the host institution which is, in most cases, more expensive than at Truman.

There are two types of summer/interim programs: faculty-led programs and traditional programs.

The Truman sponsored traditional summer programs are similar to the study abroad programs except shorter. The length ranges from 3 to 15 weeks.

There are currently 19 approved faculty-led programs. Not all programs are run every year. Faculty-led programs listed below must be re-approved every time they are offered. Once re-approved they are listed on the following webpage.

Program Directors: If you are a program director and would like to offer your program this year, click here!  New Programs: If you are a faculty member and would like to propose a new program, please click here! 

A limited number of cultural loans may be authorized to encourage participation in "study abroad" programs. The maximum loan is the cost of the trip, minus other financial aid, but not more than $5,000. Cultural loans are available to students who meet the general eligibility requirements and, in addition, who meet at least one of the following standards: earned at least a 2.5 cumulative grade point average in courses taken at the University; or earned at least a 2.5 grade point average in foreign language courses taken at the University; or enrolled in a foreign language class at the University for which a "study abroad" experience is either required or strongly recommended.

Interest: Five percent (5%) per annum on the unpaid principal balance, with interest to accrue from the date of the loan.

Service Charge: None

Repayment: Interest shall be payable quarterly each year until amortization payments of principal and interest are required. Amortized payments of at least sixty dollars ($60) per month shall begin three months after a debtor student leaves the University through graduation, withdrawal, transfer, or any other reason. The monthly payments shall be calculated to repay the loan in full, including both principal and interest, within three years after the payments commence.

Deferment of Repayment: May be authorized by the Financial Aid Committee.

Third Party Guarantees: Loans must be co-signed by two guarantors (normally the student's parents) acceptable to the Financial Aid Committee. If the student iis married, then the student's spouse must also guarantee the loan.

Click here for the Cultural Loan Application and the Study Abroad Funding Sheet.

Rotary Foundation Scholarships

Please contact Dr. Mark Hanley, TSU History Department, mhanley@truman.edu (785-4098), Baldwin Hall 255. Information and application materials are also available at the Rotary International web site, www.rotary.org. Applications are due February 21, 2011 for planned international study between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013. Applications should be returned to Dr. Mark Hanley in Baldwin Hall 255 by 5:00 pm on the due date. Bridging Scholarships for Study Abroad in Japan Deadline: The deadline for applications from students who will study in Japan beginning in January 2013 or April 2013 are due October 10, 2012. Students who plan to study in Japan beginning in Fall of 2013 should apply in spring 2013.

Passports, Visas, Health and More

Passports "A passport is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies the identity and nationality of the bearer. A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave most foreign countries. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue or verify United States passports."

Visas A visa is a travel document usually attached to, or stamped in, your passport that allows entry and stay in a foreign country. Many countries that do not require visas for tourists require visas for students. We will provide all appropriate information and required documents for students who need a visa. DO NOT APPLY FOR A VISA BEFORE YOU RECEIVE INSTRUCTIONS! In many cases you cannot apply for a visa less than 90 days prior to departure. All regulations vary from one country to the next and often vary slightly from one Consulate to the other. Many countries have several consulates in the United States. To find out more about visa regulations and the location of the nearest consulate please check www.embassy.org or the country information at the U.S. Department of State. Please note that many consulates require that you apply for a visa in person!

Working Abroad You are not allowed to work in most countries unless you have a valid work permit. It is almost impossible to obtain a work permit with a student visa. If you want to find out more about working opportunities abroad, please click here! This link is provided for information purposes only. The Center for International Education at Truman State University is not involved in working opportunities abroad!

Country Information For basic information on most countries around the world check the 'Background Notes' from the U.S. Department of State.

Safety Your safety is of uttermost importance to us. Be an informed traveler. Consult the U.S. Department of State site for safety information, travel warnings, Consular Information Sheets, and tips for travelers. PLEASE REGISTER WITH THE AMERICAN EMBASSY IN YOUR COUNTRY (COUNTRIES) OF DESTINATION.

Health IT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO CONSULT THE CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL TO OBTAIN THE LATEST HEALTH INFORMATION ON THE COUNTRIES WHERE YOU WILL STUDY AND TRAVEL.

If you need to take prescription medicine, carry it in its original packaging.

Health/Repatriation Insurance Many countries require proof of health and repatriation insurance. Students on all Truman sponsored programs are insured through C.I.S.I. Students on other programs are also insured through other carriers.

Truman offers you the amazing opportunity to choose from more than 50 countries in which to study. The language of instruction depends on the program you select – from some programs that require extensive knowledge of a foreign language to others that require little or no knowledge of a language other than English.

Participating in a study abroad program as part of your Truman experience will enhance your undergraduate years, help in your preparation as a citizen of the world, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

The Bizarre:

• Lack of Change: This is one of my major Indian pet peeves. Everyone is hoarding their change. Every time I buy something and pull out a 100 rupee or above note (maybe for something that costs 80 rupees) I’m always asked “no change ma’am?” No. I don’t have change, if I had change I would give it to you. People will always act irritated about having to give you their treasured change. I HAVE TO BREAK THESE BILLS SOMEWHERE! Also if your money is wrinkled or torn at all you will be told “this no good” IT’S STILL MONEY!

• Medical tips: Every time I’ve showed any symptoms of illness, everyone is always VERY CONCERNED and has a lot of bizarre health tips:

• “Cold water is bad for you, it will give you a cold”

• “You are sick, you need to drink hot water”

• Some fruits are “hot” and some are “cold” Mangos are hot? Watermelons are cold. You should only eat some at certain times

• “Don’t eat things directly out of the fridge”

• “You are not drinking enough tea” This is the explanation for everything from chapped lips to a stomach flu.

• Tummy problems? Curd rice. Nothing will make you feel better than dairy products.

• “Have you Eaten?” Essentially this is how people ask how you are doing. Never say that you haven’t eaten. People will get worried. They need reassurance. You can’t say no to food. Don’t even try. Your plate will always get refilled with rice, and you have to eat more ALWAYS. It’s for your own good because you’ve been looking thin.

• When I tell people I’m from the United States, they almost always reply “California or New York.” Everyone has some relative that is currently living somewhere in the U.S. and it’s likely that they will ask if you know them.

• Balancing act: People carry things on their heads all the time. It’s pretty impressive

• Manual labor in Saris. I see female construction workers shoveling sand in this long wrapped piece of fabric every day. I don’t know how they do it.

Indian versions of American foods: They are always worth trying for the sake of trying, but you never know what you are going to get. Everything is always just a bit off. But I didn’t come to India to have American food!

This morning I attended my very first Indian wedding! Gopal had mentioned that he knew of some weddings coming up, but he gave me last minute notice on Sunday afternoon that I would be missing my Indian literature class and accompanying him to a wedding on Monday morning. My first thought was: “What am I going to wear?!” My second thought was “The wedding is Monday Morning?” I luckily had just got a new Kurti tailored and borrowed some traditional Indian jewelry from my roommate Courtney. It was 8 am this morning, I was looking fly and I hopped into the ICMIS van with Gopal to attend this morning marriage.

As Gopal explained on the long drive through rush hour traffic, the wedding was taking place at such an early hour because this was an “auspicious” time. Although Indian marriages can take up to 4 days, the final most important parts of the ceremony are suposed to be preformed as the sun is rising, rather than when it is setting. The symbolism seems pretty obvious here. Typically a true Indian wedding consists of many days of the bride and groom performing Pujas (rituals often involving coconuts) and lots of food. However since this was a city wedding, the families had to cut down the program. The bride (Gopal’s friend’s daughter) and groom had consolidated the marriage into two days. They had already had the massive reception (about 1,000 people) the night before, and they were getting down to the actual marriage business in the morning. The marriage was held in a large marriage hall. We walked through a colorful archway (it looked like it had been pomped) that advertised the bride and grooms names and into a room full of plastic chairs, people casually hanging around, and a flower covered arch. There were also TV screens hanging so that when the ceremony started you could watch on the screens rather than crowding around. After a lot of carefully arranging coconuts, flowers, bananas and other items for the ceremony, an Indian style band started playing as the groom was escorted in by his parents and a hoarde of women in sarees. The parents began by washing the groom’s feet and burning a lot of incense while priests chanted mantras in Sanskrit. The rest of the ceremony involved the gorgeously decorated bride coming out, the two being separated by a sheet and about two hours of ritual that didn’t mean much to me. The couple switched places countless times, and exchanged garlands, tied knots in each others clothing and the bride was given a mangalsutra (marriage necklace). There was a lot of throwing rice (blessings) at the couple, pouring coconut milk and honey on their hands, and a lot of incense. The whole affair seemed exhausting for the bride and groom (who don’t get much sleep), and the bride didn’t look too pleased.

Money, Credit Cards, Exchange Rates

Do not put all of your eggs in the same basket! You should use a combination of a debit or credit card, traveler’s checks and a small amount of cash to pay for your expenses abroad. Here are some helpful tips.

CREDIT CARD vs. DEBIT CARD

Please remember that credit cards usually charge a very high interest rate on cash transactions. In addition to this they usually start charging an interest rate from the day of the transaction (no grace period). Because each issuing bank has a different set of rules, do check with your bank what their policies are.

A Debit card (also known as a bank card or a check card) is really the best one to use as long as you have money in the bank because it does not charge you interest on the cash withdrawal and usually allows you for multiple withdrawal during the same week (if needed), as long of course as you have money in your account. Make sure that your debit card works worldwide.

CREDIT CARDS

In most if not all countries around the world today you can use a credit card to pay for a wide range of services and to get cash money at an ATM machine or in a bank. The credit card companies also offer the best exchange rates although they do charge a transaction fee for it in most cases.   VISA and MASTERCARD are the most widely accepted cards around the world. American Express is also widely accepted. DISCOVER cards are not accepted in most countries outside the United States.

TIPS BEFORE DEPARTURE

Because each issuing bank has different policies you should check with each issuing bank the following things: How much do they charge per withdrawal? Remember that you will probably be charged for cash withdrawal by your credit card issuer AND by the local bank as you are in the U.S. Do they charge a currency exchange fee? Most bank charge 2% or more for that service.

How much money can you withdraw per week? Find out what number you should call if you lose your card, have it stolen, or have any other problem? Remember that except in North America, you cannot access a 800 number from abroad, so you need another number. Most Banks print it on the back of the card an International Collect number to call. Make two photocopies of your credit cards front and back and leave a copy with someone you trust at home, take the other copy with you and store it in a safe place but not with your credit card(s).

ATMs

The Cirrus and Plus networks used by Visa and MasterCard offer over 1.5 million ATMs around the world.

You can locate an ATM for a Visa card by clicking here! You can locate an ATM for a MasterCard by clicking here! Find an American Express office around the world by clicking here!

TRAVELER’S CHECKS

Traveler’s checks are issued by a financial institution and functions as cash but is protected against loss or theft. Traveler’s checks are useful when traveling, especially in case of overseas travel when not all credit and debit cards will be accepted. A charge or commission is usually incurred when a person exchanges cash for traveler’s checks, though some issurers provide them free of charge. The charge is minimal averaging $1.00 per $100.00 of traveler’s checks.

You can obtain Traveler’s checks from your bank or a travel agent. Traveler’s checks are available in several currencies, but, usually, you get a better exchange rate if you get Traveler’s checks in U.S. dollars and exchange them in your country of destination.

You should have Traveler’s checks as a backup plan in case you have problems using your credit/debit card, or if you need to pay rent, and/or a deposit upon arrival since there is a limit on how much money you can withdraw from an ATM machine per week.

CASH

Bring a minimal amount of money in cash! $200.00 is probably the maximum amount of money that you should carry in cash in U.S. currency. You can change money upon arrival. There are ATMs at most, but not all airports around the world as well as currency exchange offices.

Should you buy foreign currency before arriving in your country of destination? In most cases the answer is no because you usually do not get a good exchange rate, but you can if you want.

WIRE TRANSFER

Wire transfer is a very safe way to transfer money between the U.S. and your country of destination. You can transfer money from a U.S. bank account to a bank account in the country of destination. However, banks on both side will charge you a fee ($30.00 to $50.00 on the U.S. side alone per transfer) and, in most countries, opening a bank account is often a long process. You can also transfer money via Western Union.

Friday, November 15, 2013

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Monday, September 30, 2013

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Monday, May 27, 2013

Monday, May 20, 2013

Monday, May 13, 2013

Sunday, May 12, 2013

Friday, May 10, 2013

Sunday, May 5, 2013

Reflection over time

Brochure hours

Bottle hours

Book

Saturday, April 27, 2013

Friday, April 26, 2013