We have a special handbook available just for parents. If you would like to receive a copy of the handbook, send an e-mail to bagley@plymouth.edu with your full name and mailing address. Please put "Parent Brochure Request" in the subject line.

Welcome Parents!

Study abroad is a transforming experience in which your students can develop greater independence, maturity, and self-confidence. Thank you for supporting your son or daughter's decision to study abroad. As a parent, you are probably eager to gain answers to questions as soon as possible. Our Frequently Asked Question page will provide many answers to common questions. In addition we have a special handbook just for parents. If you would like us to send you a copy, please send us an e-mail with "Parent Brochure Request" in the subject line and your full name in mailing address in the body of the e-mail.

More Questions?

Federal law (FERPA) prevents the Office of International Programs from sharing specific information about individual students, so we encourage you to communicate directly with your son or daughter so s/he is fully aware of your interest and concern. You will offer the most support and guidance to your son or daughter by allowing him or her to act on their own and communicate directly with their designated study abroad advisor. Before long, your student will be living and studying in a new and unfamilar environment, help them prepare by encouraging them to communicate with the Office of International Programs and to share important information with you.

Tips to Help Your Student Make the Most Of Their Study Abroad Experience

• Familiarize yourself with the International Programs Web site and resources. This will help you better understand the experience your son or daughter is about to enjoy.
• Help your student pack for their trip (but don't do it for them).
• Assist with pre-departure paperwork (but don't do it for them).
• Establish a communication plan before your son or daughter departs.
• Reasonably limit your communication with your student after they have begun their experience. Constant communication makes it difficult for most students to fully immerse themselves in their new environment.
• When communicating with your son or daughter, recognize that you are likely to hear what is going wrong and not what is going right. Listen carefully and gauge whether there is an actual problem or if he/she may be simply adjusting to the new environment and culture.
• Avoid stepping in to solve problems for your son or daughter and urge them to find a solution on their own.
• Offer your support and let your son or daughter know that you trust them to make the right decisions while studying abroad.