Orientation Book
Getting organized, for Truman students
1. All students are advised that it is NOT possible to graduate in the semester concurrent with any study abroad program!
2. Students should get prior approval of course substitutions before departing for their Study Abroad experience. Courses taken abroad will be substituted for on-campus courses upon approval of the student’s academic advisors, relevant division heads, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Students are encouraged to submit a “Request to Substitute Courses” form as early as possible; it is appropriate to list tentative course choices since in some cases students will not have a definitive schedule until they arrive on site. Courses from Truman sponsored programs will be accepted as elective credits, but students must seek approval if intending to use those courses to fulfill specific requirements, such as requirements for the major or Liberal Studies Program.
3. A minimum of sixty days prior to the first payment due date, the student may apply for a Truman State University cultural loan, federal aid, or other aid through the Financial Aid office.
4. Pershing Scholars: the Business Office will release Study Abroad stipend monies, other than Truman enrollment fees and other program costs, as requested by the Pershing Scholar. The student must maintain receipts and reconcile expenditures with the Business Office within fourteen days after returning to the campus.
5. The Business Office will release to students with Truman State University cultural loans any monies that exceed the identified program costs fourteen days prior to the departure date.
6. Set up a plan for enrolling in Truman courses for the semester after returning from abroad! Prior to departure, the student must make preparations with their advisor to enroll in course work for the return semester at Truman State University. The student should be able to enroll on the Truman State University website. The CIE will assist in the enrollment process, but it is preferable to have the advisor do the enrolling. Also, the student must make the arrangements to pay any fees associated with course registration.
7. If eligible: prior to departure, the student may apply for graduation in the semester following his/her return to Truman State University. Due to the delay in receiving grades, it is not possible to graduate in the semester concurrent with any study abroad program.
8. If applicable: any student intending to apply for financial aid in the first semester after returning to Truman State University should complete a Financial Aid Appeals Petition 1
form and leave it on file with the CIE prior to departure. Due to the delay in receiving grades, students must complete the appeals process.
9. Keep all course materials, especially syllabi and course descriptions, to facilitate the substitution of courses if this was not completed before departure.
Things to do before leaving campus
1. Contact your academic advisor 2. Contact your campus employer 3. Contact financial aid 4. Arrange your housing situation for when you return 5. Arrange to have your mail forwarded 6. Contact your bank 7. Turn in all of your pre-departure forms to the Study Abroad Office
Passport Information
A U.S. passport costs $110 with a $25 executive fee if this is your first time applying for a passport. You can obtain a passport application at the State Department Passport Agency (located in major cities), federal or state courthouses, or at a post office.
What you need with your application You must present your application with proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate with a raised seal, documentation of naturalization or dual citizenship), some type of photo identification (such as a driver’s license), and two identical 2x2 inch photos.
Passport validity For persons over the age of 18, passports are valid for exactly 10 years from the date they are issued. If you already have a passport, make sure it will not expire before you leave for your destination. The passport needs to be valid for the duration of your stay, plus six months. If your passport will expire before this time, you need to renew it. The mail-in renewal procedure costs about $110.
Application process It normally takes about six weeks to process the application. Obtain your passport in advance, and there will be fewer chances of problems arising. If you are running late, it is possible to have the passport express mailed; explain the urgency when applying. This will, however, cost more. If your passport is lost or stolen while you are abroad, contact the local authorities and the nearest American Consulate or Embassy immediately. Visit http://travel.state.gov/passport for more information on passports.
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Visa information In many countries, if you are to stay more than 90 days, you will need to obtain a visa. A visa is a permit stamped on your passport; it allows an individual entry to a certain country. To obtain a visa, you will need to contact the consulate of the country you plan to visit. The consulates are located in major U.S. cities. Allow sufficient time to receive a visa (some consulates require you to apply in person -- this may mean a trip to Chicago or another major city -- though some allow you to use carrier services such as Travisa). Unlike a passport agency, certain consulates may not be sympathetic to your last-minute needs. Every country is different and has its own set of rules and procedures. The best thing to do is contact the consulate nearest you. There may be a charge for the visa; in some cases, the charge may exceed $100.
General Health Care
Physical Examination As part of your preparation, you should have a doctor’s examination to assure that you are healthy and can adjust well to the rigors of the Study Abroad experience. Because the change in diet is sometimes drastic, and the hours can be long and exhausting, students who are not in top physical condition suffer unnecessarily. For this reason, we recommend a physical examination and urge each of you to take whatever precautions necessary to assure that you are in top physical condition when you start your Study Abroad experience. If you make reasonable preparations before you leave and take simple precautions while there, you should not be limited in your ability to take advantage of every opportunity while abroad.
Dental checkup See your dentist well before you leave to allow time for necessary fillings or other dental work.
Study Abroad Health and Accident Insurance It is required that all students have valid health insurance prior to departure. The program cost will include insurance.
Eyeglasses and contact lenses If you wear contacts and/or eyeglasses, do not forget to take a prescription and an extra pair. Take a sufficient supply of soaking/wetting solution for your lenses if necessary. Many U.S. brands of contact solution can be difficult if not impossible to locate overseas. It is a good idea to stock up before leaving the country.
Motion sickness and prescription medicines Dramamine or Bonine seem to help most people with motion sickness. Reactions to motion seem to be affected by psychological as well as environmental situations. Remember: most of these drugs make you extremely drowsy, and you certainly don’t want to “see” your new culture in your sleep. If you know you are subject to motion sickness, you should take along your own medication. To avoid problems when passing through customs, keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. If you travel with a prescription drug that contains a narcotic, take along the prescription or have the medication in a container that bears the label of your pharmacy with your name and the name of 3
your doctor on it as well as a letter from your doctor attesting to your need to take the drug. If you have any doubt about the legality of carrying a certain drug into a country, consult the embassy or consulate of that country before leaving. Bring any medications and eyeglasses and/or contact lenses that you need in your carry-on luggage.
Special medical problems A detailed statement from your physician listing treatment recommendations may be helpful when seeking special treatment abroad.
International Student ID Cards (ISIC)
About ISIC: This ID card is especially beneficial if you are traveling in Europe. As a part of the travel assistance benefits of the card, it will carry special reduced student airfares with many agencies, student discounts, basic accident and sickness insurance coverage, and a 24-hour traveler’s assistance hotline. However, this insurance policy should be used as secondary coverage only. The ISIC is valid for the year in which it is purchased.
How to apply for an ISIC: To apply, please bring the application (found at the end of this booklet) and the $25 fee (checks payable to Truman State University) to the Center for International Education Abroad at Truman State University. Once your application is submitted, you will receive an e-mail from ISIC and should follow the link provided to upload a photo of yourself. The ISIC card will take three weeks to process.
Money
Spending money How much money you will spend depends greatly on whether or not your meals are provided for you. If you are going to live in an apartment or at a residence that doesn’t include every meal, you will need a significantly larger amount of money. In many countries, eating out can be very expensive. Fortunately, you will find most supermarkets economical. You should plan to budget food money separately. The rest of your money will go to snacks, souvenirs, going out, traveling expenses, museum admissions, shopping, and more. You will find that the price of goods in many countries is more expensive than at home. A frugal budget, not including meals, is between $75 and $100 a week. It is advisable to bring as much as you can afford; while you do not necessarily have to spend it all, you will be glad to have the extra cash if you find you need it.
Possible forms of money to bring while traveling Credit Cards - Although not essential, many students prefer to use credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) while traveling abroad. If you choose to do so, it is a very good idea to record all credit card numbers and the phone numbers to call in case these items are lost or stolen. In addition, credit cards can have as much as a 5% better exchange rate than cash. However, in some countries, very few places other than major hotels, stores, and restaurants operating in foreign currencies accept credit cards. It is very important that 4
you let your credit card company know that you will be using your card in a foreign country; otherwise you risk it being cancelled! ATM/Debit Cards - ATMs are available in almost all major cities. The ATM card is one of the best ways to get cash because of the exchange rate and also because there are minimal fees involved for exchanging money. The ATM card eliminates the need to carry large sums of money because you can get cash as you need it. You many also want to open a bank account at a local bank when you arrive, especially if you will be abroad for more than one semester. Some banks offer special student accounts that do not charge for transferring money and include their own ATM cards. However, these benefits will vary per bank and per country, and you will need to determine if it is practical for your needs. You may want to see if your bank has a sister bank in your host country to see if you can set up an account with them. If you plan on using an ATM/Debit card from home, it is very important that you notify your bank of your plans; otherwise they may put a hold on the card if they see it being used in a foreign country! Cash - You should have some currency of the country to which you are going or plan on exchanging cash at an airport when you arrive to help make your arrival easier (for airport taxis, fees, etc.). However, it is not advisable to carry a lot of cash since it is not insured and cannot be recovered if lost or stolen. Another precaution: never take out a large sum of money when making a purchase. Try to appear humble and do not flaunt cash. Be aware that even if the bank operating the ATM does not charge you for withdrawals, your U.S. bank might, and vice versa. Contact your bank to learn about any fees you may be charged, and budget accordingly. It is often advisable to withdraw larger amounts of cash infrequently than to use the ATM every few days.
Currency and exchange rates Every country has its own currency and value system. It is important that you understand the methods of exchange and the approximate relative values of the local currency compared to the U.S. dollar. Most banks, exchanges, and newspapers abroad post current exchange rates. Learn to watch them daily and become familiar with their values, so you can take advantage of the best exchange rates.
Having money sent to you You should do everything possible to ensure you will have enough money before you leave. However, situations can arise in which you need more money; in these cases, there are ways to have it sent.
Western Union is probably the most well-known financial service. It is available to anyone. It pays in local currency and has competitive rates. Western Union has service in many countries, but not all. Check with a local Western Union office before you leave and have them send you a listing of all their services abroad.
In countries without Western Union, someone can send you American Express Gift Checks. Reusch International Financial Services also offers other services such as Traveler’s Checks and wired money transfers.
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How to handle money safely It is best to avoid carrying large amounts of cash. To do this change your money to traveler’s checks or go to ATMs only as you need currency. Countersign traveler’s checks only in front of the person who will cash them. Make sure to go to official money changers such as American Express and beware of places that say that they do not charge. Do not flash large amounts of money around when paying a bill. Make sure your credit card is returned to you after each transaction. Deal only with authorized agents when you exchange money, buy airline tickets or purchase souvenirs. Do not change money on the black market.
Where to carry money There are many ways in which you can carry your money. A money belt is the safest and most secure, plus it can hold your keys and passport as well. You may choose to carry a purse, backpack, or wallet; however, use of these items makes you more susceptible to purse snatchers and pick- pockets. In all cases you should be aware of your belongings. Petty theft is common, especially in major cities and often in hostels.
Connecting Abroad
Cell phones Before departing, it is essential to look into options for using your cell phone while abroad. Some carriers will offer affordable international plans while in some situations it is better to purchase a cheap pay-as-you-go phone plan and international SIM card. You can use your current phone abroad with a plan from a company in your host country if you unlock your phone and purchase a SIM card when abroad. If possible, contact other students who have recently studied where you will be and ask them what they did. In addition to basic calling and messaging capacities, cell phones can serve as cameras, maps, tickets, and more. Be sure to explore the offline capabilities of your phone, as there are many apps which can be helpful even without internet connection. If you don’t want to mess with phone plans at all, many smartphones operate well using only wifi. You can keep your phone on airplane mode and still connect to wifi, thus avoiding any accidental international data fees.
Skype, WhatsApp and other options Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, GroupMe, Facebook messenger, and similar web-based messaging or video chat sites/apps are popular ways to communicate with friends and family. These are especially important when relying solely on wifi or attempting to limit international data usage. Be courteous when asking to use another person’s internet and don’t forget to always live in the moment – social media can wait.
Utilities
You will mostly likely find that all utilities are expensive abroad. You will probably be asked to conserve gas, electricity, and water. Remember that blow dryers, curling irons, and electric razors use electricity. Be as conservative as possible.
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Tips for living with a family
Respect the family and its own individual customs. Try to integrate even though you are paying to stay in their home. If you stay with a family, they can be a major fountain of knowledge about the language and culture. It’s also nice to know that you have a family in the foreign land you are in. Do not bring alcoholic beverages into the home. Do not smoke in the home. Drug use is absolutely prohibited. If you are caught with drugs, you will be sent home.
Tell the family when you won’t be able to be home for a meal. Remember that utilities abroad are very expensive. Your host family will frown on the “overuse” of hair dryers and curling irons. Turn off the lights every time you leave a room. Talk with them even if you don’t know the language well. This is a good way to learn it and coming home and hiding in your room will be viewed as antisocial. If you come home late at night, be very quiet.
Respect the family policy for phone use. If there are other Americans living in your house, do not speak English in front of the family; it is considered rude.
Safety Tips: What to Learn Before You Go
Taken from the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs: http://travel.state.gov 202-647-5225 (phone) or 202-647-3000 (fax)
Consular Information Sheets The Department of State’s Consular Information Sheets are available for every country of the world. They describe unusual entry, currency regulations, or unusual health conditions, the crime and security situation, political disturbances, areas of instability, special information about driving and road conditions, and drug penalties. They also provide addresses and emergency telephone numbers for U.S. embassies and consulates. In general, the sheets do not give advice. Instead, they describe conditions so travelers can make informed decisions about their trips.
Consular Information Sheets, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements are available at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html. If you do not have internet access, they are available at the 13 regional passport agencies; at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad; or by sending a self-address, stamped envelope to: Overseas Citizens Services, Room 4811 Department of State Washington, DC 20520-4818 7
They are also available through airline computer reservations systems when you or your travel agent makes your international air reservations.
Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be heard 24 hours a day via: Telephone: (202) 647-5225 from a touch-tone phone Fax: (202) 647-3000, using the handset as you would a regular telephone. The system prompts you on how to proceed. Internet: Information about travel and consular services is available on the Bureau of Consular Affairs’ website: http://travel.state.gov. It includes Consular Information Sheets, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements, passport and visa information, travel publications, background on international adoption and international child abduction services, and international legal assistance. It also links to the State Department’s main internet site at http://www.state.gov that contains current foreign affairs information. Consular Affairs Bulletin Board: If you have a personal computer, modem, and communication software, you can access the Consular Affairs Bulletin Board (CABB). To view or download the documents from a computer and modem, dial the CABB on (301) 946-4400. The login is travel; the password is info. There is no charge to use these systems other than normal long-distance charges.
Safety Precautions
General Safety Please reference the “Preparation Information” document in your acceptance packet for information on the U.S. State Department’s STEP program.
Hotels As much as possible, plan to stay in larger hotels that have more elaborate security. Safety experts recommend booking a room from the second to seventh floors above ground level to deter easy entrance from outside, but low enough for fire equipment to reach. Keep your hotel door locked at all times. Meet visitors in the lobby. Do not leave money or other valuables in your hotel room while you are out. Use the hotel safe. Let someone know when you expect to return if you are out late at night. If you are alone, do not get on an elevator if there is a suspicious-looking person inside. Read the fire safety instructions in your hotel room. Know how to report a fire. Be sure you know where the nearest fire exits and alternate exits are located. Count the doors between your room and the nearest exit; this could be a life saver if you have to crawl through a smoke-filled corridor.
Flights Because take-off and landing are the most dangerous times of a flight, book non-stop flights whenever possible. When there is a choice of airport or airline, ask your travel agent about it.
Credit Cards Make a note of the credit limit on each credit card that you bring. Make certain not to charge over
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that amount on your trip. In some countries, Americans have been arrested for innocently exceeding their credit limit. Ask your credit card company how to report the loss of your card from abroad. “800” numbers do not work from abroad, but your company should have a number that you can call while you are overseas.
On the street Use the same common sense traveling that you would at home. Be especially cautious in or avoid areas where you are likely to be victimized. These include crowded subways, train stations, elevators, tourist sites, market places, festivals, and marginal areas of cities. Don’t use short cuts, narrow alleys or poorly lit streets. Try not to travel alone at night. Avoid public demonstrations and other civil disturbances. Keep a low profile and avoid loud conversations or arguments. Do not discuss travel plans or other personal matters with strangers. Avoid scam artists; beware of strangers who approach you offering bargains or to be your guide.
Pickpockets Pickpockets often have an accomplice who will jostle you, ask for directions or the time, point to something spilled on your clothing, or distract you by creating a disturbance. A child or even a woman carrying a baby can be a pickpocket. Beware of groups of vagrant children who create a distraction while picking your pocket. To avoid pickpockets: Wear the shoulder strap of your bag across your chest and walk with the bag away from the curb to avoid drive-by purse snatchers. Try to seem purposeful when you move about. Even if you are lost, act as if you know where you are going. When possible, ask directions only from individuals in authority. Know how to use a pay telephone and have the proper change or token in hand. Learn a few phrases in the local language so you can signal for help, the police, or a doctor. Make a note of emergency telephone numbers you may need: police, fire, your hotel, and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. If you are confronted, don’t fight back. Give up your valuables. Your money and passport can be replaced, but you cannot.
Public Transportation If a country has a pattern of tourists being targeted by criminals on public transportation, that information in mentioned in the Consular Information Sheets under the “Crime Information” section.
Taxis Only take taxis clearly identified with official markings. Beware of unmarked cabs. Make sure that the driver starts the meter; if he/she tells you it is broken, get out and find a different taxi. In situations where there is no meter, agree on the cost of the ride before getting into the cab.
Trains Well-organized, systematic robbery of passengers on trains along popular tourist routes is a serious 9
problem. It is more common at night and especially on overnight trains. If you see that your pathway is being blocked by a stranger and another person is behind you, move away, into an apartment if necessary. This can happen in the corridor of the train or on the platform of the station. Do not accept food or drink from strangers. Criminals have been known to offer drugged food and/or drink to passengers. If you must obtain food on the train go to the dining car or wait for a food trolley to come through. Since not all trains have these it is a wise idea to bring some food with you – rolls and cheese travel really well.
Criminals may also spray sleeping gas into train compartments. Whenever possible you should lock your compartment. If it cannot be locked securely, take turns sleeping in shifts with your traveling companions. If you are traveling by yourself it is best to stay awake. If you must sleep unprotected, tie down your luggage, strap your valuables to you and then sleep on top of them as much as possible, or bring combination locks to lock your bags to luggage racks while sleeping. Not-overly- full backpacks which contain purses or wallets can make a great pillow! Do not be afraid to alert authorities if you feel threatened in any way. Extra police are often assigned to ride trains on routes where crime is a serious problem.
Buses The same type of criminal activity found on trains can be found on public buses – especially on popular tourist routes. Be aware that if you have purchased a bus ticket or a bus pass it will most likely have to be verified or stamped in some way once you are on the bus. In Europe it is common to have a date and time stamp machine located on the bus that the ticket is inserted into. Always have your bus ticket/pass on you! While you might not be checked every time you get on the bus, if you are found to not have one, fines are heavy! Please also note: In some countries whole busloads of passengers have been held up and robbed by gangs of bandits.
What to do if your possessions are stolen If your possessions are lost or stolen, report the loss immediately to the local police. Keep a copy of the police report for insurance claims and as an explanation of your plight. After reporting missing items to the police, report the loss or theft of:
Passport: to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate Credit Cards: to the issuing company Travelers Checks: to the nearest agent of the issuing company Airline Tickets: to the airline or travel agent
How to Avoid Legal Difficulties
Local Laws and Customs When you leave the United States, you are subject to the laws of the country you enter. You are NOT under the protection of the U.S. Constitution. You can be arrested overseas for actions that may be either legal or considered minor infractions in the United States. Be aware of what is considered criminal in the country where you are visiting. Before you go, learn as much as you can about the local laws and customs of the places you plan to visit. Good resources for doing this are: your library, travel agent, the embassy, and the consulates or tourist bureaus of the countries you 10
will visit. In addition, keep track of what is being reported in the media about recent developments in those countries. Consular Information Sheets include information on unusual patterns of arrest in various countries when appropriate. Some of the offenses for which U.S. citizens have been arrested abroad are:
Drug violations More than ⅓ of U.S. citizens incarcerated abroad are held on drug charges. Some countries do not distinguish between possession and trafficking. Many countries have mandatory sentences-even for possession of a small amount of marijuana or cocaine. A number of Americans have been arrested for possessing prescription drugs, particularly tranquilizers and amphetamines, which they purchased legally in certain Asian countries and then brought to some countries in the Middle East where they are illegal. Other U.S. citizens have been arrested for purchasing prescription drugs abroad in quantities that local authorities suspected were for commercial use. If in doubt about foreign drug laws, ask local authorities or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Possession of firearms The places where U.S. citizens most often come into difficulties for illegal possession of firearms are nearby: Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean. Sentences for possession of firearms in Mexico can be up to 30 years. In general, firearms, even those legally registered in the U.S., cannot be brought into a country unless a permit is first obtained from the embassy or a consulate of that country and the firearm is registered with foreign authorities on arrival. (Note: if you take firearms or ammunition to another country, you cannot bring them back into the U.S. unless you register them with U.S. Customs before you leave the U.S.)
Photography In many countries you can be harassed or detained for photographing such things as police and military installations, government buildings, border areas and transportation facilities. If you are in doubt, ask permission before taking photographs.
Purchasing antiques Americans have been arrested for purchasing souvenirs that were, or looked like, antiques, and which local customs authorities believed were national treasures. This is especially true in Turkey, Egypt, and Mexico. In countries where antiques are important, document your purchases as reproductions if that is the case, or if they are authentic, secure the necessary export permit (usually from the national museum).
Travel Basics
Pack light – no, really light Packing right and packing light is important. There are two different situations for which to pack:
1. The first is packing for a trip where you will be staying in one destination for an extended period of time, such as studying abroad. For this, you will need a fair amount of clothing and other items. Don’t go overboard- you will be miserable if you have to carry too much. To see how heavy your bag will be, pack what you think you might bring and walk around
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with it for a while. If the weight is too great, reduce your load. 2. The second is packing to backpack or travel to many places. If you plan to backpack, you definitely do not want to pack too much since the bag will become an extension of your body.
For both, try to pack clothes that match with everything. Avoid bringing clothes that wrinkle easily or require dry cleaning. Keep in mind that you may not have access to a washer and dryer, or iron, at your home stay and may have to take your items to a Laundromat. Bring a jacket that is both waterproof and warm. Also, consider the layering technique for warmth, which will limit the amount of clothing you need. Another consideration you must remember is that you will most likely purchase some clothing in the country you are visiting, and you will need space for this upon your return.
How to pack safely To avoid being a target, dress conservatively. A flashy wardrobe or one that is too casual can mark you as a tourist. As much as possible, avoid the appearance of affluence. Always try to travel light. This allows you to move more quickly, and you will be more likely to have a free hand. You will also be less tired and less likely to set your luggage down, thereby leaving it unattended. Carry the minimum amount of valuables necessary for your trip and plan a place or places to conceal them. Your passport, cash, and credit cards are most secure when locked in a hotel safe. When you have to carry them on your person, you may wish to conceal them in several places rather than putting them all in one wallet or pouch. Avoid handbags, fanny packs, and outside pockets that are easy targets for thieves. Inside pockets and a sturdy shoulder bag with the strap worn across your chest are somewhat safer. One of the safest places to carry valuables is in a pouch or money belt worn under your clothing. Bring traveler’s checks and/or one or two major credit cards instead of large amounts of cash. Pack an extra set of passport photos along with a photocopy of your passport information page to make a replacement of your passport easier in the event it is lost or stolen. Put your name, address, and telephone numbers inside and outside of each piece of luggage. Use covered luggage tags to avoid casual observation of your identity or nationality and, if possible, lock your luggage.
What to bring Make two photocopies of your passport identification page, airline tickets, driver’s license, and the credit cards that you plan to bring with you. Leave one photocopy of this data with family or friends at home; pack the other in a place separate from where you carry your valuables. Also, leave a copy of the serial numbers of your traveler’s checks with a friend or relative at home. Carry another copy with you in a separate place and, as you cash the checks, cross them off the list.
What to leave Don’t bring anything you would hate to lose. Leave at home: Valuable or expensive-looking jewelry Irreplaceable family objects 12
All unnecessary credit cards Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home in case they need to contact you in an emergency. Do not take regular stationary. Buy lightweight airmail paper and envelopes. It makes a big difference in the price of stamps.
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International Student Identity Card Application The following application form has been produced to be read by image Submit the following with this application: $25 cash scanning technology so please keep a few things in mind while filling out this application: or check payable to TRUMAN STATE UNIVERSITY. 1. Please print in CAPITAL BLOCK LETTERS 2. Please use BLACK ink. Return to: Center for International Education Abroad 3. Please keep your printing INSIDE of the boxes provided. Truman State University Grim Hall First Floor Kirksville, MO 63501 Citizenship
First Name Last Name
Number and Street Address (US Addresses Only)
City State Zip Code
Date of Birth (Area Code) Telephone Number
/ / ( ) -
School Name
Permanent Address (if different from above) Number and Street
City State Zip Code
(Area Code) Telephone Number
( ) -
International Identity Card # I hereby certify that this information is true and understand that any false statements on my part may result in the forfeiture of any benefits associated with the card. Date of Issue / / Signature ______For office use only 14
Travel Hacks by Students, For Students In no way does Truman State University or the Center for International Education Abroad endorse any of these organizations.
Council Travel (800) 226-8624 http://www.ciee.org
TravelCraft (800) 77-CRAFT http://www.travelcraft.com
Student Travel Agency (800) 781-4040 http://www.statravel.com
Omega World Travel (800) 822-5100 http://reservations.extstay.com
ITC Travel (800) 482-8785
AESU Flights (800) 638-7640 http://www.aesu.com
KITT (800) 635-5488 http://www.kitt-travel.com
Smart Travel (888) SMART-02 http://www.smarttravelnetwork.com
Air-Tech Ltd. (800) 575-TECH http://www.airtech.com
Travel Team (800) 788-0829
Alexander Travel (800) 632-8466 [email protected]
Enterprises
International Student Org. (800) 244-1180 [email protected]
Journey Shop (800) 277-6533
ACCESS (800) 333-7280
Stravaganza (800) 301-1418
Travelocity (888) 872-8356 http://travelocity.com
Expedia (800) 397-3342 http://www.expedia.com
Cheap Flights http://cheapflights.co.uk
Student Universe (800) 272-9676 http://studentuniverse.com
Go Fly http://gofly.co.uk
Travelosophy (800) 332-2687 http://itravelosophy.com
Last Minute http://lastminute.com
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More Travel Resources:
Blablacar.com and app -- ride sharing in cars from city to city, can take this instead of trains or buses or whatever. Usually cheaper and quicker, plus you get to meet a local who’s driving you Rome2rio.com -- check this site out, it’s really cool. You put in the starting city and the destination, and it compiles a list of all the bus and train routes plus many airlines. You can compare and see your options really easily. Not always exhaustive, so check around. Ryanair.com -- this is the dirt cheap European airline. It’s a staple. Studentuniverse.com – great place to find cheap flights from the US to Europe at discounted rates for students Hostelworld.com and app -- essential for finding hostels when traveling. This is how everyone does it. AirBNB.com -- People rent out all or part of their home. Couchsurfing -- You stay with a host for free with the end goal of cultural exchange. CityMaps2Go App -- can download maps to use offline, and can save city maps, addresses, cafes, bars, etc. WhatsApp — online texting, get before you go. This one is a must even if you buy data-- everyone in Europe uses it. (Owned by Facebook, so FB messenger essentially has the same features now) Google Translate -- obviously everyone knows about it, but what they don’t know is that you can actually download language packs to use offline (for free) SkyScanner.com -- I have used this both in the US and abroad. It compiles all airlines into one list, so you can compare prices for a given day. Really handy. Flixbus.com – use for buses, runs between major cities regularly and usually cheaper than trains, but has less luggage capacity and leg room Getbybus.com – use for buses in countries that don’t have Flixbus Oebb.at/en – Austrian train system website and app, usually pretty cheap tickets (can get special pass for half off, costs 19 euros) Bahn.de/en – German train system website and app Easyjet.com – Similar to Ryanair, a bit more expensive but flies out of more airports. Still really cheap compared to American airfare prices
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Google Maps offline – everybody knows about Google maps, but not everybody knows that they can be downloaded for offline use. I did this before every trip CIA.gov – The CIA has a profile for every country, ranging from basic facts to economy and culture Opodo.com – Similar to Skyscanner.com, use to compare flights
Airline Baggage Allowances and Fees
Pack light- no, really light! Though most airlines allow you to check two bags and bring one carry-on, keep in mind that every item you pack may return to haunt your weary feet and aching back. Furthermore, because of rising gas prices, many airlines are reducing their weigh limits and may charge for a second checked bag, or even a first. Rates for overweight bags can be exorbitant. Check with your airline for specific information on weight limits and extra baggage fees. If you plan on doing a lot of traveling, one of your most important pre-trip investments should be a good quality backpack. When packing, try to keep your load under 25 pounds. Before you leave, try walking around the neighborhood with all the luggage you plan to carry. If you find the weight too much, reduce your load. (Remember to leave room for the souvenirs you are bound to pick up along the way!) Your best bet is to keep it simple. Use this list as a guideline, and pack what is essential for you.
Clothing- in addition to regular clothes: o Contraceptives/condoms o 1 pair walking shoes/boots o Aspirin or other pain reliever o 1 pair flip-flops or shower shoes o Tissues o 1 hat o Feminine hygiene items o 1 bathing suit o Razors, blades, shaving cream o 1 sweater/sweatshirt o Sunglasses o 1 poncho or raincoat o Eyeglasses, contact lenses, and o 1 light jacket cleaning supplies
Documents Miscellaneous o Passport (and visa if required) o Camera and Film o Tickets and rail passes o Flashlight (and extra batteries) o Student ID card o Address book o Hostel membership card o Travel journal o Money belt or neck wallet o Pocket calculator o Cash, traveler’s checks, credit cards o Books, guides, maps o Insurance information o Day pack o Addresses and phone numbers of o Laundry soap and line places you are staying o Sewing kit o Plastic storage bags Medicine and Toiletries o Sleeping bag o Prescription medicine and o Change purse prescriptions o Umbrella 17
o Toothbrush and toothpaste o Luggage lock and tags o Soap and shampoo o Battery operated alarm clock o Comb and brush o Moist towellettes o Sunscreen, moisturizers, cosmetics o Batteries o Deodorant o Adapter and voltage converter o First Aid kit o Insect repellant
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