Parents and Friends

Welcome

We understand that studying abroad is both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. It’s natural to have concerns about safety, budgeting, the value of the program, and many other factors. We want to reassure you that we are here to address those concerns and ensure that students have a safe, enriching, and memorable experience. Our goal is not only to provide a secure environment for students while they are abroad but also to offer a transformative experience that enhances their professional lives and leaves a lasting impact on them and their future students. 

To achieve this, our programs are carefully designed and managed by educational experts who are well-acquainted with the regions where students will be placed. We have established strong, long-term partnerships with our host institutions, which help us ensure the stability and success of our programs.  Before departing, students will participate in a study abroad preparation course. This course will introduce them to fellow participants, provide important information about their host country, cover essential health and safety guidelines, and equip them with the skills needed to make the most of their time abroad.

We believe in being as transparent as possible throughout this process. There will inevitably be challenges along with the exciting moments of traveling and teaching abroad, but please know that our team is here to support both the students and you. Should you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to our office by email or schedule an appointment with an advisor. We are always happy to discuss the program and offer any clarification you may need.

For your convenience, we’ve included some campus resources below that can help you better understand the support available to students while they are abroad.

FERPA

We engage directly with our students to guarantee they receive the necessary specialized support for navigating the study abroad process. Legal requirements protect the privacy of student education records (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (commonly referred to as FERPA) ” (U.S. Department of Education). Illinois has developed guidelines Section X-6 of the Campus Administrative Manual and the Illinois Student Code to implement these laws. Consequently, we cannot share your student’s records with anyone, including parents or guardians, without the student’s prior written consent. Therefore, we advise you to discuss any questions or concerns directly with your student.