Health & Wellness

Before you choose a program of study, research the health issues associated with travel to the region.  Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for a list of required and recommended vaccinations.  Make an appointment for a travel health screening at Appel Health Services as early as possible, especially if you require vaccinations given in a series.  Should you have any concerns about health-related issues, don't hesitate to contact the staff of the program(s) in which you're interested; the Office of International Programs staff is also happy to facilitate this conversation.

Also, be sure to read about the current situation in your country of destination.   The U.S. State Department Travel Information pages are a good place to start.  Reading local and international news and speaking to students or community members who have traveled to your destination recently can also give you a good idea of the conditions on the ground.

Mental Health and Disabilities

Mental health concerns and issues related to mental and physical disabilities are also important to address before going off-campus.  Be sure to share your plans with your counselor or doctor, and consult the Office of International Programs for help with identifying resources in your country of destination.  Mobility International USA/National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange provides information on proactively addressing mental health and disabilities in planning for off-campus study.

Health Insurance

Check with your health insurance provider to understand your coverage while off-campus.  Many programs also require that you purchase their international health insurance, which is then included in the program cost.

Prescriptions

If you take any medication on a regular basis, it is recommended that you take a supply with you for the entire length of your stay.  Check with your program of study about any restrictions on traveling to your host country with medications.  It may be necessary for you to carry proof of prescriptions with you when you go through customs.

Sharing Information with an Off-Campus Study Program

Should you have any special needs, contact your off-campus study program to discuss the accommodations you may need on site.  The Office of International Programs staff is also happy to support you in researching this aspect of off-campus study programs.  After you have applied and been accepted to a program, be sure to complete any health inventory forms, noting special needs.