3 minute reading time

Girl with packed suitcase walking down scenic road for a travel adventure.

Tip 1: It is absolutely possible!

Finding a practicum abroad in our field is difficult. The good news is, you have a lot of options! So, don’t give up and do your research.

Tip 2: What To Look For In Your Research.

The program you choose to study abroad with will have a big impact on your experience. That means, the research phase is vital! Here are a few things to look out for when deciding on a program:

Did SLPs found and/or hold leadership positions in the organization?
Is the organization transparent about their policies around upholding their value for lasting local partnerships with their practicum sites?
Are they cognizant of their travel impact and open to answering your questions about their sustainable travel policies?

Tip 3: Meet with your academic advisor.

If you wish to receive course credit, meeting with your academic advisor is a key step to complete before officially registering for a study abroad program.

Your advisor can help you determine:

The best time for you to study abroad (i.e. fall, spring, summer semester)
The ideal program length (i.e. 4—6 week mini-mester, full semester, 1-2 weeks, etc) This is likely dependent on graduation requirements and program transfer credit eligibility.
The requirements to earn university credit for courses and observation hours completed abroad

Tip 4: Sign up for a foreign language class.

You don’t need to be fluent to travel abroad, but you will get so much more out of the experience if you have a good foundation before arriving to your host country. The stronger your language abilities, the more easily you will be able to connect to your host country’s culture.

Tip 5: Consider your preferred living situation.

There are a lot of options here. Would you prefer to live alone, with a host family, or in a share house with other exchange students? Living alone is likely to result in an increased since of independence as well as an increased motivation to put yourself out there. Living with a host family is the best option if your main goal is improving your second language. Share houses are fun ways to meet people from all over the world that have common interests with you (i.e. travel + adventure), are around your age and are in a similar phase of life. Every option has its pros and cons.

Ready to Study abroad?

If you have completed the above tips and are ready to take the leap register your email address for a free 15 minute consultation meeting below. We will reach out via email to schedule a zoom conference. Be prepared for conversations around your level of experience (i.e. 2 years of undergrad, gap year, 1st year grad student, etc) and your ideal dates/length of practicum.