As the first in your family to attend college, your focus may be on what you need to do in order to fulfill your graduation requirements. Navigating courses, extracurricular activities, and possibly a part-time job can be challenging on their own, and you may not have considered studying in another country.  However, education abroad or away is an option for you, and OEAA staff are here to support you and guide you through the process.  Get started by reviewing these questions to consider and useful resources.

Initial Planning

Taking part in a study abroad or away experience is an exciting opportunity to broaden your horizons, seek new perspectives, and deepen your global competence.  First generation students have unique circumstances which can impact their decision to go abroad; for that reason, we encourage you to meet with an OEAA advisor as early as possible in the process to discuss any special considerations and concerns.  

Questions to Consider

Review these tips and questions as you plan your experience.

• Are there places in the world about which you have always been curious?

• What sort of topics do you imagine learning more about in another setting?

• How long do you want to study abroad?

• What type of program suits your experience and comfort level?

• What locations and programs can make your experience affordable?

• If you do not want or cannot study abroad, are there other off-campus study options that might suit your needs?

• What are some of the specific concerns you have about studying abroad?

Planning Your Experience

These steps may be useful to you as you continue thinking about your study abroad experience.

• Think strategically about your reasons and goals for studying abroad.  This can be especially helpful if your family and loved ones are unfamiliar with the concept or purpose of study abroad.  Consider how it will benefit you academically, professionally, personally, and otherwise.

• Keep yourself informed.  Take advantage of all the resources available to you on campus, from your OEAA advisors, holistic or major advisors, Career Development, Financial Aid, etc.  We are all here to support you in your journey.

• Research your destination.  Be prepared to answer your family's questions about your host country and what life is like there.

• Plan your budget.  Review the Financial Planning page and the resources provided there, as well as information about Davidson and non-Davidson scholarships and grants.  Talk with your OEAA advisor about best practices for financial management abroad.

Resources

Review these useful resources for details about what to expect as a first generation student abroad and how you can prepare yourself for your experience.