Parent Guide to International Learning
WORLD: The David and Leighan Rinker Center for International Learning, in collaboration with campus administrative partners, is committed to guiding and supporting parents throughout their student’s global journey.
Whether your student is coming to Stetson from abroad or embarking on a study abroad experience, we encourage open communication and shared planning. While Stetson cannot directly share confidential student system records, your student can view and share these materials with you. If you have questions outside of our office's scope, we will gladly connect you with offices like the Office of Student Financial Aid or the Office of Admissions.
Supporting International & Exchange Students
Parents play an integral role in the international experience by supporting their students' choice to embark on this academic and life-enriching endeavor. We encourage parents to stay involved across key areas:
- Academics & Registration: Discuss class selections and align courses with long-term goals.
- Logistics & Finances: Assist with travel arrangements, review living accommodations, and establish a clear budget for education and living expenses.
- Health & Support: Set regular times to stay in touch, establish a plan for family emergencies, and empower your student to navigate challenges independently.
- Immigration & Paperwork: Double-check that visas, passports, and required documentation remain up to date.
Study Abroad Questions & Support
Studying abroad allows students to grow academically, personally, and professionally. Students gain global perspective, build international contacts, develop self-reliance, and learn to navigate cross-cultural environments—skills that directly enhance future career opportunities.
- Review Materials Together: Sit down with your student to review orientation packets, flight schedules, and program deadlines. Obtain program specifics directly from your student, as requirements vary by program.
- Prepare Emergency Plans: Establish a clear strategy for handling family emergencies while your student is overseas.
- Explore the Destination: Learn about the host nation together by following local news and current events, and encourage an open mind toward new cultural traditions.
Encourage independence by letting your student lead in solving daily challenges while remaining a supportive listener. Maintain open lines of communication, guide them through adjustments to daily habits, and offer a steadying hand through the emotional ups and downs of living in a new culture.
Culture shock refers to the natural emotional reactions experienced when adapting to a new environment. It typically progresses through five stages:
- Honeymoon: Initial excitement and curiosity about the new environment.
- Frustration: Early challenges with language, daily routines, or cultural differences.
- Adjustment: Becoming familiar and comfortable with host-country norms.
- Acceptance: A balanced understanding of the pros and cons of both home and host cultures.
- Reverse Culture Shock: Re-adjusting to life back home after returning (feelings fade over time).