Going abroad is a big adventure – and preparing for it is an important part of the experience. AFS-USA provides several pre-preparation activities to help you feel ready, understand what to expect, and make the most of your time abroad.
Your four main preparation activities:
1. Pre-Departure Orientation Course – Required for all students
This short online course introduces you to important information about AFS rules, cultural adjustment, and what to expect from the experience.
Read more about the online Pre-Departure Orientation here
Estimated Time: 30 minutes
2. Local Orientation – Optional for Summer program participants. If you have a local AFS Volunteer team nearby, you may be invited to an in-person orientation. While attendance is optional for summer program participants, it is a good opportunity to connect with other AFSers in your area, from all programs, meet the local AFS volunteer team and learn how to stay connected with AFS after you return from your program.
Read more here
Estimated Time: Typically, around 4 hours
3. AFS-USA Welcome Webinar Series – Required
These live and recorded webinars cover topics that will help you prepare you’re your summer experience abroad, including dorm or family life, cultural adjustment, travel, and what to expect when you arrive.
You’ll find more information about the webinar series below.
Estimate Time: Webinars range between 1 – 1.5 hours.
4. The AFS Student Learning Journey Online Course
This complementary course will help you reflect on your goals for studying abroad and develop skills to make the most of your intercultural experience. This course goes in-depth into Intercultural learning concepts and those who complete all modules will receive a certificate.
read more here.
What will the webinars cover?
AFS Welcome Series: Preparing for Your Summer Program
Audience: AFS Students and Parent(s)/Guardian(s)
Description: This webinar is facilitated by the AFS Study Abroad staff who have been working with you and it is designed to help you prepare for the period between your application being sent to the host country and your international departure. This webinar covers program and preparatory logistics, including what type of accommodation to expect, travel details, visas, paying your program fee, etc.
Link to join this webinar – check back soon
AFS Welcome Series for Parent(s)/Guardian(s): Supporting your Family’s Study Abroad Journey:
Audience: Parent(s)/Guardian(s)
Description: Parents and guardians of AFS students, join us to learn how to best support your student throughout their journey. Discover who to contact for assistance while they are abroad and what to expect during their intercultural adjustment.
Link to view this recorded webinar – check back soon
Program Specific Webinar(s)
Audience: AFS Students and Parent(s)/Guardian(s)
Description: You may be invited to attend a webinar that is specific to your program to meet a program leader and learn more about the unique details of your program. Check your email and dashboard regularly for updates and registration information.
Upon your return:
Your AFS experience doesn’t end when you return home.
After your program, join us for a special Welcome Home Webinar with fellow AFS students and alumni. We’ll celebrate your experience, reflect on what you learned, share stories, and explore ways to carry your new perspectives forward.
If you have questions about orientations, online learning courses or the webinar series, please email studentlearning@afsusa.org