Keeping in Touch
Calling long distance can be very expensive, and there are many different options for keeping in touch with your son or daughter while he/she is abroad. Some students choose to get cell phones while they are overseas. Other students who are abroad for shorter periods of time choose to use calling cards and/or payphones.
Abroad Calling Cards
Calling cards bought abroad to call internationally can be purchased in many stores and can be very inexpensive.
US Calling Cards or Operators
Cards using American operators can be purchased before going abroad. Be aware of hidden charges incurred when calling from a hotel or phone or when using a foreign operator.
Calling Collect
This can be very expensive, because fees are charged for the use of abroad operators and services as well as an expensive rate per minute.
Calling Direct
Calling your student directly from home may be the easiest option. Public phones in other countries may be very confusing and unclear. AT&T, MCI, and Sprint offer discounted rates for international plans. It is usually cheaper to call from the United States than to call from abroad to the US. It is recommended that students and parents arrange a day and time to place a phone call.
Free Calling
Skype.com offers free computer to computer calls. It requires internet and a microphone. Check out their website for more information.
Cell Phones
Depending on the country, students may be able to use an international SIM card on your US phone. Or they may be able to rent or buy a phone and pay as they go in the host country.
*To dial an international call: Dial 011 + Country Code + City Code + Number
Email
Email is the best form of communication between family members. In most cases, it is very easy and inexpensive for students to find computer access, wherever they are. In addition, it may be easier to reach your student by email rather than by phone if they are traveling.
Visiting Your Student
Consider visiting your student while he or she is abroad. This is a great way to learn about where your student is studying and a good opportunity to travel to another country. Also, your student will be very appreciative to see familiar faces while abroad. Please try to arrange your visit to coincide with your student’s vacation times or after the program has ended. Your student will be more readily available to travel and will not have to sacrifice academic achievements. Learning about your student's host country is a great way to begin to understand his/her experience.
Note, phone calls and communication every day will keep your student from maximizing his/her personal and academic growth throughout the study abroad experience. Sometimes it is better to break the communication to allow for more growth and development.
