Learning Abroad Center

Resources for Parents

Studying abroad can be a time of challenges, intense learning and personal growth. For many years, participants may continue to reevaluate ideas and events in the context of the broader cultural perspectives they acquired abroad. In addition, you may find yourself changing and learning in response to the changes experienced by your student. This can be a significant time in both your lives in which you can play an important role.

Suggested Readings

  • "Before They Go Abroad.” James McCommons. Better Homes and Gardens magazine, August 2006
  • NAFSA’s What Parents Need to Know! Before, During and After Education Abroad
  • Communicating with Strangers: An Introduction to Intercultural Communication. William B. Gudykunst and Young Yun Kim
  • American-Cultural Patterns: A Cross-Cultural Perspective. Edward C. Stewart and Milton J. Bennett (especially chapters 4 and 5)
  • Survival Kit for Overseas Living. Robert Kohls
  • Trans-Cultural Study Guide. Grey Bryan, Ken Darrow, Dan Morrow, Brad Palmquist
  • Surviving Re-entry: A Readjustment Manual for Parents

Learning Abroad Center

Parent Orientation Presentation, December 2023

Additional Resources

Other University of Minnesota Resources

Governmental Resources

Explore international travel resources from the US Department of State.

Health & Insurance

Additional Resources

See also other newspaper websites from around the world to gain other (non-US) perspectives on particular issues or incidents.