Safety is always a concern, especially when navigating a new country. That’s why having open, honest discussions with your parents is so important. In the next installation of our How to Talk to Your Parents About Study Abroad blog series, we’re breaking down what to discuss and how to reassure your parents that safety, support and resources are always available throughout your time abroad.
One of the best ways to ease their concerns is by reminding them you will not be alone, and you have the resources to succeed abroad. Support is built into every stage of the API experience to give students the guidance and confidence they need to thrive abroad. Here’s how we ensure students are safe, supported, and prepared for every step of their study abroad journey:
1. Onboarding and Personalized Pre-Departure Support
During the application process, students can share important information like medical needs or housing accommodations. This allows API to plan ahead and provide personalized support before students even step on the plane. Students also receive details on health & safety, logistics, host university or internship expectations, culture differences and nuances, travel tips, and many other important topics to help ease their transition abroad.
2. Experienced On-Site Staff
API’s tenured on-site staff are locals who have spent their careers supporting students. They understand the culture, the universities, and what students need to feel comfortable and confident abroad. From the moment you arrive and throughout the program, their presence is a constant that provides reassurance for students and their parents.
3. Visited and Verified Housing
API housing is carefully selected and then undergoes the Visited and Verified process. Each housing option is inspected by API personnel to meet safety, quality, and location standards.
4. Insurance
Consider a Cancellation for Any Reason (CFAR) or an Interruption for Any Reason (IFAR) insurance policy. These policies help reduce financial risk if you’re unable to travel for any reason before your program starts or need to return home early.Medical insurance coverage is included in your standard program fees and provides important protections while you’re abroad, including emergency services. It ensures you can access care quickly and confidently, so you can focus on making the most of your experience abroad.
5. Orientation & Ongoing Resources
API’s pre-departure preparation and on-site orientation give students the tools they need to feel confident from day one. In addition, orientation videos and resources in the API mobile app are always available. Students have access to videos, resources and emergency support all just a tap away!
6. Strong Academics
Students study at well-established host institutions, taking courses that challenge them academically and give them the chance to dive deeper into their field of study – all in an international setting.
7. Built-In Community
Being part of a cohort means you’re never going through the experience alone. From the very start, you’re part of a community of peers who share the journey, support one another, and grow together.
Overall, your parents will be relieved to know you won’t be navigating a new city alone. Remind them that support is built into every stage of the API experience: pre-departure guidance, on-site staff, verified housing, and a peer community all work together to help you feel confident and safe. Sharing real student experiences also reassures parents:
“Everybody at API was so outgoing and easy to work with. My mom and I had a ton of questions, and they were always happy to hop on calls and help with everything.”
-Nick
“My parents were a little hesitant at first. After talking to API and API alumni, they felt reassured knowing I’d have the support I needed.”
-Daniel
By highlighting these support systems and sharing real student experiences, you can help your parents feel confident in your decision to study abroad. Stay tuned for the next blog in our series, where we’ll discuss how to explain your “whys” for studying abroad and the positive impact it can have on your future. See you there!
