Information Sessions

The SIT Homestay Experience
October 9, 2024 | 12 – 1:00pm ET | Register here

Homestays are an integral part of many of SIT Study Abroad’s programs. During this session you will get an overview of SIT’s approach to homestays, our vetting process for homestay families, the extraordinary learning opportunity that comes from living with a local family and more.  You will also hear from former students about their homestay experience while on an SIT program.

Translating your Life Abroad
November 6, 2024 | 4 – 5:00pm ET | Register here

Are you preparing to study abroad and wondering how to maintain your personal routines and interests while immersing yourself in a new culture? Join SIT staff as we discuss strategies for doing so, from religious practice to exercising, while on program. Former students will also share how they were able to incorporate parts of their daily home routine into their time abroad with SIT.    

Preparing for Your Student’s Study Abroad Experience
October 8, 2024 | 7 – 8pm ET | Register here

Join SIT Study Abroad staff for an informative webinar tailored specifically for parents and families of prospective SIT Study Abroad students. This comprehensive session will cover key aspects of the SIT study abroad experience, including an overview of SIT’s education model and how it fosters academic and personal growth. We’ll delve into essential topics such as health and safety protocols, medical insurance coverage, and our approach to risk management, ensuring that you have all the information needed to support your student’s journey. Additionally, learn about the homestay experience and other important elements of the program. This webinar aims to provide peace of mind and clarity, addressing questions or concerns you may have as your student prepares for this exciting adventure.

Voices from Home and Abroad: the Student and Parent Experience
October 17, 2024 | 7 – 8pm ET | Register here

Join SIT Study Abroad staff for an insightful panel discussion featuring former students and their parents. This unique event will offer a comprehensive view of the SIT Study Abroad experience from multiple perspectives. Hear firsthand accounts from alumni about their transformative journeys and the impact of studying abroad on their personal and academic growth. Parents will also share their experiences and observations about their children’s time abroad, including the challenges and rewards of supporting a student abroad. Whether you’re a prospective student, a parent, or simply curious about study abroad programs, this discussion promises valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the SIT experience.

Please view the recorded webinar for parents and families HERE.
Password: Parents1

Identity Abroad
August 22, 2024 | 12 – 1:30pm ET | Register here
August 27, 2024 | 4 – 5:30pm ET | Register here
Hosted by Melissa Phineus

As you prepare to study abroad, consider aspects of your identity. Studying away is an opportunity to engage with different cultures and people from other countries, but how do you fit in? Join the identity abroad session where staff and alumni will create space for conversations around identity abroad. Topics related to race/ethnicity, religion, LGBTQA+, gender, and more will be explored. And remember, even if you do not hold some identities and cannot relate, being part of the conversation can help you become a supportive ally and friend to your peers on the program.

Mental Health & Resilience Abroad
August 7, 2024 | 11am – 1pm ET | Register here
August 19, 2024 | 1 – 3pm ET | Register here
Hosted by Courtney Bauman

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity to explore new places, food, cultures, language, and meet new people. While living and learning outside of one’s cultural context and comfort zone is often an incredibly impactful experience, it can also involve different stressors and challenging adjustments. The unknown is hard to prepare ourselves for and techniques we use to maintain well-being while at home might not be available abroad. In this two-hour workshop, we will engage in activities and discuss insights into some of the skills and practices that have been scientifically linked to cultivating well-being and resilience. We will identify barriers to well-being, share what techniques can be practiced to proactively support mental health, and learn how to develop a personal study abroad well-being plan. Finally, we will hear from a panel of alumni about what worked well for them in supporting their mental health while on their SIT program.

Student Health, Safety and Wellbeing
August 15, 2024 | 3 – 4:30pm ET | Register here
August 28, 2024 | 10am – 11:30pm ET | Register here
Hosted by Emilie Shaver

Studying abroad is an incredible journey to learning more about other cultures and parts of the world – but also, in learning more about yourself. During this hour and a half session, we will talk about important topics to think about prior to heading out on your new adventure such as your identities in this new cultural context and behavioral expectations as a SIT student. We will also discuss important medical and mental health resources available to you while abroad through your SIT provided insurance. Please join us for this informative session help you not only prepare for what may come while abroad – but to empower you to think about your role in your safety and health in this new culture and the resources available to you along the way.

Spring 2025 New Program Showcase
Password: SITStudyAbroad2025

Parents & Families Predeparture Orientation
Password: Parents1

Undergraduate Research Spotlight
Password: SITResearch2024

A Conversation About Identity While Abroad
Password: SITidentity23

Adjusting to Life Abroad: Alumni Perspectives
Password: SITStudyAbrod24

Independent Study Project and Internship Showcase
Password: SITinternships23

Virtual Open House: India – Public Health, Gender, and Sexuality
Password: IndiaOpenHouse23

There are currently no upcoming open houses scheduled. Please check back for future sessions.

These webinars are designed to inspire community-wide dialogue on global, interdisciplinary topics within SIT’s Critical Global Issues framework. The sessions help prospective students experience an SIT program, navigate the admissions process, and hear from distinguished SIT alumni, while virtual open houses give participants a glimpse into SIT locations from Samoa to India.