Accessibility
This information is provided to assist you in identifying possible accessibility barriers and preparing for an accessible educational experience with SIT Study Abroad. You should be aware that, while in-country conditions and resources do vary by site, every effort is made to work collaboratively with qualified individuals to facilitate disability-related accommodation. Students with disabilities are encouraged to contact SIT Disability Services at [email protected] for additional information related to access abroad and to discuss possible accommodations.
Academics
During the coursework phase of the program, you will generally be in class four to five days per week for six hours per day. You will be given 15-minute breaks. Learning is typically assessed through take-home assignments, in-class assignments, written assignments/exams, and individual assignments. Course reading and in-class materials are typically available in a digital format.
Students with questions about alternate format materials, testing accommodations, or other academic accommodations are encouraged to contact the Office of Disability Services as early as possible.
Program Center
The SIT program office is accessed by a set of exterior stairs. The building has an elevator; however, it is small and not considered wheelchair accessible. Doorways and pathways/hallways do not have widths measuring at least 32 in. (82 cm.). The site’s study/library, lounge, classroom, and restroom are not located on the ground level. There is no separate computer space for students. The restroom has running water.
Activities/Excursions
Program excursions include visits to sites of cultural and diplomatic significance in Switzerland, Brussels, and Paris. Students should expect to stand and walk for long periods of time during excursions. Good walking or hiking shoes that are comfortable, waterproof, and rubber-soled are essential. Students should be able to carry all their luggage significant distances on their own. Program excursions may occasionally vary in order to take advantage of dynamic learning opportunities.
Housing
Each program’s homestay coordinator will be responsible for placing students in homestays. These placements are made first based on health concerns, including any allergies or dietary needs. Homestays offer regular access to Wi-Fi, cellular service, electricity to charge devices, and refrigerators to store medication. The physical accessibility of homestay options is currently limited. Other accommodations during the program include hostels or small hotels during excursions. Students with questions about homestay accessibility are encouraged to contact the Office of Disability Services as early as possible.
Dietary Needs
A variety of food, including pasta, potatoes, vegetables, meat, cheese, and fish, can be found in Switzerland. SIT Study Abroad works with students, program staff, homestay families, home colleges and universities, and others to accommodate students’ dietary needs whenever possible. For more information on dietary needs and dietary preferences, please review the Student Support section of the Student Health, Safety, and Support web page.
Transportation
In Geneva and the Canton of Vaud, students typically travel the 35 km. or 22 mi. between their primary homestay, classes, and/or placement sites by bus or train. Walking, subway, and trains are used for program excursions. Most buses in Geneva have wheelchair lifts and ramps. Crosswalks with auditory signals may not exist in all villages. The Paris Metro is not as accessible.
Technology
It is strongly recommended that you bring your own laptop computer, voltage converter, two-prong adapter, thumb drive, and assistive technology. Fully insuring your electronic devices against loss and theft is recommended. You will have access to a computer for word processing and printer at the UN library and other locations in Geneva excluding the SIT office. Wi-Fi is available at the SIT office.
Students with questions about assistive technology, note-taking accommodations, or other academic accommodations are encouraged to contact the Office of Disability Services as early as possible
Health Resources
Healthcare services and pharmacies are available in Geneva. Payment for medical services is covered by your health insurance if the provider is notified prior to or during the medical service.
Once admitted, you are encouraged to discuss any questions or concerns about accessing health services or medication while abroad during the health review process. Read more about the health review process and the summary of benefits for student health insurance.
Requesting Disability-Related Accommodations
To request disability-related accommodations once admitted, you should contact the Office of Disability Services. For more information about the accommodation process, documentation guidelines and a link to the accommodation request form, please visit the Office of Disability Services website.
Students with disabilities are encouraged to contact Disability Services at [email protected] or 802 258-3390 as early as possible for information and support.
Additional Support Resources
MIUSA (Mobility International USA) is a cross-disability organization serving those with cognitive, hearing, learning, mental health, physical, systemic, vision, and other disabilities. It offers numerous resources for persons with disabilities who wish to study abroad and/or engage in international development opportunities.
Abroad with Disabilities (AWD) is a Michigan nonprofit organization founded in 2015 with the goal of promoting the belief that persons with disabilities can and should go abroad. AWD works diligently to empower clients to pursue study, work, volunteer, and/or internship opportunities outside of the United States by creating dialogue, sharing resources, and spreading awareness.