Support
UCEAP students are supported by a network of people throughout the world. Your study abroad experience will be guided by trained staff who are there to support you as you prepare to study abroad, while you are abroad, and throughout the program. While on a UCEAP program, all student participants have travel insurance coverage and 24/7 emergency assistance.
On-site support
The Lyon Study Center is on the University of Lyon 2 campus, which is next to the Rhône River. The office is the Gaia building where all American exchange programs have their offices. The study center is a quick walk from the classrooms, and students are welcome to drop in to print assignments and papers when the administrator is in office.
Talk to study center staff about:
- Academic planning and courses
- Sites to see in Lyon and the local region
- Travel suggestions
- Tips on local French culture
Study center activities may include:
- Welcome dinner at the start of the semester
- Get-togethers with other students studying in Lyon
- A day excursion
Shelby Ocana (she/her)
Paris Study Center in Paris, France
Shelby helps students navigate the cultural differences between France and the US. She loves being part of their transformation into French natives. She also helps students see how their study abroad experience adds value to their academic, personal, and professional lives and future.
She says, “Walk, walk, walk without the GPS. In other words, get lost!”
Shelby hopes students will remember the challenges and rewards of study abroad and build on that confidence to continue taking life-enhancing adventures.
Orientations
To help navigate the transition of leaving home and going abroad, you’ll attend various in-person and online events. At these events, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and meet the staff who will be supporting you while you study abroad. You’ll learn things like:
- What student services are available at your host location
- Where to find local health care
- How and when to register for classes
- What to do and who to contact in an emergency
- How to travel to and from where you live to classes
- How to handle money matters like opening a bank account
- How to use technology, including your phone, and get access to the Internet
On-site orientations may include a tour of the campus and other local sites to help you settle in. At orientations, you'll also meet other students (local, international, and/or from UC campuses) who will be part of your experience.
Students with dis/Abilities
Students with dis/abilities can and do study abroad. A successful experience is dependent upon careful planning, coordination, and communication.
Focus on programs that best fit your interests, academic goals, and career aspirations. You'll work with the staff at the disability services and study abroad offices on your UC campus. They can help you identify strategies to remain flexible and think creatively about accessibility and realities abroad as some international locations can be different than what you are typically accustomed to in the US. They can also help you get the necessary paperwork you'll need to apply.
After you apply, your UCEAP program specialist will coordinate with the institution abroad and connect you with those who can arrange for an accessible experience. If your needs cannot be accommodated at any point in the process, your advisors will help you choose another program. You will not be alone in this decision.