Trulaske College of Business Study Abroad

Top 6 Reasons to Study Abroad with TCoB  

1. Our Programs are Open to All Majors

The Trulaske College of Business (TCoB) study abroad programs encourage students of all majors to discover an array of international business practices and diverse cultures. Our programs are offered during the summer and winter intercession across the globe.

Program Destinations

Summer Sessions:

·      Bergamo, Italy

·      Alicante, Spain

·      China (multi-city)

·      Prague, Czech Republic

 Winter Intercession:

·      Europe

·      S. America-Santiago/Buenos Aires

·      New Zealand/Australia

 2. Earn 3-9 Hours of Course Credit

There are no prerequisites for our international business study abroad courses. We offer numerous international business study abroad courses that emphasize, marketing, management as well as finance.  

3. No Language Requirement  

You do not have to know the native language of your host country to study abroad with TCoB. However, there will still be opportunities for you to learn and practice other languages during your program.  

4. Pre-departure Class Participation

Our pre-departure classes are designed to prepare you for your time abroad. You will learn everything from packing tips, booking the most inexpensive flights, currency exchanges and more! You will also have the opportunity to get to know other students participating in the program and potential weekend trip options.  

5. International Company Visits and Cultural Excursions

Each TCoB study program consists of many opportunities to immerse yourself in your host country’s culture.  You will learn about international business practices and customs by participating in company visits. You will also be able to see numerous cultural attractions and indulge in delicious cuisines.  

6. Meet Students from Across the Globe

Students from around the world will also be enrolled in your TCoB study abroad courses. Last year’s programs consisted of students from Ireland, France, Hungary-just to name a few.    

Five Things No One Told You Before Studying Abroad

1. You probably know your communication will be limited, but you may not know how limited.

When you travel out of the country, you are probably aware of the extreme data/messaging/calling rates for international phone plans.  If you do not want to spend an outrageous amount of money on your phone just be aware you will only have the chance to communicate with your friends and family whenever you catch someone’s wifi. While your friends and family are probably aware as well about your future lack of communication, make sure they understand there will be days, maybe even a couple in a row, where it is almost impossible to talk to them.  Everyone wants to keep his or her friends and family in the loop when it comes to international travel, but taking a break from a cell phone can be a blessing, too.

2.  Currency works differently everywhere.

This sounds like an obvious one; every country uses a different currency. Of course, right? Well, this is true, but some countries ‘illegally’ use a second type of currency.  For example, Argentina uses a ‘blue currency’ rate meaning they will accept American Dollars instead of Argentine Pesos, usually with a better rate for the American Dollar.  Do a bit of research on the country you will be traveling within to find any extra currency tips.

3. You will instantly become close with your roommate because they may be the only person who can completely understand what you are saying.

Get to know your roommate. Becoming close with your roommate can benefit you both for many reasons.  Your roommate may know the language while you do not: this is a huge plus! Also, while we never want it to happen, you may become homesick.  If this happens and you are close with your roommate, you know you’ll have someone to talk to.

4. You will learn things beyond what a classroom can teach you.

Visiting companies or horseback riding up a mountainside, you never know what you will take back from an experience.  Many people will vouch that they learned more about the world and themselves while abroad than they have in a classroom.  Take in as many experiences as you can, and grow as a person.

5. You will want to travel on the weekends.  Allow yourself to splurge a bit while abroad because who knows if you’ll be back.

How to Survive 24+ Hours of Travel

1. Drink lots of water and limited soda.

We all know that free soda is offered on flights, and that makes it quite tempting, but if you have a long day (or more!) of traveling ahead of you, do not drink soda.  Many people become dehydrated while traveling because they forget about the importance of drinking water.  Staying hydrated will help you keep moving throughout your long day.  Pack a refillable water bottle in your carry-on to make staying hydrated easier, as well.

2. Pack a light change of clothes, small toiletries, and limited makeup in your carry-on.

Always pack these items in your carry-on.  You never know if your checked luggage will actually make it to the correct destination or if your flight(s) will be delayed.  Small toiletries like toothpaste can be a lifesaver when traveling for long periods of time.  Basic makeup will keep you looking refreshed, even when you may be exhausted.

3. Do not over pack on books, magazines, etc.

It seems like everyone always has high hopes of reading quite a bit while traveling, but in reality, it rarely happens.  Keep your carry-on limited to one or two books and/or magazines to keep down on the weight and bulk.

4. Pack chargers for any electronics that you are carrying on.

If you are like me, you pack your laptop, cell phone, and tablet in your carry-on.  Pack all your chargers for these electronics in your carry-on if you know you have a long time for them to last, too.  You’ll thank yourself later for this.

5. Melatonin pills will become your best friend and sleep when you can.

 No matter if you have a flight during the day or overnight, pack melatonin pills.  These little pills are all-natural and help you to fall asleep, but you will not wake up tired if you need to abruptly awake.  If you are traveling for over 24 hours, you are probably traveling abroad, meaning a different time zone.  Sleep on any flight you can to save yourself some much needed energy.

6. Remember to smile because it will make traveling smoother.

So, you’re traveling for 24 hours? That person beside you may be traveling for 32 hours.  Keep a positive mindset and know that your travels are seriously worth it.  Smile and make small talk with as many people as you can; you might hear some pretty interesting stories!

7. Pack your own snacks so you are not binging at the multiple airports on your layovers.

Airport food is extremely expensive, even small snacks.  To avoid going broke in the airport, pack your own snacks.  Make sure they are sealed when going through security because there are different regulations regarding food in each country.

8. Pack a small pillow and blanket.

What You May Not Know About Studying Abroad

You probably know your communication will be limited, but you may not know how limited.

When you travel out of the country, you are probably aware of the extreme data/messaging/calling rates for international phone plans.  If you do not want to spend an outrageous amount of money on your phone just be aware you will only have the chance to communicate with your friends and family whenever you catch someone’s wifi. While your friends and family are probably aware as well about your future lack of communication, make sure they understand there will be days, maybe even a couple in a row, where it is almost impossible to talk to them.  Everyone wants to keep his or her friends and family in the loop when it comes to international travel, but taking a break from a cell phone can be a blessing, too.

Currency works differently everywhere.

This sounds like an obvious one; every country uses a different currency. Of course, right?  Well, this is true, but some countries ‘illegally’ use a second type of currency. For example, Argentina uses a ‘blue currency’ rate meaning they will accept American Dollars instead of Argentine Pesos, usually with a better rate for the American Dollar.  Do a bit of research on the country you will be traveling within to find any extra currency tips.

You will instantly become close with your roommate because they may be the only person who can completely understand what you are saying.

Get to know your roommate.  Becoming close with your roommate can benefit you both for many reasons.  Your roommate may know the language while you do not: this is a huge plus!  Also, while we never want it to happen, you may become homesick.  If this happens and you are close with your roommate, you know you’ll have someone to talk to.

You will learn things beyond what a classroom can teach you.

Visiting companies or horseback riding up a mountainside, you never know what you will take back from an experience.  Many people will vouch that they learned more about the world and themselves while abroad than they have in a classroom.  Take in as many experiences as you can, and grow as a person.

You will want to travel on the weekends. Allow yourself to splurge a bit while abroad because who knows if you’ll be back.

Unfortunately, for many people, studying abroad is one of the only times they will have the chance to leave the country or go to a specific country. This especially holds true for European travel because travel within Europe is extremely cheap, but when you have free days on your study abroad, take advantage of them.  Travel to as many places as you can.  This is one aspect of studying abroad that you can splurge on without feeling guilty.

Check out some more interesting information at these sites:

http://www.buzzfeed.com/dianabruk/things-you-shouldnt-do-in-foreign-countries#.adzA23oPm

http://www.quickenloans.com/blog/5-learned-traveling

The Magnificent city of Granada, Spain

Granada has been deemed a “pearl of Spain” and is among the most visited cities in the entire world because of itsstunning views and rich Spanish history. Participants in this year’s Alicante,Spain Study Abroad Program will have the opportunity to experience the city’s majesticscenery and vibrant nightlife.  Take a lookat the highlights of this amazing trip below!

La Alhambra

La Alhambra is a palace that was established as a small fortress in 889. The ruins of this palace were rebuilt by Moorish emir Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar in the mid-11th century. In 1333, Yusuf I Sultan of Granada converted La Alhambra into a royal palace. During this cultural visit, you will be able to take a walking tour of La Alhambra to learn more about it’s rich history.

Flamenco

Granada is considered as the birthplace of flamenco. Flamenco comprises singing and dancing and is influenced by Arab, Jewish and Christian cultures. There are numerous places to enjoy flamenco and on this excursion you will be able to see a live flamenco show!

Churros con Chocolate

Chocolate and churros are extremely popular in Granada. This lovely treat is offered in nearly each restaurant in the city as a breakfast or snack item. The Alhambra Café serves some of the best chocolate and churros in the area.

For more information about Granada, click the links below!

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/spain/granada

http://www.red2000.com/spain/granada/

Sights to See: The John Lennon Wall in Prague, Czech Republic

The lively graffiti-covered John Lennon Wall in Prague, Czech Republic not only commemorates Lennon’s artistic talents and ideas for peace but also served as a symbol of free speech for the youth of the Czech Republic during the reign of the communist regime. Many people believe that the John Lennon Wall influenced the non-violent Velvet Revolution, which led to the downfall of communism and Czechoslovakia in 1989.

 The police painted over the John Lennon Wall numerous times but were ultimately unable to preserve emptiness on the wall. After 1989, weathering consumed the political messages and images until only Lennon’s eyes remained. Tourists began to restore the wall by repainting it with Lennon’s face, inspiring messages and graffiti. Today, it remains as a symbol of love and peace.

For more info on the John Lennon Wall, check out these links below!

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/czech-republic/prague/sights/historic/john-lennon-wall

Expert Study Abroad Packing Tips

Make a list.

While it may seem redundant, or you are positive you won’t forget anything, a list can be extremely helpful.  Find one online, make your own, or do both.  You will not regret it when it helps you remember to pack that carry-on toothpaste or extra Ziploc bags.

Pack neutrals, and be ready to mix and match.

If your wardrobe allows it, pack as many neutral or dark colored clothes as you can. This will allow you to mix and match your outfits more often which means you will not need to pack as many clothes or specific outfits.  If you need to pack more formal clothes, try to stick to one or two colored dresses/shirts/skirts so that you can mix and match these as well.

Bring a lot of small accessories.

Never be afraid of packing too many small accessories to help change up your mix and match outfits.  With the right accessories, like necklaces, bracelets, hats, and watches, you will never wear the same outfit twice.  If you find some of your accessories are a bit heavier, like bulky necklaces, you can pack these in your carry-on to avoid an overweight suitcase. Just be aware that these items will weigh down the bag that you are carrying 

Pack smaller yet heavier items in your carry-on if your suitcase will be close to making weight.

Just like with accessories, any smaller items that may add excess weight to your suitcase, like some toiletries, can be packed in your carry-on to save weight.

Roll your clothes.

Instead of folding your clothes, try rolling them next time you travel. This especially helps with bulkier clothes like jeans or outerwear.  Rolling your clothes not only saves space, but also, it can save some clothes from wrinkling.

Be careful in which shoes you pack.

While it is necessary to pack more than one pair of shoes, try not to over-pack on these items. Start by wearing your bulkiest or heaviest shoes while traveling. This will save weight and space in your suitcase.  After that, try to only pack one pair of each style of shoe you will bring: stick to one pair of active shoes, one formal pair, one ‘going out’ pair, and one casual pair.

Wear your heaviest/bulkiest clothes while you travel.

Just like with shoes, wear your heaviest or bulkiest clothes while you travel. This may seem absurd depending on where you are traveling to or from, but it can save so much space in your checked baggage.  Remember that carrying a coat/jacket on a plane does not count as one of your carry-ons.  If they question you, just put the jacket on.

Pack extra Ziploc bags for your flights home or between destinations.

In your carry-on, you are allowed one quart-size Ziploc bag full of four-ounce liquids.  In case one of these liquids explodes or the bag breaks, pack extra, empty Ziploc bags. Packing larger, empty Ziploc bags can be a good idea, too.

Put any liquids in your suitcase inside a bag in case they explode.

Before packing any of your liquid toiletries like shampoo or body wash, put them inside plastic bags to save the rest of your luggage if one of them breaks or explodes.

Put dryer sheets throughout your suitcase to eliminate static electricity and keep your clothes fresher longer.

Place unused dryer sheets throughout your luggage to keep your clothes smelling nice and to eliminate any static electricity.  This little hack can make your outfits last longer, and you won’t have to worry about re-wearing the same shirt a few times.

8 Amazing Benefits of Studying Abroad

International Exposure

Studying abroad allows you to experience a world outside of your own. This unique opportunity will introduce you to other customs, perspectives and activities. Your study abroad experience will give you the chance to explore natural wonders, landmarks and art in your host country. You’ll also have the option of traveling to nearby cities and countries during your study abroad program for even more enjoyment.

Distinct Educational Experiences

By studying abroad, you will be able toimmerse yourself in your host country’s educational system while also learning about different elements of your field of study. This is a great way to better understand the people, values and traditions of your host country.

Learning a New Language

While studying abroad you will have the opportunity to develop your       communication skills in another language. Learning a new language will help you discover more about your host country’s culture as well as transform your travel experience.

Increased Marketability

According to CNN, only 1% of students in the US study abroad. Studying abroad shows that you are multicultural and passionate about learning. The personal and professional skills you will further develop while studying abroad will make you more attractive to future employers.

Graduate School Admissions

Graduate school admissions boards also value study abroad experiences. Studying abroad shows that you are committed to your education and that you aren’t afraid to challenge yourself.

Discovering New Interests

While studying abroad you may be introduced to activities that you might have otherwise remained unaware of.  You might discover your talent for hiking during our New Zealand/Australia program or discover your passion for art during the Prague program. You will surely encounter numerous exciting experiences during your time abroad.

Personal Development

Your study abroad adventure will help you learn more about yourself while experiencing another culture. You’ll be able to discover how well you adapt to diverse situations as well as explore your problem solving skills.

Lifelong Friendships

You will establish wonderful relationships during your study abroad experience. This opportunity will help you connect with people of diverse backgrounds professionally and personally. Our past study abroad participants have maintained the friendships they established during their programs and have even discovered networking opportunities through these friendships.

The Wrap-Up

Studying abroad is about investing in yourself. This once in a lifetime opportunity is not only a great way to enhance your educational experience but improve the overall quality of your life. You’ll make lasting memories and friendships as well as learn more about yourself and the world.

For more benefits, click below!