Int'l Internship & Volunteer Network

Discover Infinite Possibilities 

 Int'l Experience Checklist 

Prior to Departing:

• Leave a list of contact names and numbers, including information on IIVN, your Int'l Program Director (IPD) and Host Employer/Association, Int’l Travel/Medical Insurance Carrier, etc..with more than one immediate family member.  
• Keep contact names and numbers on your person in the event unforeseen circumstances delay your arrival.
• Ensure all travel & work documents are on your person and not in checked or carry-on baggage!
• Ensure you carry-on an ample supply of prescription medications needed.(Note*:  Name on prescription container must match name on travel documents.) It is also wise to keep an additional supply of prescription medication in your checked baggage, in the event your carry-on items are lost, stolen or held in customs.
• Ensure your email address is valid and working for ease of communication throughout the duration of your program.
• Read as much information as possible regarding the city and country you will be visiting.
• Make a list of "special sites" you would like to visit while in the host country and check with your Int’l Program Director regarding opportunities available to visit as many places as possible during your free time.  Make reservations in advance as recommended/needed.
• Confirm airline reservations & departure times prior to leaving for the airport and plan accordingly for delays, etc.

 Upon Arrival:

• Ensure you have all personal belongings prior to departing airport.
• Meet your Int’l Program Director, or assigned individual responsible for your airport pickup, for transportation to housing.
• Take advantage of every opportunity to ask many questions and ensure your understanding of all aspects of your new environment.
• E-mail your family and IIVN within 48 hours of your arrival.  

While Abroad:

• Maintain a “contacts” notebook. Include the name, address, phone number, email address of every interesting professional you meet.
• Keep a journal of your experience.
• If in a home stay, take every opportunity to meet the family’s friends and extended family.
• Practice the local language. Meet the “natives” in all walks of life, constantly. Read the local and national papers and periodicals.
• Take time to get to know about other cultures/customs, in addition to those in your host country.
• Be prepared to share customs and culture from your home country with others.
• Have Fun!!

After Returning:

• Complete an Int'l Internship & Volunteer Network "Program Evaluation" to provide feedback on your experience.
• Update your resume. Make sure it describes your experience abroad and all the skills you acquired, including language competency.
• Keep in touch with all the contacts you gathered abroad.
• Take advantage of another IIVN program! 

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