Stories from Abroad
What difficulties did you have at the stages of preparation for the internship? What tips and recommendations can you give to future participants of the academic mobility program?
In the process of preparing for the internship there were difficulties with waiting for exam results, passing the stages of selection for the program and obtaining a visa. Sometimes it can be difficult to fill out the necessary paperwork to formalize your studies at various stages. It is important to remain patient and stay motivated during these processes.
My advice to future participants of an academic mobility program:
- Start preparations early to avoid stress and rush.
- Carefully study the document requirements and follow the instructions for completion.
- Seek help fr om experienced people.
- Be prepared for the unexpected and be flexible in solving problems.
- Don't lose faith in yourself and your abilities, even if difficulties arise.
Describe the process of obtaining a visa. Your advice for future participants of the academic mobility program.
The visa application process begins with filling out the DS-160 form, attaching a visa photo, and paying the consular fee. Visa decision criteria include ties to the country, employment history, purpose of travel, marital status, and other factors. I received a student visa through an exchange program, I went to the embassy in Armenia for the visa interview, from wh ere the visa was mailed. My advice is to carefully study all the application rules and follow the deadlines. Also prepare for the interview and be ready to answer questions about your plans, goals. It is possible to plan your actions in advance, taking into account possible delays in the process of obtaining a visa.
What difficulties did you encounter upon arrival at the host foreign organization? Your advice to future participants of the academic mobility program.
Coming to Washburn University was easy thanks to advisors and mentors. “International House at the university provided support for international students, including exchange students. However, it was a bit difficult due to the large amount of paperwork and time spent completing it. including setting up bank accounts, additional medical exams, and the adjustment process in general.
My advice to students:
- Contact your adviser at your host university with any important questions that concern you;
- Have all copies of documents with you in case you need to submit them;
- Prepare for the paperwork process in advance to minimize stress and make it easier to adjust to your new environment;
- Do not hesitate to seek help and support from the international student support services at the university.
Specify your expenses related to participation in an internship abroad (visa costs, cost of flight / travel to the place of internship, registration fees / taxes / deposits in the host organization, policy / medical services, if used, public transport, meals, accommodation. Your tips for cutting costs.
My expenses related to participation in a foreign internship included payment of the consular fee of about 3 thousand rubles. Flight tickets (Irkutsk-Moscow-Turkey-Turkey-Washington-Dallas-Kansas City) cost $1600. Medical services were provided on campus, but additional consultations and medications required additional expenses. Public transportation usually cost between 2 and 78, but in Topeka, transportation was free for students. Accommodations, meals, and tickets were sponsored by the exchange program according to the terms.
My tips for cutting costs:
- Track expenses and budget ahead of time.
- Have teeth and other health problems treated before traveling.
- Bring your own first aid kit and doctors' contacts from home (talk to them about leaving if possible).
- Ask for discounts when buying medicines or counseling from nurses.
- Take advantage of free or low-cost services provided by the university (e.g. ordering food).
- Take personal expenses into account and plan ahead.
This internship helped me to understand what direction is most interesting to me in the field I study at university. During this year, I managed not only to get new theoretical knowledge, but also to apply it in practice, working in the student newspaper. I gained invaluable experience that can be useful to me in the future. Now I feel more confident and open, which is essential for a successful journalist.
What difficulties did you have at the stages of preparation for the internship? What tips and recommendations can you give to future participants of the academic mobility program?
The most difficult thing was to prepare documents both for the host party and for the INRTU International Exchange Office. The main advice is to prepare everything in advance.
Describe the process of obtaining a visa. Your advice for future participants of the academic mobility program.
We obtained visas as a group, and no one had any problems. The main thing is to clearly state the purpose of the trip and your intention to return to Russia, as well as to demonstrate fluency in English.
What difficulties did you encounter upon arrival at the host foreign organization? Your advice to future participants of the academic mobility program.
Difficulties arose when it was time to register for courses. The education system in American universities is quite different from that in Russia, and I had to adapt quickly. The main advice I can give is not to rely on the help of an academic adviser, as these are often people with very busy schedules who are unlikely to be able to give you enough time, and to register for courses as early as possible.
Specify your expenses related to participation in an internship abroad (visa costs, cost of flight / travel to the place of internship, registration fees / taxes / deposits in the host organization, policy / medical services, if used, public transport, meals, accommodation. Your tips for cutting costs.
This internship was fully sponsored by the host country from the time we received our visa until we returned home. We received a monthly stipend of $1405, which we could spend at our discretion. The main advice I can give on how to cut costs in America is to buy necessary goods in large packages, as it is much more cost-effective to buy for several weeks in advance or to share with acquaintances.
What difficulties did you have at the stages of preparation for the internship? What tips and recommendations can you give to future participants of the academic mobility program?
I had most of the difficulties with transferring money for payment and preparing for the first time traveling abroad. Students may be required to have a student ID card when entering Korea. No one notified us during the preparation stage.
Describe the process of obtaining a visa. Your advice for future participants of the academic mobility program.
I used K-ETA. It is extremely easy to get. To pay for this type of visa you need to either have acquaintances from other countries or arrange it through a travel agency.
What difficulties did you encounter upon arrival at the host foreign organization? Your advice to future participants of the academic mobility program.
It was challenging to adapt to local food and climate. There are various canned and processed food in stores, and it is hard to find healthy food. Due to climate and humidity, you should always carry an umbrella and hand fan with you. It can be bought in local stores, prices are low.
Specify your expenses related to participation in an internship abroad (visa costs, cost of flight / travel to the place of internship, registration fees / taxes / deposits in the host organization, policy / medical services, if used, public transport, meals, accommodation. Your tips for cutting costs.
Program fee - $7005 Transfer fee - $100
Visa for transit through China - 5000 R Contribution K-ETA - 10000 KRW
Round trip tickets - 43000 R
Expenses during the program - 500$
Bus and subway fare 1700 KRW (transfer within 30 minutes is free) 9600 KRW
Express tickets to Seoul (from Chungcheong)
Program fees at the expense of the university (IRNITU) or through the Koren government scholarship
Cost-cutting tips:
Using public transportation instead of cabs Carefully choose products at grocery stores, buy less convenience food, use 1+1 or 2+1 promotions
Ask about discounts for foreigners and show your ID card (dormitory card key)
On a personal level, living in a different cultural environment has taught me to adapt and resilience. Getting to know new social norms and overcoming language barriers has made me more open and empathetic.
What difficulties did you have at the stages of preparation for the internship? What tips and recommendations can you give to future participants of the academic mobility program?
Preparing for the internship in Mongolia had its challenges. Securing a visa, arranging accommodation, and understanding local healthcare options required a lot of effort. Language preparation was another hurdle, as I had to learn basic Mongolian phrases, and adapting to different academic expectations was initially daunting.
Recommendations for Future Participants: Start preparations early to handle logistics smoothly. Learn basic phrases in the local language to ease communication. Research the academic environment to better adapt to new teaching methods. Stay flexible and open-minded to navigate unexpected challenges. Connect with others who have experience with the program for valuable insights.
Describe the process of obtaining a visa. Your advice for future participants of the academic mobility program.
Obtaining a visa for the internship in Mongolia was a detailed process that required careful planning. First, I had to gather all the necessary documents, including an invitation letter from the host university, proof of accommodation, and a valid passport. I then submitted these documents to the Mongolian embassy, along with a completed application form and a visa fee. The processing time took a few weeks, so it was essential to start this process well in advance. I also made sure to check for any specific requirements or updates on the embassy's website regularly.
Advice for Future Participants:Start Early: Begin the visa application process as soon as you receive your acceptance letter.
Gather Documents: Ensure you have all required documents, such as an invitation letter, proof of accommodation, and passport.
Check Requirements: Regularly check the embassy’s website for updates or additional requirements.
What difficulties did you encounter upon arrival at the host foreign organization? Your advice to future participants of the academic mobility program.
Upon arriving at the host university in Mongolia, I faced a few challenges. The first was adapting to a new environment, including navigating the campus and the city. Language barriers made communication difficult at times, especially when dealing with administrative tasks or asking for directions. Additionally, understanding the local academic expectations and adjusting to different teaching styles took some time. Advice for Future Participants: Take time to explore the campus and city to get comfortable with your surroundings. Ask for Help. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from local students or staff—they’re often eager to help. Embrace the differences in academic and cultural practices; it’s part of the learning experience.
Specify your expenses related to participation in an internship abroad (visa costs, cost of flight / travel to the place of internship, registration fees / taxes / deposits in the host organization, policy / medical services, if used, public transport, meals, accommodation. Your tips for cutting costs.
Visa Costs: The visa application fee was around $50.
Railway/Travel Costs: Round-trip to Mongolia cost approximately $300.
Insurance/Medical Services: Health insurance coverage for the duration of the internship was about $150.
Public Transport: Monthly transportation within Ulaanbaatar cost around $30.
Meals: I spent about $200 per month on food.
Accommodation: Renting a dorm near the university cost $40 per month
Internships offer opportunities to connect with professionals in the industry, which can be invaluable for future job searches and career advancement.
Achievable Results:
Project Contributions: Many students contribute to specific projects, which lead to tangible outcomes, such as improved processes or completed assignments.
Increased Confidence: Successfully navigating real-world tasks can boost confidence in one's abilities and readiness for full-time employment.
Resume Enhancement: Completing an internship often strengthens a resume, showcasing practical experience and initiative to future employers.
Impact on Academic and Personal Terms:
Exposure to real-world applications can deepen understanding of academic theories, often inspiring me to excel in relevant coursework.
Internships help me clarify career goals, leading a focus on specific areas of interest.
Internships challenge individuals to step out of their comfort zones, fostering independence, responsibility, and adaptability.
What difficulties did you have at the stages of preparation for the internship? What tips and recommendations can you give to future participants of the academic mobility program?
Tips and Recommendations
Start Early: Begin your preparations as early as possible to allow ample time for each step, including applications, negotiations, and securing the necessary documents.
Stay Organized: Create a checklist of tasks that need to be completed and set deadlines to help manage your time effectively.
Seek Guidance: Utilize resources like your academic advisor or program coordinator for assistance with the application process and to clarify doubts about the program.
Research: Spend time researching your host country and organization. Understanding the cultural context and work environment can help you adapt more easily once you arrive.
Budget Wisely: Create a detailed budget that includes estimated costs for travel, accommodation, groceries, and leisure activities. Look for scholarships or financial aid that may be available to you.
Network: Connect with past participants of the program or alumni who can share their experiences and provide tips on preparing for the internship.
Be Open-Minded: Approach cultural differences and new experiences with an open mind. Embrace the challenges as opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Practice Language Skills: If applicable, practice the language of the host country before you go, even if just at a basic level. This can ease communication and help with social interactions.
Describe the process of obtaining a visa. Your advice for future participants of the academic mobility program.
To obtain a study visa for South Korea, you will need to follow these steps:
1. **Acceptance fr om a Korean University**: First, you need to be accepted into a Korean university. You will receive an acceptance letter, which is crucial for your visa application.
2. **Prepare Required Documents**: Gather the necessary documents for your visa application. These typically include:
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Acceptance letter from the Korean university
- Proof of financial stability (bank statements.)
- Visa application fee
3. **Submit Application**: You need to make an appointment in advance.
4. **Wait for Processing**: Visa processing times can vary, so it's important to apply well in advance of your intended travel date. Processing can take anywhere from a few days to 2 weeks.
5. **Receive Your Visa**: Once your visa is approved, you will receive it in your passport. Make sure to check the visa details for accuracy.
To obtain a study visa for South Korea, you will need to follow these steps:
**Advice for Future Participants of the Academic Mobility Program**:
1. **Plan Ahead**: Start your application process early to avoid any last-minute issues. Ensure all your documents are in order and meet the requirements.
2. **Financial Preparation**: Make sure you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses, and other costs. Look into scholarships and financial aid options.
3. **Learn the Language**: While many courses are offered in English, learning some basic Korean can greatly enhance your experience and help you navigate daily life.
4. **Cultural Awareness**: Familiarize yourself with Korean culture and customs. This will help you adjust more easily and show respect for your host country.
5. **Stay Organized**: Keep copies of all your important documents and correspondence. This will help you stay on top of your application status and any additional requirements.
6. **Health Insurance**: Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage for your stay in Korea. Some universities may offer health insurance plans for international students.
7. **Connect with Other Students**: Join online forums or social media groups for international students in Korea. This can provide valuable support and information from those who have already gone through the process.
By following these steps and tips, you can successfully obtain your study visa and have a rewarding experience in South Korea. Good luck!
What difficulties did you encounter upon arrival at the host foreign organization? Your advice to future participants of the academic mobility program.This internship is not my first, and thanks to our university, I have entered the academic exchange program for the second time. I have experience staying in South Korea, so I had no difficulties this time around. If you are not based in Seoul, I would recommend learning some basic Korean to help you communicate with locals (for example, ordering a taxi, booking a restaurant, and ordering food).
Specify your expenses related to participation in an internship abroad (visa costs, cost of flight / travel to the place of internship, registration fees / taxes / deposits in the host organization, policy / medical services, if used, public transport, meals, accommodation. Your tips for cutting costs.
Visa costs range from $80 to 7,000 rubles. A one-way flight costs 25 to 32,000 rubles, while public transport from the airport to university costs 2,000 rubles for 2.5 hours. To get to Seoul using the subway, you will need to pay 250 rubles per trip for two hours. Foreigner's cards (ID cards) cost 30,000 won and take one month to produce. When shopping, save receipts to apply for TaxFree at Incheon International Airport and receive a refund. Mandatory Korean insurance for foreigners becomes valid after six months of stay, but your host organization can connect you to it immediately. Insurance costs 75,000 won or 5,000 rubles. If you don't have insurance during your stay, I recommend having a full examination at a Korean clinic after your stay. At the university wh ere I did my internship, I wouldn't recommend eating at the cafeteria. The food isn't very tasty and, as we're foreign students, we won't be able to choose between spicy or non-spicy options.However, there are some good and inexpensive cafes located just 100 meters away from the university. These cafes offer a variety of delicious dishes. The cost of meals at these cafes and at the university is approximately 5,000 won.
The cost of accommodation in the hostel is 720,000 won for 4 months. You will be accommodated in dormitories designed for foreign students. Although these dormitories are older, if you have the opportunity, I would recommend considering staying in a Korean dormitories (BLT) instead. These dormitories are completely new and offer clean rooms, gyms, convenience stores, and a nearby cafe. They are also close to the Institute of Economics and the Korean Language Institute.
