Besides traditional methods of communication such as direct mail and email, there are several other options that your student can utilize when abroad. Make a plan!
Cellphones: always a hot topic. We advise doing research about what others are doing in that country. Maybe your student needs to just add an international option to their current plan or maybe it is better to buy a local SIM card or maybe WiFi is reliable enough to not worry about getting something added. Research is key!
Internet Access: Be sure to do some research about the availability and reliability of internet access before you go abroad. Many students will opt to use WiFi connections as opposed to data plans for their phones as well as for non-emergency communication apps (listed below). Eduroam is available to all UA students. This is a domestic and international service that allows you to connect to Wifi on the campuses around the world. Please, keep in mind that internet connections may be slower than you are use to and the further you are from major cities, the less reliable access tends to be.
Here are some different types of communication that are currently being used by students. Please keep in mind that this list is every changing and there are probably more options than just these. All apps can be found in your Apple App Store or the Google Play store!
Social Media
Facebook –general information
Twitter –constant updates
Instagram –promote office events and students
Skype
Skype is a popular option that will allow you to call home for free from your computer. If you choose to use Skype while abroad, make sure your loved ones back at home know how to use it as well, and even consider setting it up for them. They’ll love the experience of getting to see and talk to you while you are abroad!
WeChat: China
A multipurpose messaging, social media, and mobile payment app.
Line Japan
An app for instant communications on electronic devices. You can exchange texts, images, video and audio, and conduct video conferences.
WhatsApp is an app that offers secure messaging and calling for free, available on phones all over the world.
Kakao Talk: Korea
A free mobile instant messaging app for smartphones with free text and free call features.
Viber
Viber is a calling and messaging app that connects people all over the world with a free and secure connection.
GroupMe
GroupMe is a mobile group messaging app.
Facebook messenger
An instant messaging program run through Facebook
Signal
Signal is a cross-platform encrypted messaging service
Blogging
A blog can be a wonderful tool to keep your family and friends informed of all that you’re seeing, learning, and doing abroad, but also a great way to keep track of all the memories you’re creating. A “greener,” and perhaps more manageable alternative to keeping a paper journal, blogging can be a very rewarding experience for both you and those you care about. Many students not only find that blogging while abroad gives them a way to reflect on their experience, but also helps them to “relive” their experience abroad upon their return back to the United States. Free blogging sites include Blogger and WordPress.
IMessage and FaceTime:
These are two means of communication on Apple devices that will work over wifi. They can be a familiar way for you and your student to communicate. If you are already an Apple user, it is possible you already use them!