Our first piece of advice is to consult your doctor and insurance provider about your travel dates and arrange for a sufficient supply of medications. Be sure to bring enough to last for the entire duration of your time abroad, as it may not be possible to refill U.S. prescriptions in foreign countries. Also, remember to carry your medications in their original packaging, clearly labeled with the prescription, when you board the plane.
Allergies
If you have severe allergies and require an EpiPen, we recommend bringing at least two—one to carry with you at all times and another to keep in your room as a backup in case the first one is used.
Mental Health
If you have a therapist/counselor back home and they can continue to do virtual sessions while you are abroad, this would be ideal, as they already know your history and you are already comfortable with them.
However, we understand that many counselors must abide by state licensure laws so if they cannot serve you while abroad, we are offering a service calledLet's Talk, which allows you to sign up for 30 minute virtual sessions with our licensed counselor. While not meant to be utilized on a regular basis, they will be a good resource should you need to talk to someone.
If you find that you need someone on a more regular basis, please talk to CIS On-site Staff who can direct you to a local counselor. Mental health is insured up to $1000 USD for outpatient care as part of the CISI medical and accident insurance included in the CIS Abroad fees.
Past Injuries
If past injuries or medical conditions still affect you, particularly when navigating hilly, uneven streets or stairs, please contact CIS On-site Staff or your program leaders. We can work with you to ensure your comfort during local excursions in advance.