Studying abroad is more than a vacation. It marks the start of a new chapter in an unfamiliar country with a different system and culture. To help students prepare for this transition, Washburn University’s study abroad program hosted an event designed to build confidence, outline what to expect, and highlight safety measures.
The study abroad pre-departure orientation was held in the Plass Learning Resource Center on Friday, March 27. The room was packed with students preparing to take off in the summer and fall of 2026, and guest speakers offered tips on caring for oneself and others. Topics included code of conduct expectations and consequences, physical and mental health activities and digital safety.
During the orientation, three students who had previously studied abroad shared insights from their experiences and answered questions students had. Among the three, Peyton Price, current MBA student at Washburn and Washburn graduate, spoke about her international experiences.
“I’ve always been international. I’m a dual citizen and I grew up traveling. My parents wanted us to see that the world is bigger.” Price said.
With an Australian father and American mother, Price initially planned to attend university in Australia but stayed at Washburn due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the change in plans, she has no regrets saying her time at Washburn opened the door to multiple study abroad opportunities.
Price has traveled to multiple countries, which include Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Germany, France and many more. While abroad, she says she misses her family and friends, as well as driving on the right side of the road. Her international experiences have significantly shaped her career aspirations and plans to continue her journey with an upcoming trip to China.
For students considering studying abroad, a tip from Price is that even if it is scary or challenging, it is worth it because it fosters personal growth and gains experiences you can’t get at home.
During Q&A, students could win gifts and t-shirts for participating. The event also featured drawings for three scholarships with the amounts of $100, $200 and $300 to aid students for upcoming study abroad trips. Another opportunity was the Passport Scholarship, which covers the cost of a student’s first U.S Passport.
Scholarship winner Erica Guldner, senior biology major, shared what it meant to have this opportunity.
“Having a U.S. passport means the opportunity for growth and developing my passions. Going abroad will help me interact with different people and cultures, which will be invaluable as I start veterinary school,” Guldner said.
Tina Williams, director of Study Abroad, emphasized the importance of preparation and explained studying abroad offers a truly transformative opportunity, pushing students outside of their comfort zones and immersing them in new cultures. Her goal is to ensure students can fully enjoy their experiences
While avoiding health issues or accidents, as well as to make the programs more affordable for them
Williams said she takes great pleasure in providing the resources needed and practical guidance, including tips such as avoiding “adventure eating” and risky behaviors when going out. She added that these precautions help students represent Washburn well and make sure they have a safe and rewarding experience abroad.
William emphasized how the experience creates lasting change in students.
“You are like a rubber band. It’s never going to go back into the same shape,” William said.
The event reinforced the importance of health and safety, offering students practical tips to stay healthy and avoid accidents while abroad, and addressed financial barriers by awarding scholarships from Washburn to make studying abroad more accessible.
Edited by Bidhya Sapkota and Anushma Dahal
