Orientation Programs

Included in the cost of the program is our residential Orientation Program that past participants have consistently rated as a highlight of their study abroad experience. These Orientations are currently available to all semester students provided there are no conflicts with their academic schedule.

Australia Orientation

Hit the ground running with our Sydney-based Orientation Program. Held over five days and combining academic sessions with cultural experiences, each activity is designed to help students ease into their semester in Australia. Our historical walking tour of Sydney not only introduces you to the city’s icons, but provides you with the tools needed to navigate the city. A brave day spent rappelling off of the majestic cliffs of the Blue Mountains and an evening Harbour cruise round out the experience.

New Zealand Orientation

After this action-packed five-day Auckland-based Orientation Program you’ll feel confident navigating all things Kiwi - from the country’s academic structure to settling in and meeting the locals. You will be provided with modern hotel accommodations, which provide the perfect base for independent and group exploration. You will be only minutes away from some of Auckland’s top attractions.

New Zealand is the adventure capital of the world - and so we throw you straight into the mix with activities ranging from zorbing to rappelling (abseiling) alongside waterfalls. There are few places more scenic than your new home and we take you to some of the most picturesque spots on the North Island. No orientation to New Zealand is complete without an introduction to Maori culture. Spend time with our Maori guides who provide a fun and interactive introduction to their history and culture, and also insight into how Maori culture influences contemporary New Zealand life. With the new friendships and knowledge gained, you will leave the Orientation with a strong support structure and foundation on which to build your semester in New Zealand.

China Orientation

A little nervous about a semester abroad in another language and culture? That’s only natural, but our exclusive orientation based in Beijing will ease that transition. Our five-day China Orientation Program includes a mix of intensive academic sessions, a smattering of cultural events, and a memorable experience at the Great Wall. You will be provided with modern hotel accommodations, which provide the perfect base for independent and group exploration. You will be only minutes away from some of Beijing’s top attractions.

Ever wonder what the benefits of Tai Chi are? Find out with traditional exercises in the morning and perhaps a new ritual to start your days in China. Besides visits to cultural treasures such as the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, you will be given an introduction to the academic system in China, integration issues, health and safety, and the basics of navigating through the semester. No visit to China would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall, and we make sure to get you there in a hurry. Enjoy an overnight stay and sunrise hike along an off-the-beaten path section of this amazing man-made wonder. Once you visit the Great Wall, you’ll be ready to embrace the greatness of China’s past, present, and future.

Thailand and Cambodia Orientation

Be introduced to this vibrant and engaging culture with our extensive three-day Bangkok-based Orientation Program. Combining informative academic sessions with introductory cultural experiences, each activity helps students ease into their semester abroad. Orientation takes place in Bangkok, allowing you to experience Thailand’s largest and most hectic city under the expert guidance of our Thailand staff. You will experience a sensory overload as you visit a floating river market, enjoy your first tastes of Thailand’s culinary offerings, and visit Bangkok’s Grand Palace and its sacred grounds. Before traveling to Chiang Mai aboard an overnight sleeper train, we provide helpful information about Thailand’s (and Cambodia's) academic system, medical support, and other issues that will make your semester a success. Our Orientation is coordinated by our in-country staff, who will share practical local knowledge as well as historical and cultural information.

Singapore Orientation

The moment you step off the plane in this Southeast Asian city-state, you will be immersed in Singaporean culture. We spend three days learning about the traditions and customs of this thriving metropolis. The Singapore Orientation Program combines informational sessions focusing on academic differences, cultural events, and practical advice for your interactions with your host country. Orientation highlights include a welcome reception hosted by the Singaporean government, a visit to Sentosa Island, the area’s tropical resort playground, as well as the world-famous Singapore Night Safari. These experiences are just a few of the many attractions of Singapore. Your semester will be easily filled with the many cultural activities and festivals Singapore has to offer.