IPSL recognizes that students in a new environment and culture need the help and advice of those who know the local conditions best. IPSL students are provided with support from many people throughout the program, allowing them to gain independence step by step as they gain knowledge and familiarity with the culture.
In most programs, students are met at the airport on arrival. All programs begin with a period of formal orientation in which students are taught practical skills such as how to use the telephone, do their banking, and use public transportation; how to remain healthy and safe; how to get health services, if needed; and how to recognize cultural signs and customs. They are taken or shown how to get to their service assignments and to the university, and are introduced to the many people who are available to help them: the resident IPSL Program Director, their service agency supervisor, the faculty and university support staff, the housing director and, in most programs, the host family.
In addition to advising them on cultural, academic, health and safety matters, Program Directors also provide friendship, advice, support and, when needed, help with any issues the students may face. All are professionals, fluent in English, and skilled in dealing with cross-cultural situations. The Program Director, the faculty, the agency supervisor and staff, and the host family for those living in homestays, are all there to help IPSL students adjust, enjoy, and make the most of their experience. Students are instructed to contact the Program Director first in case of emergency, then the IPSL staff in the New York office.
The staff of the IPSL office in New York also provides assistance to students before, during and after the program. Before departing, students are given detailed information to help prepare them for their experience as well as complete contact information, including home and cell phone numbers, of key staff members. Study abroad advisors and parents are instructed to call the IPSL headquarters in the event of an emergency.
Student safety is of utmost importance to us. Our in-country staff will advise students on issues related to their safety, and give them guidelines about traveling within the city and countryside. It is important that students listen to and adhere to the safety recommendations. The Program Directors are well-informed on local and regional conditions, and will keep them apprised of any changes which might affect them. They are in regular contact with the New York office and are prompt in reporting any changes to us as well.
Helping students stay healthy during the program is a priority. Their health records are kept on file both in the New York office and with the resident Program Director. Before departure, students are sent health information about the program location, with advice on how to find out what immunizations are recommended, if any.
Each IPSL program has excellent medical facilities and mental health support available. The resident Program Director will tell students about these facilities and resources, and how to make use of them should they need them. We encourage participants to inform us of any existing medical condition so that we may be sure that any required treatment can be provided.
IPSL works with Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) to provide insurance and related assistance and claim-paying services to students participating in IPSL programs for the summer, semester or academic year. Beginning Fall 2007, IPSL participants will be automatically signed up for the coverage for the duration of their program. Information about specific coverage will be sent to each student along with their pre-departure materials. (This applies to all programs except the Lakota Nation program.)
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