First Generation and Non-Traditional Students
As a first-generation or non-traditional college student, you may be feeling uncertain about how the study abroad process works or if it'll fit into your academic plan. To help facilitate conversations based on your unique circumstances and background, consider the following questions as you explore study abroad possibilities.
As you research program options, you may want to reflect on these questions
First-generation students
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How can I find additional funding sources to make a study abroad experience possible?
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Since I'm the first person in my family to study abroad, I'm not sure what the process is like. What resources are available to guide me through this process?
- Are there hidden costs to study abroad for which I should be prepared? Are there study abroad programs that will save me money compared to being on campus in Chicago?
- Where can I find resources for my family?
Non-traditional students
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I can’t take off too much time from work, so are there short-term programs available? How do I maximize my time during a short-term program?
- What will be my living situation while abroad? Can I request a single room?
- On which programs can I use my financial aid?
What resources are available at Loyola?
Your Loyola Study Abroad Advisor can help you find more information about the country you plan to go to and connect you with other Loyola students who have studied in that country before. Additionally, program evaluations available in the office are a good way to learn what former students have to say about your host country and what you may encounter abroad.
Achieving College Excellence is a federally-funded retention program designed to help those who identify as first-generation college-students and/or as having high financial need, as well as students with documented disabilities, to succeed at Loyola.
Military Veteran Student Services supports our veteran students through their transition from military service.
Student Diversity and Multicultural Affairs facilitates intentional reflection of the intersections of identities and critical social analysis of systems of privilege and oppression, seeking to enhance the experience of all members of the Loyola community by cultivating culturally competent agents of social change.
What are some additional resources I can utilize?
Diversity Abroad is an organization that provides resources on diversity abroad, including specific materials for first generation students and adult students.
IES Abroad provides diversity resources for their programs including past student perspectives, scholarship opportunities, a student guide, country-specific content, and contact information for the IES Abroad Diversity Coordinator.
I’m First is a website devoted to collecting stories from first-generation college students, including stories about study abroad.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers a fact sheet containing information about utilizing your GI Bill to study abroad.