Information for Families
We know that you may have questions about the process and what to expect but your student may not always have the answers. We hope that the resources on this page will answer your questions and provide you the tools you need to help support your student while they are overseas.
Contacting Your Student
We recommend that students contact you as soon as they can after arriving overseas. The Villa and our student accommodations are equipped with internet access. Please note, however, that Internet speeds and bandwidth are not as reliable as in the U.S.
Many students will have cell phone access, but it may take a few days to get this set up. International phone rates will vary, but most U.S. plans carry hefty roaming charges; be sure to check with your U.S. service provider to make sure your student’s phone is activated for international use and to inform yourself of the various calling/texting rates. Renting or buying a European phone or SIM card is an alternative – most incoming calls to these numbers will be free for the recipient.
We recommend that you maintain contact with your student, but not on a daily basis. This is a time for your son or daughter to gain the confidence of becoming an independent global citizen. Familiarize yourself with the program dates and your student’s travel itinerary. If you have not heard from your student, it may be because they are on an excursion.
Visiting Your Student
We know that you are excited to share in your student’s study abroad experience and we would like to welcome you to Villa Le Balze for a visit! There are, however, ideal times to schedule your visit so as not to interfere with the academic program and dynamics of the program.
Each semester program has a mid-term break built into the schedule and this is an ideal time for family and friends to coordinate a visit. Holiday breaks are another great time for planning a visit.
Finally, travel after the program with a visit to the Villa along the way is another opportune time for sharing in your student’s overseas experience.