App State students represent a full range of abilities; likewise, OIP seeks to support all students. We work closely with the Office of Disability Resources so that you are best supported throughout this process and so that we have a fuller understanding of how to support you. You are your best advocate; we are here to help cultivate an inclusive and accessible education abroad opportunity for you.
Questions to Consider
How does my host country view disability?
Does my host institution have an office similar to the App State Office of Disability Resources?
What support / services am I already receiving at App State? What support / services does my host institution offer?
What is the physical environment like in my host country? Does the country have accessible facilities and transportation?
What access will I need in my housing environment? On campus? In public transportation?
Am I bringing medication with me and if so, is it legal in my host country? If I don’t have enough for the duration of my program, am I able to get more medication locally?
What type of medical facilities, mental health, and medical support is available? What is covered by insurance?
For allergies, how might these foods show up in other forms while abroad?
Is it possible to get an allergy card written in my host country language? Should I use / obtain medical alert jewelry?
How are the classes and assessments structured?
Tips for Planning
Connect with with the Office of Disability Resources to discuss potential disability-related barriers you may encounter.
Explore your options. Attend a Study Abroad 101 session and/or meet with an advisor.
Research before you go abroad. Familiarize yourself with your host country and their views on disability in general, as well as how they may accommodate your specific needs.
Be aware that other countries may not have enacted the same non-discrmination laws as the United States, nor offer the same level of accessibility.
Resources
Office of Disability Resources. App State’s Office of Disability Resources provides leadership through campus collaborations and intentional partnerships to cultivate an inclusive and accessible living, learning, and working environment resulting in the full inclusion of people with disabilities at Appalachian State University.
Mobility International USA (MIUSA). MIUSA is a cross-disability organization serving people with a broad range of disabilities. They seek to empower people with disabilities around the world to achieve their human rights through international exchange and international development.
Diversity Abroad. The mission of Diversity Abroad is to create equitable access to the benefits of global education by empowering educators, engaging stakeholders, and connecting diverse students to resources and opportunity.