FAQs
Why study abroad?
The benefits to study abroad are many. Here are a few:
- Special academic opportunities
- Foreign language competency
- Preparation for careers with an international dimension
- Cross-cultural competence and understanding
How do I choose a seminar?
- PIIRS sponsors Global Seminar information sessions in the fall and early spring each academic year and in conjunction with the annual study abroad fair in the fall.
- PIIRS maintains information regarding Global Seminars, including evaluations by former participants, to assist you in selecting the program best suited to your needs and interests.
- PIIRS’ seminar administrators are a resource for students interested in the Global Seminars. You are encouraged to explore your options and discuss your plans with the administrators as well as the seminar directors.
How long is a Global Seminar?
The Global Seminars are six weeks long.
How many students attend the seminar?
Each Global Seminar has a maximum of fifteen students and a minimum of twelve. Three to five students from the host institution may also enroll in the seminar.
Where can I find the application forms?
Application forms can be found on the PIIRS website at: http://www.princeton.edu/~piirs/curriculum/index.html. Click on your seminar of choice and then on “Application Information.”
What happens once my application is submitted?
Applicant interviews for the 2010 Global Seminars will be held during the week of February 22, 2010. Acceptance emails will be sent out Thursday–Friday, March 1–2, 2010. The deadline to reserve a place in the seminar is Monday, March 22, 2010. A nonrefundable deposit of $500 will be charged to each seminar student’s account by April 1.
Should I make my own travel arrangements?
Students are required to make their own flight arrangements to and from the seminar. Transfer information will be available before you depart: transportation from the airport to the university or hotel will be arranged for you, or specific information on taxis or other public transportation to your accommodation will be provided. You will need to complete the travel database (click on the link below) before you depart the U.S. for your Global Seminar.
What documents do I need to provide once I enroll in the seminar?
- Passport
- Completed visa application form and supporting documents if required (PIIRS will help obtain the travel visa, see below)
- Passport photos (2)
- Flight itinerary
- Completed profile on University Travel Database
- Two copies of Self Disclosure health form in envelopes marked “confidential”
- Emergency contact information
My passport expires a month after the seminar concludes. Is that okay?
No. For U.S. passport holders, most countries require that the passport be valid for at least six months beyond the departure date and have at least two blank pages for the visa.
Students holding non-U.S. passports should check with their government’s embassy for specific requirements.
How do I get a passport?
Please refer to the U.S. State Department website for passport information and an application. Forms are available online or at the post office, which also may offer application processing by appointment.
Non-U.S. citizens should contact their government's embassy regarding plans for foreign travel.
Do I need a Visa?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa. Non-U.S. citizens may need one.
How do I obtain a travel visa for the Global Seminar in South Korea?
The seminar administrator will assist students in determining the required visa documentation based on their citizenship. The seminar administrator will coordinate submission of visa applications with Travisa, a visa expediting service.
Where is the housing in Seoul?
Housing and some meals will be provided by Ewha Woman’s University. The seminar director will provide details.
What happens when I arrive in the Seoul?
Students are responsible for making their own way to Ewha Woman’s University graduate dormitory on the morning of June 20, 2010. At the dorm, you will be met and shown to your room by Ewha staff. On the afternoon of the 20th, the group will embark on a half-day city tour of Seoul. Ewha will host a welcome dinner in the evening. Full details will be provided by the seminar director
Can I arrive at the seminar early or leave later and stay at the seminar hotel or host university dormitory for the additional days?
The seminar housing fee collected by PIIRS covers accommodations for only the advertised dates of the seminar. At a seminar hotel, extra nights can be arranged and paid for by the seminar students. Dormitories at host universities generally do not accommodate students for additional nights; students will have to make their own arrangements, if needed, at a local hotel and cover all expenses. Your seminar administrator may be able to recommend a reasonably priced hotel in the host city.
What type of community service is planned?
Twice a week, afternoons will be spent volunteering at a number of not-for-profit organizations serving the community. The seminar director will provide the full details.
Do I need health/travel insurance?
Yes. All participants MUST have proof of up-to-date health/travel insurance.
Is South Korea safe for travelers?
Comparatively low crime rates make South Korea relatively safe for travelers. The greatest caution should be taken with traffic. However, as in any city, normal precautions are in order. Do not wear exposed, expensive jewelry; do not carry large amounts of cash—handle your cash discreetly; be aware of your surroundings; and don’t befriend strangers.
Read the following carefully: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html
Are there any health concerns in South Korea?
The University’s McCosh Health Center will provide information on required immunizations and other health precautions (e.g., regarding water and food).
What if I have a medical emergency abroad?
- Students are covered by the International SOS program through Princeton University and will be given an ID card prior to travel. International SOS customer service will assist with locating medical assistance as well as provide recommendations for dealing with other emergency situations. Students and parents should familiarize themselves with the International SOS program by visiting its website. (PU ID 11BSGC000022 Scholastic Comprehensive Membership).
- All emergencies should be reported to the seminar director who may consult with on-site staff to determine the best way of handling the situation.
- U.S. embassies abroad can direct U.S. citizens to medical care in a foreign country. U.S. embassies may also provide additional assistance in cases of severe emergencies.
Will I be able to purchase my preferred brand of over-the-counter medicines?
You should bring any preferred brands of over-the-counter medications such as cold and flu tablets or antidiarrheal, etc. If you are taking any prescription medications, we advise you bring slightly more than you’ll need for the duration of your stay.
What student policies apply to the Global Seminars?
Princeton University regulations on conduct, health, safety, and academic integrity apply to all Global Seminars. Please consult the university’s Rights, Rules, and Responsibilities publication for more information.
While you are in South Korea, you are subject to local laws and ordinances. Students are expected to adhere to Ewha Women’s University rules and regulations.
How much spending money shall I bring?
This depends on the individual and is really a personal decision. You’ll need enough to cover entertainment, transportation, and meals during your free time, as well as any shopping you make want to do. A general idea of expenses in South Korea includes:
- Entertainment: Varies widely from free events to expensive clubs.
- Food: Varies widely from $3–4 dollar fast food to bank-breaking cuisine.
- Shopping: Varies widely from very cheap markets to expensive boutiques.
- Transportation: Public transportation is very cheap (approximately $1 /ride including transfers) public transit; taxies are relatively inexpensive taxi ($5 for short and up to $15 for long distances within Seoul). A shuttle from or to the air port is approximately $6.
How does money exchange work in South Korea? How should I bring money?
South Korea is still mainly a cash economy however traveler's checks, ATM/debit cards, and credit cards are also accepted. Major hotels and most fine restaurants and stores now accept credit cards. ATM cards are probably the most convenient option for accessing money while in South Korea.
- Cash: Cash from foreign bank accounts can be withdrawn from local ATMs at decent exchange and fee rates, so converting large amounts of currency before arrival is not necessary.
- Traveler’s Checks: Traveler’s checks may prove to be the least convenient option.
- ATM/Debit/Credit Cards: Let your ATM/debit and credit card banks know that you will be traveling to South Korea and the dates of your visit. If you use a card without letting them know first, there is a good chance that they will block all payments.
What clothing should I bring?
The summer is hot throughout most of South Korea. Students should bring cotton clothing; shirts, skirts, pants, etc., as well as a hat, sunscreen, and sun glasses. Clothes and shoes can be bought inexpensively in South Korea, but sizes run small. Because the summer is monsoon season, a waterproof jacket or rain poncho and umbrella are also suggested, although umbrellas are easily purchased locally.
Where can I do my laundry?
The Ewha graduate dormitory has well-equipped coin operated washers and dryers.
What’s the weather like in South Korea?
Seoul has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The summer months are hot and humid, with July temperatures averaging 85°F to 90°F, and there are monsoon rains from June to September.
How easy is it to find vegetarian food in South Korea?
Though there are a number of specialty restaurants throughout the city, it is relatively tough to find purely vegetarian food.
What voltage is used in South Korea?
South Korea uses 220 volts (the U.S. uses 110 volts). You will need a voltage converter (available at the U-Store) to use your appliances, such as a hair dryer, in South Korea.
What is the best and least expensive way to stay connected while abroad?
- Cell phones: Check with your carrier to make sure that your cell phone will work in South Korea before you leave the U.S. This is an expensive way to keep in touch, but important in case of emergencies. Alternatively, cell phones can be rented at airport kiosks at approximately $2/day, $0.30/minute for outgoing calls (no charge for incoming calls).
- Internet: Each dorm room has a landline and wired internet access.
