First-Gen, Non Traditional, and Veteran Students
Studying abroad is a great opportunity to experience new cultures, gain perspective, and become a more well-rounded person and global citizen. As first-generation, non-traditional, and veteran students, you have overcome many obstacles to get where you are today. You may be feeling uncertain about how study abroad can fit into your academic plans at EIU or how the process will work for your needs. Whether your concern is financial, academic, or personal, we will connect you with resources that will help you to plan your study abroad experience.
As you begin your preparation for study abroad, you should first consider some important questions to help facilitate conversations based on your unique background provided below. There are also a number of web resources provided that you may find useful. Please know that the William V. Weber Program in Study Abroad is here to assist you at any time with your study abroad planning.
First-Generation Students
- Do I have work or family obligations at home that will affect the location or duration of my study abroad experience?
- How will I make studying abroad affordable? Are there scholarships available specifically for first-generation students that will aid me in my study abroad experience?
- How will my family react to me studying abroad? Are there resources available for them as well?
Resources for First-Generation Students
International Studies Abroad (ISA) - First Generation Student Stories
Three different first-generation students on how studying abroad affected their family, how this experience impacted their career paths, and tips for other first generation students.
Institute for Study Abroad - First Generation Student Tips
First-hand experience of a first-generation student who studied abroad.
TRIO Student Support Services
The goal of SSS TRIO Program at Eastern Illinois University is to increase retention and graduation rates of eligible students and to foster an institutional climate supportive of the success of low-income and first-generation college students and/or college students with disabilities.
Non-traditional Students
- Will work or family obligations limit where and how long I can study abroad?
- Are there paid internships available that could help to keep my finances on track while abroad?
- Will there be other students my age studying abroad that I will be able to connect with?
- Are there options for my child/spouse to come with me abroad? If not, how can I plan for childcare or other situations?
- What type of housing will be available? Will I be able to have my own room, or share a room with someone my age?
Resources for Non-Traditional Students
Scholarships for Non-traditional Students
Here is a list of scholarships available for different non-traditional students, including single parent and women-specific scholarships.
EIU School of Extended Learning
Provides resources for Non-traditional Students on EIU's campus.
Veteran Students
- How will I discuss my military experience with locals, and how will it be perceived?
- Will prior US military involvement influence my decision on where to study abroad?
- Will there be other veterans studying abroad that I can connect with?
Resources for Veteran Students
Gilman-McCain Scholarship
This scholarship is for veterans or dependents of veterans who seek to study abroad. Scholarships are up to $5,000.
Go Abroad - GI Bill and Studying Abroad
Information on how the GI Bill can help you study abroad.
NAFSA: Association of International Educators - Resources for Veteran Students
A behind the scenes look at how study abroad advisers should be assisting you. You can use this as a guide for questions to ask your adviser.
US Department of Veteran Affairs
Information from the US Department of Veteran Affairs.
Office of Financial Aid - Jenny Stout
If you have any questions about how to use your GI Bill and other financial aid for study abroad, contact Jenny Stout at jlstout@eiu.edu.