Advising
We are excited to help you begin your journey! Our advising team is on-hand to guide you through the study abroad process.
Berkeley Study Abroad Advising Philosophy Statement
Berkeley Study Abroad aims to serve students who seek to participate in UC Berkeley, UC systemwide, and independent study abroad programming. We hold a special commitment to serving students who have been historically marginalized and have not had opportunities to study abroad. We recognize the dignity in all students and are committed to equitable access to study abroad, regardless of students’ background and experiences.
We recognize that students exist within communities. Our advising team works with communities of support so that students have what they need to successfully navigate the study abroad experience. This includes campus student resource centers, academic advisers, faculty, partner providers, and other circles of support such as family and friend networks.
Our advising team draws from a diversity of experiences and perspectives, including but not limited to navigating our own study abroad journeys, facing challenges such as low income, first gen, transfer, disabled, LGBTQ+ students, students of color on heritage and non heritage trips, and more. Our experiences and diverse training informs our collaborative approach to advising, emphasizing the well-being and growth of the students we work with. We are rooted in values of inclusion, justice, and accountability/shared responsibility, and we approach advising sessions with compassion, transparency, dignity and humor.
We believe our work has potential to make a difference in students' lives beyond just the realm of study abroad. We aim to support each student to identify and realize success as they define it, helping them to make their abroad learning and experiences transferable to future study, careers and life trajectories.
We recognize that our advising role extends beyond providing information on programs and processes. This includes addressing a spectrum of student needs including financial aid and scholarships, academic planning, identity development, mental and physical health, mentorship, access to opportunities and resources, and advocacy for equity and justice. We aspire to inspire, affirm and validate the lived experiences of the students we serve and their choice of journeys.
If you’re just getting started, please review our Advising Guide to access resources and sign up for an advising appointment. Our types of advising are designed for the stage of planning you are currently engaged with, the specific program you are applying to, or the types of questions you have. We can help you in various ways; from picking a program best suited to your goals to assisting you with the application process.
Types of Advising
Peer advising
Study abroad participants serving as Peer Advisers are available to answer your questions about choosing, applying, and preparing for study abroad. We encourage all students who are new to Berkeley Study Abroad to meet with a Peer Adviser first.
Best for first-time visitors, general and process-oriented questions, and student to student perspective.
Berkeley Global Internships and Berkeley Summer Abroad advising
Staff members specializing in Berkeley Global Internships and Berkeley Summer Abroad programs are available to answer your questions about either type of program leading up to and during the application periods.
Best for students who have questions related to a specific Berkeley Global Internships or Berkeley Summer Abroad program, in any stage of participation.
Professional Advising
Berkeley Study Abroad Advisers are available to answer higher level questions about the specific academic, support, housing or other aspects of the program(s) you have identified. We welcome your parent/family member to join this advising appointment if you desire.
Best for students who have questions related to a specific study abroad country or program, in any stage of participation.
Financial aid advising
Counselors from the Berkeley Financial Aid and Scholarships Office are available to answer your financial-aid specific questions on a worldwide basis. Visit our Financial Aid Advising page for details.
Best for prospective students who want an estimate of financial aid for a specific study abroad option, or participants who have questions about their study abroad financial aid package.