Keep connected back home while studying abroad

“Keep connected back home while studying abroad”

by Julia Moreno via “Vidette Online”

Studying in a foreign country and being away from loved ones for an extended period of time is not easy; however, several computer and smartphone apps are now making it more convenient and accessible to stay in touch with friends and family.

The following are some of the best technology solutions that can help ease any feelings of homesickness when a college student is studying abroad:

 Skype/Tango:

This is a video app that is downloadable on smart phones or computers. The application is free and can be downloaded from the Internet. People with the application can call each other and not only hear but see the person. FaceTime is also another option for iPhone and iPad users. Wifi is a necessary thing while using this app.

 Viber/Whatsapp:

A texting application that is free for both Android and iPhone users. It’s free of charge and both users can send and receive texts regardless of where each person may be located.

“Viber is also available to download on computers, making it very nice for parents who aren’t tech savvy,” Haley Daignault, a study abroad advisor with the Office of International Studies and Programs, said.

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“Traveler’s Lodestone” out in Hard Copy!

Celebrations abound! At last, “Traveler’s Lodestone” is officially out in hard copy — a great universal translator ready for use!

After a great deal of time and effort, we have put together this great resource for anyone working with foreign languages. Whether that be while traveling abroad or when dealing with non-native speakers in your own backyard.  “Traveler’s Lodestone”  is a point-to-speak book. It uses picture-based communications to cover the basic things a person would need when conversing in any foreign language. The idea is that when the words aren’t at the tip of your tongue, the pictures are at the tip of your finger. Everything from groceries to clothes to hotel amenities to weather, directions, and more is available instantly with this easy to use book. It’s quick and universal!

Right now it’s out on CreateSpace, but coming soon to Amazon and other booksellers near you. At 5×8 and 100 pages, it’s small enough to stick in your purse or bag and carry around, easy to pull out and use. Check out this great universal translator! Now tested in Korea, Japan, and China–it worked perfectly! (the Bathroom/Toilet pic is apparently very popular 😛 )  Trust me; I’ve tried the dictionaries, translation books, etc. and this is the best tool I’ve found so far.

Great for students abroad!

Pick up Your Paperback Copy By Clicking Here

If you are interested in the E-book Version, that’s available here.  The e-book is actually broken up into 3 short Volumes for easier use.

We’re also working on a Android/Apple app. As soon as I figure out how to attach buttons to links, we’ll be adding that.