4G Keeps Family Close When Studying Abroad From Boston to Buenos Aires

Each year the number of students choosing to study for a semester or a full year outside of the United States continues to increase rapidly

. The Obama administration has been a big supporter of university students traveling while in school. The governments and departments of education in numerous other countries throughout the world are not only encouraging their own students to study abroad for some time but also are creating programs and preparing their own country to be a destination for students. This exchange of students is not only good for tourism and the economy of each country but it promotes understanding and peaceful positive relationships between each country. It is helping to bridge the gaps between cultures and promote tolerance, understanding and language learning. Of course any parent would love for their child to have such a wonderful opportunity but the next thoughts are always, "Is it safe?" and "How can I go so long without seeing my child"?

There are many ways to keep in touch while studying abroad and it doesn't have to charge you or your family an arm and a leg as many people worry. One way which is one of the most expensive is to include some type of international calling plan on your cell phone plan. Though some cell phone companies offer deals this may still be one of the most expensive options. Some do not like to leave calling options up to chance or figuring it out when you arrive at your destination though so for those who are more prone to worrying this may be best for you.

Another option is purchasing calling cards when you arrive abroad. Almost every convenience store sells calling cards. There are some that can work with the cell phone you bring with you, other times you might have to purchase a cell phone once you arrive. Many countries do not allow students studying abroad to purchase a plan with a phone company or service providers because they do not have residency in the country and will have to rely on buying phone cards or credit for a pay-as-you-go situation. Sometimes you can purchase a small chip for a small price to slip into the back of your phone to give it international calling capabilities. This does not work in each country or in each cell phone.

Almost all major cities also have locotorios or places where you can purchase time on a phone or on the internet. Here you can communicate very inexpensively but unfortunately this only allows the student to call out and the family to call in. Also you have to deal with availability and work within the hours of the establishment.

The most common and least expensive option is a program called Skype. Skype can be downloaded to your computer easily in approximately two to five minutes. This allows chat, video chat and phone calls to be made for free or very low rates. Many laptops today come with a mic and webcam installed. If a computer you are working with does not have either both can be purchased either through Skype or your local electronics store for a small fee. Many prefer this option because it allows for video communication where you can see and hear the person you are speaking with. Internet is not always dependable in other countries so to go along with this many students prefer to have their own access to wireless internet both to do homework and communicate with friends and family. Sometimes wireless internet is very weak abroad and access to 4G can be next o impossible. What you can invest in is a mobile air card that plugs into the student's laptop or netbook in a USB port. This uses a new technology called WiMax which will give the student his or her own access to fast 4G wireless internet whenever and wherever no matter what time it is or where they are staying. Parents often prefer knowing that their child has constant mobile broadband so that they can be easily accessed. This allows the student or parent to Skype chat with much more ease.

With any of these options you can feel safe allowing your student to study abroad and take advantage of the opportunity of a lifetime.

4G Keeps Family Close When Studying Abroad From Boston to Buenos Aires

By: Oswald Melman

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