Arranging a temporary academic exchange
The first condition of understanding a foreign country is to smell it.
We've both been on several exchanges ourselves, and helped to set up many others. Here are some tips for success.
- Search positions by discipline, location or start date to filter through postings more efficiently.
- Post your position so others can find you - this will double your chances of finding a match.
- When you find a potential partner, e-mail him or her to initiate contact.
- Make your international programs office aware of your interest.
- Clarify specifics
of the exchange with your potential exchange partner
Topics to clarify with your potential partner
- What lectures will I teach?
- Who can show me around campus?
- Is transportation needed?
- Where will I stay? A Web site like SabbaticalHomes.com helps academics worldwide exchange or rent their homes.
Your international programs office will have answers to a lot of these questions for you to share with your prospective partner.
- Identify a trusted friend or colleague who could help out your partner while you're gone - pick him/her up at the airport, answer general questions and maybe check on his/her wellbeing from time to time. Ask your partner to do the same for you.
- Prepare a simple orientation package for your partner with information on the community (including a street map highlighted with your address) and any college or university information you consider useful.
- Secure approval from your department chair and/or dean for the proposed exchange.
- Secure travel assistance (help with Visas, flights, etc.) from your international programs office.
With some help from your home institution, you're certain to have a wonderful experience.
Bon voyage!
-Rich and Jim