Student Life
Orientation
Prior to the start of the program, the Office of Study Abroad will run a pre-departure meeting to help prepare students for their time abroad. Students will also receive a number of different pre-departure materials addressing the following topics:
- Academic overview
- Cost of attendance
- Money matters in Puerto Rico
- Credit transfer
- Packing preparations
- Arrival information
- Health, safety and risk management
Students will also be required to submit a number of forms prior to departure.
In San Juan, an orientation program will help students adjust to their new environment and familiarize themselves with the various support services available for their use.
Housing and Meals
You will be placed in Universidad de Sagrado Corazon dormitory housing that includes a furnished room, shared kitchen and common bathrooms. Your housing will be within the city of San Juan and within walking distance of your courses. All student housing is equipped with WiFi. Students are responsible for grocery shopping and cooking for themselves, a great way to save money and experience local cuisine while building community within your cohort by cooking meals together. Students will also have access to the university dining halls for meals at an extra cost.
Diversity, Access, and Inclusion
Studying abroad can be an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and explore new horizons. The Brandeis Office of Study Abroad supports students in reflecting on their own personal identities in preparing for a study abroad experience that will be meaningful and in which they will be supported both in and out of the classroom. Study abroad program staff and past participants have prepared a list of resources related to personal, religious, cultural, and other backgrounds and identities which may be helpful to students considering Brandeis in Puerto Rico. On this Brandeis-Run Program, program staff and faculty strive to ensure that students have access to the resources they need before, during, and after your time on the program to give you the opportunity to learn and grow in a comfortable and supportive environment.
For more resources related to culture and identity, please click here and reach out to your advisor or a Study Abroad Ambassador if you would like to discuss anything further.