Balancing my classes, work, and club activities while in the process of applying to study abroad was not easy.  However, it was possible because I inputted every deadline into my Google calendar, set reminders on my phone, read the emails from the Manoa International Exchange and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and asked for help when I needed it.  There is only so much someone can handle alone, so do not be afraid to email any of the offices back to clarify or confirm anything.  The MIX Outbound Office and the CUHK International Asian Studies Programme both helped me make sure I was on the right track.  

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Each semester is going to have different specific deadlines, but I included a brief list of what you should expect during the application process at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

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1. Apply to study abroad

• This includes filling out an online application (personal information, ranking your top three university choices, short answers), and sending in a letter of recommendation

• Keep in mind that application deadlines for Manoa International Exchange (MIX) are earlier than UH Manoa's Study Abroad Center

2. Accept the nomination 

• Most students get their first choice university

3. Apply to be accepted by the international university

• The online application may require a passport number, so make sure you get your passport ahead of time!

4. Send the required documents

• The CUHK sends a checklist which includes a visa application

5. Complete the MIX forms

• Insurance Application

• Health History and Clearance Form

• Course Approval Form

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Specific steps will be reviewed and sent via email, but before applying, research and figure out: 

1. What semester do you want to study abroad?  Don't forget to think about how it will affect your graduating semester and the courses you will need.

2. Where do you want to study abroad? 

3. Which program do you want to study abroad through? UH Manoa offers the Manoa International Exchange and the Study Abroad Center.

Each program offers different locations and opportunities, but I ultimately went through the Manoa International Exchange, because it connected to universities that are a part of the Shidler Partner Schools (meaning I had more universities that had approved business course equivalencies to choose from).  Also, through MIX, I would be paying UH tuition, which was cheaper than the abroad institution tuition, and my courses will transfer over as credits instead of letter grades. 

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It's a lot to think about, but take it a step at a time.