Study Abroad Tips!
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to study abroad? How to prepare, what to pack, what the customs are of where you are going? I studied abroad over this summer and had many of the same questions. My experience allowed me to get answers to all of these questions, and hopefully help YOU out on your abroad journey. Studying abroad can be an exciting, but nerve-wracking time, so I am here to answer all those little questions, and hopefully provide some comfort about the whole experience.
Connect with others
The biggest piece of advice I can offer you is talk to EVERYONE in your new host city. Talk to your classmates, your professors, your RA’s, the cashiers at your local grocery store, the people you stand by on the bus, EVERYONE. It can be scary to put yourself out there, but I just reminded myself that no one here knows you, and this is your chance to be the most outgoing, and ambitious version of yourself. If you totally embarrass yourself, it really doesn't matter, this is your chance to be the version of yourself you want to be with no external pressures!
Pack wisely
Power Adapters
It might sound obvious, but it can be very easy to forget. Make sure to check that you get the right adapter for the country you are traveling to, some have different kinds, even within Europe.
A “Modest” Outfit
While abroad there at lots of religious sites or locations you may visit where it is customary for women to wear skirts and scarfs, and men to wear pants. Make sure to check where you plan to visit, and if in doubt pack an outfit that would fit those requirements.
Photos of Home
It’s easy to get homesick when you are so far away so bringing photos of family, friends, and even your favorite places always make your room feel more like home.
A Credit/Debit Card with no international fees
Many cards have no international fees as a perk, but it is important to check with your bank to confirm. While I was abroad, I used a card called “Monzo”. This card is free, and you just transfer funds from your bank account to this card and avoid any fees. It is also important to note that you need to call your bank before you leave and inform them of international travel.
Immerse yourself into your new environment
Take the silly tourist tours
I know you want to feel like a local, but that takes time. An easy way to get to know the city you are staying in is to experience it like a tourist first. Once you do you can pick your favorite neighborhoods or areas to focus on and get to know better.
Make a Home Base
Making the area that you are staying familiar is so important! Get to know your grocery store inside and out, pick a favorite coffee shop, become a regular at a dinner place. These are going to end up being the relationships and connections you think about long after you leave your host city.
Explore historical sites
Europe is littered with historical sites, and while they might be touristy sometimes, they are steeped in ancient history and provide a chance to experience and learn things you otherwise never would have. Visit every site you have a chance to; you might discover a new interest!
Make a local friend
This may sound hard, but this “local friend” can be your RA, a professor, a fellow classmate, literally anyone. Hearing where the best places to go are from a local show you the true colors of your city. I would always recommend talking to your professors, they have likely lived there their whole lives and have their favorites.
Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog? If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started!
