5 Prepping Tips for Students Studying Abroad
Having the opportunity to study abroad can be a life-changing experience for college students. Stepping away from everything comfortable and known is only one aspect of the adventure. Walking the halls and sitting in for lectures in some of the most storied and reputable academic institutions can be fulfilling and enriching.
Students heading for their degree or just a single semester abroad have a lot of preparation to take care of before boarding their plane. Finding accommodations, getting vaccinations, and arranging for visas and passports are critical parts of studying abroad. The more subtle tasks like packing the right clothes and familiarizing yourself with your new city should not be left until the last minute.
Whether you are heading to the American International College or Oxford University, your destination will likely be very different from what you are used to. Beyond the inevitable culture shock, there will be other changes for which you should be prepared. Let’s take a look at a few prepping tips for students that are planning to study abroad.
Get Connected
Thanks to technology, battling homesickness is not as dire as it once was for students studying abroad. Sign the whole family up for a Skype or Zoom account so that you can enjoy face-to-face virtual meetings whenever you are feeling lonely. It’s also a good idea to get connected with your class Facebook group. This is a great way to meet some of your student peers and get to know your professors. Your class Facebook group will become an excellent resource for advice and guidance from your fellow students.
Get to Know Your City
If you are heading to a school in a city where you have never been, you can expect to experience some culture shock. Before you leave, take some time to do some research about your host city. Learn about the public transportation system, your school’s location, and the general layout of your city. It’s also a good idea to learn a bit of the language to have basic communication skills. You can buy a language book or download a translation app to your smartphone.
Comfort Items
The small things can make a massive difference if you are feeling lonely when you are studying abroad. When you are packing your bags, don’t forget to include personal items that will bring you comforts like your favorite music, photographs of family, and snacks that always put a smile on your face.
Appropriate Packing
Your school abroad may be in an area of the world that is very different from what you are used to. Check the weather before you start packing your bags to have an appropriate wardrobe. You may even want to ask some of the local students in your Facebook group for some style tips.
Embrace the Unknown
One of the reasons behind your choice to study abroad is likely the adventure of experiencing the unknown. Don’t be too concerned with getting everything right; part of the fun of discovering a new city is the minor mistakes that lead you to exciting discoveries. Expect the unexpected and leave your preconceived ideas at the door to get the most out of your experience when you study abroad.
As a student, deciding to attend a school abroad is a brave and exciting move. Follow these tips to prepare for your journey and get the most out of your memorable experience studying abroad.
