As I finish the first few months of my junior year, I have reached the conclusion that college is going by way too quickly. It is as if I blinked an eye and it’s suddenly half over.

These four years are some of the best years of our lives and we need to make the most of them. Before I graduate in 2016, I plan to study abroad. When else can you pack your bags and move to another country for months on end? What other time do you get to immerse yourself in a new culture while getting credit for college courses? OU has an incredible study abroad program that we need to take advantage of while it is still available to us.

There are many steps that lead toward to your adventure of studying abroad, but one of the most important obstacles to conquer is packing. Packing can be stressful and overwhelming, although exciting at the same time. While I haven’t studied abroad, yet, OU junior Skye Cashmire, studied in Spain for two months this past summer. Here is a list of Cashmire’s tips and tricks to keep in mind before you set off on your great adventure.         

1. Pack light. 
This is a must for studying abroad. Try to avoid packing bulky clothes, but if you need to bring a heavy jacket, use a compression bag to make everything fit better. Packing cubs are a good way to help you organize your bag too! 

2. Carry on bag. 

If you’re planning to travel once your abroad (which you should) make sure to bring a carry on bag that fits the requirements of wherever you’re traveling. Once you’re there, you will probably only use a backpack to do your traveling.    

3. Shoes.

This one is important! Wherever you go you will be doing a lot of walking. A lot. Be sure to bring shoes that have a thick soul so that your feet don’t get too sore!

4. Medicine. 

If you take prescription or generic medication regularly, be sure to bring a plentiful supply! For example, Tylenol isn’t really a thing in Europe, so be sure to be prepared. 

5. Don't being a ton of styling products. 

In most foreign countries, they embrace their natural features. Typically, most girls don’t curl or straighten their hair or wear much makeup! My advice is to fully embrace the culture you’re in, so don’t be afraid to go natural!

6. Adaptors and converters. 

Outlets aren’t the same in most other countries. Their voltage is different than ours, which means that it is incredibly important to bring an adaptor so that your blow drier doesn’t catch on fire. Sadly, I’m speaking from personal experience here, so this is a must. 

7. Cashmire's packing list

• 2 pairs of sandals, Toms, Chacos. All must be practical and good for walking. Don’t even try to bring heels. You’ll regret it. 

• 6 dresses 
• 2 pairs of shorts

• 4 skirts (1 maxi) 
• 5 pairs of pants (only 1 pair was jeans)
• Cardigan (a must)
• Comfy clothes for lounging in the house
• Swim suit
• Toiletries (or be brave and buy them there to save room!)
• Sunscreen          

Studying abroad is one of the most exciting experiences you can have in college! So have fun, embrace the culture, plan ahead, and prepare yourself for an experience that is truly one of a kind.