Italy, Spain, China, Brazil, the list of places to study abroad is endless. Going to a new place, seeing a new culture is exciting and can be a once in a lifetime for most college students. But if you are studying abroad or even considering it, there are some things you need to make sure you know. It doesn't matter if you plan on studying abroad for two weeks, two months or two years. It never hurts to be prepared.
1. Prepare for the culture shock.
Being thrown into a new country and a new culture is a little unnerving. But it happens more often than one may realize. Feeling out of place in a new culture and missing home is completely normal but researching culture shock and ways to help cope with it are everywhere.
2. The money you have now may not be any good where you're headed.
Make sure that any cash you bring from your home country is transferred into the correct currency of the country you are traveling to. They usually have places to do such things in airports but if you do it before you leave your country, make sure you research what currency you need to exchange it with. For example, Mexico uses the peso.
3. Do not forget walking shoes.
Chances are you will be doing A LOT of walking around. So remember, comfort over fashion. Or both if you can find it.
4. Bring the right adapter.
It may shock you, no pun intended, but not every country has the same plugs. Therefore, if you don't have an adapter you won't be able to charge your phone, computer, camera, anything.
5. Keep track of your valuables.
While theft is not necessarily a greater risk abroad you may get distracted by all the excitement. Therefore you will want to make sure you keep track of your phone, camera, passport, money, jewelry, etc.
6. Research the country's culture and traditions before you go.
By learning about the country's traditions and culture before you jet off on your adventure, you can prevent some serious offensive behavior. What may be a normal hello in your country may not be OK in another. For example, in India men do not touch women when meeting or leaving. It is very important to know these things beforehand to prevent any offensive behavior.
7. Know what to do in case of an emergency.
This one is simple. Ask your professor or guide where to go if you separated from the group or something happens to you.
8. Don't just know the traditions, know the law too.
If you break a law there you could be in huge trouble! You may have to even stay longer than you originally intended to, and not in a good way. Plus you may be expelled from the trip as a result.
9. Pack appropriately.
See what the weather will be like and make sure you bring some comfy clothes for walking around in.
10. HAVE FUN!
Experiencing a new culture and a new country is exciting and thrilling so don't forget to savor every minute. Take tons of pictures and videos and live it up while you can. Because soon enough you will have to go back home. And you will definitely need to bring back some awesome stories. And maybe some souveniers.
