As my semester abroad is drawing to a close, I thought I’d share my top tips for anyone who is considering studying abroad themselves. These are little things that may seem obvious, but could be easy to forget. Here are my top 10 tips for making the most of your study abroad experience.
1. Make friends with the people from the university or the local area
Meeting people from the area is key in experiencing the real city. They know the best places to see, eat and visit, rather than the typical tourist spots you might be inclined to stick to.
2. Join a society
Joining a society, sports team or club is a great way of becoming a part of the university. It allows you to really feel immersed in the university’s culture and hopefully you will make some new friends this way too.
3. Remember to work hard
Getting to spend a few months abroad may seem like a holiday and it’s hard to remember that it’s not. Do not neglect your work! Getting good grades is so important and it affects your overall degree. Work hard, play hard. This leads me to my next point.
4. Make the most of every day
While it’s difficult to do something everyday, with schoolwork (see previous point) and budgeting (New York is an expensive city) try not to let a day go to waste. The semester will be over before you know it.
5. See as much as you can
This is related to the previous point, but see as much of the city, state or country as you can. Even if you simply try to see every borough, expose yourself to areas outside of your university.
6. Embrace the new culture
While there are not too many extreme differences between America and Britain, there are a few. Exposing yourself to these is a great way of immersing yourself in a new country. And maybe you’ll go home with new slang and potentially an accent. (I do not recommend becoming this person.)
7. Push yourself
Studying abroad is a great opportunity to push yourself, to try something new, experiment with style, find a new hobby, etc. This is the perfect time to mix it up a bit, find out what works for you, before returning home as a new and improved you.
8. Call home
Talk to your family and friends back home. Studying abroad feels like you’re in a bubble. It’s easy to feel separated and isolated from home. It’s important to keep in contact with people who miss you and those you miss. Don’t be afraid to tell them if you’re struggling!
9. Budget
It’s so easy to get carried away in New York, especially when every day feels like a holiday. It’s hard to remember, just because Broadway is there, it doesn’t mean you have to see every show. There may be a Starbucks on every corner but you don’t need a venti iced caramel macchiato with soy milk and an extra shot every day. Watch your money!
10. Enjoy it
Yes, it can be stressful at times. But it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity, so make the most of it! Enjoy every minute.
