Studying abroad can be a little nerve wracking, but at the same time it's exciting and definitely worth it. When you're planning out your abroad experience, make sure to use some of these helpful tips.
1. Print out EVERYTHING.
It's so important to have all of your information organized so make a folder of all your printed out information. When getting everything together, go through the information your school gives you and highlight it. You also need to make sure you have a copy of your passport, license and debit/credit cards just in case anything happens.
2. Pack lightly!
Only pack the essentials. You really don't need to pack four different pairs of
shoes for going out even though I know we want to. You'll also be doing a lot of shopping in your new country abroad so only pack the basics.
3. Pack your own sheets and pillow case.
Most programs provide these items for you; however, they may not be of the best quality. So just to be safe pack a pair of comfortable sheets. It also gives your room a touch of back home.
4. Bring sneakers and comfortable shoes.
You will be doing TONS of walking while abroad. Between tours, exploring and getting to your classes, it ends up being a lot. Make sure you bring your most comfortable shoes and some bandaids for blisters. Remember, comfort isn't necessarily a fashion statement.
5. Get a water bottle with a filter!
Buying bottled water gets to be expensive.
If you want to save money, I highly recommend buying a water bottle with a filter. This allows you to drink the sink water and water fountain water safely and to take it on the go.
I know this may sound odd, but it is definitely a necessity. Some windows don't have blinds so the rooms get bright early in the morning. They're also great for sleeping during the plane ride.
7. Make some phone calls about which cell phone carrier has the best abroad plan.
When studying abroad, it is extremely important to have access to phone calls in case of an emergency. To save money, make some phone calls and see if any U.S. carries can provide the
type of plan you need! You can also buy a SIM card while abroad, but they may not have the type of plan you need!
8. Transfer over enough money from that country to last you for a week!
You can always transfer money over while you're here, but in some cases, it may be difficult to find a place where they don't rip you off when exchanging money! You may have to order the money from the back, so make sure to do this in advance! Until you talk to some of the heads of your program, make sure you bring enough money to last you about a week in case you can't find a place to exchange cash efficiently.
9. Call your back and see if they are associated with another bank you can use while abroad!
This will save you a lot of cash while exchanging money. If your back is associated with a local bank abroad, they have good deals for the exchange! Also, let them know you are traveling so your card doesn't get put on hold.
10. Put your phone away while traveling!
In this day and age, it's hard not to be on our phones since we rely on them for basically everything. But, it is much safer to look up at your surroundings and be observant of the people around you. Most places have Wifi, so you can access the internet when you need to, but in the mean time, talk to all your new friends!
11. Pack a journal and save some sentimental items.
I really recommend keeping a journal of your daily affairs. It is kind of like a diary of your abroad experience which you can go back 15 years from now and remember all of the amazing times you've had. Also, keep some small items, like your plane ticket or your first bus ticket while abroad! These items are easy to pack on your way home and remind you of the experience you had while abroad!
12. Download an app that gives you free texting!
Your cell phone plan should include some texting, but just to be safe download an app that gives you unlimited free texts like WhatsApp. You can keep in touch with your friends and
family this way, especially if you want to keep them updated with your experiences!
13. Don't worry about booking all of your plans in advance.
Upon arrival, you don't need to have all of your trips booked. You are going to meet so many new people and may want to travel with them! It is good to go into this experience with an open mind and some flexibility!
14. Take as many pictures as possible!
This is an experience you will never forget. Don't forget to document all of your amazing times. You'll be able to look back at these for years to come!
15. Be grateful and get excited about your trip abroad!
Going abroad is something that not everyone is able to do, so be thankful that you can! If you have the opportunity to, definitely do it! Don't be afraid to do new things, taste new foods, go to museums, meet new people and experience the culture of your new country. It is a once in a lifetime experience which you will never forget!
