I think many people think that study abroad in college is pretty much the same as visiting as a tourist on vacation. They are two vastly different ways to experience a country. The large difference is the assimilation into a community that you get with study abroad rather than tourism. You really get to be apart of a new culture even though you are only a guest and it is really important to take advantage of that part of the trip when studying. These are a few things I learned about studying abroad while I was abroad. Enjoy!

Be prepared to have a little culture shock.

Depending on where you are going, there will be a varying degree of culture shock. You can read all about the place you're going to but actually living there will always take some getting used to. And that does not mean it will be a bad experience, rather just something you have to adapt to. It varies from person to person how you will react and you may not even notice it until after you're over the shock. But if it does happen to you just know it is only temporary and that this experience will not be the easiest but will be such a rewarding one.

Learn about normal customs for the area.

It is important to research the customs and typical life of the area before you go on your trip. And although there are not required rules that you must follow, it is always nice to be prepared on what to expect when you go abroad. It is also important to understand the typical outfits that locals wear because some clothes may not be appropriate in certain areas. But clothing is not just the only custom to research, also make sure you know what to expect in terms of tipping, plumbing, tap water, transportation, and especially money. These things are important to know before in country so you know how to prepare yourself appropriately. Even common things like flushing toilet paper may not be the custom in your area.

Practice the language before you go.

Obviously this one is a given, especially if the area does not speak your native language. And although you may be in a more touristy area, storekeepers and locals may still not speak your language. So even if you are not fluent it is still important to know practical phrases such as, "where is the bathroom?" "How much does this cost?" and greeting or small talk phrases. Just these little things will go a long way.

You don't need to go far to get an authentic abroad experience.

My study abroad experience was only the country next door, yet it could have been across the globe because of how vastly different the culture was. I was speaking a completely different language, living in much different standard of living, and a much hotter climate. Before traveling, I thought my study abroad may not feel real because I was a lot closer to home then other people studying abroad. But after being there, I can say my experience was such an important learning experience and I never felt like the experience was less authentic than any other country.

There is so much to learn about other cultures.

Even in places close to home or places you may think you already know so much about, living in another country can teach you so much. It is such a different experience, studying and really immersing yourself into another country's lifestyle than just visiting as a tourist. I recommend everyone to try studying or living abroad even just for a small period of time because it is well worth it.