Studying abroad is one of the greatest opportunities that come around in college. Those who have studied abroad say that it was the best decision they have every made and those who haven't say that it is their biggest regret. When you make the decision to study abroad, you're full of excitement, but when it settles in that you'll be away from home for over four months, the nerves start to kick in. Remember that the first few weeks may be rough, but if you stick it out, it will all be worth it. Here are some of the things that everyone gets nervous about before they study abroad.
1. Language barriers
It's only natural to doubt your abilities in a foreign language. You may think that you're advanced, but under pressure, you can't even form a sentence.
2. Homesick
At school, it is easy because you can just plan a trip home for the weekend. When you're abroad, you're forced to spend months without your family, and you can't do anything about it.
3. Money
You know that studying abroad is expensive and you hope that you have enough money to do the things on your bucket list before you leave.
4. FOMO
Fear of missing out is a real thing. Of course, you'll be in another country experiencing things that some people will never see in their lifetime, but you'll be jealous of all the things that you'll be missing out on back home.
5. You just won't like it.
There will always be a fear that you'll hate it. Maybe it's too much of a culture shock, or you're just not ready to spend that much time away from home.
6. Classes
What if classes are a lot stricter than what you're used to? What if your college back home had smaller classes, but the one abroad has 100 student lecture halls?
7. Friends
It's nerve-wracking to think that you'll have to make all new friends in a new country because what happens if you don't make any?
8. Being a foreigner
Some may fear that because they're from another country and it is blatantly obvious that you're going to be treated differently than other students.
Talking to others about studying abroad, they say that while the first few weeks may be rough and you may experience some or all of these things, overall it will all be worth it at the end of the day. Don't be nervous because it is an amazing opportunity that you will never forget!
