I've lived in Europe twice. Once as a student, and now in my post grad life. But, the lessons learned either from harsh realities or awkward mishaps have been a huge part in shaping my abroad experience. From taking the wrong bus and ending up in a completely different city to going to internal affairs because someone couldn't read my handwriting during the visa process: I've done it all so that hopefully you won't have to.
One: Don't Assume that English is a Given
Yes, this may seem obvious to some, but even while studying abroad in Ireland a place where English is spoken widely, there were some small villages who still mostly spoke Gaelic. Now in Prague, English is a widely spoke language in some form. However, in the Czech Republic especially there is some bitterness towards the language taking over their cities and future. Even students that request my classes have some sort of bitter sweet feelings towards needing this extra language for their career, education, or even travel.
Two: Research the Visa Process and Then Ask an Expert
I cannot stress this enough. In America, the immigration and visa process is known for being a headache and a half. While the current atmosphere of immigration is tense, things aren't much better in other countries regarding the hoops that you may need to jump through to live, study, and work legally. Every country has different qualifications and paperwork needed to qualify you to live there especially every non-EU citizen. Studying and working abroad was never so hard for someone who wasn't a part of this group of countries. I once had the foreign police refuse to stamp my passport because they mixed up my address with the previous person's visa application. It's best to do your own research, but consult the experts. It's always worth it in the end.
Three: Join a Book Club, Wine Club, or Just for God's Sake Find a Group
Once your approved and can breathe easy: find people. I'm lucky to have made friends from all different places from all different walks of life. But, this certainly doesn't come easy. I joined multiple meet ups, scoured Facebook for different expat events, and put myself out there in ways my introverted heart still cringes over. Despite this extremely uncomfortable part of moving, it never fails you will eventually find your people.
Four: Know that Homesickness is Normal
Some people cry. Others contemplate buying a ticket home immediately. But, something that always happens no matter your relationship with your home. You will always miss it. Whether it be friends or family - the idea that you can't go back to the familiar is always terrifying. No you don't need to move back home if you feel this way. But, call your friends and drink some tea or coffee. Then once the nostalgia is done, look at your window and marvel at how badass you are for doing something that most people can't even dream about.
Five: Actual Enjoy the Place You Moved to
Each city, town, and village has their merits. Enjoy them all. Enjoy the small cafe near your apartment. Or the fact that in Europe, you're never far from a pub ready to serve you relatively cheap beer and wine. Go out and explore. Get lost in the cliche that every expat enjoys when moving abroad. There's a reason people enjoy the cliches... because they are tried and true for each person. Get lost and enjoy yourself.
