Dear Pre-Abroad Me,
It's crazy how in just a few short days, you will be embarking on an amazing adventure and opportunity. You have been looking forward to this since you received the news that you were accepted to study abroad back in February. You have dreamed of spending a semester in Europe and traveling the world since you were young, and now your dream is coming true! Studying abroad will change you for the better and allow you to continue growing into a well-rounded person. Four months in Europe may seem like a long time, but trust me, it will go by as fast as your past two years of college have. It is very important that you make the most out of this wonderful experience. Here is some advice in order to ensure you take advantage of your time abroad.
Travel as much as you can.
Flights in Europe aren't as expensive as flights in the United States. Take advantage of this opportunity and make sure you travel to many different countries! There is so much to see and do around Europe. Do not let violence prevent you from exploring Europe and living your life! Your bank account may be a nightmare at the end of the semester, but it will be worth it.
Talk to the locals.
While it is great to develop friends with the people in your program, it is important to also get to know people who live in your host country. This will allow you to become a more open-minded individual since they will have different perspectives and come from different backgrounds than yours. These people can teach you many significant things and become your lifelong friends.
Get to know your host family.
You will be living with your host family for the next four months, so it is important that you develop a strong relationship with them. They will be a good resource for you these next four months. They will teach you a lot about the country's culture and way of living. People say that living with a host family is a great experience, so don't take this opportunity for granted!
Try new things.
You only study abroad once, so it is important to try something (an activity, food, etc) that you've never done before and cannot do back home. One of the most significant aspects of studying abroad is pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. If you do this, you may find another hobby that you like!
Don't forget to study!
Even though your semester abroad may not be as rigorous as your typical college semester in America, make sure that you are going to class and doing your work. The classes you take abroad can give you a different perspective and teach you a lot. You do not want to risk lowering your GPA and your chances of getting into graduate school/finding a job after college. Do enjoy yourself, but postpone your nights out at the bar to nights when you do not have an exam the following day.
Have fun!
Not everybody gets the opportunity to study abroad, so please make the most out of this amazing experience! Take many pictures and immerse yourself in the country's culture! Also don't forget to keep in touch with your family and friends back in America! Studying abroad will change your life in many ways. When you come back home in December, you will reminisce on the great memories you made and even have withdrawals from Europe! Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
