I've been abroad for nearly two and a half months, and my course load is definitely hitting me. My study abroad experience is no longer just traveling around and roaming the city whenever I please. I have papers and projects and presentations and exams and reading- the list goes on and on. While I'm used to this sort of workload at IWU, it's definitely difficult to keep up with my studies while making the most of my cultural experience abroad. I've found that there are a few keys to success when it comes to the studying aspect of studying abroad:
1. Make a plan.
A planner or to-do list is essential. Every single day, I write out my tasks from the most important at the top of the list to the tasks that can wait at the bottom of the list. In addition to a homework list, I make a to-do list for Barcelona. I make a list of places to explore each day with the most exciting places at the top. Then, I combine one to two places each day with my homework and make a detailed time schedule to ensure I can get everything done.
2. Manage your time.
When making my plan for each day, I have to be realistic. I know I can't explore Montjuic in just a few hours, so that experience will have to wait until I have more time and less homework. However, I could definitely be in and out of Santa Maria del Mar within an hour. It's vital to accurately estimate how much time it takes to do everything on my list. If not, I'll end up staying up way too late doing homework, forcing me to skimp on sleep.
3. Make sacrifices.
When looking at my schedule for the week ahead, I, like everyone else who studies abroad, will have to make sacrifices. These sacrifices will vary depending on each person's priorities while abroad. For me, I have two priorities: do well in my classes and make the most of my weekends when I travel. To achieve both of these, I have to sacrifice some of my time on weekdays. Every Tuesday and Thursday, my classes don't end until 4pm. With little daylight left, I sacrifice my ability to go out and explore Barcelona to get my homework and studying done. In order to travel stress-free (Ha, as if that's even possible!) on the weekends, I have to make sure I work ahead on all of my assignments, and therefore, have no due dates hanging over my head for when I get back.
Studying abroad is all about being realistic. You'll never be able to do everything, but if you stay organized and conscious of your time, you'll be able to experience so many wonderful aspects of the culture. Sometimes, spending a whole day inside slaving away at your work is worth the 3 days you can spend visiting museums in Amsterdam or eating macaroons in Paris.
