1. Educate yourself!
Study before studying abroad? That sounds silly. It's most certainly not! Going to a new place is big change and going there with awareness will help you not only feel more comfortable, but also be respectful of their culture. on another scale, it is important to know their laws! For example, many other countries drive on the opposite side of the road and have different traffic signs. Both of which, you aren't used to and this is just unsafe. Be aware of where you are actually going so you don't get off the plane sticking out like a sore thumb.
2. Make copies of everything...
The last thing you want to happen is to lose your passport and all your important documents. Be sure to scan a copy of your passport, flight itineraries, emergency numbers, bank numbers/ contact info, insurance information and any medical prescriptions you may have. Take it one step further and after you scan/print/copy everything, send all of this to your email as well and maybe to a friend or two for safe keeping. This way you have multiple ways to retrieve your information in an emergency. Not only will this be your saving grace if anything is to happen to your information, but it allows you some level of comfort and backup plan while you soak up all of your knowledge in the classroom.
3. Be aware of your surroundings
Going back to being educated, it is important to always be aware of where you are and whos around you. Obviously do this for safety reasons, but also for the protection of your belongings being carries on your person. Foreign countries may see and student, clearly not a local, and think of you as an easy pick pocket target. Avoid this by not keeping anything in your back pockets and if you have a purse/ bag, have it secured at all times and strapped across the front of your body. As a precaution, don't carry any important documents on you (mainly your passport) unless it is absolutely necessary.
4. Make an effort!
Upon your trip, try to pick up key words and phrases in the local language. it shows that you care about where you are going and want to accustom to them. You are a visitor in their country, you adjust to them and not the other way around. in classes, is another story, but while you explore on your own, try to translate signs to yourself and listen to how people pronounce their words.
5. JOURNAL!!
This is an incredible experience that you may not have again. You are traveling to a completely different country and probably continent in order to expand your education while living in a completely new culture. Every day will be different and you are going to want to remember as much as you can. This brings another point, don't spend all of your time on technology sending snapchats to all your friends back home or texting your mom your every move. Make yourself get out of the habit of constantly being on your phone and really take in where you are and what you're doing. Of course, you're going to want to take photos, but overdo it and lastly...go outside your comfort zone! You're already leaving your comfort zone by going to study abroad, might as well embrace the entire experience. Use your journal to decompress and appreciate the new experiences you had that day.
6. Don't let fear get the best of you
Make this YOUR experience. Being aware is important, but don't let the fear of someone possibly maybe pick pocketing you keep you from going out. (If you're conscious of your surroundings, you should be fine). Don't let fear of getting lost keep you from going on adventures, you WILL regret it. Don't be afraid to travel on your own. You are smart enough to figure out how to get around on your own and an independent trip will allow you to have a experience with the city all your own. You won't have to worry about anyone else with you and you can take in the awe striking surroundings you are in.
7. Stay Hydrated!
This tip is applicable no matter where yo are, but especially applies now. You will most likely (depending on where you study) be walking majority of the time and water will be your best friend. Be conscious of how much water you need to drink to avoid dehydration.
8. And lastly....ENJOY.
This is a unique experience that not everyone has the chance to appreciate so don't abuse it. Take in everything you can and soak up all of the experiences you can, but remember to be safe, aware and fearless!
