So you’re finally legal to drink.
Expectation:
Reality:
Drinking in Europe is expensive, so you’re most likely getting drunk off cheap wine or other cheap alcohol. It’s really just like college, except in Euros and with older, creepier guys.
Where you’re living
Expectation:
Reality:
Wherever you’re living probably isn’t the palace you imagined, and your rent is most likely ridiculous. If you’re not living alone, you probably have a ton of roommates in a tiny apartment. The more the merrier right?
Making foreign friends
Expectation:
Reality:
Foreigners probably aren’t swarming to you (and if they are it’s not a good thing). Make an effort and you’re sure to end up with at least a couple foreign friends.
The Clubs:
Expectation:
Reality:
Clubs are crowded and have a lot of creepers. Plus the cover can be ridiculous, so be prepared for the whole experience before you go.
Traveling in Europe
Expectation:
Reality:
You want to go everywhere in Europe, and you can! It just might not be pretty getting there. Checking your bag might just cost as much as your ticket. Remember EasyJet and Ryan Air are you friends, even if they don’t seem like it.
The Food
Expectation:
Reality:
Eating foreign food all the time is a challenge, especially when you don’t know what everything is. I don’t blame you for missing your local pizza joint every once and a while. Also, nothing is 24 hours…what’s up with that?
FOMO
You hate to admit it but seeing your friends’ pics from home can be hard. You might even experience a little bit of FOMO, even if you refuse to tell anyone.
But Overall:
You’re studying abroad… you really can’t complain.