Whether it is for 2 weeks over winter break, a month over the summer, or an entire semester, studying abroad is an amazing experience. Going abroad for an entire semester sounded a bit overwhelming to me, so instead I decided to study abroad in South Korea for two weeks this past winter break. I had an absolutely incredible time, but looking back there are definitely a few things I wish I had known before jetting off halfway around the world.
1. It is not hard making friends on your trip! I was terrified before leaving for my trip because even though the trip was only Lehigh students, I still did not know a single person going. I ended up making great new friends while there! By the end of the trip we were all laughing and joking around like we had known each other for years. Keep in mind that many people are in the same boat of not knowing anyone and want to make friends as well so don’t be nervous and just make sure to make an effort to get to know everyone!
2. Culture shock is real! Experiencing everything a new country has to offer is an amazing opportunity, but it can be overwhelming as well. That being said, this is a totally normal reaction; do not let it get in the way of having an amazing experience abroad!
3. Things can go wrong, but it is not the end of the world! While I was abroad in Korea I ended up really sick with food poisoning…Ugh! While this was definitely not the highlight of my trip, I made sure to not let it cloud all the other amazing experiences I had! Being willing to go with the flow is really important while abroad because there is no way to plan for some things that will happen.
4. Don’t be afraid to try new things! Stepping outside of your comfort zone truly can lead to some of the most unforgettable memories of your trip! While abroad, I was able to take a trip to the Demilitarized Zone on the border of North and South Korea. When you are there, you are brought into a Joint Security Area where you are able to actually cross the border. Spending my Saturday afternoon on the border of North Korea is definitely way outside of my comfort zone, but doing so led to the coolest experience I have ever had!
5. Step outside of your comfort zone when it comes to trying new foods! While it is easy to fall back into the habit of eating what you know, try to make an effort to try new things. I promised myself I would eat one new thing every day. I tried things like fishcakes, kimchi, and even jellyfish. Who knows..you might find a new favorite food!
6. There is a good chance you will feel home sick. Regardless of whether your trip is only 2 weeks long like the one I experienced or if it is a whole semester long, it is normal to miss home. Make sure you don’t let this keep you down, just remember you are experiencing the opportunity of a lifetime and will have plenty of time to snuggle on your couch with your dog once you are back home!