studying overseas seems like a faraway dream until you’re suddenly on a redeye with 2 overweight suitcases and ZERO knowledge of what’s to come. Here are some pointers to make the most of your once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Embrace SOLITUDE
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Studying abroad is a transformative time that results in learning about different cultures and establishing a global network. Without a doubt, you will create bonds that will last a lifetime. External connections, however, are not paramount. No one is experiencing YOUR semester abroad like YOU are. What can be taken away from this experience? What will you learn? Alone time creates the distance to tap into your thoughts, goals, and fears, becoming closer to yourself. This insight builds the mental strength to identify special moments and squeeze everything out of them (and the energy to be a good friend to others, too).
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98% of study abroad alumni claimed an increase in self-confidence attributed to study abroad.
89% of study abroad alumni reported that study abroad facilitated a greater tolerance for ambiguity.
studyabroad.ucmerced.edu - Walk.
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Save the money. Cancel the Uber. Unless the area is unsafe or the weather is torrential, walking around is the best thing you can do to become accustomed to your city abroad. Strolling through Paris has allowed me to pick up new French lingo from passersby’s conversations, see the historic Parisian beauty first-hand, and smell the scents of freshly brewed coffees in cafĂ©s. There is no better way to immerse yourself in the culture than by physically doing so. Before you know it, you will have your favorite walking routes, go-to shops, and servers who will know your order by heart. Get some air; open your eyes and ears.
- Set aside time for new friends
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With everything else to consider and plan, it may be hard to believe that you will establish friendships while studying abroad too. However, this is one of its most rewarding aspects. At first, the blend of people from all over is daunting, making it more inviting to stay within your bubble. Without discomfort, though, there is no change. For long-term friends, ask questions to your program peers to get to know them. After all, you will be in the same courses, center, and class trips for the entire semester – you may as well embark on this adventure together. Staying in your bubble is easy…but boring. Why not befriend people from all over the world who are going through a similar experience as you? It is a great outlet when feeling anxious or overwhelmed by this new dynamic. A beautiful part of studying abroad is the relationships created, the shared moments and feelings you would feel nowhere else. With all there is to do in a foreign place, cut some time out to do it with new companions. I suggest reserving a few weekends for them and/or staying local to explore the city you all call home. The experiences that you invest in will last a lifetime, just like the friendships.
- Expect cultural differences
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Did you know that in France, it is seen as incredibly rude to work on your laptop when out to eat? Or that people are expected to leave work in the afternoon to enjoy a savory lunch and cigarette? That there is no tipping in France? And you should not bless someone after they sneeze here. It took a while to adjust to the cultural norm which, to me, felt bizarre and uncomfortable. Even making eye contact is different than in America (it should be avoided among those you do not know). As someone who was raised to look people in the eyes, tip servers, and work hard straight to the end of the day, all of this came as a shock. With that being said, learning cultural differences and understanding how other people conduct their lives is very beneficial to our outlook on life. We pick up different perspectives and habits the more we explore. We also realize how wrong we can be about the preconceived ideas we have. The only way to adjust is to have an open mind, be patient with yourself, and take in as much as you can!
Oftentimes, our cultural background has a huge impact on how we react to different situations. Gaining a variety of perspectives can help you look at experiences in an entirely new way. By studying abroad, you’ll meet people with different upbringings, helping you widen your horizons and broaden your mind.
graduate.northeastern.edu - Travel as much as (Financially) possible
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When will you be living abroad for 4 months without a job to be tied down to? Never. They call it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for a reason. Of course, traveling is always an option after this. But, to be young and overseas for a long stint is rare – you must take advantage! Of course, I highly recommend budgeting before taking off for the semester. That way, you know what is possible to do and can plan accordingly. Traveling in Europe, for example, is much easier and less costly than in the U.S. Trains and planes are so frequent and can take you anywhere. I have traveled to 7 countries in 3 months. That is more than I have done in my entire life before this! Be sure to look for flights from bigger airports (less expensive), secure housing early, and plan activities to make the most of every weekend, no matter where. Remember to keep a good balance – you want your ‘home’ city to feel like it. Cherish the weekends. But most of all, every moment. Keep your head up as you explore new places, meet new people, and learn new norms. This time is fleeting and should be lived to the fullest.