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Studying Abroad: How to Prepare

Studying abroad is a unique opportunity, which is why students who are fortunate enough to have the chance to do it are often encouraged to. However, studying abroad is not without its challenges, and deciding how to prepare for such an important trip is a major one. From the practical matters of visas and paperwork to the less concrete (but no less important) issues that may arise such as homesickness, this guide will help you prepare for studying abroad.

Get a Head Start on Paperwork

Getting a visa, necessary vaccines, and other paperwork requirements for your trip may take longer than you think. Research the documents you will need to travel thoroughly and get a start on them as soon as possible. Most countries will deny you entry if your documents are not in order, so make sure you have everything you need to avoid getting stranded in the airport.

Know How Much You Have to Spend

While it’s very possible to live in most places around the world on a budget, be realistic about how much money you will need during your time abroad. Research the cost of living in the place you will be visiting to get an idea of how much food and transportation will cost. Also allow for some fun in your budget! You will no doubt want to experience local foods, buy souvenirs, or travel, all of which will add to your total expenditures. 

Keep Communication Open 

Make a plan to stay in touch with family and friends back home. They will want to hear about your trip, and you will almost surely need to hear their voices from time to time. Social media makes it easier than ever to send pictures and messages, but for the people you are closest to, you may want to work out more intimate means of staying in touch. There are a number of phone and messaging apps and programs that let you chat for a discounted rate. Make sure that all your loved ones are using the same one so that you can contact one another while you are living abroad. 

Be Prepared for Culture Shock

While living abroad, you will no doubt learn a lot about your newly adopted home. That being said, it’s also a good idea to prepare before you leave so that you will have a better idea of what to expect. Brush up on the language if you haven’t already, and do some research into basic cultural norms to avoid offending the locals. You may also want to look at what is and isn’t available in terms of food and medical care. Some of the things you take for granted at home might be hard to come by when living abroad.

Pack Light 

Take a serious look at what you really need to get by when studying abroad. Pack only the clothes and other items that you really need for your trip. Excess baggage will only weigh you down, and you want to make sure to leave plenty of room in your suitcase to bring home souvenirs on the return trip. 

Enjoy Yourself

While studying abroad is primarily about an investment in education, you don’t have to hit the books every night. Make sure to build in plenty of time into your schedule to see the sights, meet new people, and do things you can’t do at home. This will help stave off homesickness and teach you important things that you can’t learn in the classroom.

Whether it's on a gap year before college or a semester away, studying abroad can be a life changing way to expand your worldview. Though any time spent studying abroad is bound to have its ups and downs, preparing well for your journey can help make it an experience that is incredible and rewarding.

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