Time flies when you are having fun! Your time abroad will most likely be over before you’ve even processed it, which is why you need to think about ways to make the most of your time there. These are a few things that you should consider when studying abroad, just to make sure that your experience is perfect.
Preparation is a big part of having a successful time abroad Finish the application paperwork early on! Stressing the last minute can really ruin the beginning of your trip. This includes making sure you have updated health insurance, planning out your budget, finding a place to stay, check the weather and transportation to your place.
Set academic goals for yourself Even though you might want to study abroad for the social part, remember that you are there mainly for educational purposes. Set goals for yourself before you leave. This might include taking some hard classes, taking a new and interesting major that you’ve always been interested in, or learning a new language. Don’t miss out on opportunities that might support your future career.
Be open-minded
Our minds tend to create stereotypes, and cluster people together into categories. This is something you would want to avoid when studying abroad, simply because you need to experience the locals before judging them. Arrive at the destination with an open mind, thinking that you will meet a lot of interesting and amazing people that are different than you, in a good way!
Learn from the locals Ask the locals about the unspoken rules and norms of their community. There are often a lot of things to learn that you can’t even find online. By doing this, you get a better insight on how to react to certain situations, and how to understand their culture. You feel like a local, by thinking like a local!
Be social, with the locals Studying abroad with other international students is good in one way, but it can also be a curse. The good thing is that you always have someone to turn to, but on the other hand, it won’t expand your social circle. Try to at least get to know 3 locals on your time abroad. This will help you understand their culture, and you might get invited to some cool events. Still not sure about where to study abroad? Take our quiz here, and find out or visit our program page for our upcoming program destinations.
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