1. Look at a Map
Yes, I’m serious. First, look at a map and narrow down where you may want to go. If you’re studying Arabic, I doubt you should go to Brazil. Although, beyond language, be open to places. Look at an area you’re interested in and maybe consider the road less traveled. If you study Russian, look at post-Soviet countries like Kyrgyzstan. I study International Security, and my school’s corresponding program was in Bologna, Italy, but I had never learned Italian or considered Europe.
2. Talk to People
Once you have a general idea, talk to people about study abroad. Meet with your advisor or global studies counselor to learn more about the programs available and if you’re even eligible. I was all set on a program in Serbia, when in fact, our Bologna program was better for my major and cheaper. Plus, my parents were a bit more comfortable with Italy over Serbia. Talk to your parents. Some of you may have really laid back parents who are totally fine if you want to go study in Syria. Some of your parents may be more concerned about the dangers in the world. But bottom line, make sure they’re informed about what you’re thinking about. Reach out to friends and upper classmen who studied abroad in your area or major too.
3. Do Some Research
Now that you have some general information regarding your school and requirements, get online and do some research. Look at partner programs and other study abroad sites that may better fit you and still meet your requirements. Learn about the place you want to go. This means knowing or being open to the language, culture, ideologies etc. Read about others’ experiences there. Weigh the pros and cons of each location. You may not speak Italian, but they might offer a language class over there.
4. Sign Up and Complete the Forms
Did you make a decision? Great! Go sign-up and follow up with your counselor. Find out about the application, the visa process, housing, courses and any other forms you may need. Some locations require shots and medical updates. Be aware that all of this needs to happen months ahead of time. Some visa processes can take up to and beyond 5 months to clear. Renew or find your passport and double check that it doesn’t expire while you’re there. If you’re able, I highly recommend applying for Global Pre-Check with the TSA. Eighty dollars, a form, and an interview and you can have lower lifetime stress in airport security lines.
5. Plan
If you’re lucky, your program is all expense paid and all inclusive. However, you need to be aware of a few things. Shocker, not every nation uses the dollar, nor will every credit card work in those little Italian cafes. My program had a stipend system set up, yours may not. Call your credit card companies and notify them of your travel. For your cell phone, you have a few options. Pay for a global data plan, buy a SIM card abroad or a track phone, or just pay the extra fees you may accrue. *Pro Tip: Download maps when you have wi-fi, take screenshots, and then when you’re lost and your phone won’t load, you can still figure out where you are. Book your flights through the recommended agent. If you can, traveling on the group flight will save you so much stress, even if it’s more expensive. Lastly, and most importantly, have some ideas of where you may want to travel for breaks or weekends. Look at events in the region or cheap train travel. It’s easier to plan months ahead than be stuck in a hot apartment in a foreign city trying to decide where to go on Saturday and it’s Friday night. I recommend programs such as Weekend Student Adventures to Erasmus to help guide you on your travels.
6. Get Excited
Yes, I know, you’re all set, you have every possible thing ready. But be ready to explore! Your host town may have great museums, or fantastic food options. You may be really close to the world’s largest bridge. You might want to reserve tickets for that weekend of Oktoberfest. Maybe there’s a student group for foreigners that organizes trips and evening outings. Plan for the unexpected though. You may really want to buy that theft-proof purse. You may be in Rome when a terror attack hits. You can literally never be too prepared or aware of what you’re getting in to. *Pro Tip: Sign up for the State Department’s email alert system for American travelers.
7. Pack
Oh no. The dreaded “I only have two bags for four whole months? How will I ever survive?” I promise, you’ll be fine. Know your climate and weather. If you’re going to Poland in winter, you may not need that bikini. If you’re going to Equatorial Guinea, you may not need that parka. There are hundreds of online videos, packing lists, and ideas on how to pack for study abroad. Mainly, be aware of weight restrictions and carry-on limitations. You may want to take that huge backpacking backpack, but it may be too big for that overhead bin. I promise there will always be that one person that brings only a duffel and another that brings three suitcases and a huge tote. A few other things, be aware if you need bedding, what prescriptions are legal or available, and believe it or not, there are stores abroad. When in doubt, email your global education counselor.
8. Relax
Alright, you’ve made it! You’re bags are packed and you’re about to start one of the biggest adventures of your life. Don’t panic! Have faith that you’ll enjoy your time abroad and always know you’re there to experience another culture, learn, and grow. Don’t forget your parents are having just as hard of a time as you are. You're allowed to be homesick and miss the creature comforts. But, don't forget you're there to immerse yourself in a new culture. Embrace it! Be flexible and know that things will always happen, but that’s just part of the experience. Be open to explore the world!
