In case you didn't know, I'm going to Australia in a few months to study abroad. That being said, it has been some of the most hectic last few months in attempts to prepare to leave the country. Here are a few tips to try and make it easier the second time around.
1. Save Money.
Obviously, going to a different country is really freaking expensive. From your dorm costs to food and airplane tickets, this is something you really have to save for. Summer jobs are a great option and be sure to look into financial aid available from your school. Just remember, studying abroad isn’t some walk in the park that you can take on a whim. It takes, time, planning, and saving some of that green!
2. Start Early.
Don’t be like me. Specifically, don’t wait until two months before you’re leaving to take care of your paperwork, student visa, and classes. This is simply time management. And if you really want to put the time in, start as early as you possibly can.
3. The Application is the Easy Part.
When I applied to study abroad in a different country, I complained for weeks how annoying the application was. Little did I know, that’s the easy part. You also have to worry about passports, student visa applications, housing applications, and paperwork on your original institution side of things. As long as you’re on top of these things and know what’s to come, you should be fine. But as much as I hate to say this, it only get harder.
4. Time Management
I already suggested this earlier, but spread all the work over a couple months. Don’t cram it in the beginning or at the end for that matter. Maybe do housing one week, classes the next, and your passport the one after that. Don’t overwhelm yourself, it’s a recipe for a disaster.
5. Make Packing Lists.
Studying abroad is a nightmare when it comes to packing. You have to fit a whole wardrobe of clothing into a tiny suitcase. While your current dorm room may be able to fit all those cute trinkets, you should probably say goodbye to them for now. Prioritize, make lists, and be prepared.
6. Do Research.
Going to a different country requires a lot of research. What is their currency? Do they have different outlets? What’s the time difference? Do you have a pharmacy out there you can go to? What about health insurance? Do your research!
7. Bring a Buddy or Be Independent.
If you’re more dependent on people like me, you’ll probably want to go abroad with a few friends. I’m luckily going to Australia with my two roommates and best friend, so I’ll have all the company I can get. But don’t be afraid to do things on your own. Make new friends, meet new people, immerse yourself in the culture, and find yourself.
8. Don’t Neglect Your Current School Work
Most students apply to study abroad programs while they are still in school. I don’t think this needs to be said, but remember that you are still in school! Don’t ignore your work and don’t put it off until later. Those grades you’re getting are the reason you are going abroad. Don’t blow it!
9. It Might Not Work Out Perfectly
Whatever is going to happen will happen. If things get a little chaotic, let them. Be on top of your items and make some lists, but when it comes down to it, don’t stress too much. This is supposed to be a fun and amazing experience, but it won’t be perfect. Don’t expect it to be. Sometimes, you will probably cry about how expensive plane tickets are or how long a student visa application is. But you’ll be okay.
10. But It Will Work Out
In a few weeks or months you could be in a different country. It will work out, and it will be so worth it.
