Studying abroad is such an exciting experience but it often carries quite a few other emotions with it. While at some points you feel totally elated about the adventures ahead of you, there are other moments where you feel a little overwhelmed. It’s okay because we are all feeling the same way! Here are some of the feelings you get before you go abroad.
1. Finding out you’ve been accepted
You did all the research, went to all the meetings, filled out all the paperwork, and now, you’ve finally been accepted to go abroad! You’re super excited and in a little bit of disbelief because in a few months you’ll be having the time of your life experiencing a whole new country! Image Source
2. Stressed from the visa application
Depending on where you go, a visa may be necessary for your time abroad. It seems like every time you look at the list, there’s another item you need to complete. Will it ever end?? Yes, and you’ll be one step closer to getting on that plane!
3. Researching everything
You look up the top 10 places to visit, the best foodie spots, crash courses on the local languages, and anything else you can think of about your destination. Half of it is because you’re so excited to go and the other half is to make sure you don’t miss out once you get there. Image Source
4. Sad you’re leaving your friends and family
Leaving your friends and family behind is super tough even if it’s just for a few weeks, never mind a whole semester. But you can think of it as making a bunch of new pen pals! Besides, you’ll be too busy exploring to be that homesick.
5. Excited to meet new people
On the other hand, you also will meet a ton of new people from all over the world! Use your time abroad to make great new friendships as you all experience this new country together. Open your mind to new perspectives and you may end up learning more about yourself as well.
6. Nervous you’re going to be totally lost
You may be nervous about finding your way around your new home or about navigating a new culture. It may seem like a lot now but within a few weeks, you will be wondering why you felt like that to begin with. Just remember to keep an open mind and maybe a map Image Source
7. Confused how you’re going to pack for 6 months in one suitcase
If over-packing is one of your specialties, then fitting a whole semester into one suitcase may seem like a daunting task. Even if you can fit it all into one bag can you keep it under 50 lbs? Consider looking into minimal capsule closets to free up space or pack light and purchase more clothes when you get to your location.
8. Feeling lucky you can go
Most of all, you feel so lucky to be able to have this chance to get outside the country. Only 10% of undergraduates in the U.S. take advantage of study abroad opportunities so don’t take anything for granted. At no other time will we be able to live in a country for this long with this amount of freedom.
Bon Voyage!