For students of a certain age, particular conversation topics become inevitable as the end of the school year approaches – Padua or New Hall? Four-man or six-man townhouse? Perhaps the most frequently discussed topic for rising juniors is that of study abroad.
“Are you going in the fall or spring?”
“Where are you going?”
“Where are you living when you come back?”
So, coming from the perspective of a frazzled but incredibly excited Fall 2015 study abroad student, here’s a peek into one’s brain the semester before they venture out of the country and begin an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime adventure:
1) “How the heck does my banking work over there?”
I mean, it’s just a hunch, but I don’t think a Bank of America card is going to function in Europe.
2) “How many times will I resort to Ryanair to travel?”
We’ve all heard the horror stories, and secretly wonder if the too-good-to-be-true prices will be persuasive enough for us to use this airline.
3) “How much can I pack without paying exorbitant baggage fees upon departure?”
I am a girl going away for over three months. Finding the perfect suitcase will be a struggle.
4) “How long will it take for me to navigate my new city without getting lost?”
This is something I will gladly embrace as I try to assimilate to my new home, but I’m sure the idea of getting lost will be a little scary for the first few days.
5) “Visas are how much???”
Let’s not talk about this one yet.
6) “On a scale of 1 to Mary-Kate and Ashley, how often will foreign boys sweep me off my feet?”
Admit it, you had a childhood crush on at least one of these guys.
7) “Will I ever want to come back home?”
No. Most likely no.