Before going abroad, most collegiettes are promised killer Instagram photos, endless bottles of wine without question, and a wonderful time exploring the world (aka the dream). While all these things are true, there are hard parts of studying abroad that no one talks about, until now.
Managing School Work Most people forget that a major part of āstudying abroadā is actually studying itself. It is very difficult to sit and do work while there is a whole city outside your apartment waiting to be explored. Exploring a new city > doing homeworkā¦RIP to our GPA
The Language Barrier Obviously going to a non-English speaking country brings about communication issues. Basic tasks such as going to the grocery store become a lot more difficult when the labels arenāt in English. Well this looks like steakā¦whatever guess we will see.
Homesickness The worst part about being abroad is being so far away from everything that is familiar. So when abroad it is completely normal to feel homesick and cry in the middle of your apartmentā¦it is fine everyone has those days.
Not Having A Set Campus It is really difficult going from a set campus where everything is max a 5-minute walk to a city where everything is so spread apart. Finding classes, places to eat, and meeting up with friends becomes a process. Remember when we all lived 2 minutes from each other? Those were the days.
Efficiency It is impossible to go abroad with the same level of efficiency standards as they have in America or at your university. In a different country, people tend to be a lot more laid back, which can make getting a quick question answered via email or grabbing a quick dinner very difficult.
Budgeting Money Between weekend trips, daily gelato runs, and going to bars every night (we are legal here, mom) spending money is inevitable. Getting a budget of the amount you can spend each week is necessary. Ugh, but seriously if only money grew on trees.
Smoking If you are studying abroad anywhere in Europe, people smoke cigarettes everywhere and anywhere unlike the US where there are limitations. This includes restaurants, bars, and everywhere on the street. Just coughing my brains out in the corner of this restaurantā¦ donāt mind me.
Having To Always Be Aware Being in a different country means having to be aware of your surroundings no matter what because you are no longer protected by DPS or Fairfield police. Gypsies trying to steal your money is a real thing so be careful out there, collegiettes.
Bathrooms Cost Money When traveling through Europe and going to different small cities there are public bathrooms that tourists can use, obviously. However, going to the bathroom anywhere public in Europe is going to cost you 50 cents, to be exact. So bear the pain or pay the price in regards to the bathroom situation.
Always Being Tired Between walking, staying out late, and consistently traveling certainly takes a toll on your body. It is important to treat your body well abroad more then ever and not overwork yourself. Treat your body well and it will treat you well in return.