By: Mackenzie Boyce
If I could describe the study abroad planning process in one word it would have to be difficult. When I first began to prep for my semester in France, I was unaware of how much work I would genuinely have to put in to get there. While it may be more straightforward to do summer or winter abroad trips, I definitely wish I had a mentor to help me through the complexities of the semester process. If you are planning a semester abroad, this is everything you need to know.
- Choosing Where To Go
If you’re anything like me, you always knew exactly where you wanted to go. I chose to study abroad in Paris because of my French minor and general love for learning the French language. I also had dreamed of going to Paris since I was a young girl, so I never had to truly decide where to go. However, a lot of students are not set on an exact location. Setting up a meeting with the study abroad office can really help you narrow down your options. Even though I was decided on my location, they still offered me many informative pamphlets about various other programs. Make sure to do your research and take your major into account for sure.
- Planning Your Classes
While not all universities require this, Manhattan College makes all students complete a Form A before they can apply to their study abroad program. This form is A LOT of work, and it is definitely easy to get discouraged (trust me, I did). You must take at least 15 credits for the semester, and get each abroad course and its Manhattan equivalent approved by your major advisor, minor advisor, dean of advising and study abroad coordinator. That’s a lot of signatures! You have to devote a lot of time choosing what classes you need, what classes are enough credits and what classes your home university will accept credit for.
3. The Visa Process
Luckily for short-term students, they do not need to go through the process of obtaining a Visa. However, if you are staying for the semester or even the year, you need to have a short or long-term visa. If you ask anyone, this is definitely the most stressful part of the process. Make sure to get this done early! You must start by completing more forms, and it feels like the paperwork will never end. It can be confusing at times so make sure to watch the video tutorials, as embarrassing as it may be. After everything is completed and paid for, yes it is a hefty fee, you need to make an appointment with the closest visa office. Luckily, there is one right in New York City. I cannot stress this enough: do it early! Your appointment will not be for a few weeks, and it takes roughly three weeks after the appointment to get your visa. Despite these long wait times, starting early is also important because you may be missing some documents and have to come back. Make sure to read about the documents you need and bring absolutely everything.
4. The Language
If you are traveling somewhere that does not have English as the official language, make an effort to learn. You do not have to be fluent, but the locals appreciate it when you make an effort to use basic phrases. Learn your hello, goodbye, thank you and some phrases for ordering in a restaurant. Not only does this make your life easier, but it’s fun to try to learn a new language.
5. Phone and Wallet
Before leaving, it is important to look into any changes that should be made to your bank account or phone plan. Luckily, my phone plan is international, and I do not receive an extra charge for texting or using data in other countries. However, many other phone providers charge each day you are in another country, and it would be in your best interest to purchase a SIM card. You should also decide what is best for your bank account. You need to inform your bank account if you will be abroad for a long time so your account is not flagged. This can be done directly in most banking apps. You also should look into the different types of debit or credit cards. Some cards do not work in various countries or will cause a three percent charge every time you tap them. Again, this is all up to your own personal preference, and if it is in your best interest you can invest in a travel card to no longer get the international fee.
6. Packing
If you’re like me and are obsessed with clothes, this will definitely be more difficult than any paperwork you had to complete. Do the research on the weather where you are traveling, and try to look into the style of that particular city or country. I found that the best clothes to bring are neutrals, and I would recommend leaving the statement pieces at home. As someone who loves wearing color, this was not easy. However, you only have so many options for building outfits, and it can be difficult to mix and match pieces if they are not neutrals.
7. Coping With Home Sickness
Obviously, when you have so many wonderful friends and an amazing family it can be hard to move away from them. It can be even more difficult when you’re experiencing culture shock, and are coming to accept that you are truly in a foreign place. Even though you are having fun, there will always be moments when you feel alone, or start to miss life before leaving. I recommend bringing some things from home that are meaningful to you but don’t take up too much room in your suitcase (obviously). I brought photos of all the people I care about most back home and hung them up in my apartment. It’s helpful to feel like a part of home is there with you.