1. Culture Shock is a real thing
Even going from North America to Europe, you notice differences. While not major, everything is a lot smaller in Europe and their customs vary widely from North America too. For example, you don’t normally have to tip at restaurants as a student but the downside is that you do have to pay for tap water. Although you soon get used to it. However, I can only image the culture shock going to the Middle East or Asia, where customs can vary even more from North America.
2. You will most likely not return fluent in the language
If your course is in English, there’s a high chance you won’t come back from your study abroad being fluent in another language, unless you really put yourself out there (but that’s a lot of effort). Even when you step outside of campus, when people realise you speak English, they easily switch to it. So, don’t expect to learn another language fluently; you’ll be lucky to have learnt a few basic phrases.
3. You will have to study
When you see your friends’ Instagram of their study abroad, it seems like all they did was travel and explore the country. However, while you should definitely take advantage of your semester abroad, you will also realize that you still have to study, especially if you pick schools which are known for their heavy workload. If you want to keep up those grades, you better make the time to hit the books too.
4. You will feel lonely at the beginning.
When you first arrive in a foreign country all by yourself you know no one. It’s a fact that you’ll feel lonely at the beginning. And this time, in my opinion, is always the worst. But that soon fades once university starts. If you take part in freshers or join clubs, you will soon get to know a lot of people. It’s important to put yourself out there and take advantage of all the opportunities you have.
5. Your experience is up to you!
What you make of your study abroad depends on you, no one else. If you don’t put in the extra effort, it’s difficult to make friends. You may feel outside of your comfort zone, but that’s what study abroad is all about. Take advantage of exploring the city and travelling around the country since this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. This will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life so while you definitely need to study (sad truth), you also need to relax and let yourself enjoy the semester.
Images Obtained From:
http://gurgaonmoms.com/myth-study-abroad-programs-pose-a-risk/
https://www.gradschools.com/get-informed/surviving-graduate-school/life-…