The semester is coming to a close, and with finals ahead, it is difficult to find time to start planning for the future, especially if you are studying abroad. There are plenty of adventures in store next semester, but it takes some extra measures to get there. Here are a few starting points to get you prepared for your study abroad experience next semester.
1. Get a Passport
Before you can go abroad, you need to purchase a passport. This is a process that can take a while, so be certain to visit your local post office and get your passport as soon as possible.
2. Get a Visa
Depending on how long you stay in your designated study abroad area, you will need to get a visa. The visa process also depends on the place you are studying in, so make sure to plan ahead of time!
3. Purchase a plane ticket
It is imperative to book your flight in advance. Allow for extra time between flight changes if possible, and some leeway between when you need to arrive at your study away destination and when orientation begins. However, make sure that you find out the dates for moving in before booking because some colleges do not allow you to move into your dorm in advance.
4. Study the language
Even if you are going to a country whose primary language is English, it is ideal to look up the vernacular for whatever country you are planning to live in. Once you learn a few important phrases and words, you will have a much easier time adjusting to your new home.
5. Go to the doctor
Go to the doctor and make sure that your vaccinations are up to date. Definitely ask about any precautionary vaccines for whatever country you are traveling to. Make sure if you are taking any prescriptions that you will have enough during your stay abroad, or that you know where to go to refill your prescriptions whilst away.
6. Make a packing list
First of all, figure out if your school has a packing list that they provide you with. Some study abroad sites already equip you with towels and sheets. Consider the weather during the time in which you will be staying abroad and activities that will occur. It it is an option, take a look at your study abroad calendar for a better sense of what will be going on during your stay. Make sure that you have enough room in your suitcase for items that you purchase while you’re abroad.
7. Call your bank
Make sure that they know you are going to be studying away so that they don’t freeze your account by mistake, thinking someone stole your credit card. Figure out a cost-effective plan that is most practical for you. If it is better to withdraw money from the ATM, figure out which ones give you the lowest foreign withdrawal fees, and make sure that you budget yourself. If there is a conversion from U.S. dollars to another form of currency, make sure you figure out what the exchange rate is between the two currencies.
8. Purchase the correct power converters
Electronics are pretty much vital in this day and age, whether that be your camera, your phone, or anything else that requires electricity to charge it. Therefore, start to plan whether you are going to bring power adapters with you, or purchase them at your study abroad location. Moreover, figure out the rules with power converters, because sometimes they can be a fire hazard, so make sure that you know what your building allows. While you deal with electronics, figure out your phone carrier’s talk and text rates when abroad.
9. Prepare for homesickness
Bring as many items from home that will remind you that your loving family is just a plane ride away. Include pictures or even a box of keepsakes to help you get over homesickness. Music is a great mood-booster, and it is available on the go. Make yourself a homesick playlist to help combat the blues. When worse comes to worst, remember that there is a campus full of other students who probably feel the same way you do.
10. Get excited!!
You are going to study in another country!! Get pumped!! Plan on exploring new places, becoming friends with new faces, and learning all kinds of new and wonderful things. Make a list of all the places you want to explore and fun things you want to experience while you are abroad. Life is an adventure! Go out and explore it.