Study abroad is hailed by many as an experience that “every college student” should try to have. And what’s not to be excited about? You get to spend a mini semester (or entire semester, if you’re lucky) studying while immersed in the culture of another country. Your Instagram feed for the next couple of weeks will be super enviable. And, it’s kind of like a vacation where you bring textbooks and class material, and your professor tags along. While you’re excited to leave, a small part of you may also be nervous and you can’t help but wonder a few things…
1. Will I make any friends or basically be a loner?
During orientation, you might’ve noticed that most people traveling in your group applied with friends and they’ll probably be spending the entire trip together, laughing, taking pics for each other, going out together. It can be easy to feel like you won’t fit in and you won’t make any new friends. It’s like being a freshman all over again! You can start by getting to know your roommate and, if everything works out, the two of you will likely be joined at the hip for the remainder of the trip. Be warm and welcoming towards everyone. Friendships can blossom in unexpected places (at least that’s what I’m telling myself until I board the plane).
2. Did I pack EVERYTHING?
Well, obviously not everything, but all the study abroad essentials. Despite the many packing lists you’ve researched on Pinterest and the one your advisor emailed you, you still can’t help but feel like you’re going to forget something — big or small. It’s also not just about the things you have to pack; you’re probably also worried about whether you completed all the forms that needed to be filled out, lest there be another one hiding in an email that you forgot to open. Staying as organized as possible and keeping a clear head while packing is probably the best way to make sure you don’t miss a beat.
3. What if I chose the wrong program?
What if traveling to Australia is a mistake and it would have better suited my major to travel to Italy? What if this destination actually turns out to be super boring? What if I’m unable to discuss my experience abroad during a job interview? Questions within questions are literally the worst. I know, we’re probably being ridiculous. Adventure is what you make it (I think). There’s a lesson in every experience no matter how big or small, so you won’t have room to get bored. Plus, you’re freakin’ traveling. You’ll have lots to talk about.
4. What if I get hurt while abroad?
Ouch, ouch, ouch! Even thinking about getting hurt hurts! If your program indicates that you’ll be doing things like climbing cliffs, going diving, and other activities your mom would yell at you for trying, it’s totally okay to be worried about getting hurt. I’ve never sprained my ankle or broken my arm and I’m not very eager about doing it abroad. Dressing appropriately for the activity and following directions will reduce the risk of getting hurt. If you haven’t already discussed health insurance while abroad with your advisor, do so!
5. How can I make my trip memorable?
You always hear stories from friends who studied abroad about the cool sh*t they did, and it sounds awesome, but then you wonder if you’re really going to do everything you can to enjoy the trip or if you’ll just end up on the sidelines watching everyone else explore, meet locals, and have the time of their lives. Saying you’re going to do something and actually doing it are two different things, but you’ll have several weeks to have fun and enjoy yourself. Exercise caution and common sense in everything that you do, but also don’t be afraid to go with the flow or go outside of your comfort zone.