When I was applying to study abroad, the most common thing I heard (besides being asked where I was going, as if I already knew exactly where that was) was that I would love my experience and that everyone should study abroad if they can. After hearing story after story from all my friends who went abroad to amazing places, I had my own expectations and anxieties about studying abroad. Now that I have been on my exchange for two months, it’s safe to say some of these expectations and anxieties had merit behind them, while some of them never crossed my mind again once I stepped off that plane.
I won’t lie, I got off to a bit of a rough start when I arrived in Cape Town, as in my name hadn’t made the list to be picked up from the airport and I had to improvise. Luckily I wasn’t alone, and I made it safely to my destination. Since then it has been a whirlwind of experiences, and I am here to share some things to expect when you go abroad. Keep in mind, everyone’s experience is very different from the next.
First, when you say you’re from America, people will immediately ask you what your thoughts are on Donald Trump and whether or not you think he will be President. It will probably be different by the time you go abroad, but this has been the number one question I received, especially since I’m taking political science classes. You’ll laugh and apologize for his outlandish behavior and secretly pray that he doesn’t become president, because if he does you may never want to come home.
You’ll be having so much fun with the new friends you’ve met while abroad, but when you see your friends back home hanging out, or your sorority sisters going to events together, or even your brother watching your favorite TV show (Netflix is different here y’all) you will experience FOMO. You didn’t think you would miss midnight Cook-Out runs with your friends or dancing to Whitney Houston with your roommate, but you will. It’s okay to miss them, but don’t let it detract from all the fun you’re having on your new adventure.
Schoolwork will be harder to balance than you realize, but don’t let that frustrate you and don’t let it stop you from having fun. Luckily UNCG only requires an equivalent of a C to get transfer credit. Classes will be harder and different than at UNCG, but there is so much you can learn from your professors and peers. It’s hard when there’s so much to do in the country, but try to make the most of your time. Don’t let your studies run your life and cause you to miss out on some pretty cool adventures, but go to class and try your best. It’s all about balance.
Not every second of every day will be an adventure. You will have nights you stay in because no one is going out, or you’re actually exhausted. Sometimes you’ll be in the library for a while, and you’ll wonder if you’re wasting your time abroad. But learning is part of it and it’s okay to give yourself time to relax and sleep. It’s still important to take care of yourself!
It will truly be the experience of a lifetime. So far in my two months here I’ve hiked mountains, held hands with an elephant, gone bungee jumping and met some incredible people from all walks of life. When people say it is an unforgettable experience that can’t be put into words, they’re telling the truth. Every day will provide new opportunities and you’ll learn more about yourself than you thought you would. You will learn to accept change and adapt to it, and you’ll appreciate your life back home. But it will always be an experience that you will carry with you for the rest of your life. So while you’re abroad, make the most of your time. Meet as many people as you can and listen to their stories. If the city or country you’re going to has a “bucket list” challenge yourself to fulfill it. After all, the experience is what you make it.