What to Expect When Studying Abroad
My study-abroad experience was an exciting, life-changing adventure that opened doors to new cultures, experiences, and friendships. But along with the thrill of exploring new countries came a whole new set of challenges. Here are a few things you should know before embarking on your journey.
Pre-Departure Preparation
Visa and Documentation: Usually, if you’re studying abroad through your university, you will be guided through the process of obtaining a visa for the country of your choice. It’s important to start this process early, as the embassy can take a while to approve all of your paperwork.
TIP: Once you receive your visa, make digital and paper copies of everything: your application, insurance documents, passport, IDs, and the visa page inside your passport. These are extremely helpful in the case of an emergency.
Packing Essentials: Packing for a long stay abroad can be daunting. Prioritize essentials–clothes appropriate for the climate, toiletries, and medications. Bring a comfortable pair of shoes if you plan on walking to school every day. If you’re staying for multiple seasons, consider putting aside some money to shop once you arrive. I brought only summer clothes and purchased fall/winter items once it got cold a few months into the program. Also, bring a smaller backpack for weekend trips so you don’t have to lug around a giant suitcase and pay extra baggage fees. Remember: if you forget anything, you will most likely be able to find a similar or exact replacement, so don’t stress! And make sure to save some room for souvenirs.
Cultural Adjustment
Culture Shock: It’s normal to experience culture shock in a new, foreign environment. Everything from the food to social norms might differ from what you’re used to. The key is to be patient. Embrace the new culture, ask questions, explore the city, and find places that feel safe to you. Gradually, what felt foreign will start to feel familiar.
Language Barriers: Even if you’re fluent in the local language, accents and colloquialisms can be challenging. Remember to learn key phrases like “Hello,” “Thank you,” and “Goodbye.” Remember, locals usually appreciate the effort, even if you’re not perfect. I took Italian for two years leading up to studying abroad, and once I got to Florence, barely used my knowledge because everyone spoke English!
Cultural Norms: Each country has its own set of cultural norms and customs. Understanding these can help you integrate better and avoid unintended offenses. For instance, in some cultures, tipping is customary, while in others, it might be considered rude. Many restaurants, shops, and grocery stores are closed on Sundays in Europe. Learn typical meal times so you’re not left stranded. In Italy, people eat dinner as late as 9 pm, which is not customary in the US! Take the time to learn these nuances; it will enrich your experience. If you’re unsure, ask your professors or organizers in your study abroad program. They usually have a pretty good lay of the land and can help guide you through possible awkward interactions.
Academic Expectations
Differences in Education Systems: My workload was much lighter than that of my home university, which allowed me more time to immerse myself in the culture, but every program is different. My professors were Italian, meaning they could take us on some amazing field trips because of their connections. We visited Florentine museums weekly and took multiple bus trips to other nearby cities, like Pisa, Modena, and Siena. In my Bread, Wine, and Olive Oil class, our professor brought us to a restaurant overlooking the Tuscan hills, where we all sat together and had a five-course meal!
Managing Workload: Prioritize your assignments, but don’t forget to leave room for travel and relaxation. Find cool study spots throughout your stay that motivate you while keeping you engaged in local culture. P.S. If you’re going to Florence, I listed some of my favorite study spots here.
Social Life and Making Friends
Meeting New People: One of the most rewarding aspects of studying abroad is meeting people from around the world. Don’t be shy—most students are eager to make new friends, just like you. Invite students from your program to dinner or form a study group that meets in a local coffee shop. Remember: everyone is in the same boat. Initially, studying abroad can be isolating, but the friendships that are created last a lifetime. My roommates became my best friends instantly as we studied and traveled the world together.
Experiencing Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in events, festivals, and traditions. This enriches your experience and helps you build deeper connections with the locals. Explore restaurants further from the city center and reach out to people who inspire you. During my stay in Florence, I messaged the owner of my favorite coffee shop, and he invited me to their flagship store and answered all of my questions about owning a restaurant. It was an amazing experience that would not have happened if I had been too scared to reach out.
Accommodation: I lived in an apartment with five other girls while studying in Florence. We had access to a kitchen and (albeit tiny) living room. For me, this was ideal because I had built-in friends but also had access to my own space, which soon turned into a home away from home. The two other options for students in our study abroad program were dorms or a homestay. Many students opted for dorms because everyone lived in the same building, and it was easy to socialize. They shared facilities like bathrooms and kitchens. Homestays are a great option for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the culture. A few of my friends who studied elsewhere did this and came back almost fluent in the local language! Whatever option you choose will surely enhance your experience and give you a different perspective on local culture.
Financial Management
Budgeting Tips: Create a budget that includes rent, groceries, transportation, and entertainment. If you have a kitchen in your accommodation, utilize it! Foreign grocery stores are a fun and insightful way to learn about local cuisine. If you’re tired of cooking, explore the city and find cheap options, like a slice of pizza or a sandwich. My all-time favorite pizza was three euros! Look for student discounts and affordable travel options to maximize your experience without breaking the bank.
TIP: Always carry your student ID on you because many museums will offer a discount with your student ID.
Traveling While Studying
Weekend Getaways: Plan weekend trips to nearby cities or countries. Transport sites like RyanAir and Flixbus are great options in Europe. For accommodation, stay in hostels or look for a cheap Airbnb if you’re in a group. Weekend trips were some of my most memorable experiences and can be relatively cheap if you book them in advance. We planned most of our trips about a month in advance, booking both accommodation and transportation.
TIP: If you want to go to a very popular festival (like Oktoberfest in Munich), book that ahead of time or immediately upon arrival, grab some other students and book together to make sure there is still availability.
Exploring Nearby Destinations: Your host country likely has hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Take the time to explore lesser-known destinations, which often offer authentic cultural experiences without the tourist crowds and extortionate prices. Ask your professors for recommendations. In Europe, there are excellent train networks, making it easy to take day or weekend trips to nearby smaller cities.
Returning Home
Reverse Culture Shock: Just as you experienced culture shock when you first arrived, you might face reverse culture shock when you return home. Things that once seemed normal might feel foreign after your time abroad. I found it difficult to go back to an industrial city compared to the ancient city I lived in for three months. Give yourself time to readjust, and don’t hesitate to reach out to people you studied abroad with. It’s always fun reminiscing about travel stories with the people you experienced them with.