A Student Reference Guide to Studying Abroad

Quick Advice and Essential Checklists for Students

By Kayda Norman

Part of the campus of Oxford, England, which is a great destination to study abroad.

I was initially skeptical about studying abroad.

Everyone I met who had studied abroad previously insisted it was “the best experience of their life.” Nonetheless, I was sure that I would be the one person who would have a less than delightful time.

Fortunately, I was wrong and became one of those annoying people who could recount their time studying abroad with nostalgia and enthusiasm.

Studying abroad in London allowed me to explore much of Europe, including Italy, Scotland, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Although England shares many similarities with the United States, the country opened my eyes to another culture and way of thinking. Living in such a cosmopolitan environment allowed me to interact with people from all over the world every day and to gain new perspectives on how people viewed politics, sex, and, of course, the United States government.

Furthermore, my time abroad affirmed my desire to be a journalist. It even offered me a subject I wanted to specialize in — travel writing.

Why Study Abroad?

• It looks great on your resume.
  
  
• It gives you an excuse to travel the world for a semester.
  
  
• It offers you a chance to improve upon or learn a new language.
  
  
• It allows you to meet new people and learn about a new culture.
  
  
• It provides you an opportunity to learn more about yourself. It proves that you can handle being more than three hours away from your parents for an extended period.
  
  
• It is enjoyable.

Advice Before Studying Abroad

The best advice I can give those pondering studying abroad is to plan ahead, and if you have any doubts, just do it. Even the most adventurous may initially have reservations about venturing to another country where they may not know anyone or speak their native language. But by the end of your study abroad adventure- no matter where you study — you can be sure that your life will be changed in some way due to your experience.

Where to Go and When? Some Questions to Ask When Planning Your Study Abroad Adventure

• Research your school’s study abroad requirements. For instance, must you have a 3.0 GPA and be a junior or senior?
  
  
• What is your school’s policy about transferring course credit? Will you get full or partial credit, and what courses will you be allowed to take abroad?
  
  
• What do you want to get from your experience studying abroad? Do you want to learn another language, or are you particularly interested in Italian art or Japanese history?
  
  
• How “safe” do you want to play it? It goes without saying that studying abroad in Ireland, while likely an adventure, will be less of a culture shock than living for an extended period in Ghana.

What you May Want to Do Before Studying Abroad

• Research the history and culture of the country you are visiting beforehand. For instance, if you are visiting England, it might be helpful to know the name of the current prime minister.
  
  
• Knowing the fundamental laws of the country you are visiting can help you avoid unforeseen problems.
  
  
• Research how the country’s school system works. For example, a 70% on an exam in the U.K. is equivalent to 95-100% in the United States.
  
  
• Have extra copies of emergency phone numbers and the contact information for the U.S. embassy.
  
  
• Research your airline’s baggage policy, including the number of bags you can take and how heavy they can be. If possible, weigh your bags before going to the airport to avoid additional fees.
  
  
• Ensure your bank knows you will be out of the country several months ahead so they are not alarmed by charges on your account from a foreign country.
  
  
• Plan ahead to decide whether to update your cell phone plan to be international or buy a pay-as-you-go phone while abroad.
  
  
• Figure out how you plan to get around the country. Most cities have a metro or subway system. Plan ahead for any transportation fees.
  
  
• Know where you are staying and whether or not items such as sheets and kitchenware are provided.
  
  
• Keep mementos such as ticket stubs and programs. You can use them in a scrapbook about your travels later.

What to Bring (and Not to Bring)

• Pictures from home of friends and family.
  
  
• Proper power plugs and electric converters for each country.
  
  
• Favorite books, CDs, and DVDs.
  
  
• Your laptop computer and charger.
  
  
• A diary to write down your experiences abroad.
  
  
• A “passport emergency kit” includes two passport-sized photos, extra copies of your birth certificate, and a driver’s license — hard copy or on a secure Cloud.
  
  
• Digital camera and charger.
  
  
• Avoid bringing items such as toothpaste, shampoo, and other toiletries. They only add unnecessary weight to your baggage and can be bought while abroad.
  
  
• Please repeat after me. You DO NOT need that tenth pair of high heels. You DO NOT need to bring that sweater that goes really well with that one pair of pants. Remember, you will need room in your suitcase to return with your souvenirs.

Student Travel Around Europe

Once you are in Europe, travel is relatively cheap from country to country, and you will no doubt want to take advantage of this opportunity to explore the continent. To make the most of your visit, consider the following:

• Book your flights ahead of time. The earlier you make your travel arrangements, the cheaper your getaway will cost.
  
  
• Take advantage of hostels. They often offer rates as low as 20-30 euros a night. Keep all your valuables on hand, and do not be fooled by the “continental breakfast.” The complimentary breakfast generally means toast with no butter.
  
  
• Companies may cater specifically to students studying abroad and generally offer good deals, including transportation, lodging, tours, and food expenses.
  
  
• Know the exchange rate before traveling, and try to have cash and credit cards.
  
  
• Research what sites you want to see beforehand, and remember that museums, zoos, and tours often cost quite a bit themselves. Check out tourist websites to see if they offer student discounts.
  
  
• Learn how to say simple phrases such as “thank you,” “please,” and “I don’t speak ____ (insert language).”

Ways to Handle Getting Homesick While Abroad

• Keep busy to avoid homesickness. You are in another country, so use your time abroad to explore everything you can while you have the chance to be there.
  
  
• Make new friends through classes or by joining a club, meetup, or sports team.
  
  
• Keep in touch with friends and family, and document your trip via your favorite social media platforms. Use WhatsApp, Zoom, and other growing similar platforms such as Skype (which allows free video calls with other Skype users using a device)

Helpful Websites and Resources for Students

• See an article on Cheap Air Travel in Europe and resources on Cheap Transportation Abroad
• See resources on Youth Hostels Abroad
• See resources on Staying Connected Abroad
• See resources on Money Matters Aboad
• See resources on Embassies, Visas, and Passports Abroad