Exploring the world through studying in another country is super exciting and can really make your education extra awesome. It’s like a once-in-a-lifetime chance that lots of students are super eager to jump into.
Even if you have to wait a bit because of the pandemic, don’t worry! It just gives you more time to get ready for your big journey.
So, did you pick out an amazing study abroad program and get the thumbs up to go? Before you pack your bags and set off on your grand adventure, there are a few things you gotta take care of to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Here are 10 things to do before you jet off:
1. Get your visa
First off, you gotta get your visa sorted. That’s like your golden ticket to studying abroad. Here’s the deal:
- Check Your Passport: Make sure your passport is up to date and will be valid for the whole time you'll be away. Imagine this: you're all set to jet off, but your passport is about to expire. Not cool! So, double-check and renew if needed.
- Get the Right Visa: Depending on where you're going, you might need a student visa. This is like your official permission slip to study in another country. Different countries have different rules, so do your homework! If you need a visa, apply for it well ahead of time. You don’t want to be stressing out at the last minute. And here’s a tip: make sure the visa covers your whole stay, from the moment you arrive till the day you say goodbye.
Let’s say you’re headed to France for a semester of studying French literature. You need to make sure your passport doesn’t expire mid-trip and that your French student visa covers you for the entire semester, from the first day of classes to the end-of-term exams. That way, you can focus on your studies and exploring Paris, not worrying about paperwork.
2. Visit your doctor
Before you embark on your big adventure, it’s smart to pay a visit to your doctor. Here's why:
- Check-Up Time: Get yourself checked out to make sure you’re in tip-top shape for your travels. Your doctor can give you the green light and catch any potential health issues before they become big problems. Plus, it's always good to have peace of mind that you're starting your journey on the right foot.
- Vaccination Check: Depending on where you're going, you might need to roll up your sleeves for some vaccinations. Your doctor can clue you in on any shots you might need to stay healthy while you're abroad. They'll know which vaccines are recommended or required for the country you're heading to.
Imagine you're gearing up for a semester studying wildlife conservation in Costa Rica. Before you zip up your backpack and board your flight, swing by your doctor's office. They'll give you the all-clear and make sure you're protected against any local bugs or diseases with the right vaccinations. That way, you can focus on spotting sloths in the rainforest, not worrying about your health.
3. Research customs and culture
Before you hop on that plane, take some time to learn about the customs and culture of your study-abroad destination. Here's why it's important:
- Avoid Awkward Moments: Every place has its own way of doing things, and what's normal back home might be totally different abroad. Doing a little research beforehand can save you from accidentally putting your foot in your mouth or unintentionally offending someone. For example, in some countries, it's rude to refuse food when it's offered to you, while in others, it's common to take off your shoes before entering someone's home. Knowing these little details can help you navigate social situations with ease.
- Fit In Faster: When you understand the local customs and culture, you'll feel more at home in your new surroundings. You'll know how to greet people, what gestures to use, and what topics are okay to talk about. Plus, locals will appreciate that you've taken the time to learn about their way of life, which can help you make friends and build connections faster.
Imagine you're headed to Japan to study Japanese history. Before you go, do some research on Japanese customs like bowing to greet people and taking your shoes off indoors. Armed with this knowledge, you'll feel more confident diving into your new life abroad and making the most of your study abroad experience.
4. Find a bank
Sorting out your banking situation in a foreign country is pretty important. Here's the deal:
- Prepare for Differences: Banking rules and systems vary from country to country. Your trusty debit might not work smoothly overseas, and you might end up with unexpected fees. So, it's smart to set up a local bank account in your study abroad destination. This makes managing your money way easier.
- Plan Ahead: The easiest way to set up a bank account abroad is to do it once you've arrived. But don't worry, you can do some homework beforehand. Look into different banks and the types of accounts they offer. Some banks even let you open an account online, which can save you time and hassle.
Imagine you're off to study art history in Italy. Before you go, do some research on Italian banks and their account options. You might find that setting up a local account with an Italian bank makes it easier to pay for groceries, rent, and other expenses while you're living abroad. Plus, it can save you from racking up international transaction fees every time you swipe your card.
5. Locate the embassy
Knowing where the nearest embassy is can be a real lifesaver if you run into trouble during your time abroad. Here's why it's important:
- Emergency Assistance: If you lose your passport, get into legal trouble, or face any other emergencies while you're in a foreign country, the embassy is there to help you out. They can provide support, advice, and even help you get back home if needed.
- Keep the Info Handy: It's a good idea to have the embassy's address and phone number saved in your phone or written down somewhere safe. That way, if you ever need to reach out to them in a hurry, you'll have the info right at your fingertips.
Imagine you're studying architecture in Spain and you lose your passport while exploring Barcelona. Knowing that the nearest embassy is in Madrid and having their contact info saved on your phone means you can quickly get in touch for help getting a replacement passport. It's like having a safety net to catch you if anything goes wrong while you're far from home.
6. Talk to others who have studied abroad
Having a chat with friends or fellow students who've been there, done that with studying abroad can be super helpful. Here's why:
- Get Real-World Insights: Hearing about other people's experiences can give you a sneak peek into what studying abroad is really like. They can share their successes, challenges, and all the little things they wish they'd known before they went. Plus, they might have some awesome tips and tricks to share.
- Ask Away: Got burning questions about living in a foreign country, dealing with homesickness, or navigating cultural differences? Your study abroad buddies are the perfect people to ask. They've been in your shoes and can offer firsthand advice and reassurance.
Imagine you're getting ready to study environmental science in Canada. You're feeling excited but also a bit nervous about leaving home for the first time. Chatting with a friend who spent a semester in Canada last year can ease your worries and give you some insider tips, like where to find the best poutine and how to dress for the chilly winters. It's like having your guidebook to help you prepare for your adventure abroad.
7. Learn the language
When you're in a new place, even knowing a few simple words and phrases in the local language can really help you out, especially when you're just getting settled in. It's not just about getting by, it's also about being polite and showing respect for the people and their culture.
For example, imagine you've just arrived in a new country. Knowing how to say "hello," "thank you," or "excuse me" can go a long way. It shows that you're making an effort to understand and be a part of the community.
But it's not just about being polite; learning the basics can also make it easier to connect with others. Whether it's striking up a conversation with a local, making friends, or even just chatting with fellow students, having some language skills opens up new opportunities for interaction and friendship.
You don't have to become fluent overnight, but even a little effort can make a big difference. You could try different ways to learn, like working with an online language tutor, meeting with a face-to-face language instructor, or using language apps on your phone. Whatever method you choose, taking the time to learn even a few basic words and phrases can make your experience in a new place much richer and more enjoyable.
8. Get Familiar with the Law
When you're in a new country, it's really important to know and follow their rules and laws. This means taking some time to learn about what you can and can't do.
Before you even leave for your trip, it's a good idea to do some research. Look into the laws around things like driving, drinking alcohol, and other common activities. What might seem like no big deal in your home country could be a serious offense somewhere else.
For example, maybe in your home country, it's okay to have a drink in public, but in the place you're visiting, that could get you in trouble with the law.
By understanding and respecting the laws of your host country, you're not only keeping yourself safe, but you're also showing respect for the people who live there. It's all about being a responsible visitor and making sure you have a positive experience during your time abroad.
9. Sort Out Your Money
Before you head off to study abroad, it's smart to get your money situation sorted. Start by figuring out what currency they use in the country you're going to. Once you know that, make sure you have enough cash to cover your expenses for at least the first few days or weeks.
It's also a good idea to let your bank and card companies know about your travel plans. That way, if you need to use your card while you're overseas, they won't flag it as suspicious activity. You don't want to be stuck without access to your funds when you're far from home.
So, take some time to plan ahead. Get the right currency and make sure your bank knows you'll be traveling. That way, you can focus on your studies and adventures without worrying about your money.