Tips for Studying Abroad

It’s that time of year again!  It seems like all of my friends are going on adventures abroad this summer.  If you’ve caught the travel bug, here are some invaluable tips and tricks when going abroad:

• MAKE COPIES.  It’s okay to chop down trees when you’re travelling abroad.  Be sure to make copies of your passport, visas, trip itinerary, US Embassy information, bank information, etc. You never know what can happen when you travel, and you’ll need all of this information to get back home if you lose your passport!
  
• TRAVEL LIGHT.  This may seem impossible if you’re studying abroad for 6-8 weeks.  Have no fear; Pinterest is here! This website has fabulous idea for packing lightly! http://www.outfitposts.com/2012/11/one-suitcase-business-casual-capsule_6313.html#.VSxpgfnF-So
  
• MED CRAZY.  Be sure to visit your physician before going abroad.  Some countries require certain vaccinations for you to even get on the plan, so check out the CDC’s recommendation for your country.  While you’re at it, see if your family doctor thinks you’ll need some nausea and anti-diarrhea medication.  Better safe than sorry!  http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list
  
• CHOOSE BAGS WISELY.  Sure, you want to look trendy abroad, but be sure to think about the safety of you and your stuff! It’s recommended to bring a small, cross-body bag.  Maybe even check out a money belt that can be hidden under your clothes.
  
• MONEY MATTERS.  Don’t forget to make sure what currency the country you’re travelling to uses.  It’s often cheaper to change money over in the U.S. rather than while abroad. Also, check with your bank to see what kind of fees they give you if you use an ATM while abroad. You’d be surprised!
  
• KNOW THE U.S. EMBASSY’S NUMBER.  They’ll be the ones to help you get home in case of an emergency.  While you’re at it, register with the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) at https://step.state.gov/step/ .  If anything is going on in the country you’re visiting, they will make sure you get out safely!
  
• LEARN THE LINGO.  You may not need to be fluent in the language of your country, but it’s important to know some of the language so that you can get around.  Phrases like “Thank you,”  “Where is the nearest bathroom,” and “How do I get _____?” are important to know!
  
• GET INSURED.  Make sure that you enroll in a study abroad health insurance policy.  It will save you major bucks if you get sick or injured while abroad!
  
• DON’T MAKE YOURSELF A TARGET.  Being abroad isn’t the time to be noticed.  Make sure you research cultural customs, don’t show all of your money when paying for something, and mirror what see others doing around you.  You never want your actions to make you look like a tourist.
  
• TAKE PICTURES AND KEEP A JOURNAL.  Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.  Be sure to take lots of pictures, and journal or blog about your experiences! You’ll be happy to recorded your raw emotion in years to come!

Remember, be safe and have fun! The world is yours!