I think we can all agree that study abroad is an incredible opportunity. But how do you make it even more incredible? That’s what today’s post is all about.
You’re bound to learn plenty in the classroom, and your studies are important. But there’s so much more to see and do! Living in a different country gives you the chance to broaden your horizons, and it’s really worth making the most of the experience. To make sure you don’t look back in regret, try following some of the advice below while you study abroad.
Travel around the region/country when you can
https://www.instagram.com/p/BC9gTruAyf2/
Whether you’re on a short-term exchange or earning an entire degree, study abroad doesn’t last forever. Domestic trips are much cheaper than international travel, and shorter journey times mean you can take weekend trips and still have time to explore. These places won’t always be at your fingertips, so visit them while you can! There’s so much more out there than what your campus can offer you.
Try out local restaurants
https://www.instagram.com/p/1GIGX6PqQg/
This might be the foodie in me talking, but in my opinion, one of the best ways to get involved in the local culture is to try the food. Be adventurous, even if you think you might not like it. If you don’t, that will be memorable in and of itself! You don’t have to stop at restaurants, either. If you get the opportunity to eat with the friends and family of local students, take advantage: you might get the chance to try some even more authentic dishes.
Make as many friends and connections as you can
At the end of the day, many experiences are only as special as the people you share them with. Making friends will offer you company, new perspectives, and people to keep in touch with once you go home. Locals can inform you of places to visit that are off the beaten track, and people who are new to the area will be similarly excited to discover what there is to see. To me, one of the sweetest forms of reminiscing is recalling with someone an experience you shared together, so make sure you’re not alone when making all your memories.
Visit local cultural landmarks
Getting to know the culture of a place can make you feel more connected to it, so get exploring! If you’re not sure what to look for, try asking your fellow students or professors, or check out the local library. See if there are places of historical note nearby, or culturally significant institutions. Even if you’re studying in an area that’s somewhat remote, you’re sure to find something. And if you’re in a city, the options are endless.
Document your experience
https://www.instagram.com/p/_soKcQvqef/
Even though the memories alone are likely to stay vivid in your mind for a long time to come, having tangible souvenirs of your time studying abroad will make it all the more special. Let your creativity run wild with this one! Naturally, taking photos are a great way to remember all the sights you see, and these can be printed out and preserved in countless different ways. But there’s no need to stop there! Saving your travel tickets, writing about your experiences in a diary, and creating a vlog are some other inexpensive ideas to get you started.
Whether you’ve only just started your study abroad, or it’s almost at an end, it’s never too early or late to make your experience unforgettable. What are your plans for making your journey the best it can be? Leave a comment below or tweet @studyUSAguide to share your adventures!
So, why are you still reading this? It’s time to get out and make some memories!
Study Abroad Survival Guide 