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]]>Enhanced Communication
Speaking the local language breaks down communication barriers. It gives you the opportunity to create more meaningful connections with locals, fellow students, and faculty. Even if you only know a few words, you’ll be surprised how much locals will appreciate that you’re making an effort.
Increased Independence
The ability to communicate in the local language will boost your confidence and self-reliance. From reading signs and menus to asking for directions, you’ll have a much easier time getting around solo.
Cultural Immersion
Learning the local language will give you a deeper understanding of the culture. Each language has unique untranslatable words, idioms, and phrases that give you a look at how they see the world, and this is invaluable.
Personal Growth
Finally, learning a new language challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, embrace ambiguity, and adapt to a different linguistic and cultural context. The skills acquired during this process will contribute to your overall resilience and adaptability.
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]]>Barcelona, Spain
The capital of Catalonia is a buzzing metropolis of history and culture. This city has incredible landmarks and buildings dotted throughout, as well as an incredible range of shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants. It also has some beautiful parks and beaches, meaning you’ll always have some lovely spots to chill in and reconnect with nature.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
This major capital city boasts a wide range of attractions that make it ideal for international students. With plenty of exciting museums and galleries for rainy days, and the beautiful and unique canal system for sunny days, you’ll never run out of things to do and see. There is a rich mixture of cultural influences and backgrounds that make up the inspiring city.
ْجَمَّـال (@jamal_thebiophile)Prague, Czechia
Another huge international city, the capital of Czechia is an ideal place to study abroad. With the huge river Vltava running through the center of the city, there are numerous spots to sit and relax by the water. Additionally, you’ll find endless historical sites and museums to explore. You’ll also never run out of delicious and cheap food and drink venues to try.
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]]>Head to a Local Sports Game
Try to find your nearest small sports team that you’d enjoy going to watch. These local games often have small crowds and attract people from nearby areas, so showing your support will help you feel more involved in the community. If you attend regularly you can get to know the other supporters.
Research Local Volunteering
Getting involved with local projects will help you give something back to the community and feel much more connected to your surroundings and the people around you. Often volunteering opportunities are quite social events where you’ll have the chance to chat with the other volunteers.
Find the Non-Tourist Bars and Restaurants
There are often many food and drink venues in an area that are aimed at tourists, and while this isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you’re living somewhere it’s nice to find the more local, independent venues. Your support for these lesser-known establishments will be much appreciated, and you’ll feel more connected to the local people who visit these places too.
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]]>Research the Area
While it can be nice to explore somewhere once you arrive and learn about the local attractions, it’s also good when you are going to be living somewhere to have an idea in your head of what’s on offer in the area. You may well discover that there are clubs or evening classes in which you’d love to get involved, or simply a nearby green space that you’d love to explore.
Buy a Phrasebook
It’s a great idea to try to learn some of the language of your area and a phrasebook can be helpful for a concise, accessible way to learn some words and phrases.
Check and Switch Your Mobile Phone Plan
As exciting as studying abroad is, you’ll no doubt want to have some catch-up calls with your loved ones while you’re away. It’s important to double-check before you go what your current plan offers in terms of international calls and switch it if needs be.
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]]>Cultural Immersion And Global Perspective
Studying abroad allows you to immerse yourself in a new culture, language, and way of life, broadening your perspective and deepening your understanding of the world. By living and studying in a foreign country, you have the opportunity to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, engage in cross-cultural exchanges, and gain firsthand insights into different customs, traditions, and societal norms. Experiencing life in a new culture challenges your preconceptions, expands your worldview, and fosters empathy and cultural competence, essential qualities for success in an increasingly interconnected global society.
Personal Growth and Independence
Studying abroad is a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, providing you with the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, overcome challenges, and develop resilience and independence. Living independently in a foreign country encourages self-reliance, adaptability, and problem-solving skills as you navigate unfamiliar environments and cultural nuances. You learn to embrace uncertainty, cultivate new perspectives, and build confidence in your ability to thrive in diverse settings.
Academic and Professional Development
Studying abroad can enhance your academic and professional prospects by exposing you to new ideas, perspectives, and opportunities for learning and growth. Many universities and colleges offer specialized programs and courses that are unique to the host country, allowing you to explore your academic interests in a global context. Additionally, studying abroad can broaden your network of contacts and connections, opening doors to international internships, research opportunities, and career pathways. Employers value the skills and experiences gained from studying abroad, such as adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and global awareness, making you more competitive in today’s global job market.
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]]>Stay Connected
Schedule regular FaceTime sessions, send goofy selfies, or start a family group chat (warning: memes may be involved). This way, you’ll get a taste of home while you’re away on your own.
Create a Home Away from Home
Spruce up your dorm with cozy blankets and photos of loved ones. Hey, maybe you’ll even feel like going wild and getting a plant (if you can keep it alive, that is).
Explore Your New Surroundings
Go on epic adventures around campus and your city. Discover hidden gems, make new friends, and create some college memories memories.
Get Involved
Join clubs, volunteer, or try out for intramural sports. Engaging in activities you enjoy will keep you busy and help you build new connections.
Practice Self-Care
Take time for yourself amidst the craziness of college life. Whether it’s indulging in a Netflix binge, taking a long walk, or meditating outside, it’ll help you recharge and combat homesickness.
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]]>Crash a Random Lecture
Sneak into a random lecture on campus just for kicks. You might learn something cool, or you might just have a hilarious story to tell later.
Create a Viral TikTok
Gather your squad and brainstorm ideas for a TikTok that’ll blow up. Whether it’s a dance challenge or a comedy skit, aim for viral and watch the likes roll in.
Start a Campus Trend
Be a trendsetter on campus by starting your own trend. Whether it’s a fashion statement, a catchphrase, or a new hangout spot, leave your mark on campus culture.
Host a DIY Film Festival
Grab some popcorn and host a DIY film festival in your dorm room. Pick a theme, curate a lineup of cult classics, and invite your friends for a cozy movie night in.
Take a Spontaneous Road Trip
Pack your bags, hop in the car, and go on a spontaneous adventure with your besties. No plans, no destination—just you and the open road.
Study Abroad
Expand your horizons with a life-changing study abroad experience. Whether it’s a semester in Paris or a year in Barcelona, this is one item on the college list you don’t want to miss.
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]]>Why Do I Want to Study Abroad?
This might seem obvious, but your motivations are the anchor that guides your entire decision. Are you seeking academic rigor in a specific field? Do you crave cultural immersion and adventure? Do you want to boost your employability with international experience? Answering honestly helps narrow down your search and choose a program that aligns with your goals.
What Can I Afford?
Study abroad programs come with varying costs, encompassing tuition, travel, accommodation, and living expenses. Before getting swept away by the program’s brochure, create a realistic budget and research funding options. Look into scholarships, grants, financial aid, and work-study opportunities to minimize financial stress and maximize your enjoyment.
Am I Ready for the Challenges?
Living in a new environment with different customs, languages, and social norms can be challenging and rewarding in equal measure. Are you comfortable stepping outside your comfort zone? Be honest about your adaptability and willingness to face challenges head-on.
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]]>Dream Come True?
Many students who want to study abroad already have their dream destination in mind. If that’s the case with you, avoid the risk of getting your bubble burst by talking to people who studied there and doing your own research—sometimes, dreamy places aren’t always what they seem.
Knowing the Language
Studying abroad can be pretty challenging, and not knowing the language can make things even more difficult. That’s why it’s always a good idea to find a study program in your native language or a foreign language that you already know.
Money Talks
Even if you get a scholarship, studying aboard doesn’t come cheap—try to opt for a country with a living standard that fits into your budget.
Room To Explore
Studying aboard is about much more than studying, and that’s why it’s crucial to pick a destination that gives you enough room the explore. Do some research about the country where you want to study and discover amazing places that you can check out during your visit.
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]]>Don’t Rush Things
When you’re new in a foreign country, you might be tempted to try a thousand new things, but they’re not going anywhere. Give it some time to figure out how much everything costs before spending a fortune on things and experiences that are wildly overpriced.
Use Public Transpiration
Public transportation is a great money saver and you should figure out how it works in the country where you’re studying. Expenses from taxi rides and trips out of town will quickly add up, but you’ll spend much less money covering the same distance with public transportation.
Out and About
You’ll probably end up most of your money eating out at new places and going out with your friends. You can save a lot by setting rules for yourself, such as going to restaurants once or twice a month, making your own coffee, and limiting the number of drinks or amount of money that you’re going to spend when going out.
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