If you plan on studying abroad in the future, you will need to prepare for the challenges you will inevitably encounter. If you handle everything that comes your way in a positive and open manner, your experience will be one of the most fulfilling of your life. These pointers will help you do just that.
Culture: Do Your Research Beforehand
One of the most important things you can do before heading off to a new destination is to not only learn the language, but to understand how the people in your host country live their day-to-day lives. You don’t necessarily have to become an expert in etiquette, but it helps immensely if you are at least familiar with the local standards for modesty and courtesy.
Documentation: Keep Copies of Your Papers
The last thing you want to do is lose your travel documents and risk deportation by immigration! You should keep all important documents under lock and key while studying abroad, bringing them out only when required. Keeping spare copies with you or even printing out scanned copies will help minimize the risk to the original documents.
Pharmaceutics: Bring Your Prescription
If you are taking prescription drugs, you need to bring your prescription with you so that a local doctor can prescribe its equivalent. This is because medicines come from various manufacturers and under different names depending on the country you are in. It is also highly recommended that you bring an extra month’s worth of prescription medicines just in case there is no local equivalent to be found.
Finances: Keep a Stash of Local Currency
Do not always rely on your credit card for your expenses. Many countries, especially developing ones, rely heavily on cash, so it will be to your advantage if you have some hard currency hidden away in case of emergencies. It may also be worth opening a local bank account just to keep your money safe. Better to withdraw cash from an ATM than to leave it around in your home.
Security: Travel with Knowledgeable Groups新西蘭升學
Studying abroad will put you into an alien environment, and the best way to avoid any unwanted situations is to mix with others more familiar with the area. Going out with senior foreign students is a good idea as they are more knowledgeable about the area, as are classmates you have come to trust and hold in high regard.
Gadgets: Look for Adapters and Converters
Electricity outlets and their voltages may differ depending on the country you go to. It is highly recommended you not only obtain outlet adapters that let you plug in your gadgets, but also power converters that will throttle or increase the voltage of power outlets so that your gadgets won’t get fried once you plug them into a wall outlet.
Homesickness: Stay in Touch via the Internet
Skype, Facebook, Google+ and good-old fashioned email are great ways to stay in touch with friends and family. Being able to see, hear and chat with them will help ease the loneliness you may first feel while studying abroad – although many students report these feelings subside and they are able to get on with the exciting opportunities presented.