What Alumni Wish They Knew Before Studying Abroad

What Alumni Wish They Knew Before Studying Abroad

When we reached out to ASA alumni to see if they had advice for prospective study abroad students, the response was overwhelming. The variety of advice was insane, but the tone was consistent throughout. Our alumni wanted students to know that the world isn’t going to end if you make a bunch of rookie mistakes; study abroad is a learning experience. 

ASA of course wants to prepare students as much as we can, but there’s no way to prepare for everything, and that makes for a less exciting trip! However, listed below are some tips from our alumni to you: a potential study abroad student. It’s always best to get advice from people who have the right experience, so let’s see what they have to say!

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#1: EMBRACE UNCERTAINTY

Every student wants to study abroad to experience something new, but new experiences come with uncertainty. Make peace with uncertainty and expect the unexpected. If you knew everything beforehand, then it wouldn’t be an adventure. And you signed up for an adventure!!!

#2: Your housing is going to be great, but different!

You’re in another country now! Just don’t expect it to be exactly like at your house or college/university. For example, it will probably be smaller so you’ll have less space and storage.

#3: Resist the urge to overpack

You may not have as much storage space as you’re used to. There are stores to buy clothes, toiletries, makeup, etc. abroad, so only pack what you need for a few weeks! A lot of the big name stores in the U.S. exist in other countries. Also, you’ll want to save room for the souvenirs you’ll buy...

#4: Try learning the local language

Locals always appreciate when you try to learn their language. Ask them how to say something, or go online and learn some words and greetings before you get there. See if your host institution can match you up with a language exchange partner to practice with! This is also a great way to meet locals your age.


#5: Dining out is an experience- don’t be in a rush

The wait staff in other countries don’t rely on tips the way they do in the U.S., so don’t be surprised if they aren’t bending over backwards for you. Take your time, enjoy the delicious food, and let your server know when you’re ready for the check.


#6: Explore your host city

While it’s tempting to travel every weekend, slow down and explore your new home… you’ll be leaving before you know it… & to go off of this tip...


#7: Traveling every weekend really affects your mood and sleep/eating schedule

Try to find ways to cope with being overtired and hungry. Hint: exercise, eating well, sleeping/naps and fresh air are great ways to restart your body after a weekend of traveling.

Some more travel tips:

  • Explore hidden gems: cities and suburbs that are close to bigger cities but less touristy are the best!

  • You can go to the same place more than once. Each time you’ll have a different experience!

  • Free walking tours are a great way to quickly get to know a city and learn some history.

  • You WILL travel again, so don’t stress if you can’t hit everywhere on your bucket list! Most people end up adding more places to their list while abroad - it’s okay to save some for later.


#8: Many European grocery stores charge extra for plastic bags

You may want to pack a reusable grocery bag in your luggage. Those cents add up quickly when you go grocery shopping a few times a week; it is the custom in other countries to buy small amounts of fresh food multiple times a week at grocery stores or farmer’s markets. 

#9: Connect with people who aren’t American

This is the best way to fully immerse yourself into this new culture. Also, locals have the best inside tips on what to do, where to eat, where to travel, etc. They can also help bridge that cultural/language barrier you will experience when abroad. 

#10: Get involved on your new campus

It’s hard transitioning from your home college to a brand new one in another country, so the more you can do to immerse yourself in this new community, the easier the transition will be. Join some clubs. Go to school events. Find other students going through the same transition as you.

#11: CRAFT YOUR OWN EXPERIENCE

This is YOUR study abroad experience. Try not to feel pressured by friends, family, or travel books. Do the things you want to do. Focus on what makes sense for you financially, academically, socially, mentally and emotionally. Make it about you.


We are confident that after reading these pieces of advice, you will be much more prepared and open-minded going into this once in a lifetime opportunity. But remember: EMBRACE UNCERTAINTY.

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