6 Mistakes Study Abroad Students Make
September 3, 2012 | by


1.Over Packing
It is difficult to weed out items in your closet to leave behind for a semester abroad, but it can be done and the less you take abroad, the more room you’ll have to bring things home. Knowing the necessities will make packing and traveling easier.

2.Speaking English  The best way to learn a language is to practice it. Speaking another language can be frightening but if you try, every day, you will be rewarded. You will gain confidence as a speaker and feel more welcome and part of the country.

3.Forgetting Where you Are
Studying abroad is an exciting and enriching experience. Being able to travel between countries at low prices is a reason many students choose to study in Europe. You may be planning to visit different countries every week, but don’t forget about your host country. You chose your host country because it appealed to you, so don’t put it on the backburner. There are many things to see and you might not need to travel far or pay much to see some of the world’s wonders in your backyard.

4.Not Working Part Time
If you are not taking many classes, a part time job is a great way to further immerse yourself as well as a great way to make extra money. Teaching English or babysitting for a few hours a week are examples of non-stressful jobs that won’t distract you from your schoolwork or other plans.
5.Not Befriending Locals
Making friends while abroad can be extremely intimidating and having friends from your school with you can ease the stress, but don’t be afraid to branch out and befriend other classy co-eds students, especially those from the host university. These students have been at the school for an extended period of time and know their way around the school and the city. They can help and teach you a lot.

6.Not Keeping in Contact with New Friends
When you return home, be sure to keep in contact with your friends from abroad. These people were in your life for a short but special time. There are many ways of maintaining friendships across borders and keeping relations from fading.
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About Author

Tariro Mzezewa is a junior at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy. Follow her on Twitter at @tariromze. To stay tuned to more articles for classy co-eds be sure to follow College Lifestyles on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter.
 
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