Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live in a different country? Here are the Top 10 Questions on Studying Abroad that I have received!

Studying abroad is hard. It is scary. Challenges range from where to live, how to travel, how to manage relationships, and what to bring. After living abroad for seven, amazing months, I have many tips I wish I knew before my first trip! Here are the most commonly asked Top Ten Questions on Studying Abroad and my answers!

1. Where should I study abroad?

You can narrow down your choices by asking yourself a few questions: What universities abroad offer the college credits I need? Do I like big cities or small towns? Is there a language I want to learn? Do I want to travel across the continent during my trip, and if so, is my “home country” conveniently located? Do I like art, sports, the cold, the heat, the beach? Is there a city that draws my heart more than any other? (It’s okay to listen to your gut sometimes!) Do research! Read articles! Follow what intrigues you!

2. What about FOMO?

“If I’m gone half a year, everything and everyone will move on without me!” First of all, I understand the concern. Second, don’t be worried. People at home will have amazing experiences while you are gone, but you are going to have a life changing adventure. The people who truly love you will be waiting when you arrive home. Studying abroad is incredible, and yes, sometimes challenging. But nothing easy is life-changing.

3. Homestay or apartment?

This question is always in my top ten questions on study abroad…because the answer is different for everyone. It depends on the experience you want to have. I have spoken with those in homestays and apartments and we all agree: If you want to have more of a “cultural experience,” do a homestay. If your goal is to travel with your friends across Europe, and you’re not looking for a “home experience,” then an apartment may be easier. I did a homestay, and I can tell you this: It changed my life. I was blessed with an incredible host family that, today, is truly my second family. I understand everyone’s situation is different, however, I highly recommend a homestay.

4. When should I study abroad? (What year?)

If you can go…go. It’s hard to find a gap during your academic career when you can travel, so if the opportunity presents itself, do it. I’ve met study abroad students between the ages of 18 and 25.

5. How should I “study” when I “study abroad?“

Balance. Apply yourself, however, don’t forget that the most important things you will learn won’t be from the classroom. I worked hard during the week so I could have the weekends free to travel, spend time with my host family, and enjoy the city. I would advise you set aside intentional time during the week to do your work.

6. How often should I travel during the weekends?

Many travelers recommend a 60/40 ratio. Travel 60% of your weekends, and get to know your city for 40%. However, it all comes down to what your goal is.

Because many students had never been to Europe, the majority of students traveled all sixteen weekends. I traveled five. My personal goal was to experience real “Spanish life” and build a relationship with my host family. Looking back, my favorite moments were with my family: going to birthday parties, family reunions, weekend trips, hanging out with my host sister and her friends, cooking with my family, and doing “normal life” with them. However, my goal to build a relationship with my host family is’t everyone’s goal. And that’s okay. Before you go, find out what your goal is. Is it to travel Europe? To get to know your city? Build relationships with your family? Is it a mix?

7. How long should I study abroad?

I studied abroad for one semester. This is normal for many American students. Many European students study abroad for a year. I believe there are benefits to both. I started to feel very comfortable with my family and with Spain at the end of my four month study abroad experience, and I admit, another four months would have been fantastic. Additionally, another four months would have helped me become fluent in Spanish. However, studying abroad for an entire year was not academically possible for me. Studying abroad can also be intimidating, too. But you can do anything–endure anything–for four months. Knowing in the back of my mind that I would go home in four months encouraged me to live every day to the fullest, say yes to every outing with my family, and not become lazy.

8. What should I pack?

Oh man. No matter how much you prep, you will still end up buying stuff when you arrive. However, bring basics. Pack pieces you can mix and match. Don’t forget the weather will likely change while you are there. Here are a few things I didn’t realize would be helpful, but were:

• Lock for a locker: If you go to a gym, you will want one.
• Special toiletries: You can find makeup pretty much anywhere. However, when it comes to specific deodorants or other drug store items–if you’re specific–bring extra with you.
• Small travel bag: Make sure you have a carry-on bag you can take on weekend trips.
• Belt bag: When you’re traveling alone between countries, it is extremely important to have your special documents and extra cash on you. You do not want your passport swipped when you use the restroom on the plane or doze off.
• Water bottle: Water is expensive. Bring a reusable one.

9. How much should I stay in contact with home?

Stay in contact with your parents and one or two close friends, however, make it clear that contact will be limited. First, you don’t know what type of cell-connection you will have. Second, you need to live where you are. It’s easy to use connections from home as an emotional crutch. I called my mom a lot the first two weeks, however, we eventually spread out the calls and adopted a schedule. I called about once a week with my mom and family and once a month or so with a friend. Many students I spoke with had similar schedules. Decide “how” and “how often” you will stay in contact with your family and close friends before you leave.

10. Isn’t it scary to go alone?

Heck yeah!!

But it grew me in ways I could never, ever imagine.

Do it.

If it scares you, do it.

You will never regret pushing yourself.

Do you have any other questions? Maybe a Top Ten Questions on Studying Abroad part 2?