College is a great time to study abroad, especially during your sophomore or junior year. Figuring out the flow of a study abroad experience can seem daunting, but if you’re prepared, finding your footing is easy.
Whether you’re simply interested in studying abroad or planning an adventure to a new country, there’s no need to worry. Below is a list of helpful tips before and during your stay abroad.
Do some research beforehand
Before applying for a study abroad experience, you need to do some research. At least three to four months in advance, you should research the countries and experiences offered through Ohio University. This information can be viewed directly on the Office of Global Opportunities (OGO) website or in person.
Our office is located at 15 Park Place and you can schedule an appointment in person or online in advance by contacting our office email or calling 740-593-4583. You can also attend drop-in advising Monday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. at Baker University Center 417. At these meetings, you can talk to his OGO staff about your experiences of interest and receive advice on financial planning and the application process. .
Talk to someone you know who has studied abroad
Talking with friends who have already studied abroad will help you feel less nervous about going to a new place. People with such experience can help you choose the right place and program to invest your time. You can also keep in touch with them and send them updates about your stay abroad. The first few weeks are usually stressful and overwhelming, but talking to someone about these feelings can help normalize them as part of the experience.
Make sure your course requirements match your exchange university
If the exchange university you plan to study at cannot meet the course requirements, studying abroad may not be worth your money and time. Therefore, you must ensure that the course requirements you need to complete in Athens match the courses you enroll in abroad.
If course requirements are not met, you may be required to spend extra time completing those classes upon your return. This may result in more credit hours or an extended semester at OU. Please consult your OU academic advisor before beginning your study abroad experience.
Don’t force friendships right away
When I first arrived at my exchange university, I felt the need to make friends right away, but my first few weeks abroad were even more stressful. Eventually, I learned that making friends abroad is no different than making friends in your home country. Just talk to people and actively start conversations.
Try to talk to some people at orientation events and classes. Slowly but surely we build a friendship. Forcing relationships while studying abroad can make people uncomfortable, so be patient and don’t rush into new people and new situations.
Take advantage of travel
You may run out of time once you graduate, so travel as much as possible. Websites like Ryanair and easyJet allow me to find cheap train, bus and flight tickets to most places in Europe, making my study abroad experience really exciting.
Immersion in another culture is also very important at this stage of life. If your budget allows, you should try out at least one or two new places. You can also visit other cities within the country where you are studying, which can be equally rewarding.
Grace Koe