Study Abroad Problems

College graduate who formerly spent a semester abroad. Inbox me suggestions or questions, but please read the FAQ section beforehand!

[stdyabroadproblems]

I'm leaving in less than a month for my study abroad program in the UK and was wondering if you had any advice/tips/general knowledge about the education system in the UK and in what ways it differs from the US? I'm trying to prepare myself as much as possible so I have a sense of what to expect when I get there. Also, anything you have to say about study abroad would be so helpful !!!!

I think my experience is different than others, because I came from a small private college in the US to a huge uni in the UK, so that was the biggest challenge for me: big lectures, small breakout groups, not a lot of one-on-one with professors. Most everything else was just adjusting to a new university: where things were, planning out logistics for walking to/from classes, understanding office hours, different uni departments, and new university systems for submitting class work. Do your best to get involved with clubs on campus, meet new people in the student halls, go out and explore your city and take cheap flights all over Europe. Use your study abroad resources and don't be afraid to try new things. Don't be scared: it's just like starting at a new school! And definitely don't be ashamed to ask for help if you need it.

[stdyabroadproblems]

Hi! I plan on studying abroad in Florence, Italy next Spring. I was wondering if you were able to use any money from financial aid/scholarships towards daily living expenses/expenses outside just the program fees? If that makes sense. thank you x

I was able to have a surplus on my loans to help cover expenses outside of my accommodations and tuition. Surprisingly, tuition was cheaper for study abroad than my home uni, so that's why I had an excess. I'm sure there are scholarships out there you could use toward personal expenses, but that's dependent upon your program/university/personal situation. Talk to a financial aid counselor and a study abroad counselor about this. They should be able to look at your financial resources and evaluate them and possibly provide other resources

[stdyabroadproblems]

Do you know roughly how much it cost to study abroad in London for a semester?

That's dependent on the university/program/accommodations/a lot of things. Start by meeting with a study abroad counselor or looking into programs online.

[stdyabroadproblems]

Hello! I'm an incoming college freshman and I'm considering possibly studying abroad in South Korea in my second year. I'm attending a two year school right now and as far as I know, they have a good program. I'm just a bit conflicted, is it a good idea to study abroad in my second year? I only hear of people studying abroad in maybe their last year of school. I plan on knocking out my core classes in my 2 year school so I can focus on my major(education)in my 4 year. I hope this made sense haha

Hi there! Are you a high school or college student? I studied abroad my junior year of college (my third year). It was a perfect situation for me because when I returned, I had a year left at my home university to spend time with friends and finish up my degree. There were people in my program who were sophomores (second year). It all depends on your goals and personal situation. A consideration is emotional maturity and personal motivation. It can be really tough being away from home for an extended period of time and you have to know you'll be able to handle that. Also, the only person to keep you accountable for your studies is yourself.

[stdyabroadproblems]

Hi I'm an exchange student in Italy from Australia and I've been here for two months with 100 days to go. I'm just so unhappy at the moment and I can't help but feel what is the point how can I start to feel better and make the most of the experience like I know I should

Hi there! I hope you're feeling better in the time since you've written.It's hard to be so far from home, so start by letting yourself feel okay about being bummed. Then ask yourself why you're sad. Are you homesick? Unhappy with something in your life? The experience isn't measuring up? The first step is identifying what's getting you down. Once you figure that out, ask yourself how you can change the situation so you're not miserable.Know it isn't easy for everyone and it's alright to feel down. Just make it a priority for yourself to figure out what's going on and make the last of your time great. Also, check into mental health resources either on campus or in your area. There's no shame in talking things out with someone who's a professional!Best of luck

[stdyabroadproblems]

If i were to study abroad in a different country for a year would i have to repeat the year i missed in my home country?

Not necessarily. Usually studying through an accredited program will allow you to take applicable classes and transfer the credits back to your home school upon completion. Talk to your guidance counselor or contact trustworthy study abroad programs you've researched. They'll be able to answer that question better!

[stdyabroadproblems]

hey! I'm really interested on going on exchange next year to somewhere in California, but as an Australian, the American college system is really foreign to me. What's it like studying there?? Xx

America is a HUGE place! There are so many amazing places to choose from, so make sure you look at the programs and reviews carefully before choosing. I would also recommend that you meet with a study abroad counselor to explore your options.The American post-secondary system generally has students ages 18+ from a variety of backgrounds. Usually it will be on semester or quarter terms (these can be anywhere from 2-4 months each). Credit values range, and you'll need to find the best match to comply with your degree requirements, but usually those going full time take 3-5 classes per term.Start by looking for schools in the US that best match your academic path, then go from there!

[stdyabroadproblems]

I'm studying abroad in Valencia, Spain for a year starting in the fall. Are there any tips you have for adjusting, making friends, packing, etc.?

How exciting! - I've outlined the packing tips in a previous post, but make sure to check what the climate will be like and pack accordingly. You won't need as much as you think, but I'd say leave room in your suitcase for bringing things back and take things to remind you of home (pics, special items, etc.)- Adjusting and making friends go hand in hand! Meet people within your program and branch out into clubs/activities that interest you. You'll sometimes have to go out of your comfort zone, but that's what the whole experience is about! Rest assured that everyone is looking for another friendly face, so don't be afraid to strike up conversations.Have a BLAST and be safe!

[stdyabroadproblems]

Hey there , I want to study abroad , I'm a freshmen in high school . I really want to do study abroad and I wonder how can I convince my parents to let me do study abroad - thanks lot , another Tumblr person

Hi there! I admittedly have very little experience with study abroad as a high school student, but I would say the following tips are broad enough that I can confidently recommend them:1. Study hard. Prove to your parents that you're dedicated to your studies. When the time comes (probably your junior year) to talk to them about studying abroad, you'll be able to show them evidence that your schoolwork will be tended to no matter where you go.2. Study another language. You have the perk of learning another language for free in high school - TAKE ADVANTAGE! This will also help you to get accepted to programs and excel in classes if you want to study where English isn't the native language.3. Build and exhibit maturity. This will help to convince your parents that you'll be able to take care of yourself while away from home.4. Take part in different extracurriculars. This will not only beef up your applications, but help you to become a more well-rounded person. If you start working toward the goal now, you'll have a solid couple years to make your case. Best of luck!

[sarahpaige]

Study Abroad Moment #6

When I’m told that I have to wait till June until I can take care of my visa, housing, signing up for courses and basically everything important

[stdyabroadproblems]

So I will (most likely) be doing my first 3 semesters of college abroad in London. I know how expensive it is to live there and the programs isn't the cheapest either. What are some ways I can knock down the cost & also get a decent amount of spending money? I know a summer job will give me about 2k but that is definitely not enough for the time I will be there.

You could apply for a working visa along with your student visa. This way you can pick up a part-time job. I had friends working at many bars and they loved the bonus ability to socialize. There may be ways to work without this specialized visa, but since you'll be there for so long, it may not be worth that risk.A work visa is more expensive than a student visa alone, if I remember correctly. However, without a job or surplus on loans, don't know how else you'd make money!/not a professional and this isn't professional advice

[stdyabroadproblems]

How long did you study abroad for?

1 semester, 5 months.

[stdyabroadproblems]

advice for dealing with tough times in the first few months?

I’ve been getting this question quite a lot in my inbox, and it’s hard to present a one-size fits all answer.

My advice would be to lean on friends and family, both at home and abroad. Spending time with good people and acclimating yourself into the culture as much as possible will at least help to lessen the amount of time spent alone with your thoughts of being overwhelmed or homesick.

However, I encourage anyone who’s struggling to reach out to their study abroad coordinators (or your university’s resources) and try to seek help. Whether this means putting you in touch with others feeling the same way in your program, or helping you find a professional to speak with, it is a very important first step.

Know that many, many people feel overwhelmed or scared or lonely at first (or throughout). It isn’t anything to be ashamed of, so PLEASE contact someone to help you. You don’t have to navigate those feelings on your own.

[stdyabroadproblems]

I'm studying abroad in Glasgow next semester! Any tips? What to pack, what to expect, etc? Also I'm kinda worried about the weather, I've heard it can be really gloomy. What was your experience like?

Glasgow is amazing. Yes, the weather can be overcast at times, but when spring time rolls around it is absolutely beautiful.

Happy to provide more specific advice and recommendations privately, but here’s some general Glasgow advice:- Pack a rain jacket and a winter jacket. And sturdy walking shoes. You’ll get the full experience during your semester.- Always keep the rain jacket on you.- It’ll be pretty cold when you get there in January (I assume you’ll be on the same schedule as me) so pack warm and versatile clothes.

Non-Glasgow specific advice:- Keep an eye out for student deals at pubs and restaurants. Student nights are fucking messy, but they’ll get you plastered for cheap and let you meet new people.- If you want to go out to a club, check the website and Facebook page for guest list opportunities. You may have to get there earlier, but it’ll save you some money.- Glasgow was fondly referred to in my friend group as the “stab capital.” So be aware of your surroundings and travel with a buddy if possible.- Sign up for public transit deals as a student. It’s cheaper and you can see more outside of the city that way!

Have fun in my second home. ❤️

[stdyabroadproblems]

I'm leaving for study abroad in France in a couple of days! I will be there for a total of 4 months. Do you recommend I take a large luggage and carry on luggage or just one large one?

I recommend to take as much as you can. And keep in mind that you also may be bringing even more back, so if you have empty space that's alright too. You could always pack an extra bag in your main luggage, then use it on the return trip.However, I definitely recommend being selective in what you do and don't bring. Not everything is necessary, especially in terms of a lot of clothes. I was so happy I made room for photos and momentos to remind me of home.

[stdyabroadproblems]

What's the hardest part with studying abroad?

I think this is very subjective. For some, it's being far from home. For others, it's acclimating to the culture. In other cases, it's keeping up in classes that are based in a curriculum separate than what they know at home. Sometimes, it can be all of these. It really depends, and I would urge anyone planning to study abroad to expect it to be difficult at first, but work through it! Expect to go out of your comfort zone. Expect to be pushed into social situations you're not used to. Expect things to not be absolutely easy.It's so worth it. I promise.

[stdyabroadproblems]

This is more to help those considering a foreign exchange/study abroad, and it's something I would've done differently with my own, so LISTEN UP! My suggestion is: RESEARCH YOUR PROGRAMS BEFOREHAND. This was something I really regretted after the fact, because I didn't do it! Look around for reviews, ask alumni/people who've gone with that program, anything to try and compare and see which ones fit with what you want to do/accomplish, and which are just plain bad ( ASSE in my experience, btw).

I agree that this is super important! Feeling supported by your program is PARAMOUNT to adjusting well to your host country.

From the very beginning of interacting with my study abroad program, I felt very supported and that communication was important to them. This made it easier to have all my questions answered and fears assuaged before I left. Then, after I arrived, we had an amazing orientation and our advisers were incredibly responsive. If you don’t feel connected from the very start, you should trust your gut and find a different program.

Any college-aged followers should feel free to ask about the program I traveled through (not on anon). I’d be happy to converse about and recommend the amazing university I studied through.