Foreign Studies: Steps Every First-Time Student Should Take

The key to reducing culture shock is to prepare for your study abroad. Here is more to consider before packing your bags.

Find Former Foreign Study Students

Of course, you could read several books on the country, culture, and people. However, it is better to go directly to the source. In other words, talk to a former foreign study student. This approach is an excellent way to learn about the problems and concerns that the average student faces in a foreign culture. This can be especially helpful if they went to the country you plan to visit.

Travel Documents

Several months before the trip, check your travel documents. Make sure that your passport is up-to-date along with a student visa, if necessary. A passport is required to leave the country and re-enter the country. A student visa is required in most countries for foreign study. Go to a photo service at a local store to get new up-to-date photographs. You can buy passport photos at Walmart easily, and they make some extras for you. Make copies of all your important documents and keep them in a secure place.

Check Your Health

Visit your doctor and get a full physical checkup. Tell them about your travel plans and make sure you receive any necessary vaccinations that may be required.

Health Insurance

Make sure you are fully up-to-date on health insurance coverage to cover any type of illness or medical problem that might occur during your stay in the foreign country.

Get Information on Local Contacts

Get information from people currently staying in the country that might be connected with the university, travel program, friends, or family. Those connections might help you to get quickly acquainted with the country and could prove a very valuable resource later on.

Study Customs

Some foreign countries have very different customs. For example, some countries would find it insulting for you to call them by their first name or get too chummy after a first meeting. Learn about local customs and refresh your language skills in the local vernacular.

Take A Virtual Tour

Thanks to the internet, it is possible to take a virtual tour of the foreign location you plan to live in. Take a virtual tour of the area and try to get acquainted with all the local points of interest.

Personal Information/Documents

Get all your bank and financial documents up-to-date. Look for a local bank or ATM machines that accept debit cards or you could access your bank account. Your current bank is the best source to supply this information. You might have to get an account in a local bank in the area you’re staying in.

Certainly, this is only a partial list of all the steps required to prepare you for foreign study. However, they are a good starting point. Just remember to have fun and enjoy this very special time in your life.

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