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<\/a><\/p>\nDepending on the type of experience you choose, most study abroad programs have some sort of pre-departure orientation. This can be a great way to begin your research. Take some time to dig deeper and research topics that interest you about the destination(s) you’re visiting. If flamenco dancing is your thing, research the best flamenco schools and performance venues in Seville. If you are curious about la lutte<\/em> (wrestling) in Senegal, research the history of the sport. Read articles online, watch films, and grab some books for the long plane ride. This will give you some great background so you are ready to hit the ground running when you arrive at your destination.<\/p>\n No matter how much you research, trips abroad rarely go 100% as planned. That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to keep an open mind and be prepared to try new experiences, foods, modes of transportation, classes \u2026 the list goes on. Immersing yourself in another culture means living in the moment and taking every opportunity to learn more. It\u2019s often these unexpected opportunities that lead to revelations and connections. You never know who you might meet on an unexpected camel ride through the Sahara!<\/p>\n Haven’t booked your study abroad trip yet? Grab cheap international flights<\/a> and start planning!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n Studying abroad can be intense. Functioning in a different language, experiencing a new culture, and meeting new people can be exciting and, at times, overwhelming. Carve out time each day to reflect on what you’re experiencing and learning. Think about things that are confusing to you and the questions you still have. Keeping a notebook or journal can be a great way to reflect on what you\u2019ve been experiencing. Talking with a friend (either someone who is part of your study abroad program or a friend back home) can also be a great way to process what you’re experiencing.<\/p>\n From photo sites to blogs, vlogs, scrapbooks, and handwritten journals, there are many different ways to document your experience \u2013 and you don\u2019t have to choose only one! Before you decide how you’re going to document it, think about who your audience is (maybe it\u2019s just a future version of you) and what type of content will be most relevant. Then come up with a plan to collect photos, video, ticket stubs, quotes, etc. and organize them. If you work on this each week (or build it into each day as your reflection time), it will be easier to stay on track.<\/p>\nKeep an open mind<\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nTake some time to reflect<\/h2>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nDocument your journey<\/h2>\n
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