5 Last-Minute Study Abroad Preps You Need Before Leaving

Embarking on a study abroad journey isn’t easy. You’ve got the document and visa requirements that you need to process and check, school counselors that overwhelm you with information, and the apprehension that comes from the anticipation that you’re going to be living in another continent (?!?!). And although we know that you’ve got this, we still want to impart last-minute preparation advice—just in case you need it.

If you’re a student who’s about to go on an exciting educational journey abroad, this article will serve as a guide for anything you might miss before flying out to your study destination.

1. Create a 1-month itinerary

We get it, being away from home can be unsettling sometimes, and a 1-month itinerary might just be the right thing to keep you grounded. Being able to envision what you’ll be doing (even if it’s just a month) at your destination will keep you organized and make the transition smoother. It is also good to keep the initial homesick and overwhelming feeling at bay. Sooner or later, you’ll start to find your footing, perhaps meet friends and build your own community there, which can be a great way to maximize your study abroad experience!

2. Get culture-ready

Before you get on the plane to your study destination, get acquainted with its culture. It takes a simple Google search to find out how your study destination differs from your own culture, so be prepared to encounter that once you get off the plane and how to handle these changes properly.

You can also ask study-abroad-alumni friends about their experiences with cultural shifts and changes when they first arrived at their study destination and take cues from them. In addition, there could be a Filipino community in your destination country that holds meetups once in a while (check Facebook groups!) that you can go to, so you don’t feel cut off from the community while you’re there. Usually, universities offer the opportunity to talk to a current international student about living and studying in that particular country, so feel free to ask!

3. Schedule farewell meet-ups with loved ones

This might be the most heavy-hitting one yet, but it’s a must-do. Create a list of the most important people in your life that you want to see and schedule a dinner meet-up or even a weekend trip. It’s crucial that you get connected with them even before you leave so that you’ll just as easily affirm your connection or friendship once you’re abroad and start to feel some bouts of homesickness.

To make the despedida ganap more fun, each of your friends or family member can write their manifestations or wishes for you once you get to your destination. Like, meeting a bestie who goes to the same class as you, or a good window view from your dorm room!

4. Pack extra early

Because you’ll ~probably~ unpack and re-pack repeatedly until your anxiety simmers down, give yourself the space and time to deal with your things so you don’t forget anything important (or even baseline basic, like a comfy worn-in sweater!) However, don’t let your wardrobe overwhelm you—pack the most important things first such as documents (don’t forget your passport!), visa, immigration requirements, and the like in a folder that you can easily reach for. It’s also advisable to just put this folder of important documents in your hand-carry so you can whip them out whenever situations arise.

5. Secure your accommodation

And for a safer and comfortable first few days, secure your accommodation. We can’t recommend this enough; securing your accommodation earlier rather than later makes for a convenient and stress-free study abroad experience.

For fuss-free accommodation, we recommend you check out Amber Student. They provide housing and accommodation for students away from home—as fast as a click! You don’t have to go to different housing and accommodations websites or call different people to find a safe and comfortable place for you to stay at. Amber’s got that figured out for ya!

They have verified housing listings so students and parents feel secure and a price-match guarantee so you can see similar listings in the same price range (or depending on your budget). On top of all that, you’ll never have to worry about waiting around to get assistance in case things get a little overwhelming because Amber Student provides 24/7 support. For more information on how housing and accommodation at Amber Student work, click here.

Now, you’re ready to fly and go on your international adventure! Just don’t forget your passport and have the best, most-rewarding time out there. We’re rooting for you!

To check out more study abroad articles, like this one on study abroad bucket lists, visit edukasyon.ph/blog now.