Pre-Departure
Why did you choose to study abroad?
All throughout my high school and college years, I have always dreamed of studying abroad. Studying abroad always appealed to me because it was a way to explore another country and culture in an organized way while learning about everything I saw. The key thing I had to consider before going abroad was if I could afford it. Looking into study abroad programs, I realized how many amazing scholarships UA offered to support students who could not normally afford them. I applied for every scholarship I could and with my aunt’s help this summer, we made my dream a reality.
What did you do in preparation?
The Pre-Departure Orientations were really all I did in preparation. Attending these really helped prepare me for my trip. I honestly would get really anxious when I would think about my trip before it happened, so I put everything off till the last minute and thankfully it worked out. I packed medicine, an umbrella, all my clothes, toiletries, and shoes in my suitcase. I lived by the motto: “You can buy anything else you need when you get there.”
What are your thoughts/feelings before studying abroad?
I honestly had a lot of feelings before going. I was extremely nervous to be alone in another country without my family and friends, yet I was extremely excited too. I would switch back and forth in the weeks leading up, but when it came time to leave I was completely terrified. I almost talked myself out of going completely. I was scared that something would happen to me, but mostly I knew I was going to miss my home, my dog, and my family.
What are your expectations/goals for your study abroad program?
I did not really go in with a lot of expectations and I wanted to go with the flow and be okay with whatever happened. I wanted to make the best of my trip and prevent disappointment if it did not go exactly to plan. I definitely would recommend everyone takes this approach, because there ended up being a lot of stuff that did not go to plan and definitely almost ruined the trip.