“Safety Tips for Studying Abroad”

by William Frierson via “CollegeRecruiter.com”

Glass globe on a book with study abroad in the background

Studying abroad can be an exciting, one-of-a-kind experience. From immersing yourself in the local culture to expanding your education and making lifelong friends, the opportunities offered by studying in a foreign country are endless. If you plan on studying abroad, check out the following tips for staying safe and adjusting to your new surroundings.

Do Your Homework

Before going abroad to study, you should spend a considerable amount of time researching your destination. To help ease your transition in a new country, be sure to familiarize yourself with the following points:

~Laws. For many students, adjusting to the laws in a foreign country is difficult. This can be remedied, however, through research and memorization. Take notes or, even better, consider a cheat sheet. Many well-meaning travelers end up in hot water after unwittingly breaking the law, so take this tip to heart.
~Geography. So you’re less likely to get lost, study maps of your new surroundings. Familiarize yourself with your new area, and make sure you know how to get to sites like hospitals, embassies, police stations, etc.
~Language. While fluency isn’t necessary, having a basic grasp on the language of your new location is extremely helpful.
~Customs. In addition to familiarizing yourself with the local laws, understanding the customs in a particular area is important as well. Studying the local customs and traditions will help you blend in, avoid social snafus and generally help you settle in to your new surroundings. Also, for female students, understanding rules regarding clothing and public behavior are essential.

Have Your Paperwork in Order

Make sure all your paperwork is valid and up-to-date. For added protection, you should make photocopies of the following documents:

Passport
Student ID
Driver’s license or identification card
Health insurance card
Transportation tickets

Visit Your Doctor

Prior to traveling abroad, getting a medical checkup is extremely important. Check with the university where you’ll be studying, and find out if there are any . . . .