Being an exchange student is one of the most exciting experiences you are likely to have. It’s truly the chance of a lifetime, visiting another country to learn, live with an international family and submerge yourself into their lifestyle. Prepare yourself for a new approach to life, as your clothing, meals and schedule is going to be quite unique on overseas soil. Here are some tips to help you through this amazing time in your life.
1. Remember that you're an ambassador. It doesn't matter what nation you are from, your lifestyle and behavior will be perceived as a representation of your land. You may be asked many questions regarding your country - the culture, administration, landscape, background and cultures. Be prepared to give educated and accurate answers.
2. Be sure and take necessary documents with you such as your medical health insurance card with contact details, immunization records, emergency contact information, passport, visa and copies of prescriptions for medications. You must be careful to go on a journey of this magnitude, so begin to make a list of important documents that you must take.
3. Talk along with your representative about what kind of currency to use while in your host country. A lot of students now use debit or charge cards for their foreign purchases and also to withdraw money from automated teller machines. Not all countries have these kind of opportunities however, so many students still use traveler’s checks. Be sure to discuss all these things with your parents so there aren't any misunderstandings.
4. Pack lightly. It’s wise to pack lightly for your journey. Airlines charge for extra luggage, so it’s good to know your limits there. Also, you can research luggage forwarding, which simply means that a shipping company will forward your travel luggage to your host country. Your luggage can arrive in a cost-efficient, safe manner to save you concern about airlines and other costs.
5. Be adaptable. As you arrive on foreign soil, you will see new places, eat completely new foods and have new experiences, some of which may be mind-boggling. Go with the flow, if you can , always remembering that your host family is there to guide and take good care of you when you are there.
Being a foreign exchange student can unlock doors of opportunities for you that you never thought possible. For instance, you may become an exchange student in Italy, fall in love with the country, graduate and then give some thought to moving to Italy for your college degree. As soon as your world gets bigger, you recognize all of the things you can do, the places you can go and all that you are able to accomplish.
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