🌟 How to Actually Enjoy Your Exchange
Studying abroad is one of the most exciting things you'll ever do, but let’s be honest, it’s not always sunshine and Instagram stories. Culture shock, loneliness, or even academic pressure can sneak in and make it harder to enjoy the moment.
So, how do you make sure you actually enjoy your exchange and don’t just survive it?
Here’s a practical, student-tested guide to make your exchange semester or year one of the best chapters of your life.
1.Do it all
It will be hard to do it all, but it will be so worth it. No matter how long you are staying, time really flies, and you don’t want to regret anything. So if you can, do it all. Go to the football game even if that’s not your thing, join a club, try a new hobby, and go to some events alone.
2. Travel smart
It is very tempting to always be on the move, especially if you are on a short exchange. I have seen many people constantly travel, and as a result, they never got to appreciate what the campus and the city had to offer.
Tip: Make a list of places you want to go and prioritize these. Don’t travel more than 5 times in one semester, so you can also enjoy your new location.
3. Talk to people you don’t know
It is super easy to stay in your bubble as an international student, especially if you are with other international students.
In your class, try to connect with the person next to you. If you are in a student club, try to talk to someone who is also new. You can also take some workout classes and meet people there.
There are so many ways to make new friends, and sometimes it just starts with expanding your bubble.
4. Have a bad day and feel it
It is so normal to have bad days, especially during your first semester. Everything is so different than what you’re used to, and sometimes it just accumulates and becomes so frustrating.
I spent 4 years in North Carolina, and while I loved it, there were some days when I just needed to get out of there, and that’s okay.
During these off days, maybe try to cook something from home, watch your comfort TV show, call some friends or your family, and be social.
5. Make your space feel like home
Making sure you have your own cozy space is so important to enjoy your exchange. At the end of the day, your space reflects you. Bringing a few elements from home can help you do that; for instance, you can bring some photos or your favorite blanket.
Tip: You can order our Graduate kit to have everything you need right when you arrive, so you can have your own space ready right away! There is nothing worse than having to run to a Target or a Walmart after a 12-hour travel day and not finding anything you need.
💬 Final Thoughts
Enjoying your exchange isn’t about doing the most; it’s about being present, trying new things, and making your experience your own.
So take the pressure off, say yes, stay curious, and don’t forget to have fun. This is your time.
