Author: vanessacepeda

Starting Over

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Do you recall how it felt to be the new person in a room? There is a particular anxious energy that comes with being in an unknown place, whether it was your first day of kindergarten or switching high schools in the middle of the year. I had the exact same thing on my first day of courses while studying overseas.

It’s likely that you will be taking practical elective courses to fulfill your credit needs while you’re overseas. The academic experience genuinely influences your perception of the new institution you’re entering, as you have the flexibility to select your own courses, some of which may have a different structure than you’re used to. It gave me comfort to know that I wasn’t alone among the international students in my study abroad program when I had similar feelings. There is a certain resentment at being someone new to a place that already has a distinct culture, rhythm, and speed. Finding a way to reconcile your daily life with this new obligation seems like you’re trying to hop on a moving train. Having spent my childhood moving to several states and countries, I was fairly accustomed to “starting over.” Even though it’s never the most comfortable situation, I’ve learned to embrace it as a chance to travel and meet new people. Therefore, I wasn’t very concerned about the social adjustment process. I was worried about how I would adjust academically to a new system, though. Thankfully, the instructors did a great job outlining the differences and the program. For assigning grades. This increased our confidence over time. Meeting someone who understand your concerns is also usually comforting, particularly if they live nearby. Any intensive language or culture training—like the Italian intensive course I took, for example—is something I would strongly advise taking. During the initial weeks of immersion, you can establish strong friendships that will serve as a basis for the remainder of your adventure.

In conclusion, I would suggest doing your homework and taking notes at orientation if you had to start over, especially if you were studying abroad. You should be fine as long as you can locate your classroom. Whether they admit it or not, everyone gets anxious sometimes, and a little bit of encouragement from one another can help to calm the nerves on your first day.

Boarding Time

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Last Minute Jitters

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Hey everyone!

Upon reflection on the last several months, it becomes evident to me how accurate our counselors and advisers were in stating that time flies quickly, whether we choose to acknowledge it or not. I decided to remain in Colorado after the spring quarter as an out-of-state student, putting a lot of effort into trying to stretch every dollar. I really deserved this next event, therefore, I wanted to make sure it would be even more fulfilling.

August was the first month when I really felt the weight of my preparations. I ended up buying travel adapters, an additional suitcase, and anything else I could possibly need. I watched lessons for hours on end and spoke with former students who had studied overseas. At last, it was time to put everything that study into action.

I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to do in-depth research in advance for those of you who are thinking of studying abroad. It’s important to comprehend the nation as a whole in addition to the sights and cuisine you might like to experience. Get acquainted with their technologies, get aware of their cultural mentality, study a little bit about their history, and comprehend their local laws. For it’s our duty as visitors to respect their limits by navigating them with awareness. Naturally, you should also try to pick up some fundamental linguistic etiquette; it’s a modest gesture that goes a long way toward demonstrating consideration and decency.

Taking a quick look at the time, I realize we are almost there. I’ve packed my suitcases and soon, I’ll be heading to the airport for my first trip to Europe. Yes, I will be landing for the first time ever in Italy and overall European soil. Even though I’m undoubtedly anxious, I’ve decided to turn that anxiety into exhilaration. The goal of this tour is to experience new locations, acquire new knowledge, and develop a higher self-actualization.

Now that we’ve stated that, let’s buckle up because takeoff is nearly here. Next week, I’ll be back with more updates. See you soon!