Learning a new language overseas

Embarking on a journey to learn a new language overseas is an exciting and transformative experience. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply an adventurous language enthusiast, immersing yourself in a foreign language and culture opens doors to personal growth and expanded horizons.

To make the most of your language learning adventure, we’ve compiled eight essential pieces of advice to guide you through the planning process. From setting clear goals and selecting the right destination to embracing cultural immersion and finding language exchange opportunities, these tips will empower you to embark on a successful and enriching language learning journey. So, grab your passport and let’s dive into the world of language learning abroad!

1. Do your research

Before embarking on your study abroad journey, it is vital to conduct thorough research. Take the time to delve into the details of your chosen destination. This includes not only learning about the country, its culture, and customs but also familiarising yourself with the local language and transportation systems. Numerous websites are available to assist you in this regard.

Research school/university fees and funding options in the country you plan to study in. Explore the possibility of scholarships or loans that may help cover the expenses of your study abroad. If you have yet to decide on a destination, we recommend comparing different schools and/or universities and their education systems, and reading up on the experiences of others. This will provide you with a genuine sense of what to expect and help determine if studying and living in a particular country aligns with your preferences and goals. Remember, thorough research is the key to a successful and fulfilling study abroad adventure.

2. Plan early

It is never too early to begin planning for your study abroad adventure! Give yourself ample time to handle applications, funding, flights, accommodation, and visa requirements (if applicable). We understand that balancing a work/study life can be demanding, but leaving these tasks until the last minute will only add unnecessary stress. Stay organised by creating a study abroad checklist and ticking off each task as you complete it.

After fulfilling all necessary requirements, ensure that you keep your important documents and information well-organised and easily accessible. Keep track of essential items such as your passport, visa, travel insurance, and emergency contact details. By staying organised and having everything in one place, you can embark on your study abroad journey with peace of mind and be fully prepared for any situation that may arise.

3. Look after your health

Studying abroad isn’t without its challenges. So, make sure you’re doing things to look after your physical and mental health, especially if you’re finding the experience difficult. A few things you can do to take care of yourself is through eating well, staying active and seeking out support if you need it. Just because you’re far from home doesn’t mean there aren’t people you can talk to!

Feeling homesick? Remember that it will take a while for you to adjust to your new life in this new place, things will get better and taking care of yourself should be a priority. It’s also important to keep in contact with your family and friends and to let them know if you are finding things a little difficult, they’re you’re most familiar support network. On the flip side, if you’re living your best life whilst on your study abroad (we hope so) make sure to still fit in time to look after yourself. You need to allow time to recharge your batteries, otherwise you may suffer from being burnt out.

4. Stick to a budget

Studying abroad requires students to budget for a range of costs including flights, visa and insurance, but the cost of living will invariably be your biggest expense. It can be expensive depending on where you’re studying, but you never know, it could end up being cheaper than the UK, especially with the current cost of living crisis.

If you’re looking to stick to a budget and look after your money wisely whilst taking your studies abroad, there are many ways you can save money. Some examples include opting to cook your own meals rather than always heading out for food, or choosing to take public transportation instead of a taxi. It’s important to stick to a budget as you don’t want to run out of money.

5. Make new friends

Studying abroad can be a life changing experience and allow you to meet people from all over the world, who may just become your friends for life. If we can offer you any advice, it’s to not limit yourself to only hanging out with other international students, you should try to meet locals to learn more about the country and culture.

Even if there’s a language barrier in the beginning, have an open mind to making new friends in your new home. Making acquaintances in a foreign country might put you out of your usual comfort zone, and you may feel anxious to approach people, but chances are there will be people in the same boat as you. For some tips on how to make friends when studying internationally, we’d say to join a club or society, go to social spaces like cafes or restaurants or choose shared accommodation where you’ll be surrounded by others. Having people around you can help with culture shock, homesickness or boost your mental health whilst living in a new place.

6. Keep a journal

Our next study abroad tip is to keep a journal so you can write down your thoughts, feelings and experiences which you can look back on and cherish the memories for years to come. Writing in a journal during your study abroad is not only a great way to document your experience but it’s also useful for helping your mental health as you can jot down how you’re feeling – it can be very therapeutic! Sure, you can take photos and videos of your time abroad, but actually jotting down the way you’re feeling will be more memorable and allow you to look back on your adventure. You can write whenever and whatever you want, remember it’s your journal and no one else’s so write for you, and future you of course!

7. Stay safe

Whilst we do hope you don’t encounter any dangerous situations whilst embarking on this global opportunity, it’s best to be prepared so make sure to keep yourself safe. There are a few things you can do to ensure your own safety, such as being aware of your surroundings and knowing your city and school/university campus. Do your homework on how to get about and what the safest routes to one place to another are.

You should beware of pickpockets and take extra precautions when you’re in crowded areas, particularly if for some reason you need to carry around valuables like your phone or passport. Whilst this may sound obvious, you should make sure to keep your room locked and your belongings safe from thieves, even if your accommodation is on campus.

Staying in touch with family and friends and letting them know about your whereabouts is another important safety precaution to take whilst on your study adventure. Purchasing travel insurance is also a good idea in case anything goes wrong. This way you’ll be insured in any circumstances that could arise such as a medical emergency.

8. Make the most of the experience

Remember to embrace the experience and leave your comfort zone. Most study abroad programs end up giving people life changing experiences as it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, explore local culture and meet new people. So, make sure to take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way whilst studying abroad. Whilst it is important to focus on your studying and be mindful of your budget, you may not get an experience like this again, so make the most of it and do things you’ve always wanted to do.

Whether it’s exploring the country you’re heading to, meeting the locals, visiting popular tourist attractions, indulging in new foods and drinks, or just immersing yourself in a new culture – plan it, do it, and enjoy it!

Planifíquelo. Hazlo. Disfrútalo!