Studying Abroad: How To Avoid The 8 Most Common Regrets

By Gretchen Kernbach on May 21, 2016

Studying abroad is a great learning, yet adventurous, time of your life. However, you may seem like you are doing it all, but once you get home you find yourself with a few regrets. This does not mean you regret the trip; it means you regret some things you did or did not do on the trip.

And what better way to avoid these regrets than face past ones up front? When you read through this list of studying abroad regrets, it will allow you to factor in what you really want to do.

1. Staying in your comfort zone.

Living in a foreign place can be confusing and scary. It may be tempting to keep close to your surrogate housing, but do not be afraid to go exploring. This could be the only time you will ever visit this place. Places where you normally shop and eat are also included in the “comfort zone.” Venture out to different stores and see what else there is to offer.

2. Rooming with someone you already knew.

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As previously stated, rooming with someone you already know is an easy way to remain in your comfort zone. Chances are you will already be studying abroad with friends so take this opportunity to meet new people. If it does not work out, your friends are there to step in.

3. Not taking enough pictures.

It may be hard to believe, but some students come home with few pictures of their journey. It is easy to get caught up in the sights (and don’t forget the schoolwork) and forget to snap a few pictures here and there.

You do not have to take over 20 at each angle, but make sure to get some general pictures of the country you are visiting. Of course, document the different types of food you eat and the adventures you go on with your new friends. Years from now, you will want to look back on this and having the pictures to do so will leave you without regrets.

4. Not spending enough time with host family.

If you are lucky enough to be able to live with a host family for the time you are studying abroad, do not take advantage of the time. According to goabroad.com, “People who didn’t make this mistake still talk to their host families, plan on visiting them, and felt very comfortable during their time abroad.”

5. Not budgeting from the beginning.

Money can go quick when you are not working, especially when traveling. Students tend to blow all of their money during the first month and find themselves struggling towards the end of their semester abroad. The trick is to start budgeting early and stick to the budget the entire couple months.

According to hercampus.com, “‘I wish I spent less money on shopping and more on experiences,’ says Emily Smoot, a junior at Clemson University who studied in London.”

Remember, when you buy new things you will have to pack them up. Perhaps memorable experiences are better than a tightly packed suitcase full of new items.

6. Not immersing in the culture.

Image via studyabroad101.com

However tempting it may be to lock yourself in your room and watch Netflix, avoid it at all costs. Instead, go out to local markets and bars and try local foods. You can even give a stab at speaking the native language; do not be afraid of being made fun of. It is unlikely you will ever have this experience again, so it is best to give it your all.

7. Partying too much.

Visiting the clubs and bars every night is the easiest way to drain your wallet. A lower drinking age is attractive to students, but do not let it dominate your time there. Focusing on nighttime activities will take away from those during the day.

According to hercampus.com, “If you want to get your party fix, invite friends to your apartment for drinks and snacks to save time and money.”

8. Stressing too much over schoolwork.

Writing essays and taking tests is not the only reason you are studying abroad. It is called studying abroad for a reason. If the only purpose of traveling to a new country was to learn the same subjects you would back in your college town, then why even go? Chances are when you look back on your time in Europe, or China, or Australia, it will be the adventures that stand out, not the actual classes.

It is okay to prioritize new experiences over a dreaded essay. However, this does not necessarily mean you can blow off all your work. It just means that pulling all-nighters and pulling out your hair is not worth it. Do not be hesitant to visit a local restaurant for lunch before starting homework. It can be balanced.

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