Bittersweet

by Adreanne Stephenson September 10, 2010 No Comments

As my friends get back into the groove of classes, activities, and other fun William and Mary stuff, I’m at home waiting for school to start. Study abroad at the University of Exeter does not start until the end of September so I have some time to mentally prepare for the semester abroad. In this limbo stage, there are a lot of loose ends to tie. The host university sends you a plethora of emails about accommodations, paperwork, welcome week expectations, and registration. So check your email religiously and make sure you return all paperwork on time.

On top of paperwork, you have to start packing! I have done so much research on packing lists for England that it’s quite ridiculous how much free time I have—of course in between studying for the GRE and LSATs[1]. Despite the research, I could not find one list that worked for me so I have created a comprehensive list that may help you when traveling overseas. Keep in mind my list will be a little bias toward studying in England.

Clothes suited for your country’s climate
Passport and a copy in your email
Visa
Toiletries and Linens
Money in country’s currency—AAA offers a card that you can load which changes your US dollars into your country’s currency for an affordable price
Camera with charger
Paperwork about study abroad program
Voltage Converter[2] and/ adapter[3]
Space bags—to vacuum out excess space for opportune packing
Computer with charger
Prescription medicines
Alarm clock
Journal
Umbrella and rain coat (please don’t forget if you are going anywhere near England)
Clear and open mindset—don’t go to another country expecting it to be like your own

With all the packing and preparing, it is easy to get caught up with anticipation. However, it can also be a little sad. I will not be able to spend Thanksgiving Day, my 21^st birthday, Christmas Day, or New Years Day with the people I love. Remember to plan ways to stay in touch with your loved ones including Skype, buying an international phone, sending postcards, etc… Bring pictures from home and wall decorations that remind you of your life back in the states so you always have a piece of where the heart is.