So, I have been in Brno, CZ for almost 2 months now, and I
must say that this is one of the coolest experiences of my life. And anyone
that has gone overseas to study will probably tell you the same thing, so
instead of writing just about how totally awesome this has been I am going to
write some important information and tips for future travelers; these are going
to be things that you probably won’t hear from others, but trust me…they are
very important and will help you have a great experience. (Don’t worry…I
promise that I have a sense of humor too.)
1: Prior to your trip, listen to friends and family that
have visited your country of choice, but don’t read into it. Odds are your
friends and family went as American tourists. That is great, except you are
going to live there for an extended period. For a lot of these places, there is
a tourist world and a student world. The tourist world is expensive.
2: As badly as you are going to want to take pictures of
your destination city, save the pictures for the last few days. You are going
to be living in this city for a while, so you will actually have time to learn
about what you want to take pictures of and the best places to view these
things. Plus, people see you pull out a camera and take a picture of a building
and they immediately know you are not local. This can lead to a multitude of
less than favorable outcomes, but mostly people on the street laughing at you.
3: Make a local friend ASAP. Most young people speak English
fairly well. And if you can find one that is local and friendly towards you,
then you have a key to a lot more of the country.
4: You’re American. This means that you are immediately compared
to what other people see via MTV. Yeah. Not the best stereotype to have to
break out of, but you can do it. The best way is to keep a great sense of humor
and your wits about you. Quick-witted and tastefully funny people are highly
regarded world-wide. Oh, and brush up on great American accomplishments.
5: Learn the language as best you can. The countries here DO
have a sense of pride for their country and history and appreciate when
foreigners speak the national language, even when we chop it up worse than
Freddy Kruger. And don’t get frustrated.
6: Drink responsibly. Yeah, you are 20 and the drinking age
here is 18, but this means that people here expect you to hold your liquor like
a cheese grater holds water. Do America some good PR and don’t get drunk every
night. Drinking is a public activity here like movies are in America. You don’t
drink to get drunk here…you drink to lighten up (and because some places, beer
really IS cheaper than water). Just be cool.
7: Try local cuisine. Some of it is gross. Avoid “American”
food, because you will be disappointed. McDonalds is always safe. But try local
cuisine.
8: Don’t freak out. We all get homesick. The best cure is to
imagine what everyone is going to say when they are listening to your stories
and looking at your pictures. They will all be jealous. Take comfort in that.
9: Catch up on world news and popular books before leaving.
Those two things are more universal than movies or music. You will always have
something to talk about with people. As an added bonus, they will respect you
more for your ability to know about more than just American culture and news.
10: Have fun. Yeah, you are here for school, but you will
learn more about the culture than you will about whatever your major is. I
promise. Don’t ignore school, but realize that the most important thing about
study abroad is the culture. You will be amazingly surprised.
I hope these help a little to any of you travelling soon. I
know you will read and hear a LOT of things prior to departure, but soak it up.
Every piece of information helps.