Traveling abroad can be an exciting and life-changing experience for exchange students. It’s a chance to explore new cultures, make new friends, and learn about themselves in different ways. Dennis Bonnen shares some tips on how to get your exchange student ready for their trip abroad.
Table of Contents
Cultural Awareness
Exchange students must understand the culture they will be living in before traveling abroad. Encourage your student to research the country they are visiting and its customs, etiquette, language, and religion. They should also read up on events happening in their destination, as this will help them better understand the local news sources. This knowledge will also help them feel more comfortable when interacting with locals.
Learn Basic Phrases In The Local Language
Learning some basic words or phrases in the local language will go a long way in helping your exchange student feel more at home while overseas. Encourage them to purchase language textbooks or download apps on their phone, so they can practice before and after arriving in their host country. Once they arrive at their destination country, they can sign up for classes at local universities or community centers. They can also attend cultural events where they can not only practice what they learned but also meet locals who may be willing to teach them more about the language and culture of the country.
Health & Safety
Safety should always be a priority when traveling abroad, and exchange students should be aware of any potential health risks associated with the country they visit. Encourage your student to get all necessary vaccinations before traveling and remind them to bring any medications they may need while away from home. Certain safety precautions must be taken depending on the destination, such as avoiding certain areas or staying within a certain radius of tourist attractions.
Be sure your student is aware of potential scams and dangers before traveling abroad – especially if it’s their first time traveling alone. Encourage them to stay alert by avoiding dark alleys late at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in public places like airports or busy streets. Additionally, suggest carrying emergency contact information with them, such as yours, and the contact information of people who live in the host country (if applicable). This will give them peace of mind knowing that if something unexpected happens, there are people who can help.
Pack Light & Smart
Exchange students should pack lightly but smartly for their trip abroad, only bringing items that will serve a purpose or provide value during their stay. This means limiting clothing items and focusing on practical items such as laptop chargers or electronics that will not weigh down luggage but still provide value during their travels. To avoid excess fees from airlines or luggage weight restrictions from bus companies or trains, be sure to only bring essentials like toiletries and clothing items that don’t take up too much space or weight. Consider investing in a daypack that can hold small items like wallets, phones, or cameras but also fits easily within larger luggage bags for easy transport between destinations if needed. Additionally, remind your student that space is often limited in hostels or dormitories, so packing light is essential to ensure everything fits comfortably within those spaces.
Conclusion
Traveling abroad can be one of the most rewarding experiences someone could have in life. However, exchange students must be adequately prepared before embarking on this journey. By following these suggestions from Dennis Bonnen, you can help ensure that your student has a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring new cultures and making memories along the way! With proper preparation and guidance before departure, your student can rest assured knowing they are ready for whatever lies ahead.
