Photo by Ali Prevost-Reilly '21 Biological Sciences FSP
Page last updated by NLW on 16 Feb 2026
Nina Sloan, '24, studied away in spring 2022 on the Art History FSP in Rome and on the 2022 fall term+ German-Jewish Studies Migration and Memory program in Berlin.
Engaging with Local Culture
Your interactions with locals, not just tourist sites and peers, will shape your experience. Be curious and humble.
Before you arrive:
Read local news and other informational sources (not just U.S. coverage of your destination).
Talk with Study Away Mentors (SAMs) or past participants about cultural norms.
Once you're there:
Say yes to invitations, even if they feel awkward.
Ask questions: Most people appreciate genuine interest in their home.
Be patient with yourself. It's OK to not understand something. Remember that misunderstandings come with the territory of cultural exchange! Learn to laugh at yourself.
Going Beyond the Tourist Trail
It's easy to spend every weekend at famous landmarks. Push yourself to go deeper.
Walk without a destination. Put your phone away and wander a neighborhood. You'll find cafes, markets, and street life that aren't in any guidebook.
Follow local rhythms. When do people eat dinner? When are shops closed? Adjusting to local schedules helps you feel less like a visitor.
Attend free events. Many cities offer free museum days, public lectures, or outdoor concerts. Check with your program staff or local university for ideas.
Revisit places. Going back to the same café or park helps you build familiarity and may lead to real conversations.
See Student Budgeting Tips for more ideas on free activities.
Studying away can feel disorientingâand that's normal. You may feel homesick, frustrated by language barriers, or unsure how to "do" daily life. This discomfort can be part of learning and a signal of change.
Students consistently report that study away builds independence, adaptability, and self-confidence in ways that a term in Hanover cannot. When things feel hard, remind yourself why you chose this program.
Revisit resources such as the Study Away Workbook, BeGlobali modules, information on Culture Shift and Support for Diverse Identities for help when you need it.