Before you go abroad, there are a number of things that you can do to EDUCATE yourself about where you're going and ORIENT yourself to a new experience. 

 "I wish I had known a little more on the history of the country and the culture." ~Nazareth University student who studied abroad in Hungary 

Activity: Open the Google Form to complete to learn a bit more about specifically where you will be living.

Getting ready to live with a host family...

It's a good idea to bring some small gifts for your host family to give them when you first arrive to thank them for hosting you. Head over to the Host Families tab to get some ideas

Navigating Public Transportation:

"I was not very prepared for transportation. The US relies mainly on cars in most places, so it was a big adjustment learning to navigate the use of buses and trains for everyday use. " ~Naz student studied abroad in Scotland 

Do some research about how you will be navigating and getting around this new city/country. Oftentimes this means unfamiliar public transportation systems. However, most cities have apps to help you track when the bus will be coming. Do some research about this for your specific city and get the app set up before you go!

Finances

Make sure you talk to your bank and know if your debit or credit card will work in other countries. For example, Mastercard and Visa are much more widely accepted than Discover or American Express; however, all usually have international fees. 

Do some research about what the currency looks like and what the exchange rate is. You don't want to be paying with cash somewhere confused how to count out your bills. 

Health

Vaccines: Refer to the CDC for the most up to date guidelines on travelers' health in different countries. 

Health Insurance: Some countries require travelers' health insurance. Do some research or ask someone in CIE how to if you need this and how to obtain it. 

Medicine: If you take a prescription, be sure to bring enough to last the entire time you will be out of the US. Also, bring plenty of over the counter medicines in case you get sick. It's also a good idea to bring motion sickness medicine, antibiotic ointment, allergy medicine, and a mini first aid kit.