Studying abroad can be an amazing experience – but it can also be overwhelming. It is important to prepare yourself for living and studying in a different country by learning about the culture, the history and the people. NYU will provide you with a lot of literature and exercises to help you prepare but ultimately, it is up to you to research your destination – whether for academic or personal travel.

It is normal to feel culture shock when living abroad, and it is normal to have trouble re-adjusting back to your life after you return from being abroad. And it is important to recognize these feelings and speak to others that may share similar experiences or reactions, and to journal your travels for reflection.

Make your time abroad more than just a few months visiting a foreign country. Be able to tell your friends, family and colleagues that you lived abroad.

Before you study abroad, check out Dr. Bruce La Brack’s site What’s Up with Culture and follow the modules. This site will give you a great foundation for how you handle new cultures.

You should also look at the U.S. Department of State – Buruear of Consular Affairs for Students Abroad. The website offers many great resources as your prepare.