If you’re anything like me, the thought of studying abroad brings a wave of excitement and nerves. Before I came to the university, I dreamed of studying abroad, but never thought I’d have the opportunity, due to finances and class constraints. But now, in my final year of undergraduate studies, I am preparing to embark on such an exciting and educational journey in Vietnam! As I’m currently preparing for the excursion, I found that packing is my ultimate stressor. The worry that arises from constantly double-checking your packing list and noticing endless items you’ve forgotten is no stranger to me, but I hope that the following tips will help you navigate your prep.
The first thing I would suggest is getting a set of packing cubes! These are compact pouches that will organize your clothing and save space in your luggage. They can easily be found online or in supermarkets, and are very affordable. Speaking of clothing, I would also recommend taking a peek into the seasonal climate of the region you will be traveling to. In my case, Southeast Asia can be very hot and humid, accompanied with occasional rainfall in the early summer months. Because of this, I searched for lightweight, breathable clothing made from cotton or linen. Finally, be sure to take the time to learn common phrases and greetings in the local language of your abroad destination, especially if English is not widely spoken. This skill can be essential when ordering at restaurants and food stalls, or when shopping in street markets. If you didn’t know, the university offers free access to Mango Languages, an online language learning tool. Just use your myBama login to sign up!
With all that said, I will be jetting off for Hanoi in less than two weeks, and I couldn’t be more excited. Remember to enjoy the moments leading up to your trip, and try to maintain a positive attitude even in the stressful times. After all, this is an incredible experience!
