Now that I’ve wrapped up my study abroad program in Germany and the Czech Republic, I’ve had a chance to reflect on what made the experience meaningful—and what I’d do differently next time. If you’re considering studying abroad or preparing for your own trip, here are some tips I wish I had fully embraced from the start.
1. Learn as much of the local language as you can.
I’ll be honest—this is something I didn’t really do before the trip, and I wish I had. While most people I encountered spoke at least some English, making an effort to learn basic phrases in German and Czech made a huge difference. Even just knowing how to say “yes,” “no,” “one” (especially for ordering food), “hello,” “sorry/excuse me,” “how are you,” and “do you speak English?” can go a long way. Locals were always more receptive and friendly when they saw I was trying, even if I butchered the pronunciation.
2. Explore—even if it’s unplanned.
You don’t need a strict itinerary to get the most out of your experience. I preferred unstructured exploration: walking around with no clear goal until I stumbled upon a great food spot or market, or choosing a destination and navigating public transit to get there. That freedom made every day feel like a small adventure. That said, planned excursions have their place too—especially for museums or popular attractions that require tickets in advance.
3. Be flexible and open to discomfort.
Things will go wrong—trains run late, restaurants don’t take card, or you might accidentally order something totally unexpected. But that’s all part of the experience. Some of my most memorable moments came from getting lost, making last-minute decisions, or learning to laugh at minor mishaps.
Looking back, this trip has been more than just sightseeing and coursework—it’s been a transformational experience. It was my first time abroad, and while I started with nerves and a packed suitcase, I’m coming back with new friendships, a more global mindset, and confidence in myself as a traveler and student.
I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for other cultures and a better understanding of how business and technology operate internationally. Most of all, I’ve learned how valuable it is to step outside your comfort zone—because that’s where the best growth happens.
To anyone considering studying abroad: do it. And if you already are—soak in every second.
