Studying abroad is a big decision but it’s also one that can bring you new opportunities, as well as a great educational experience. It’s something that you may only do once in your life, so make sure you make the most of it. Here are some ways for you to do just that:
Make sure you get the support you need
As an OPT international student, things may feel a bit confusing and there may be a lot that you don’t understand. Fortunately, schools typically have some type of international student support that can help you navigate studying in a country and educational system that you may be unfamiliar with.
A school counselor can help you understand things in your studies while also helping you navigate your time studying abroad.
Take advantage of your weekends
While living abroad, you may be busy with your studies but when the weekends hit, make sure to get to know the country that you’re visiting during your study abroad program.
Consider planning mini-trips whenever possible so you can see more than just the city that you’re studying in. Getting to know the country you’re visiting should be a priority, as this is half the fun of studying abroad. Check out cheap ways to travel so that you don’t have to spend a lot but can still get to know a lot while living abroad.
Take an immersive language course
While your classes may be in your native language, consider benefiting from your travel abroad by taking some evening classes during your time in the country. Or you could take English summer courses for foreign students that help you learn the language. As you simultaneously study the language while using it out and about, you’ll find that you’ll more quickly become fluent in said language.
Speaking a second (or third) language can benefit you in more ways than you know. Before you study abroad, consider using a language learning app or starting online language classes to help give you a head start in the language.
Be open to new friends
It may not be easy to take the initiative to meet new people while in another country. The culture is different, and the language may be as well. But just think about making lifelong friends in another country. Not only can you learn a lot about the culture through these new friends, but you’ll also reap the benefits of a lifelong friendship with someone you may have never met otherwise.
Check out online meetup groups in your new location so you can easily get to know people in the city. Friends from other places can end up becoming amazing connections in your future.
Don’t skimp on your education
It may be tempting to skip classes and spend more time enjoying your destination. However, a study abroad can be incredibly helpful for your educational journey, so take advantage of new professors and classes while studying in a different school.
It can be easy to get distracted as you study in another country, so consider making a schedule that allows you to both take advantage of your time spent abroad while allowing you to also gain the most from your education.
In Conclusion 
If you’re thinking of studying abroad, do it! Taking time to study in another country can help provide you with a well-rounded education, both academically but also by providing you with life experience. The friends you make in another country can end up becoming some of your closest ones and the unique travel experiences you have will become memories you’ll cherish.
From taking time to travel around the country to optimizing your study time, consider these tips to help you make the most of your time in another country.