Relocating for a College Semester Abroad?

Written by Emily M…. Your Contributing Relocation Ally

The experience of studying abroad is one that is becoming more common and necessary for the modern day college student. The opportunity and challenge of living in a new society and experiencing a new culture is an important part of educating the modern day business student. Luckily I was awarded the opportunity and did so over the past five months in Barcelona, Spain.

The Process

The process of going abroad itself is one that can be overwhelming and at times exhausting. I had to apply to my own college first in the spring for permission to apply to its affiliate abroad in the fall of the following year. Each of the applications included multiple questionnaires and essays. The applications were pretty basic and the essay questions were along the lines of why I thought studying abroad would benefit me and my future. The application process itself took half a year while my school required I attend an information meeting a year in advance. So the entire process in whole took about a year and a half up to the day I left.

Documents Needed

After waiting a few weeks to be accepted, it was time to start getting my documents in order. I had to check that my passport information was up to date, which luckily it was. I then had to drive four hours to New York City to get my visa. Each country’s visa requirements are different and they have select locations in each state. However each of them requires a basic application plus several additional documents. Some of these requirements included a letter from my insurance company ensuring coverage abroad.  Also my parents had to write a notarized letter saying they would support me with a minimum of $1,000 a month while I was there.

Weeks were spent searching the internet trying to find an apartment to live in, using websites recommended by my abroad school, which was pretty challenging considering I couldn’t visit any of them. The final step was booking my plane ticket and before I knew it the day of my departure had arrived and I was feeling anxious but also very nervous about what the next five months had in store for me.

The weeks leading up to my departure were certainly hectic but the experience was well worth it I met people from all parts of the world and have friendships that will last long into my future. My business knowledge increased greatly as well, and I now know how customer service varies in different regions throughout the world. I would highly advise any student seeking experience in international business to go abroad if they have the chance.

*Emily spent 5 months studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain and will from time to time write articles relating to relocating abroad.

Tags: Corporate HR, moving, Relocation Ally, student, study abroad, travel