Living in a foreign country excites the imagination, ignites the adventurous spirit, and inspires exploration. It can also be pretty scary. Although no two experiences abroad are alike, most people who have lived overseas agree: Proper planning and preparation lead to enhanced success. 

Stacie Berdan

This truism applies to professional transfers as well as students about to embark on a three-week or one-year study abroad experience. By all means read the “Culture Shock” edition for your new temporary home. You’ll also need to learn about your host country’s history, language, currency and public transportation system.  

There’s more. Include an honest self-assessment in your preparations. Your university should provide counseling that covers these topics:  

1. Is study abroad right for me? From career objectives to course selection, can I articulate the business result that will come from my time abroad? Do I have the right stuff for living and coping in a foreign environment, which may differ greatly from what I’m used to? 

2. How can I think globally? Do I watch international news programs, such as BBC World Service? Can I obtain and read international newspapers and magazines, such as International Herald Tribune, Financial Times, and The Economist? Can I compile a list of online publications based in my new home country in order to follow local events, politics and weather? Has my U.S. campus invited professionals from international organizations or multinational groups to share their experiences of living and working abroad? 

3. Where can I get cross-cultural training that encourages problem-solving? The benefits of learning to live in another country go beyond figuring out how to take the local bus downtown or ordering your favorite dish at a food stall. Real value is in learning how to do things differently and learning how to undo things you thought you knew how to do. Can I cope with the loss of identity and familiarity I have come to rely upon, even if it’s a campus dorm?  

4. Might I benefit from any of these training courses and tools?  

·        Understanding differences between/among cultures

·        Do’s and don’ts in cross-cultural communications 

·        Working within a diverse team 

Careful! There is not and can never be a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Advance training will never be comprehensive enough – it can’t be. But good preparation exposes students to problem-solving techniques. Academic achievement and personal development will result.  

Coming in part 3: Immersion benefits both students and their campuses. Click here to read part 1.