It’s the Little Things, Part One

Studying abroad is all about new experiences, big and small. Although the smaller day to day details may be forgotten over the course of time, there are a few memories that I will never forget. These moments were branded on my memory, and every time I think about them I can’t help but smile, or even laugh to myself. It was the little moments during my time abroad in Florence, Italy that made my experience what it was; unique and extraordinary. I wanted to share a few of my small, yet favorite memories during my time abroad! They may seem silly to an outsider, but they will give you some insight into the kind of significant experiences that changed my life, broadened my perspectives, and taught me lessons that I won’t soon be forgetting. Continue reading

“We Have To LEARN Before We Can HELP”

“We Have To LEARN Before We Can HELP” Responsible Travel and Volunteering By Daniela Papi and Christina Tunnah

The NAFSA conferences aren’t all about the Expo hall and the receptions. Each day they have dozens of informational sessions covering all topics in International Education from Visa application processes, Re-entry and Orientation programming to Responsible Travel. Daniela Papi of Pepy-Tours and Christina Tunnah of World Nomads presented on this last topic and really changed the way I view “Voluntourism” Continue reading

Why Should I Study Abroad?

The reviews left on Abroad101.com have made it possible to aggregate some really interesting information on student trends in study abroad. We’ve added a new portion to our review: after a student fills out the evaluation of their program, we’ve decided to ask them why they chose to study abroad, and what skills they think they learned during their time away.

Continue reading

Never Forget Your Study Abroad Experience!

I think it’s relatively safe to assume that going abroad can be one of the best experiences of your life. Traveling, meeting new people, and visiting countless museums and attractions all sound amazing, but what happens if you forget those little memories that made every experience or trip so timeless? Don’t you worry! We’ve put together some handy tips to help you remember all those tiny details that made each trip unique and unforgettable. Continue reading

Being Safe While Abroad

Due to the recent disappearance of a California student studying abroad in Madrid, we thought compiling a list of helpful tips would help you feel safe while enjoying your time abroad!

Tip #1: Buddy System!
You are never too old, too wise, or too confident for the buddy system! It is simple, yet effective, and proven given it’s timeless success. No matter how well you know your city, it is always a good decision to walk home with at least one friend. Besides having good company to reminisce about the night or day’s events, walking in groups provides for a safer, more secure way of getting home. Continue reading

5 Steps to Language Fluency

Regardless of whether you’ve taken 9 semesters of French or even spent 6 months in China, becoming fluent in a foreign language doesn’t just happen because you’re studying abroad. It takes work, and a lot of work at that. Many students like to think that the language will simply soak in and, voila!, one morning they wake up and they’re parle-ing like a true Parisienne. But in order to truly be comfortable with a second or third language, you have to be the language; you have to live the language. To help, here is a quick guide to (mostly) assured fluency when studying abroad… Continue reading