Dana Dillon is a student at University of Nebraska, Lincoln and an ISA Featured Blogger. She is currently studying abroad with ISA in Gold Coast, Australia.
There’s no better decision than committing to the adventure of studying abroad. It can be thrilling, especially arriving in the place where you have chosen to study abroad. The first week or so before you start classes is all about getting adjusted to your new environment. You figure out the best places to eat, the best places to go out, and the best places to just hang out. Then reality sets in once you step on your new campus and you realize that the fun might have to be put on pause for a while.
The first week of class can be a real reality check. You begin to get anxious about how you are going to fit everything you want to do along with everything that you need to do for school.
*Insert panic attack*
Have no fear! Putting the study back into study abroad can be a lot easier then it seems! You will be able to find time to complete everything that you need to get done and do everything your little heart desires. Here are some pointers I’ve come across since my time here in Australia:
- Plan out everything that you want to do (traveling, beaches you want to go to, shows you might want to see)
- Plan out everything that you need to do for school (when things are due, exams/projects)
- Mark everything in your calendar /planner (if you’re like me I like to keep things color coded)
- Pick at least one day, two if you’re really dedicated, out of the week that you will go to the library (yes actually go) and get as much done as you possibly can
- Reward yourself when you get everything you wanted to get accomplished
Now these are the things that worked best for me. It’s up to you to figure out what will best help you succeed. Just remember that studying while studying abroad should be a major priority along with everything else on you bucket list.
Here’s a photo I took from my most recent time at the library! Highly recommend getting coffee if you’re studying in Australia. They know how to do it right.