Hey,
Where in Europe are you going? I just returned from 5 months in France and it was an incredible experience, better than I could ever describe here. Some tips:
1. Hang out with the locals. If you are with other Americans, ditch them and try to make friends with the locals instead. You will learn so much about their culture that way.
2. Participate in something in the community. When I was in France I did volunteer work in the childrens wing of the local hospital and took a painting class at the local community center (aka, the MJC in France). I met so many great people that way and really was forced to improve my French.
3. just a random tip. Don't bring any videos over to watch. European VCRs and American VCRs are formatted differently and American videos don't work in European VCRs and vice versa.
4. If you are in France (I assume you are because your classes will be in French) take the TGV to travel and purchase the 12-25 discount card. You need it to recieve the student discount on train tickets. I didn't know this and I had a train collector yelling at me because I had purchased a student discounted train ticket without the 12-25 card.
5. The ISIC and the HI card, both available at Council travel agencies MAY save you money. Buy the ISIC if your school abroad won't give you a student ID card, otherwise it's a waste of money. Buy the Hostel International card only if you plan on staying in alot of youth hostels, otherwise it won't be worth it.
6. Remember that Eurail passes are only sold in the US so plan ahead.
7. Apply early for your student visa if you need one, those things can take a while.
About relationships. When I first arrived in France almost everyone in my program had a girlfriend or boyfriend back home. Five months later, very few were still together. Commication is expensive when you consider the costs of phone calls and time at internet cafes so it is hard. Don't let him hold you back from having a good time and if it's a strong relationship, it will last. Also, if he has the means to do so, maybe he can visit you during spring break so he can see what your life is like over there.
PM me if you want more advice
Good Luck!
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