Feeling Nervous About Studying Abroad? Here's How to Handle It.

For the last few months, you've probably felt mounting excitement about your upcoming exchange year in the United States. But now that it is actually time to leave, that excitement can easily turn into nerves. 

You're stepping into a new culture, a new school, and a new family. Change can be scary, and it’s completely normal to feel nervous about it. The good news is that you can handle it. It took a lot of strength and bravery to decide to study abroad, and it proves that you are capable of handling what comes next. Nervousness is part of the process, and we are here to guide you through it.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

This can be as simple as saying to yourself, "I'm nervous, and that's okay". Anxiety is your brain's way of preparing you for something important, like stepping out of your comfort zone. Remind yourself that this is a temporary feeling and that soon enough, you'll begin to feel comfortable in your new routines.

Remember That You're Not Alone

Thousands of other soon-to-be exchange students feel just like you do right now. Your local ICES coordinator, your host family, and your fellow exchange students will all support you throughout your exchange. 

Talk About It

Sharing how you feel can be a huge relief and make you feel less alone in this experience. It can help you see things from a new perspective and feel more supported. If you find it helpful, try writing down what you're nervous about. Once you put it on paper, it might feel more manageable. 

Be Kind to Yourself

Studying abroad comes with its own set of challenges. There will be ups and downs, and you may feel homesick at times. The key is to be patient with yourself through the challenges and give yourself credit for taking on this new adventure. 

Being kind to yourself also means prioritizing self-care. Change is hard, so make sure to take care of yourself during this time. Eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can go a long way towards helping manage stress and anxiety. It can be easy to overwhelm yourself at the beginning of your exchange. Allow yourself time to rest and recharge. It is okay to slow down!

Get Involved

One of the fastest ways to feel at home in your new surroundings is to dive into school and community life. Join a club, try out for a sports team, or attend school events—even if you’ve never done those activities before. Volunteering in the community or helping out at local events is also a great way to meet people, practice your English, and learn more about your host culture. The more you participate, the more connections you’ll build, and the quicker your new environment will start to feel familiar.

Set Small, Achievable Goals

When many aspects of life feel out of your control, setting small goals can help you feel more grounded. For example, if you want to learn more about your host family, think of some questions to ask them that can help you connect once you arrive. The more you prepare, the more confident you'll feel. You don't have to figure everything out on the first day! 

Studying abroad can be a transformative experience that is worth every bit of anxiety that you are feeling right now. By taking care of yourself and reminding yourself that you are not alone, you are setting yourself up to make the most of your exchange year. Take a deep breath and embrace the pre-departure anxiety. It is your body preparing itself for something meaningful. You've got this!