If you might be interested in pursuing honors work in your major, you should be sure to discuss this with your department before you depart. Many of these programs require application at the end of the junior or beginning of the senior year. No matter what your level of fluency, work hard at improving your proficiency in the language of the country you will visit. This might include additional courses during the academic year or in summer school. Northwestern's language teachers would be happy to help you find a course appropriate for your current level.
Electronic mail can be a very useful tool for students studying abroad.
It enables you to communicate with friends, family, and NU faculty and administration quickly and easily. Moreover, it is free and doesn't necessitate one party or the other staying up half the night.