Back to the checklist Study the culture of the country you plan to visit. Learn as much as you can about your adopted country before you leave the United States. Take classes that will enrich your understanding of your experience abroad. Consider signing up for history, politics, literature, religion, or art history classes that focus on the region where you will study. Above all, advisers recommend studying the country's language.
Most programs require at least two years of relevant foreign language study at a college level.
Immerse yourself in your adopted country and culture. Rent movies made in the country. Visit online communities to connect with students living in the country. Read books, newspapers, and magazines from and about the country you plan to visit. You can find them at any good bookstore, and many foreign media are online.