The period of student exchange is a defining moment in the personal and professional life of anyone who has already experienced it. There are many new things and challenges that will open your head and give you an incredible insight of the world. However, it is important that everything is carefully planned, so that no undesirable surprises occur during your period abroad.
And one of the most important details to be planned is definitely the move. What to take for a season that can last for months or even years out of your country? All this should be thought through with time and care, and some tips can help you in this process:
The size determines what to take. Some exchange programs offer housing in dormitories or university apartments. If this is your case, find out the exact size of the apartment: this will help a lot in the process of choosing what to take. Also take notice of what is included in the apartment, such as furniture, utilities, among others.
The time of the stay is also important. The exchange experience can be totally different if your period of stay is six months or two years. The longer you stay at a place, the more it is important to feel at home.
Practice detachment. As in any other moving process, it is important to assess which objects have been useful to your daily life in recent times – these are the first items you must consider taking. Then consider those that bring you good memories, with subjective values. These are also important, but one should assess whether it is not best to leave them with relatives or friends in case of lack of space. Finally, all objects not useful and without sentimental value should not be included in the move.
Get to know the local weather. Brazil is a country that does not have severe temperature variations – we are not used to seasons with intense cold, for example. Therefore, try to know the weather to expect during your stay, and try to purchase or take adequate clothes, if necessary.
We hope that these tips can help you improve and completely plan your exchange program!
