Advice

Well, it's 2:30 a.m. I'm exhausted, but can't sleep. I've tried all of the tricks, but nothing will work, so instead of being productive and doing homework and such, I thought I would write down some of the things I have been thinking about lately as sort of "advice" to future study-abroad-adventureers..

So here goes..

1. Always stay positive. No matter the situation, you are in an awesome new country. You've been given a grand opportunity that most people only dream about. Don't waste time dwelling on being mad or upset. Live it up.
2. Get creative. Tonight, on a whim I made macaroni and cheese. I'm no chef, but I do have to admit I did pretty well with the supplied I had.
3. Bring earplugs. Even if you've never used them or needed them at home, you're in a new environment where the sounds will sometimes drive you crazy. Whether it's birds at 2 a.m for whatever reason or crazy drunk people running around on a Tuesday night, you'll be thankful you have them.
4. Carry a water bottle with you. It will save you so much money when you're traveling or in class. It's a simple thing that you can take (and likely have to hide) in restaurants, or will save you $2-3 multiple times throughout your trip. It's a vice that you will come to appreciate.
5. Money isn't everything. Obviously it's important and no you shouldn't spend it all the first two days you're there. But we all know it comes and goes throughout life. Use it wisely, but take advantage of the opportunity you have in front of you.
6. Pack smart. Hair-dryers and straighteners are likely to blow if you're going somewhere where there is a higher voltage system (even if you brought a converter and adapter). Despite how much clothes you have at home or bring to school, you will want to buy a ton of stuff wherever you're going and won't need a lot of what you think you will before you pack. Take less than you think you will need, because unless you plan on going to Antarctica, they will have stores wherever you're going.
7. Step out of your comfort zone. This has been my hardest part. But even-though it may not seem like it, I really am trying. Even with the food, I've tried shrimp sandwiches and even curry! And believe it or not, I (barely) lived to tell about it.
8. Meet new people. It's not going to be hard since everyone will be new to you, but don't be afraid to strike up a conversation in a cafe. Odds are, they will be super nice and offer up tons of stories or advice on where to and where not to travel to within the area. If not, oh well, nothing gained nothing lost.
9. Go exploring by yourself. Obviously be smart and don't wonder around for hours on cold, rainy nights looking for churches, because that would be dumb ... But don't be afraid to leave everything you know to just walk around and get to know more about your area. You'll be forced to pay attention more so that you don't end up getting lost, hopefully.
10. Stay on top of your school work. Afterall that is "the reason you're there" ...
11. Things change. At home. Abroad. Everything always changes and time goes on. You have to be ready for life to continue without you. Whether good, bad, or really ugly, that's what happens. Don't let it ruin your time away, but just be aware that you can't be in two places at once and people do move on.
12. Above all, enjoy yourself and take advantage of every little thing. You will learn more about the world, other cultures, as well as yourself. This will be a learning opportunity unlike anything you've ever done before.

That's all I have for now, I'm sure there will be more to come, but seing as how I have class in a mere 6 hours, I think I'm going to try and go to bed. Again.