As I think back on my study abroad experience in London, I am lucky enough to have my blog, pictures, and videos to help me remember my many experiences. As time goes on, the minor details aren’t as easily recalled, but having something to look back at has been incredibly helpful in being able to remember. Today, I want to take a moment to share why you should consider capturing your experiences and some tips to do so. While it is best to be present and enjoy your time abroad, I would also encourage you to find ways to capture it. 

Writers, artists, musicians, actors, creative people of all sorts, often ask the best questions, questions which have to do with real values, fundamental choices, important relationships. As is true with any sort of art, these questions may at times be framed in poetic and indirect ways. Directly or indirectly, these works of creation help with reflection on such matters.

Last month, I shared re-entry tips for students studying abroad. If you haven’t read it yet, make sure to check it out. This month, I am going to share more about the stages of emotions you’ll experience throughout your time abroad.

Most students who studied abroad over the summer or year have returned home and are starting to adjust back to life at home. While most believe you can easily pick up where you left off, it really isn’t that simple. This phase in the study abroad journey is called re-entry. You will be excited to be home and to see your family and friends, but a part of you will miss the new life you created in a city halfway across the world.

Below are five challenges that are common with re-entry - and some ways to help. 

This past week, I was watching season 6 of Parks and Rec, where the department visits London. One of the characters ends up being offered a job and stays to work. The reason I bring this up is because when he comes back to visit, he points out that words mean different things whether you are in the US or UK. 

In one of my past blogs called A Quick Guide on Spending Money in London, I discussed the coins, notes, exchange rate, debit/credit cards, and ATMs in London. Now, I want to look at the Value Added Tax (VAT), and what that means for you. Understanding the VAT tax will be very helpful in purchases you make while you are abroad.