Read this article.
Then disregard absolutely everything it says. I can honestly say I disagree with every single point (except for it advising, in most cases, to not pursue serious relationships while abroad).
Main frustrations:
1. No host families? I have had an infinitely more meaningful experience with a host family than my friends who live in apartments. Plus, family dinners, church get-togethers and Cartago day trips have been so much more interesting than the luxury "to drink wine with a meal".
2. Emphasis on partying? I know that virtually anywhere someone goes to study abroad will have a lower drinking age than the U.S., and I'm not saying by any means that you should not experience the nightlife of the city in which you live, if that's your thing. I just think that by NOT being a bar hopper, I got to get up early and travel, build relationships with the same groups of people, stay healthy, and save money.
3. Don't pack peanut butter? Please. You can buy hygiene products anywhere in the world, but if you love peanut butter, bring some.
4. Don't go to class?! Maybe this is a joke I'm not understanding? If you want to stay a student at your home university, don't mess around with classes. Your grades count just as much abroad. And I learned way more about Spanish and intercultural interaction from my classes than any other part.
In summary, what the heck, study abroad article.
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