Moving Abroad
I am moving for a 6 month study program to Europe from the US. I have traveled briefly, but never really stayed anywhere long term. I am really nervous. I feel overwhelmed and scared at the idea of being alone in a new country and I don’t know how to deal with it. Does anyone have any advice for overcoming traveling/moving nerves?
@diplomaticApricot12
Hey, it is completely understandable that you feel nervous. It is a big step to move to another country. One thing that helped me when going to live abroad for the first time was connecting to other students from the same uni and field. I also called my friends and family often to do not feel so lonely. My sibling traveled with me to help me with moving my things and decorating my room. If there is the possibility of someone going with you and staying there for a while I would go for it. Another thing that helped was planning things I want to see in the new country and learning about the culture.
@diplomaticApricot12
Hi
It is totally normal that your feeling nervous, but the biggest thing, is give yourself a huge pat on the back because you are actually doing this in the first place!!
The strength is in you always, keep that in mind and remind yourself how strong you are for doing this!!
All the very best wishes for your new Life and Studies. Take it one day at a time and take it easy and keep it simple.
Thank you! My therapist says I have to keep telling myself that I am brave, because this was a brave thing to do, and that I’m here doing it is bravery. Sometimes I can agree and other times I can’t. I’m working on it!
@diplomaticApricot12 Hi there. Congratulations for taking a big step. Moving abroad is not easy. I've moved from Asia to the US when I was 17 (though I returned to Asia when I was 23).
Moving abroad is going to expand your horizon. You'll have the chance to meet people who think differently. I guess, just be mindful that there may be time when you feel out of place -- and that's normal. Try to eat some comfort food, like peanut butter or something else that you usually eat in the US. Some level of discomfort is often important for growth.
I can't put it more succinctly than the novelist David Mitchell: "Travel far enough, you meet yourself."
I really like that quote, thank you for sharing it. I think thinking of this as a self exploration will help with some of my anxiety.
@diplomaticApricot12 hi! i understand that moving to a new country can be very overwhelming since it's a completely different environment that you might not be used to. however, i'm sure that it will be a great experience!! i can guarantee you that your new classmates will be more than willing to get to know you and help you adapt in your new lifestyle. try to be talkative and approach them in a friendly manner, i'm sure they'll be very eager to get to know you and help you get used to this! best of luck, i hope you make great memories!