All you need to know before going on exchange

So you just got accepted to go on an exchange programme. Several months of pure bliss, exploring a new country and culture. But what happens between now and then?

by Erin Liam

Applying for a visa, buying air tickets and securing accommodation – the thought of having to settle such administrative matters might be enough to thwart your excitement.

Read on for HEY! student writer Erin’s tips on preparing for your study-abroad programme, so you can let loose and enjoy when the day comes.

DO THESE BEFORE YOUR TRIP

TIP 1: LIST THE ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS YOU NEED TO SETTLE

And don’t hold them off – remember, the earlier you clear these tasks, the less stress you’ll bear in the days leading up to your departure. A task to get out of the way is getting your visa, as it can take months to process. To expedite this, fulfil your host university’s requirements quickly to get your acceptance letter, which is usually needed when applying for a visa.

Other things on your list might include buying travel tickets, course matching, or even something as simple as making a visit to the dentist.

 

TIP 2: ADD A PACKING LIST

Believe it or not, it is never too early to start packing. With a list, you know what you need to start sourcing for. When looking for affordable necessities, Shopee or Lazada is your best friend. Just remember to allocate ample time for delivery, and you are good to go.

TIP 3: DON’T OVERPACK

It’s easy to fall into the trap of overpacking. But ask yourself if you would be able to buy the item at your destination or if the item is taking up too much of your limited luggage space (Singapore Airlines, for instance, has a limit of 32kg for a single checked-in bag). Things such as tissues, bedding and even cutlery can be easily purchased later. (I say this as a pot I brought from Singapore is sitting in the corner of my room in Sweden, untouched. Now I know.)

 

TIP 4: FIGURE OUT WHAT PAYMENT METHOD YOU WILL USE OVERSEAS

Is the country you are visiting cash-free? The last thing you want to do is to incur extra costs on bank fees when you use your credit card. A suggestion is to apply for a travel card like YouTrip or Revolut, which lets you exchange currencies without fees. And even if you plan to use electronic payment methods, bring some hard cash as you never know when it might come in handy.

TIP 5: RESEARCH YOUR DESTINATION

Be it cultural differences or unique traditions, it is good to be aware lest you unknowingly commit a cultural faux pas. It’s also helpful to learn some basic phrases such as “hello” or “where is…” if the language of instruction in your destination is foreign to you. (On my second day in Sweden, I ended up in a men’s restroom because I didn’t understand the toilet signs!)

TIP 6: FINALLY, REMEMBER THAT SAFETY IS YOUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY

We often take Singapore’s safety for granted. Try not to let your guard down when travelling overseas, especially if you are alone. When searching for accommodation, don’t compromise on safety by choosing an apartment with cheap rent in a dodgy location. I decided to stay in university accommodation as it was affordable and in a safe area. You might also consider purchasing self-protection gear like a personal alarm or learning some basic self-defence moves. Your loved ones at home will have peace of mind knowing that you are watching out for your own safety in a foreign country.

DO THESE WHEN YOU REACH YOUR EXCHANGE DESTINATION

When you arrive, the hustle and bustle of an unfamiliar city might just be enough to overwhelm you. Go at your own pace to process everything – it does get better over time – and follow these tips.

TIP 1: FIRST THINGS FIRST, INFORM YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS THAT YOU HAVE ARRIVED

To keep in constant contact with your loved ones, look into getting a SIM card. Having a local number would also be useful for your time there. Most airports have kiosks where you would be able to purchase such cards but remember to do a quick Google search on which telecom brands offer the best deals (to get more bang for your buck).

TIP 2: NEXT, FIGURE OUT HOW TO GET TO YOUR ACCOMMODATION

The transport system in a foreign country might appear confusing and different from the one we are used to, especially if everything is in a foreign language. Don’t be afraid to ask around for help. Try to look confident and aware of where you are heading, and resist the urge to plug your earphones in. The last thing you want is to appear unaware and lost, which might make you a target of crime.

 

TIP 3: TRY TO ARRIVE AT YOUR DESTINATION EARLIER IN THE DAY, SO YOU CAN TAKE YOUR TIME TO SETTLE IN

If you had made the wise decision of not overpacking, you would probably need to head to the local supermarket to buy some necessities. For this reason, it is a good idea to arrive during the day to ensure sufficient time to settle in and find your way around before it gets dark.


The view from my dorm window.


My host university.

TIP 4: AFTER SETTLING IN, FIGURE OUT AN EFFICIENT AND AFFORDABLE WAY TO GET AROUND

Some European cities are rather bike-friendly, which makes purchasing a second-hand bicycle a good option. If not, look into getting monthly transport passes to reduce your expenditure.

 

TIP 5: LASTLY, TRACK YOUR EXPENSES REGULARLY

The cost of living might be higher than in Singapore, especially in North America or certain European countries (I spend about S$250 a week in Sweden). A tip is to whip up your own meals instead of eating out. Strike the right balance between affordability and safety with regard to your accommodation. Renting an apartment is a great option if you can find trustworthy housemates to split the rent with. If not, many universities offer student accommodation at a lower price point. Take your pick wisely! And be disciplined when tracking such costs on a spreadsheet or an app – your bank account will thank you for it.

And there you have it! With these tips, you are more than ready to conquer your semester abroad.

With my orientation group.

Quick tips on coping with homesickness

It is natural to miss home, especially in the first few weeks. Your loved ones are far away, nobody speaks Singlish, and all you want to do is to enjoy a cup of kopi peng. Here are some quick tips I learnt that helped me cope with my homesickness – and might help you too.

TIP 1: BRING PHOTOGRAPHS OF YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Having physical photos on your walls can add a homely vibe to your otherwise bare and foreign accommodation. It also allows you to reminisce precious moments spent with your loved ones.

TIP 2: LEARN SOME RECIPES BEFORE YOU LEAVE

Learn to cook your favourite local dishes and recreate them when you’re missing home. Or pack some Singaporean snacks or drinks in your luggage. After all, you can always count on a warm cup of Milo to cheer you up.


Budget-friendly home cooking reminds me of home.

TIP 3: CALL YOUR LOVED ONES OFTEN

Make an effort to schedule these calls. With time zone differences, this can be challenging. But being able to hear their voices and see their faces can bring you just a bit closer to home.

TIP 4: REACH OUT FOR HELP

If  your homesickness affects your mental wellbeing, remember that most universities offer counselling services for students. No matter what, talk to someone – don’t suffer in silence.


Supper with friends.

TIP 5: REMEMBER THAT IT IS ONLY TEMPORARY

Your exchange semester is only a couple of months long. Before you know it, you’ll be back in Singapore, wishing to travel back in time. So keep yourself busy by filling your days with new experiences, and you’ll think of home a little less.

 

HEY! STUDENT WRITER

Erin loves getting lost in a book. Her ideal mornings are spent walking to the nearest bakery to enjoy fresh bread.

This story was published in the Oct-Dec 2022 issue of HEY!. To read it and other stories from this issue in PDF format, click here.