Two weeks from today I'll be boarding an airplane out of Newark to fly across the ocean to Madrid, then onto Granada for a 4 or 5 day orientation. Dang time flies...
But I just thought I'd share some things that I think are good to think about with 2 weeks left for future students participating in the same program (or really any study abroad program).
First things first, "packing". Now I surely am not packed and ready to go, but I have thought and planned out everything I am going to pack. For instance, it was suggested that we try to blend in with the Moroccan people and culture, and trust me when I say, my clothes aren't really the type that blend in. So I have gone and revamped most of my wardrobe to consist of more conservative options. Heck I even caved in and bought some hiking type shorts/pants combo things. They are actually comfortable and versatile. 4 pieces of fabric and 8 different pieces of clothing. I'm also planning on packing some of my own deodorant, bar soap, and face wash just to have until I get settled abroad.
Secondly, I personally had to grab myself a new backpack that is a little bit bigger and more conducive to holding enough for a weekend rather than a school day.
I also barley remembered reading that we needed to order some books for our Arabic classes abroad, so I bought those yesterday with hopes that they will be here on time.
The rest of the stuff I'm just going to list off and if you anyone wants more information feel free to leave a comment and I'll elaborate:
- Ordered some Euros and Dirhams (Moroccan currency) from my bank, just in case.
- Worked with my dad and his lawyers to give him Power of Attorney while I'm abroad. Mostly for just if I need to sign a lease back at school or something like that, he can legally sign for me.
- Looked into housing for the Spring semester after I return.
- I also had to contact my school and ISA about issues with my financial aid and when it was actually being released, something that you may want to stay on top of.
- Been watching my flight information to make sure it doesn't change and ISA is up to date on when I will be arriving.
- Called me credit and debit card companies and alerted them where and when I'll be traveling.
- Make copies of the first 2 pages of my passport and my debit and credit cards.
- Talked to my doctor and saw a guy with "Passport Health" to get a couple of vaccinations. I got a shot for Typhoid and he recommended getting Hep. A shots as well.
I'm sure there are a few things that I am missing that I will add to the comments box if they are anything that substantial. But after arriving and starting the program I'm sure things will come up that I wish I would have done, I'll talk about those as they arise.
So pending any other earth shattering things that come up, my next post should be from Spain!
