Nicole Pellegrini ’18 studied abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand. She is an Elizabethtown College alumna with a degree in Psychology. Going abroad, Nicole wasn’t sure what to expect. Now back in the United States, she has tips she wishes she would have known while studying abroad.
- Study abroad is a great opportunity to make new friends and travel, but it is a STUDY abroad experience, so studying is still something which needs to get done. Try to keep your transcript in mind.
- Credit cards may have a foreign exchange fee. If you’re planning on using your card at all while abroad, try to find a card with a low exchange fee – they can be as high as 2.9%. In addition to this, make sure you let your bank know you are traveling so your card doesn’t get cut off.
- It may seem like you need to bring your whole closet with you when traveling abroad. Nicole advises to pack light so you can bring things home. Toiletries are available in your host country. In addition, Nicole recommends making sure you’re not bringing restricted items, which will get confiscated.
- Even though packing light is important, there are two items Nicole recommends to make sure make it in your baggage. The first is an international adapter and converter, depending on where you are traveling. The other items is medications or prescriptions. It’s important to make sure you have enough of your prescription, are able to bring you prescription into the country, and have a doctor’s note if necessary.
- With all this in mind, the most important thing to remember when studying abroad is to enjoy yourself! Take pictures, journal, and say yes as often as possible to have the best time imaginable!
*Click on the hyperlinks above to learn more about the Dunedin, New Zealand program and to read Nicole’s original blog published by BCA Study Abroad on May 30, 2018.
Blue Jays Abroad 
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