For people soon to study abroad

This blog is two fold. One bit is just a journal, the second is when i have time add knowledge of what I know about studying abroad. This is the second subject.

Being july you begin to start thinking about what am I going to pack? It doesnt matter if it is a semester or a year, your going to bring basically the same thing. Clothes, camera, etc. But there is something I have found most people including myself the first time forget one important thing. Your own culture!

when studying abroad you are obviously excited at the chance to learn a new culture and society. however do not forget that the exchange goes both ways. The people you will meet or live with most likely have never been to your country, and likely know nothing of your culture. Before you leave remember to bring your culture with you.

This may seem counter intuitive, especially for americans. The world knows our culture right? No, mcdonalds and KFC do not count as culture. Kung Fu Panda is a fad. When I say american culture I mean family recipies, your music collection, games, hobbies and movies.

family recipies explain itself, if the world thinks that American food is what is found on the menu on KFC then show them what real american food is. Games you remember as a kid, like cards. You have card games that are popular, speed, egyptian rat screw, popular with americans are new to your new friends abroad. Whats easier than a 2$ deck of cards? Movies also seems a little unimaginative as the internet makes every blockbuster online illegally but this pirate world leaves out basically everything over 5 years old.

Your favorite movies when you were younger are ones most likely your family has never seen or heard of. I remember watching space jam with my host family in Japan and watching my host mother get a fit of giggles every time tweety bird came on screen. I remember introducing my host brother to Austin Powers and trying to explain all the jokes... It was great fun. My personal list of a few I am bringing to China include; Jack, ninja turtles, mrs doubtfire, forest gump, Austin Powers, War Games, Ferris Bullers day off. You get the idea.

also When you are planning what you pack think also of gifts. Especially if you are going to live in someone's home bring a gift. Calandars, hats of local teams or show a city logo, posters, or stuff from your city giftshop. Personally I like to bring children books, usually found from a library for pennies, they make great gifts for friends learning your language or just donations to the school.

Somethin to think about when you are planning for your trip.