Pre-departure

If you are looking at Study Abroad programs, here are the four P's -and a T- a few things to keep in mind:

1. Passport- you will probably need it. If you don't have one already, you should get one right away for Study Abroad. It takes time!
2. Paperwork- there is a LOT of paperwork involved- you will need lots of signatures proving that your affairs are in order before you go.
3. Program Costs- self explanatory. Keep in mind this is not a free adventure.
4. Packing- that's the one I am coming up on now. Know your allowances in terms of size, and remember- you aren't going away forever. You don't need as much as you think you do, and they will probably have generic things (cosmetics, hygenics) available there. School of thought- pack half as much clothing and twice as much money as you think you will need.
5. Travel- Plan ahead! Especially if you are flying, you can often get a cheaper deal by planning ahead. This is VERY IMPORTANT.

In other news, I'm getting nervous and excited about Costa Rica. I got my host family information yesterday. I'll be staying with a mom and her two kids-ages 28 and 30- and another student from South Carolina. It's real now!!