How to stay connected with family and friends when studying abroad
Studying abroad can be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences of a lifetime. You get to immerse yourself in a new culture, make new friends, learn a new language, and broaden your horizons. However, being away from your family and friends can also be daunting and lonely at times. Luckily, with some effort and the right mindset, you can stay connected with your loved ones back home while enjoying your study abroad experience.
1. Make Use of Technology
Thanks to modern technology, you can stay connected with your family and friends back home no matter where you are in the world. Use apps like Skype, Zoom, or FaceTime to make free video calls and have a face-to-face conversation with your loved ones. You can also use WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger to send messages and photos instantly, or use social media platforms like Instagram or Snapchat to share your adventures, experiences, and emotions with your family and friends through photos and videos.
Another way to stay connected via technology is to play online games together. You can play multiplayer games like Fortnite or Minecraft, or play classic board games like Monopoly or Scrabble on websites like Pogo.com or Steam. This not only helps you stay connected, but also gives you a fun and interactive way to spend time with your loved ones.
2. Send Postcards and Letters
There’s something special about receiving a handwritten postcard or letter from someone you care about. It shows that they’re thinking of you and took the time to write something meaningful. Make an effort to send postcards or letters to your family and friends back home once in a while. You can write about your experiences, the things you miss, your plans for the future, or simply how much you miss them. It’s a small gesture that can go a long way in maintaining your relationships.
3. Plan Virtual Movie Nights
Watching a movie together is a fun and relaxing way to spend time with your loved ones. Even though you’re miles apart, you can plan a virtual movie night using apps like Netflix Party or Hulu Watch Party. You can choose a movie that you both want to watch, synchronize it on your screens, and chat with each other throughout the movie just like you’re sitting next to each other. It’s a great way to bond and have some fun together.
4. Send Care Packages
Everyone loves receiving gifts. Consider sending care packages to your family and friends back home once in a while. You can include some local treats or souvenirs, photos of your adventures, a heartfelt letter, or anything that you think would make them happy. This not only shows that you’re thinking of them, but also gives you a reason to explore your new surroundings and try new things.
5. Plan Trips Together
Just because you’re studying abroad doesn’t mean you can’t plan trips with your family and friends back home. You can plan a trip for when you return, or even plan a trip together in your current destination. This gives you something to look forward to and a reason to stay connected and share your experiences with each other.
In conclusion, staying connected with your family and friends when studying abroad requires some effort and creativity, but it’s definitely worth it. Use technology, send postcards and letters, plan virtual movie nights, send care packages, and plan trips together. These small gestures can help you maintain your relationships, stay motivated, and make the most of your study abroad experience.