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| Do’s and Don’ts to Having a Great Year Abroad |
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There are many factors that go into having a successful year in seminary in Israel or in any learning program away from home. The key is to remember that this year is a stepping stone in your growth and independence as an adult, and can be challenging and exciting in many ways.
DO- Set goals. Try to figure out what you would like to gain by the end of the year (which, before you know it will creep up on you!) and keep your eyes and ears open to those situations -and people- that can help you achieve those goals. It can be helpful to jot down your goals in the beginning of the year (such as on the plane), and check in every month to see how you are doing. DO- Keep in touch with your parents on a regular basis- they are paying your tuition and miss you! Sometimes it can be easy to forget to stay in touch because you are so busy with all the new experiences you are involved in, but it's important to keep contact with those back home who are hoping you are doing well. On that note, DON'T- be fooled by the exchange rate and how many shekels you get on the dollar. Budget your money carefully or you'll go broke fast. DO- Work on building friendships this year- the friends you make can last forever. Being away from home is an opportunity to start fresh after spending four or more years in the same school. This gives you the chance to show the "real" you to people you don't know, and bond with others who have similar experiences and goals, as you all try to navigate the independence boat for the first time. DON'T - forget that if you are in seminary or yeshiva, your behavior is on display for the locals who expect a lot from the foreign students. Try to learn the cultural norms in your area. Blending in doesn't have to mean being someone you are not, but rather trying to respect the accepted behavior in the surrounding area. This way it creates a mutual respect and positive feelings all around. DO- Ask for help when you find yourself in a compromising situation, or if you feel that you are "stuck" in your road towards reaching your goals. The year will go by fast, and your time is limited- if making the most of this opportunity means enlisting the help of a trusted teacher, older friend or therapist, it will be worth it. And finally.... enjoy!!! Sheera Scherman, LCSW, specializes in psychotherapy with young women abroad struggling with issues related to adjustment, depression, anxiety etc. These articles are for information purposes only and do not signify endorsement by Seminary Central.
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