Preparation
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Am I Going to feel Silly Studying Abroad at my Age???I think this was the hardest thing for me to get over. There WERE a lot of 18 year olds. But there were a lot of people my age. There were professors in their 50s and 60s on sabbatical from their universities studying French also. There were business people from around the world learning French, There are people of all ages, and after the first day, I felt completely at ease. (And I did meet a fellow 30 year old and we went to Paris Disney, wore mouse ears and rode the teacups! Who's too old?!?!)
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**A NOTE ABOUT DISABILITIES***So, as an older student, occasionally we have additional concerns about living in a new environment: perhaps a mobility concern, special needs for sleeping, dietary needs, medical needs, etc. These things do not limit us from having this experience, we just need to do more research on our destination before we go. For example, I occasionally have muscular or joint issues, and I know that I need to sleep on a certain type of bed. I chose to use Airbnb and I had them email me a picture of the bed I would be sleeping in. I also read reviews from previous guests, which helped. I thought I might need to get one of those foamy mattress supports, so I planned again and found out what stores in Paris I could find one at if i needed one (Thankfully I did not, the bed was perfect!) I made sure I had copies of my prescriptions, as well as my doctors number.
Again, it's just about planning ahead, knowing your needs and thinking of creative ways to accommodate them. With google earth maps we can often see street views of buildings and tell if there are things like elevators, or lots of stairs, etc. Everyone's needs, again, are different. Just make sure you are honest with yourself about what you need to be confortable and don't be shy about asking people to help you make it happen. Your college study abroad office is invested in your success and they WANT to make your study abroad dreams come true!!! Ask for help and you just might find out someone CAN give it to you!! |