Pitt Global Experiences

Lauren Starr, Pitt in Amsterdam Summer 2024

After participating in the Pitt in Amsterdam study abroad program, I have five major pieces of advice for students who want to go on this specific program and for those who want to study abroad in general.

• Try new things

The biggest piece of advice I would give to another student planning to study aboard is to try new things. This may seem cliché, but I am so glad I branched out and studied a topic not in my major. I am a rehabilitation science major and went on this program with a group of students who were predominantly urban planning majors. I learned a lot about this topic through classes, field trips and tours, and my peers. Being surrounded by students who I do not typically interact with on campus was worthwhile, and I am glad to say I am excited to reach out to this group back at Pitt. Along with trying new classes, try new things in the new country you are visiting! From food to cultural experiences, trying things you normally would not try is what makes this an unforgettable experience. Get out of your comfort zone and explore the country you have the privilege of traveling to for a longer period of time.

• Research and book things beforehand (Especially the touristy stuff!)

I cannot emphasize enough research before leaving! I did a lot of research and was able to book museums and experiences others in my group were unable to book while we were abroad. I was able to go to the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and got to see the infamous Amsterdam tulips because I booked ahead of time. To get the most out of your abroad experience, booking online a month before you leave is highly recommended. I know for Maymesters, especially, the month before you leave is very busy with finals and various projects or club events but make time to research and book popular venues and events to make your life easier once you get to your destination. This prevents any time wasted abroad looking for things to do and stressing about not getting everything done that you want to get done.

• Do NOT overpack

I am the queen of overpacking. I always pack a large suitcase just for a weekend trip, but I am telling you to especially be cautious with your packing while going abroad. Bring basics that you know you will wear multiple times and are able to make different outfits with. By packing less, you are able to bring more home, and who doesn’t love souvenirs? Trust me when I say you do not need six pairs of pants (I have learned from experience)! Bring basic outfits and comfy shoes because you will be doing a lot of walking. Plan out your packing (DO NOT do it the day before, again, I have learned from experience) to ensure you have everything you need without going overboard. I looked up what to wear in Amsterdam in May and found a blog post explaining the normal weather and what to bring, which was really helpful, and I am sure there is some information on what to pack wherever you plan on going. This may seem like a “duh” piece of advice, but you will thank me later when you can easily pack your bags at the end of the trip and not have to sit on your suitcase to close it.

• Appreciate every moment

Studying abroad for a month goes by way faster than you would expect. The first two weeks of my program went by slowly, but the last two weeks flew by. With that said make sure you take in every moment because this is an experience of a lifetime and if you rush through it, you will regret not living in the moment. School obviously comes first, but many professors understand that you are abroad and often lessen the course load while you are overseas, which is nice because it ensures less time couped up in a café studying and more time getting out there and experiencing amazing things. Slow down and take everything in because time has a tendency to fly by, especially while you are having fun!

• Be safe

Most importantly, remember to be safe. You are in a new area, so be aware of your surroundings. Have fun but be mindful of who is around you and do not carelessly walk around by yourself. Always travel with other people in your program, who you will become close with over the course of the trip!