Going Abroad After High School | Up for a New Experience?
You've got your high school diploma (Matura) in your pocket and really only want one thing: to go out and celebrate. For a very long time and very thoroughly. Another step toward growing up, another step into adult life and freedom is done, and now? What next? Well, how about a stay abroad if you're not yet sure whether you want to work or study? That's not a bad idea and should definitely be an alternative to staying at home! After all, the best ideas often come when you're abroad!
A gap year abroad after high school
Before you figure out what you want to do after high school, it's important to first take a little time and go through a phase of orientation. Only then will you have a clear head and avoid doing anything rash. If you love to travel, a stay abroad of anywhere from three months to a year can be really helpful. It lets you unwind and think about what you really want to do. Last but not least, you get travel inspiration thrown in for free. And that can be truly decisive. It can shape your whole life, no matter where you actually go.
Inspiration is always there. It can come from a green leaf in Madagascar or from the wonderful cherry blossoms in Tokyo. Going abroad after high school? If you're planning that, there are a few things to keep in mind before you set off abroad by train or bus, far away from family and friends. When you're completely on your own, there's a lot you need to know! Or you bring along people you trust, but if you do end up traveling alone, you should already know quite a bit.
What should you know if you want to go abroad after high school?
Once you're sure and have made a concrete plan to go abroad after high school, keep in mind that there are a few things to do before you start your trip:
- Ask questions (to yourself!)
- How do I want to travel (own car, carpool, bus, long-distance bus, train, plane, hitchhiking)? (Hitchhiking is not recommended, though, as it is considered unsafe)
- Packing list? Have I packed everything I need?
I should take these things with me:
- a map of the country in question
- pack enough money
- medication for the duration of your stay (anti-diarrhea medicine, fever reducer, bandages, sedatives, disinfectant)
- do not forget your passport and personal documents under any circumstances
- enough food for 2 days
Where to stay overnight abroad?
If you want to go abroad after high school, you should think about accommodation and any volunteer work ahead of time. Should you stay with a host family? Is it better to book (or look for) a campground or a hotel?
And how will you get around? Do you want a rental car? You should take care of all these things before you set off, so that nothing can stand in the way of a carefree year abroad after high school. Going abroad after high school always sounds great: cutting the cord, discovering real freedom. That can certainly be wonderful if you think these things through before the trip. What matters most, and always will, is personal safety, so that you can actually enjoy your time abroad.