Pre-Departure Checklist

The past week has been a whirlwind of events. Prior to finals week, I flew to Seattle for my sister's graduation, zoomed back to LA to wrap up sophomore year, packed up my dorm, said goodbye to friends, and went home to Colorado.

And things are just getting started!

somewhere over Greenland on my way to Paris!

I'm a few days away from the start of my program in France and figured it would be nice to run through all the items on my pre-departure checklist. Summer Travel Study programs are a great way to enjoy the study abroad experience without having to miss time at UCLA during the school year. The only downside is, however, there's a such a quick turnaround from finishing up the school year to the starting Travel Study! Everything from organizing flights to coordinating travel dates and activities to applying for passports and visas can become overwhelming. Luckily, with a little planning, there are several ways for a smooth transition between UCLA life in California to UCLA life abroad. Here are my essentials:

1. Passport/Visas

This little navy blue book is arguably the most important item on this check-list. Due to its value, be sure to keep track of your passport - have a place in your bag where you will always keep and be able to find it. Before your departure, make copies of your passport so you can carry that on you when you're on location and leave the actual passport at home. Be sure that your passport is up to date and will not expire during your study abroad

As far as visas go, it depends on the location of your program as well as your citizenship. For France, a visa is not needed for US citizens since I am staying less than 90 days. If you ever have questions about this, though, the advisors at the International Education Office can always help or you can call the consulate for that country.

2. Transportation

Booking a flight relatively far in advance will help keep costs down. There are several deals out there that offer discounts for college students, too. I bought my ticket in Feb/March (for a June start date) for an inexpensive fare. When booking, be sure to give yourself ample time if you have layovers and schedule accordingly with time changes. After you arrive at your location, it may be necessary to arrange transport from the airport to your destination. My program provides transportation from Charles de Gaulle Airport to our host family’s house!

3. Clothes

I'm a notorious over-packer, an unfortunate trait as I’m about to travel to a country known for their small closets. Packing light is definitely a must; it’s never fun to lug a huge suitcase through the airport. France should be pretty warm with the occasional summer rain, so packing light hasn’t been too big of an issue. I’m planning to mix and match a lot of what I bring. The French dress fashionably and more conservatively than Americans - there’s nothing wrong with shorts or yoga pants, but they will definitely identify you as a tourist.

If you are cognizant of the cultural norms and check the weather beforehand, you should be set!

4. Currency & Tech

I have some Euros in my wallet just in case I need to purchase something while en route to Paris. I’m fairly certain most places will take my credit card (after notifying my bank that I will be abroad), but having some local currency on hand is always a good idea.

As far as technology goes, I’m bringing a laptop, cell phone, and my camera with their respective chargers. Don’t forget outlet converters! I bought this global converter that can be used anywhere, so that means more options for international travel, right?!

*** these items in this section should be kept in sight/safe places at all times! ***

5. Open-mind

This will be an entirely new experience for me and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Study abroad is a great way to earn some units towards your degree while having the opportunity to explore a new country. I can’t wait to immerse myself in a new culture and see all that France has to offer!

With that, these are the major things on my pre-departure checklist. Soon my journey will begin and it will be time to head to the airport. Adventure awaits...