Preparing for your Experience

You may have spent a lot of time and energy preparing to leave, but you are not really ready to go until you have spent some time mentally preparing for the changes you will experience. These transitions can be made easier by educating yourself about the country you are going to visit. We suggest a variety of information sources:

• Carleton students and faculty who have lived and studied in your country of destination (names available in the OCS Office)
• Pre-departure meetings
• Web sites including:
• https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/ (CIA World Fact Book)
  http://www.lonelyplanet.com (travel guide)
  http://www.letsgo.com (travel guide)
  http://www.savvytraveler.com/ (tips and links)
  http://www.transitionsabroad.com/ (alternative travel, volunteer opportunities, and jobs)
• Books and videos in the Off-Campus Studies Office
• Carleton's Language Center for language and news broadcasts
• Tools for your memory and imagination-cameras, journals, and sketch pads