My First Week Abroad: Expectations vs Reality
Going abroad for an internship abroad is an adventure. A real one.
We often imagine it as perfect… but reality can be a little different.
And that’s exactly what makes the experience so enriching.
At Stud&Globe, we support students every year as they go through this intense first week. Between excitement, surprises, and adaptation, here’s what you really need to know before starting an international experience.
🌍 Before Leaving: Expectations Are Often Idealized
When preparing for your departure, everything seems clear in your mind.
You imagine yourself:
- perfectly comfortable in English or Spanish;
- already integrated into your company;
- exploring the city like a local;
- surrounded by new friends.
And above all, you think everything will flow naturally.
👉 The reality? It’s not immediate. But that’s normal.
✈️ Day 1: Between Excitement and a Small Shock
The day you arrive is often a mix of emotions.
You feel excited and curious… but also a bit lost.
New city, new environment, new language.
Even simple things become challenges:
- finding your accommodation;
- understanding transportation;
- ordering food.
This is often called a mini culture shock.
👉 Good news: it doesn’t last.
🏡 Accommodation: Immediate Immersion
Whether you stay with a host family or in shared accommodation, immersion happens quickly.
You expected a gradual adaptation…
But in reality, you are immediately immersed in a new daily life.
👉 What Changes from the First Days
- different meal times;
- new habits;
- a sometimes more direct way of communicating.
It can feel unsettling at first…
But this is also what makes the experience unique.
💼 The First Days at Work
You imagined arriving confident and ready to perform.
But in reality:
- you observe a lot;
- you gradually understand your role;
- you don’t always dare to ask all your questions.
And that’s completely normal.
👉 The first week at work is not about being perfect.
It’s about learning, understanding your professional environment, and adapting.
🧠 Language: Understanding… Without Understanding Everything
Even if you have a good level, reality is different:
- accents;
- speed of speech;
- professional vocabulary.
Result: you understand… but not 100%.
And that’s OK. Your brain is adapting.
In just a few days, you will already notice improvement.
🤝 Meeting People: Less Immediate Than Expected
We often imagine making friends in the first few days.
In reality:
- everyone moves at their own pace;
- connections build gradually;
- sometimes you need to take the first step.
👉 But one thing is certain: meeting people abroad often leads to stronger and more lasting connections.
🔄 Expectations vs Reality: The Real Takeaway
You thought everything would be smooth. In reality, you need to adapt.
You thought you would feel comfortable immediately. But comfort comes gradually.
You thought you would understand everything. But learning is continuous.
You thought you would meet people quickly. But relationships take time to build.
👉 And that’s exactly what helps you grow.
🌱 Why This First Week Is Essential
This week can feel destabilizing.
But it’s key because it teaches you to:
- step out of your comfort zone;
- adapt quickly;
- gain independence;
- build confidence.
👉 It’s the beginning of a personal transformation.
💡 Our Tips to Make the Most of This First Week
At Stud&Globe, we see it every day: students who enjoy this experience the most are those who adopt the right mindset.
Here are our tips:
1. Accept That You Won’t Be Perfect
You’re here to learn, not to master everything from day one.
2. Dare to Ask Questions
No one expects you to know everything.
3. Be Curious
Try, explore, discover.
4. Stay Positive
Even uncomfortable moments are valuable.
5. Give Yourself Time
Adaptation takes time.
🌍 An Experience That Changes Everything
After a few days, something shifts.
You start to:
- understand more easily;
- feel more comfortable;
- find your rhythm.
And without even realizing it… you are already growing.
👉 That’s the true value of an internship abroad.
🚀 Ready to Live the Experience?
Going abroad is not always comfortable.
But it is always transformative.
At Stud&Globe, we support you at every step:
from choosing your destination to your integration on site.
👉 Don’t wait any longer to live your own international experience.
