As a recent college graduate, I've heard many of my peers say with disappointment, "I wish I studied abroad." Fortunately I do not have this regret, as I was able to spend a summer at a university in Beijing. Many may be apprehensive about leaving the comforts of home for months at a time to live in a foreign country, but in reality, adjusting to life in a city where you don't speak the native language and are taken completely out of your comfort zone can be a very sobering experience. Travelers will be exposed to new customs and traditions, forced to try (and most likely enjoy) exotic cuisines, and learn to appreciate the different cultural practices.

From a social standpoint, studying abroad is also a great way to create lasting bonds between an unexpected group of friends. Because travelers will be studying, dining, and exploring the country in the groups assigned by their schools, they will undoubtedly form great friendships among the diverse crowds. Also, schools will usually have host students guide the foreigners around the city. This gives both the visitors as well as the native students an opportunity to foster friendships that can last much longer than the duration of their trip.

When my study abroad experience in Beijing came to an end, many students extended their vacations to include 7 day tours to Japan or to other parts of Asia. This is a great option because a flight to Japan from Beijing is much more economical than a flight from home, in Los Angeles. It was wonderful being able to explore yet another country with our new friends. Many students will opt for tours of Asia or Eurotrips, depending on where they might be studying.

However there are a few things to keep in mind before studying abroad:

* Just because you are with a group of friends, don't forget that you're still in a foreign country and are most likely unable to speak the language. Stay in groups, don't visit questionable areas, and be respectful to the country's customs. If you visit nightclubs, pay close attention to your drink.

* Bring an extra cell phone if you have one; you can easily purchase SIM cards at local stores. Make sure you store all the numbers you may need, including those to your friends, numbers to your hotels, cabs, and your professors.

* Keep your passport and other important or valuable documents safe at all times. If your hotel or dorm room offers a safe to hold them, take advantage of them before going out and exploring the area.

* Make an effort to learn a few useful phrases in that country's language. You will find that this comes in handy at restaurants, navigating your way around the city, or bargaining with store clerks.

* Keep up with the exchange rates so you have an understanding exactly how much your paying.