10 TIPS FOR STUDYING ABROAD IN THE PHILIPPINES

Hey guys! I came up with 10 tips for studying abroad in the Philippines after I got back from studying at the Ateneo de Manila University in Manila! Hopefully they will help you understand what to expect and help you to prepare for the best semester of your college career and improve your study abroad experience:)

Differences between the Filipino and American Education Systems: In the Philippines, there tends to be a large emphasis on groups in class and respecting elders. Don’t be surprised to find intense security on campus, and Facebook is used for more than staying in touch with friends and family! There are many surprising similarities between my school at home and university abroad.

Student housing: Try to live as close to campus as possible! Commuting in metro Manila is a challenge and should not be taken lightly. Within walking distance is best, but a few trike or jeepney rides wouldn’t be terrible. As long as you’re not planning on driving to and from class everyday you should be set!

Calendar: Try to get your school schedule as soon as possible so you can start to make travel plans! Filipino holidays are frequent and dates tend to be tentative and flexible.

Be prepared for filipino time: Filipinos run on their own schedule, which usually involves a slow paced lifestyle and running late. Try not to get frustrated!

Alien card and student id: Use your student ID as much as possible to get student discounts and travel around the philippines! When all else fails, you’ll also have your

Rules are suggestions: Filipinos tend to not take rules very seriously, especially when it comes to things like safe driving practices and hard due dates.

School supplies: If you are very particular about your school supplies, bring your own! The Philippines has different types of materials than we’re used to here in the states. But on the plus side, textbooks are super cheap!

Typhoons: Be prepared for the most rain you’ve ever seen. 24 hours a day for months, it will just rain and rain and rain. Bring that rain gear and try to avoid jumping in the puddles!

Be prepared to get a lot of attention: There is a distinct filipino look, and I did not fit it. Filipinos assume all white people are american and will ask about the statue of liberty or food portions before they even know you’re from the states.

American Fast food: You will be tempted by a lot of american fast food restaurants. I urge you to try filipino food! Even the food we had on campus was really good and usually cheaper than American food anyways

Видео 10 TIPS FOR STUDYING ABROAD IN THE PHILIPPINES канала Laura Szczepankiewicz