We
are two french girls studying in the CESEM in Reims, an international
management program. We are both going to England in October and this blog will
cover our new adventures in the UK. Theoretically we’re going for 2 years but
who knows ? (Mom, skip this sentence) Maybe we’re going forever ! A trip like
this one has to be more than prepared. We truly hope you’re ready to begin this
journey with us !
PACK WITH US !
We’re
heading to Lancaster University, in Northern England where we’ll study in the
Management school. And guess what ? We’re going to live in the same college
(Pendle), how cool ! For our frenchy friends the collegiate system is typical
of Lancaster University : colleges are like neighborhoods on campus but they
are actually real communities !
Moving
in a campus obviously means packing. And making lists. We have to think about
every single detail : sheets, towels, plug adapters, crockery, makeup, red wine
(non-negociable). But we also have to sort out every piece of clothing we have
stored for 10 years.
Think about charity !
Lucky
us we’ll get there by car so we can bring more belongings than our
friends that are going by plane. However, Alexia is still struggling to choose
among her 3 leather jackets and her 2 denim ones.
This
trip may seem easy to prepare but we actually did plenty of essential
procedures to finally be ready for the finale departure.
If
you're considering a long trip like ours, these information might be useful.
The
first thing you need is an insurance that covers you overseas. This could
definitely help you in case of a broken tooth during a wild party. Bank is also
a major step of your preparation : you have to do a comparative study of
banking offers to choose the best service adapted to your profile. We
personally chose an attractive offer in our respective banks : no withdrawal,
payment and bank transfer fees and a brand new free credit card !
You
also have to make sure you are up to date on the medical point. That is
basically the part that takes the longest time. You have to consult your doctor
and think about medications in case you're following a special treatment,
consult your gyneacologist (girls only, we’re afraid it can’t really be helpful
for boys) and your ophtalmologist. You will also need the European Health
Insurance Card (Carte Européenne d'Assurance Maladie) just in case you're sick
in the foreign country. It will allow you to get instant reimbursements.
We
insist on this medical step. You really need to do a check-up before going
anywhere. To give one light-hearted example, Marie consulted her dentist and
discovered she will need to remove her wisdom teeth in January.
(A
Thousand Years by Christina Perri playing in the background)
Guys,
this is the last heart-breaking step before the start of our new life. As
french students learning everything about international management, we were
prepared to go abroad for such a long time, but not really to these. Goodbyes.
It’s
unpleasant to leave behind your family, your friends and all the little habits
you share with them. We’re stepping out our comfort zone and it’s not that
easy.
As
mentionned above, we’re studying in an international program and it proposes
different destinations, not only the UK but also Germany, Ireland, Spain,
Italia, Netherlands, the USA, Mexico and China. The British are the last to
leave France so we typically did say goodbye to many friends. Goodbyes are
vicious, they hit you when you don't expect them.
That's it for now !
Take care
A & M
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