Before you leave home for studying abroad
Going abroad to study comes with bittersweet feelings. For me, the excitement of finally moving on from my online classes after two long years of sitting in front of a computer is unparalleled.
However, I'm also grappling with the intense emotions that come with having to leave my family, friends and my life in Dhaka behind. It's the only life I've known for two decades, and the realisation that everything will be different so soon hits hard.
I've found that there are a few vital things to do to ease this massive transition. If you find yourself in a similar position, these might help you mentally prepare.
Meet all the people you need to
This seems fairly obvious, but hardly anything is more important. The last few days will most likely be super busy for you as you're trying to finish all your last minute shopping and packing. Amidst all the mess, you'll want to meet your loved ones and make sure to spend adequate time with them. Remember, you won't get a chance to be with them for a while and you'll definitely regret it later if you don't make time for them now.
Friends, relatives, close colleagues, even your favourite bank teller – meet all the people you're going to miss. If meeting in person isn't possible, a heartfelt phone call will also suffice. That being said, make sure to not go too crazy because you wouldn't want to deplete your social battery.
Last-minute burger runs
We all have something that we're really attached to that we won't get a chance to experience once we leave. For me, it's a specific burger at my favourite burger joint that nothing will ever beat because it tastes like my childhood in a patty. For technical reasons, I can only say this place has a yellow logo and is also the best burger joint in town (thank you).
It doesn't just have to be burgers, it might be your mom's special dherosh bhaji or even a park that you have made great memories in. The point is to experience it one last time before you go. Your future self will be grateful for the effort.
Finish unfinished business, Mortal Kombat style
Okay, we've all got something we've been putting off for ages. Whether it's getting all your relevant documents printed before your flight or resolving that age-old beef you've had with your friend over something you can no longer remember, it's time to put our foot down and get it done.
You don't necessarily have to repair every dissolving relationship before you go, but it's good to take the first step if you think it's important enough. Also, don't wait until the last moment to print your documents!
Though moving away isn't easy, it doesn't have to be too difficult either. You'll miss your people, your city and the comfort of your own bed, but you'll also carve out your own little bubble wherever you go. I wish you the best of luck.
Afia Ibnat hopes that there are subtitles in Japan. Give her advice at afiaibnat09@gmail.com