Studying abroad is a great opportunity for anyone and something to be very excited about. It’s a great way to improve your education, see new things, meet new people and get a new perspective on life. But when you’re in a relationship, it can be tough.
Leaving your partner behind for a semester or year abroad can be very tricky and requires a lot of patience from you both. If you’re giving long distance a try, there are a few things you need to know about it.
If you’re looking for tips on how to make studying abroad in a long distance relationship work, read on.
Good Communication
One of the most important parts of being in a relationship is to have good communication with your partner. This is especially so when you’re in a long distance relationship.
When you’re abroad, you’ll be in a different time zone and on different schedules so may not get to talk as much as you’re used to. Good communication can help prevent any insecurities or misunderstandings that may arise from irregular contact.
Make sure to schedule some time for a proper conversation with your partner whenever you can. It keeps you and your partner from feeling ignored and helps the relationship stay strong.
Keep an Eye Out for Cheap Flights
Long distance works best when you make regular trips to see one another in person. Both of you should be on the lookout for cheap flights to see each other on uni breaks or weekends here and there.
There are a lot of budget airlines and price comparison sites you can use to find affordable flights. Try to travel together on breaks and make your partner a part of your study abroad experience.
This way you still stay connected with each other and make exciting new memories along the way.
Have Patience
When you’re an international student away from your partner most of the time, patience is key. If anything comes up or happens at home or in your new country, you may not be able to communicate with your partner right away.
Talking things over via text or Skype may not get the message across as well as if you were in person. Long distance can make things more difficult so it’s important to remain calm and patient with each other.
Things like internet glitches or technology failures can be frustrating especially if you have something you want to share. But stay calm and remember that long distance is only temporary.
Go on ‘Dates’
All couples go on dates, and that shouldn’t stop when you become long distance. Make sure to schedule regular ‘dates’ via Skype where you can still hang out together.
Watch a movie together via video chat or eat dinner with each other whenever possible. It helps you both feel more connected and you’ll feel much closer to each other.
Also remember to keep the love flowing and send each other gifts and flowers every now and then. It reinforces that your relationship is still very real and not just an online one.
Be Open to Change
Studying abroad is a time for change and it will change you in some way during your time there. You both need to be aware that one or both of you will change while you’re away.
This could be for the better of your relationship and could make you both stronger and more connected than ever. But it could also show you that this relationship may not be the one for you, and you both need to understand that this could happen.
Long distance isn’t for everyone, but it can work very well for some couples. There’s no way to know for sure how it will go for you but it can teach you both some great lessons.
Now You Know How to Do Long Distance as You Study Abroad
Long distance isn’t easy and some couples aren’t built for it, but it could make your relationship so much stronger. Studying abroad is an amazing experience and you shouldn’t let the fear of a long distance relationship stop you from doing it.
Looking for student accommodation for your upcoming study abroad adventure? Get in touch with us and we can help you find the perfect place to live.
