Medical Concerns

Vaccinations and Immunisations

Refer to the Travel Doctor website to find out which ones are recommended for the areas where you will live or travel. You can also contact Mauri Ora at Victoria University of Wellington to find out if they provide discounted vaccinations for students.

Chronic Health Problems

You may need to work out a health management plan with your GP. Make sure your medications are available at your destination, or arrange to take them with you. Take an adequate supply of prescription medications to last the period of your stay. Carry a copy of the prescription and the generic name of the medication.

Eyewear

Take a copy of your glasses or contacts prescription in case you require replacements while you are away.

Mental Health Tips

Going on an exchange is one of the most exciting experiences you can have while at university, however it can also cause stress and anxiety. Here are tips from other exchange students:

  • Talk to the Student Counselling Service about how to handle adjusting to living abroad.
  • Get the contact details of your doctor or therapist so you can reach them while overseas.
  • Research counselling services at your host university and, if applicable, what English services they provide.
  • Be aware of culture shock and strategies for handling it.
  • Research attitudes towards mental health issues at your host country.
  • Keep in contact with people from home and don’t be afraid to ask them for help.
  • If you are feeling anxious, try to work through it one day at a time and include ways to relax during your day.
  • Remember to be yourself, don’t compare yourself with other students and don’t pressure yourself to act a certain way because of what they are doing.

Getting Ready - Mentally

Personal responsibility is the most important thing you will take abroad with you! While the Global Exchange team will provide you with pre-departure information and an orientation, ultimately you have to handle most of the details yourself as you prepare for and participate in your international experience.

Living abroad for an extended period of time requires a great deal of emotional maturity, flexibility, adaptability, openness, and independence. It is rewarding but the first few weeks especially can be very stressful when you are adjusting to a new country, city, school, and housing situation.

Be prepared for the following factors to impact your experience:

Your Expectations

  • Why have you decided to study abroad?
  • What do you hope to gain personally, emotionally, and academically from your semester or year abroad?
  • What are your expectations of your host country and institution?

Your Family

  • What are your family’s attitudes toward your decision to spend a semester or year in another country?
  • Is travel important to your family?
  • Have your parents or siblings ever travelled outside New Zealand?

Your Significant Other

  • If you have a significant other, talk to them about how your absence for an extended period will affect your relationship.
  • Do you intend to see other people while you are away?
  • Make sure you talk seriously about the status of your relationship before your leave.