Things to Know When Skipping Town

Random thought, here are some things I wish I knew before I arrived… Then again I was probably told some of these things but just didn’t HEAR until now:

1) Expect The Unexpected. The first night might be a bit rough and even come as a shock. Be prepared to be disappointed with your room arrangement because it may not be what you are accustom to. But if you can stay open minded and survive the first night of discomfort then you are off to a great start.

2) Pack The Essentials. That means ensure to pack toiletries even if they're travel size (ie. A toothbrush & toothpaste, soap, deodorant etc.) If you haven’t already over packed then try and pack bed linen. This doesn’t mean pack the bed-in-a-bag set you got for Christmas; simply pack a fitted sheet and a blanket. I would suggest a queen size sheet because you have more room to work with, with a queen sheet rather than a twin. But if you can adapt then you will get through the first couple of days without these things.

 3) Pack Light But Wise. If you can lift it then you can pack it. If you are like me, you might luck out and get a penthouse suite that comes without an elevator. So be prepared to lift those heavy suitcases up half a dozen or so flights of stairs.

4) Lost and Found. If you have no sense of direction like myself be prepared to get lost. Getting lost is a part of the adventure. But before you have an anxiety attack simply ask someone on campus for assistance because everyone is always willing to help.

5) Embrace the Island Hospitality. Everyone is extremely nice and always willing to give you a hand, I guess that’s a part of the island’s friendly spirit. It’s good to note that Jamaicans are very expressive; they tend to talk with their hands. And the idea of a personal bubble or personal space doesn’t exist on the island because Jamaicans tend to touch you each other a lot. Although most Jamaicans are friendly there are still some tricksters out there so stay on your toes.

Fun Fact

The first time you go on student exchange you will over pack and most likely you will never wear all the stuff you pack.