Predeparture

Hello! This is my first in (hopefully) a long line of posts that I will write in the next 6 months! I received my residence permit a couple of days ago, so now the only thing left for me to do is prepay my housing and jump on the plane! I am studying abroad in Örebro, Sweden for the Spring semester! I'm planning to take Swedish language 1 and 2 and I will be working on an Environmental Science Project for my major. The project is a little intimidating, as it is basically a Masters level project, but I know I will learn a lot. I'm so excited to go! The application process was easy, but also nerve racking!

For anyone who is planning to go to Sweden: Here is a brief timeline of when I applied and prepared. I would recommend that you get your passport ASAP, to make the whole process a little faster and less stressful.

July 2009
- Began (seriously) looking at programs and courses and speaking to the ODIEP.
August 2009
- Began speaking with my major advisor about possible courses and substitutions,
- also started filling out my applications and writing my Statement of Purpose.
September 2009
-Applied for my passport.
October 2009
- Submitted my entire application and statement of purpose
- I was accepted by the ODIEP and then was able to apply to the host school.
- Met with financial aid
- Narrowed down my courses and began getting the appropriate signatures.
November 2009
- Received my passport.
- Finally decided on courses with help from the registrar.
- I was accepted into the Host School!
- Bought my plane ticket!
- Bought health insurance and applied for my residence permit.
December 2009
- Recieved my residence permit
- Attended Outgoing Orientation with ODIEP.