Preparing for Travel Abroad as a Multimedia Student

by 

Lexie Andrew (She/Her) Weber State University Urbino 2023 Project Alum

Studying abroad is a great way for multimedia students to get out into the field and step away from their comfort zones. At home, you know the people, the culture, and the language. But once you get off that plane, you enter a whole new world. 

Multimedia students have a unique opportunity to capture stories through pictures and videos to share the culture and lifestyles of different countries. But you shouldn’t fly into these new places blind. Here are my tips for preparing yourself to succeed as a multimedia student abroad.

Before You Leave, Do Your Research

Time flies when you’re having fun, and you want to make sure you make the most of it! Research the areas you’ll be visiting. Start by looking at photos taken by other journalists to get a sense of what’s there. But don’t stop at visuals. Learn about the culture and lifestyles, read some articles about the region, find out if any celebrations are coming up, and try to brainstorm ideas for how you want to spend your time there.

My instructors emailed our group with information and articles to become acquainted with Urbino and some of the other cities we would be visiting. If your instructors do this, read them! Most of the time they have been to these places before and are sharing their knowledge to help you be more prepared when you arrive. 

Two other things I recommend doing in your research phase are learning a bit of the language in advance so you know some words or phrases and making sure you know how to use all of your equipment beforehand. Checking the equipment to ensure it works properly should also be part of your pre-trip prep. 

After you have done your research and gained an understanding of your destination, start to make a loose plan of what you want to get out of the trip. What do you want to explore or highlight? Do you want to focus on local tourism? Are you more interested in immersing yourself in the day-to-day lives of the people living there? Maybe you’d like to share your experience as a student reporting abroad.

Once you’ve outlined your focus, try to formulate a game plan for the types of photos or videos you want to take.

Here’s My Biggest Piece of Advice 

Your game plan shouldn’t be set in stone. It should be an idea of the images or footage you might want to capture while you’re there. When you arrive, go in with your eyes wide open. Your plan can change, and that’s okay. My plan going into Urbino changed, and honestly, it changed for the better. 

Your camera should always be on to take pictures or videos. Even if you don’t think the shot will end up the way you want it, or you might not need it, take it anyway. That may end up being your “money shot” for the entire experience. Future you will be grateful you had so many pictures and videos to work with to better capture the stories that you’re creating. When it’s time to edit your media, you’ll be glad you have an abundance of material to work with. 

Taking photos or videos in a new country can be intimidating. When I was in Urbino, I felt a little embarrassed and shy carrying around my camera. I felt like I was intruding on these people’s lives and at first was scared to take any pictures. However, my worries quickly faded. Many locals didn’t mind being photographed — some even cheered me on, expressed interest in seeing the pictures,  and posed for me. They wanted to share their lives with us and were proud to showcase their home. Those who did not want their photos taken politely declined.

While Abroad, Remember to Be Respectful 

You are in a new place with new cultural norms. Some people may have different ideas about when and where taking pictures is appropriate. When in doubt, ask for permission.

Multimedia students really do have a unique opportunity to showcase different places through visuals. As we all know, a picture is worth a thousand words. Through your work, you can share powerful stories that provide fresh perspectives and create lasting impressions. 

So, pack your camera, open your mind, and prepare for an adventure that will shape not only your craft but also your worldview.

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