Written by Aiden Stringfellow, J-1 Exchange Student
Living abroad is a big adventure, especially in a city like San Francisco. As an exchange student, you’re probably juggling classes, making new friends, discovering new places, and sometimes feeling like you’re living in a whirlwind. But no matter how exciting your new life is, it’s essential to take care of your physical and mental health. So, here’s my guide!
Stay Active: Walk, Walk, Walk!
San Francisco is famous for its hills, so if you're not used to walking, get ready! Luckily, this city is really walkable, and walking is a great way to stay fit. Take a daily walk around your neighborhood or visit the Golden Gate Park – it’s big, beautiful, and perfect for a mix of walking and jogging.
You can also try hiking up Twin Peaks for an incredible view of the Golden Gate Bridge. You’ll burn some calories, get fresh air, and discover nice spots in the city – plus, those hills will have your glutes thanking you.
Find Your Gym or Fitness Class
If you prefer more structure, SF State offers tons of gyms and fitness classes. Whether it’s yoga, Pilates, or just hitting the gym, there’s something for everyone. I do yoga and pilates and the teacher is the best !
Eat Healthy (and enjoy the local food!)
In San Francisco, you have access to some really good food. But with so many options, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of pizza and burgers, especially when you’re tired after a long day of classes.
To stay healthy, try to incorporate fresh products into your meals. If you’re feeling it, you can even go to the Ferry Building Marketplace where you can find artisanal foods. Don't forget to try the famous sourdough bread! Just make sure you’re balancing with lots of veggies, fruits, and lean proteins.
If you’re on a budget, don’t worry! There are plenty of affordable meal prep options, and the dining hall offers many different meals.
Sleep like a King (or Queen!)
You might have heard that Americans work hard and play hard, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about your sleep. San Francisco is a city that never sleeps, with a crazy nightlife - and don’t get me started on frat parties- but it’s essential to catch those Zs if you want to stay sharp.
Create a bedtime routine that helps you after a long day. That could mean putting your phone away an hour before bed, reading a book, or chatting with your roommate. It might be tempting to stay up late watching Netflix, but trust me, you’ll feel a lot better when you get those 7-8 hours of sleep.
And your body will thank you when you're not yawning in class the next day!
Stay connected with home
Being far away from family and friends can sometimes get to you, so it’s essential to stay connected with your loved ones. Regular video calls, messages, or sending postcards can help you feel less homesick. You don’t have to be physically close to people to feel emotionally supported <3
Embrace the change
Living abroad has highs and lows. There will be days when you miss your home country, when you feel out of place, or when you just want to hit pause on your studies. But it’s all part of the adventure! Stay positive and remind yourself why you came to San Francisco in the first place: to grow and experience.
Have Fun!
Finally, don’t forget to have fun! Yes, you’re here to study but you’re also in an exciting city. Try a new restaurant, go to a concert, or explore the city with friends: having fun is key to maintaining balanced life abroad.
Enjoy the ride – San Francisco is waiting for you!