Hi cstars
There is a miriad of wisdom out there and on this forum
Here's my bit from experience
1 You will miss your friends and family
2 Remember its the same old c**p, just a different place.
There are ways to protect yourself
Most importantly - Learn the Language
Put £100 in an account and leave it - that way you will always be able to get back to the UK
You're young- Enjoy every moment of life
I had 2 years in Spain-best time of my life
Good luck
Phil