It's not easy being away from home, not to mention one's entire country. When it comes to education, students often feel it is best to study aboard. Going away to college as an International student is a huge adjustment, and the following survival tips will make for a smooth transition into an entirely different setting, nation and culture.
Prepare for a Culture Shock
Students should understand that what is portrayed on TV and other forms of media, may not be 100% percent accurate of a country. International students coming to America witness the true American culture by living there, and learn to better understand body language, eye contact, personal space and facial expressions. Preparing yourself mentally for a total culture somersault, will help prevent a possible major disappointment.
Prepare to be homesick
Missing home will be inevitable, unless you were in a mad dash to get out of your hometown; otherwise, homesickness may play a big role. Usually, the excitement of a new environment and sometimes new people interrupts the longing to be back home for a while. Either way, the nostalgia might find its way to you eventually.
Purchase international phone cards, because talking to a loved one can really strengthen you through hard times. Also, bringing some memorabilia, photos, posters, music, or artwork from your country can make the transition a very smooth one. The more you can imitate the feeling of home in your room, the better you will be able to cope with homesickness.
Talk to people
Being "different" from others is no excuse for locking yourself away in your room. Talk to the different people you come in contact with, especially other International students from your country. When you feel overwhelmed, you should definitely open up and share your thoughts, because chances are they are feeling the same way.
However, although it's always a comforting idea to surround yourself with others like yourself-those that speak your language and understand how you feel as an International student-it is wise to communicate with others that aren't like you.
WHY step out your comfort zone and talk to other people, you ask?
- To LEARN more about the culture
- For a better understanding of the culture
- For a chance to improve in the country's language, because there's no better way to learn a language than through conversing with someone who is fluent in it
- For an opportunity to network with diverse people
Be patient and open-minded
It takes time to learn and use a new language. It takes time to get used to slang and jargon. It takes to get used to the food, customs and living in a culture. With all these changes, you may get frustrated, but don't give up. In the United States, Americans are eager to learn from International students, and a simple American greeting like "what's up?" or a high-five gesture can go a long way to "fitting in." It shows your effort of learning the culture.
Get involved
Although you may feel more comfortable speaking in your language and participating in the International Student Organization, try to include non-International students in your activity. As an International student, you want to remember that you are not just there for grades and degrees, but also for a social life and community, and a chance to learn the culture.
Stay healthy, physically and mentally
Eat, sleep and exercise to stay both physically and mentally healthy. This will sustain a positive attitude while adjusting and adapting to a new culture.
Take advantage of the resources and opportunities around you as a student from abroad. Make use of not only your education, but the time that you have in the country. Travel to different locations and see different parts of the nation that you've only had a chance to see on TV and read in books. Enjoy being an International Student!
Click here to read about the Colleges that offer International Students the most Financial Aid
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