Spending a year or two studying abroad is among the most exciting and rewarding choices a young adult can make.
It can be instrumental in shaping your character and worldview. Plus, it’s an experience that might give you an edge come job-hunting time.
Leaving all they’ve ever loved and known is life-changing, and there are bound to be some hiccups. Here’s a list of the eight most frequent ones and their solutions to adjust to your new circumstances as quick and painless as possible.
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- Homesickness
Staying away from family and friends for a long time can greatly dampen your studies and overall enjoyment. Luckily, it’s easy to keep in touch via social media, video calls, etc. You should also try to make your new home feel like one, so explore, befriend people, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
- Culture Shock
Landing into an environment where people have values, beliefs, and outlooks different from the ones you are used to can be jarring. You might feel outnumbered, but most locals and other students would happily share their culture and teach you more about its subtler points. Research the local culture before visiting so you know what you’re getting yourself into. More importantly, try to immerse yourself and take in as much as you can once there.
- Language Troubles
While people speak English the world over, you shouldn’t assume that most will be proficient, especially once you venture off campus. Start your language learning journey long before the actual one. Once there, practice daily with other students and faculty. You might also want to join a language learning group to make learning easier and more fun.
- Academic Adjustments
Part of the culture shock you experience can be purely academic. Institutions differ significantly by factors like workloads, expectations, or the familiarity between students and professors. Research your program’s past curriculums or ask current students about their experiences before enrolling.
- Cybersecurity Precautions
A new university brings a new set of cybersecurity concerns. You’ll have to juggle many accounts to access school resources, study groups, helpful tools, etc. There’s also the matter of keeping term papers and other documents safe. Start by securing your password for each new account, making sure it’s unique and complex. Store important files in the cloud and keep encrypted copies on your laptop, just in case.
- Housing
Finding suitable housing can be a challenge. It might be best to stay in a college-appointed dorm for the first semester or year, doubly so if you’re on a budget. If you go with outside accommodations, ensure you stay with a reputable landlord and sign a lease protecting your tenant rights.
- Money Management
Many students never had to budget before college, and studying internationally only complicates things. You’ll want to secure a scholarship, keep track of expenses, and save a little each month without becoming an ascetic. Getting a job makes sense; just read up on local labor laws so you do everything above board and get paid fairly.
- Data Privacy Concerns
Students rarely consider the information they share willingly through their socials or implicitly just by using the internet. Limit sharing personal info to family and trusted friends. Use tools and services to learn how to remove your information from the internet. Additionally, avoid public Wi-Fi or use a VPN if that’s not an option to encrypt your connection and make it impossible for would-be cyber thieves to intercept and steal your data.