HELLO! I’M ABOUT TO STUDY ABROAD BUT I DON’T KNOW ANYTHING! WHAT MUST I BE MINDFUL OF?
For every student, university is a major stepping stone in their academic career. However, this transition into adult life becomes even more daunting if you plan on pursuing your higher studies abroad. Leaving behind family, friends and familiarity seems tremendously scary and there may be reasonable doubts about life abroad. Here is a list to aid your educational endeavour abroad.
Authored By Sameen Salis
MAKE CONNECTIONS BEFOREHAND
In order to avoid feelings of loneliness and the excurtiation of initiating small talk with university fellows, opt for the easier route: social media. Add yourself to respective university groups and chat with your peers online to get a good idea of how things are run in your university and the city/town where you will be residing. No one can help you navigate campus life better than people who have already experienced it. When you make connections ahead of actually arriving at your destination, you have established good rapport with your peers. You are also provided with a clear picture of what to expect which will most likely ease your apprehensions about arriving at a new place.
HAVE YOUR DOCUMENTS IN ORDER
The most important tip for students planning to study abroad is making sure they have all the necessary documents in hand. Apply for your student visa and make sure your ID card and passport are up to date as well. Everything your university requires should also be promptly sorted out to avoid any last minute hassles.
DECIDING A PLACE TO LIVE
Most universities provide their students with accommodation through dormitories. There are also other options you can look at such as shared apartments, living with relatives or you can even get your own place. This is all relative to the country you are staying in, your budget and your comfort level. Decide and make arrangements for your residence that suit you best.
MAKE A CHECKLIST
There will be tons of things you will need to pack and do while embarking on your journey abroad. Keep a checklist of all your important tasks and stuff you need to take with you. Make sure not to overpack and only take along necessities. You will find toiletries at your destination so you probably do not need to pack those. Also, refer to your peers about more things you will probably need to bring with you. By keeping a checklist handy you will be able to stay on top of things and keep track of everything you need.
EMBRACE THE NEW CULTURE
While travelling to a foreign land and residing there it is vital to have an understanding of the cultural norms and practices of that particular place. Learning the language, adhering to the dress code and being considerate of their traditions. Take this once in a lifetime opportunity to explore prominent places and try specialty dishes. Immerse yourself in the new culture to get the most out of your college experience.