Are you someone who aspires to travel overseas for your studies? Do you hope to explore new opportunities in a new country? If so, you must continue to keep at it. It is true that studying abroad offers experiences that can be both rewarding and overwhelming. But to make the most of your time there, it’s important to be privy to a series of hacks that can help your new life take off. Once you have cracked the code to living abroad, you’ll be in for the experience of a lifetime. Here are a few tips from Credila to help you navigate the initial phase:
1. First things first
One of the crucial things to do is to sort out your money situation when pursuing your higher education abroad. Students these days usually opt for forex cards which make foreign transactions way more convenient.
Once you get a bit familiar with your new neighbourhood, set aside some time for seeing what’s around. For seamless communication, you can get a new local SIM card or opt for an international plan on your phone to use it in areas without Wi-Fi. Remember, your family back home would be waiting eagerly for updates from you, as you settle into your new surroundings!
2. Experience a new lifestyle
Wondering how to warm up to the new ways? We know that it’s fairly common for people going for overseas studies to feel that tinge of homesickness and nostalgia for all things familiar. But to be cocooned in your own shell in the new city is a no-go. It’s important to blend in with the new environment, the people, and the local food. Bring out your congenial side, greet your peers with a smile, meet up with new people, and be open to exploring different cultures.
Working part-time can also help you grow holistically. It not only enhances your work experience as a professional but getting exposure to different working styles will allow you to understand varied perspectives.
3. Communication is key
We know that finding your footing in a new world among a new set of people can take time. Stay in touch with your family and friends to alleviate those bouts of anxiety in times of uncertainty. In this day and age of lightning-fast communication, your loved ones are just a call or text away. Also, you can always bank on making new friends by signing up for activities/clubs that your college offers. For example, attend the college orientation, plan an outing or go on a short weekend trip!
4. Acquaint yourself with the local language, food, and culture
The times are a-changin’ and so are you. Then, why limit yourself to the familiar only? One of the biggest perks of studying at an international university is its thriving campus life; a site for diverse people from diverse backgrounds. How to break the ice, you ask? Well, just be present in your surroundings and absorb the mix of cultures around you. You’ll get to discover different languages which you’ll eventually imbibe yourself, for they always come in handy!
5. Self-care kit
Treat yourself to new adventures when you have more or less settled in your new location. Carve some time out for yourself, be it for reading a book, binge-watching a show, trying your hand at cooking, or journaling your thoughts!
In the meantime, as you prepare yourself to adapt to the new chapter of your life, don’t forget to sort out the essentials beforehand. Plan your abroad itinerary down to the last detail, including choosing your university, cracking the entrance exams, getting an education loan, and more. You can check out our blog, ‘Essential Steps to Follow while Applying for Abroad Education’ to get a comprehensive picture.
