Surviving as an International Student, Part 1

International student survival
International student survival

Patrick Coomer

Pursuing your education in a foreign land poses a mix of positive and negative feel. On a good note studying abroad will open up a lot of new opportunities. You will need to meet new friends and experience diverse cultures. However, timid students may consider this idea unenthusiastically. Certain types see this point as something awkward, lonely and tangled. Whatever the case, international students will naturally feel the pressure and anxiety of living their student lives away from their families and usual lifestyles. Nevertheless, here are the ultimate tips that will equip you in surviving international school amidst the lack of monotony.

  1. There are many things you have to get used to when you live in another country. With this experience, you will find out that there is something more to what you used to see back in your hometown. One adjustment that must be made is the change in weather conditions. If you were raised in a tropical country and is migrating to a chilly land, might as well prepare for it. Gear up with winter tools and proper acceptance of the change. Also, you have to take into consideration the new work culture you need to live by. Understand that different people have different attitudes in fulfilling their tasks. Adapt to the local customs but stay focused on your true values.
  2. To help you function well in this new environment, you have to in shape holistically. This means that you are well-nourished physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. Even if you are drowning from school works and deadlines, you still have to attend to your other necessities. The key to achieving all that’s needed to be done is balance. You can excel in school and still join an interest club of your choice; deadlines could be met without sacrificing a 30 minute meal time. Maximize your time and energy wisely. You can make it happen.
  3. You are what you think. Even if you are faced with a troublesome situation, look up and smile! Sulking in one corner will further enhance your negative feeling. Rise above the situation and be positive. Problems must be faced with solutions, not by crying or cursing. A kind nature will always maintain you wavering. Keep your attitude to its amiable quality and see your luck dash through and through.
  4. not by crying or cursing. A kind nature will always maintain you wavering. Keep your attitude to its amiable quality and see your luck dash through and through.
  5. Your work will never be productive if influenced by a deep sense of hatred. If you have personal issues, resolve them first before working on your term paper. You will see that thought and ideas will easily come to you if you are worry-free. To help you gain that relaxed state, seek help. You could go to a trusted friend and ask for advice. If you feel like, you need a professional, go to your infirmary doctor or subject supervisor involved. Sometimes, all you need is a listening ear to ease the issues.
  6. Before you start with anything drastic, know how your school system works first. It will only be a waste to spend too much time on preliminary quizzes if it only amounts to 5% of your whole final grade. Know the distribution of grades, methods of computations, requirements, student rights, etc. It pays to be informed.
  7. Be a planner. Have yourself a daily or weekly calendar where you can jot down all your schedules. Organize your tasks and set time tables. It doesn’t matter if you accomplish little as long as you are following your time frames. Before you know it, your planner will be filled with check marks.
  8. As a promising professional-to-be, you have to keep in track at all times. Set short and long-term goals. Make them realistic, specified and time bound. Be clear with the following things:

    a. Aspired career after graduating

    b. Ways on achieving the specified aspiration

    c. Your education’s role in helping you reach your goal

    d. Other actions to take

    e. Impediments to reach your goals and how to manage them

 

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By Favour Uche

Favor is a Nigerian based in the Netherlands. She describes herself as a Celebrity critic. Favor contributes entertainment scoop to TalkAfrique.com