Essential Tips for First-Year International Students

Anxious about your first year as an international student? Don’t worry, it’s a normal reaction that you can quickly turn into excitement.

Many first-time international students like you experience the same dreadful feeling. You’re elated yet nervous. Thrilled yet terrified. 

These impending sensations can hinder you from stepping out of your comfort zone. Take all those jitters away with these essential tips for first-year foreign students:

Know the Education System of the Host Country

Education systems are not common knowledge, and they vary per country. Knowing how education works in your host country makes you aware of how your academic performance is credited. 

Start with understanding the grading system and equivalent academic certificates in the country. Don’t forget to also inspect the structure of your program’s curriculum. 

Learn the Language

A language is an essential tool in communication. So if you want to socialize in the host country, knowing their language is necessary.

You have to achieve a level of proficiency to be able to exchange ideas with others. But, don’t be afraid when you only know basic phrases. You’ll learn more along the way.

Be Active in Student Societies

Joining student societies helps improve your social and personal skills. They’re also a fantastic way to meet new people and expand your circle.

Your safety and well-being must be your utmost priority while studying overseas. You need to have quick access to agencies and services that can address your needs.

Collect contact from various organizations that offer services such as counseling and healthcare. You’ll never know when you’ll need them.

Discover the Lifestyle and Culture

Adjusting to a new life requires you to immerse yourself in a different culture. It’s not only fun but it’s also a meaningful experience you can use in the future.

Create a Realistic Budget

Studying abroad is a privilege not everyone can afford. The relatively steep costs of education demand you to handle your funds well.

Setting up a realistic budget can help you go a long way. Make sure that your money can suffice for your stay and support your studies. 

Find a Support System

Having a support system is crucial for international students. They need emotional guidance and support in the host country and back at home.

Find a support system like your family and friends to help you stay strong. Many challenges will come and test your dedication and you need support so you don’t falter. 

Learn To Pamper Yourself

A lot of students feel guilty when they travel instead of studying or giving themselves a gift in small ways. Treat yourself once in a while after a long academic journey. You definitely deserve it.

Ask for Help

Finally, when in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Reach out to others when you need assistance no matter how simple the problem is.

In exchange, you can offer to help too when others are in need. Learning to give and take is also important during your first year abroad.

New to international education? If you want to find more tips like these, flip through our blogs here at MSM Unify to learn more.