Studying in a completely different country can seem like a very daunting challenge for some students. The experiences that each student may have and the challenges that they face are completely unique and depends on their previous life experience and skills. This article highlights some of the mistakes that new international students face when they first arrive in the UK.
Stranger Danger! Although not limited to the UK, it’s a good idea to remind ourselves at times not to blindly trust strangers. This, however, does not mean that you should avoid asking for help when you need it or have an intuitive distrust towards everyone you meet. It is a good idea to have a list of all the resources you have to find help. Your university will have a dedicated student support service and even an international student support system which can help you with anything that you may find challenging. They are your primary form of support regarding your student life in the UK and should be used effectively to it’s full extent.
Health is Wealth – Arriving in the UK and adjusting to a completely different environment is a challenge for everyone. During your busy routines and hectic schedules we often forget to pay heed to our mental and physical health. It’s completely normal to miss a meal or two or to take a mental health break from your school work and other tasks for a few days. But it’s important to remind ourselves to remain healthy and take caree of ourselves physically and mentally. Your university usually offers mental health support for students who are struggling. As international students, you are also permitted to use the services of the NHS for any physical ailments or support.
Network! Network! Network! – As international students, you will be studying from peers from different parts of the world. Their international study experience and life experience are bound to be completely different to yours. It’s important that you engage with you peers and build a network of useful connections as part of your stay in the UK. We are often tempted to stay in our own bubble and interact with people from the same countries and communities but remaining within this bubble will result in our exposure to different cultures and People being limited and is an essential part of any international education.
Embrace your Environment – One thing that most international students are guilty of is comparing your new environment to the one you are familiar with. We often find ourselves comparing out new friends to our old ones, our new hostel rooms to the bug spacey rooms back home, even comparing the new cousins to our old familiar tastes we used to have back home. By comparing everything, we often forget that we are given the opportunity to explore new things in our new environment. We much learn to embrace our new environments and engage with it to make the most out of our international education. It’s often helpful to remember that comparison is the thief of Joy.