Whether it is the USA or UK, Singapore or New Zealand, each country has its own set of challenges, when it comes to going abroad to study. If you are planning your higher education in a foreign land, make sure you’re prepared for everything that comes down on your way.
Here is a sneak peek at how you can survive your stay in a bizarre country while excelling in your academics. You can consider these as typical DOs and DON’Ts while studying overseas.
Let’s consider first…the DOs
- It is essential to know as much as possible about the host or your destination country. You can get to learn more about the local culture this way. You may hesitate a bit initially but believe us, this is the best way you can learn since no one is going to stop you from asking questions.
- Make sure you buy relevant travel insurance before heading off to your destination. It helps you conquer the eventualities that may lead to a huge monetary drain in a foreign land. You can ask your insurance advisor to make all the necessary arrangements before you fly. For a student travelling abroad, a student travel policy is a must.
- Travel more and try to connect with the locals. You can eat the food there or visit some picturesque places to treat your eyes. Carry a diary and note down your experiences while travelling.
- Here you need to set your priorities smartly. Though nobody will punish you for bunking classes, nothing will be as great as having a face-to-face interaction with the faculty members. You’re free to enjoy the campus life to the fullest with a maintained average GPA. Learn to boost your knowledge by using the available academic resources.
- Awakening your inner chief is a good idea. Eating outside regularly is a definite shortcut to be broke financially. It may lead to health issues like obesity. Therefore, cooking yourself is the easiest and healthiest way to survive there, irrespective of you staying on-campus or off-campus. You’ll gradually learn how to live on noodles and salads.
- Consider buying medical insurance as well. Although many foreign universities have made it compulsory for their students from different parts of the world to pay for medical insurance, it is certainly for your own wellbeing. Healthcare services are expensive abroad. With a medical policy, you can plan your expenses. Or else, you can take all the necessary medicines from India to avoid buying them abroad.
- Be extrovert. Connect with more and more people. Your chance of getting job avenues is higher with an extensive network. Make as many contacts as possible; maintain a smooth relationship with professionals you meet and with those who are into social media. These come handy even when you’re looking for a part-time job while studying.
- Take good care of your health. It is important to maintain a good health to pursue studies properly, especially when your dear ones are not around.
Now…the don’ts
- You may become homesick for obvious reasons. But, get a hold of your emotions. Don’t be homesick. There are others too who came from other countries for studies and to survive as well. So, it’s not a big deal, is it? Remember, your parents have invested a huge chunk of money for sending you there and you’ve invested your valuable time in searching for a good university. Moreover, it is really tough to get a desired ROI post your studies. Therefore, work hard for this.
- Make friends carefully. Don’t just befriend anyone, especially when you feel you’re not comfortable with those around you or you need some space to gel with them.
- Don’t waste your money. Better plan your expenses accordingly. By restricting yourself from buying unnecessary things, you can plan a happy and safe stay abroad.
- Avoid frequent clubbing and parties. Given that there are a number of clubs and social events on your campus, going overboard can be harmful if you lose your focus. Instead, you should devote some quality time for completing the assignments and projects.
Now that you know the DOs and DON’Ts to follow in a foreign land, let’s have some tips on your final packing:
Packing Tips: Essentials to Pack
- Make sure to carry all the relevant documents including your passport and VISA to enter the land of your choice.
- If you have been prescribed some drugs, make sure to carry enough of them (depending on the duration of your stay).
- Don’t forget the electric adapters: laptop and mobile chargers have to be configured according to your destination. We recommend this because electrical plugs vary over continents. They are one of the essentials to keep with you.
- Winter season varies country to country. The climate overseas isn’t the same as that of India. Preferably, carry lots of warm clothes and waterproof outfits to remain warm and dry. Carry as many winter clothes as you can, as heavy snowfall is commonplace in North American and European countries.
Wrapping it up!
Planning to study overseas is not that easy as it appears. However, a thorough preparation can make the experience worth living. With these DOs and DON’Ts and other planning tips, we hope you get to experience the enormous cultural and natural beauty that awaits you.
