BOOK A PRIVATE APPOINTMENT
X

How to adjust to life in a new country when you study abroad

So you’ve decided to study abroad! Congratulations! This is an amazing opportunity that will help you learn more about yourself and the world around you. But it’s not all rainbows and unicorns – there will be challenges along the way, especially when it comes to adjusting to life in a new country. Whether you’re studying for a semester or a year, there are some things you can do to make the transition smoother. Here are a few tips on how to adjust to life in a new country when you study abroad:

1. Do your research

Before you even step foot in your new country, it’s important to do your research and learn as much as you can about the culture, customs, and expectations. This will help you avoid any potential culture shock and make the adjustment process much smoother.

2. Be open-minded

It’s important to keep an open mind when you’re moving to a new country. Things will be different, and it may take some time to get used to, but that’s all part of the experience! Embrace the differences and try to see them as an opportunity to learn and grow.

3. Be patient

Things might not always go according to plan, and you may not adjust as quickly as you’d like, but it’s important to be patient with yourself. Give yourself time to settle in and don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t go perfectly.

4. Stay connected

One of the best ways to cope with homesickness is to stay connected with your loved ones back home. Use technology to your advantage – there’s no need to feel isolated when you can easily stay in touch with those who matter most to you.

5. Seek out support

If you’re finding it difficult to adjust, seek out support from your peers, professors, or even a counsellor. There are often resources available to help students who are studying abroad, so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

6. Join student organizations

One great way to get involved on campus and meet other students is to join student organizations. This can help you feel more connected to your new school and community, and you’ll likely make some great friends in the process.

7. Get a part-time job

Working while you’re studying abroad can be a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and language while earning some extra cash. It’s also a great way to meet new people and build your professional network.

8. Travel

One of the best parts about studying abroad is that you have the opportunity to travel! Explore your new country and visit others nearby.

9. Make an effort to adapt to the new culture

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture is to meet local people. Even if it’s your new neighbour, make an effort to introduce yourself and mix with the locals.

10. Be flexible

Things will inevitably go wrong when you’re living in a new country – trains will be delayed, plans will fall through, and so on. It’s important to be flexible and go with the flow, otherwise you’ll just end up getting frustrated.

11. Keep a positive attitude

It can be easy to get homesick or feel overwhelmed when you’re living in a new country, but it’s important to try and keep a positive attitude. Remember that you’re there to learn and grow, so focus on the good and enjoy the experience!

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to adjusting to life in a new country, but by following these tips you will be well on your way to a successful and enjoyable study abroad experience. Every student’s adjustment process is different, so be patient with yourself and take the time to explore your new surroundings. With an open mind and a little bit of effort, you’ll soon feel at home in your new country.

For further tips and information on adjusting to living in a new country while you are studying abroad contact one of our Dream Makers today.

Date Published: Sep-09-2022

Our Dream Makers are expert listeners, educators, career consultants and student supporters. They co-design your study abroad experience with you to empower you to reach for the stars. Because dreams deserve a helping hand.

About the author

This blog was written by Gradstar Global Education.

Share