Studying abroad is one of the most eye-opening and exciting experience a student can have. It is one of the best time of your life where you meet people from all over the world, gain experiences unlike any other, and make new memories.
However, if you’re not well-prepared, you might find the transition from being in a comfortable environment to living individually quite difficult and stressful.
So here are some tips which might help you in a smooth transition into your new college/university life.
1. Choose where to Study and Talk to Current Students
Countries are just like people, everyone is unique. So spend some time researching about the country or place where you want to spend a significant amount of your time living and studying. Gather all the information you can like the country’s language, culture, religion, mannerisms, food, and more so you’re not flying in blind.
No matter what, it’s always good to know what you are dealing with first so you won’t regret your decision after. Talk to some of the alumni to get a sense of the successes and struggles of their experience. Talking to someone who has completed the same course will give you a chance to ask particular questions and allay any fears you might have.
2. Find a bank
This may not be something that would consider when your parents are around but while studying abroad, you need to be aware of your financials. Banking in a foreign country is quite different than what you are used to back at your home. You may not be able to use your credit card or ATM card the way you do before moving abroad.
The easiest way around this is to set up a new bank account once you arrive in the city you wish to study. By doing so, you can have access to your money quickly. Open a student bank account with Unizest Aspire through University Living and enjoy a wide range of perks.
3. Phone plan
This is quite essential when you’re going to studying abroad. You never know if you’ll suddenly have to make a call at the airport, use mobile data for Google Maps, or search for an uber. Make sure to check with your mobile phone provider if they have international plans with the country you’re moving to and if it’s still affordable.
If not, you can always buy an international calling card through University Living to use for phoning home. This overseas sim card will be delivered to your permanent address before you move overseas. Also, keep an extra phone as a backup phone just in case something happens to yours.
4. Emergency Numbers
It’s always a good idea to have a list of emergency numbers available just in case you need it. What we’re talking about is the emergency number of your school/college/university, trusted local contacts, your parents, the embassy, and other organizations that can help you out.
To be well prepared, be sure to have the emergency numbers written physically on a piece of paper in case something happens to your phone. We are not trying to scare you but these things are quite important if you’re going to a foreign land.
5. Pack smart
During packing it might not seem like you’re bringing a lot when you have your clothes neatly piled up next to your travel bag, but trust us, you’ll definitely set aside way more than you can humanly fit in a suitcase. Pack according to the climate of the country you are visiting. Find out if you will need any special items of clothing, like heavy-duty snow gear, for example.
Also, don’t forget to keep copies of important documents, such as plane tickets, passports, and phone numbers for reference in case of an emergency. Lastly, have a trial run of your packing well before the day you’re supposed to leave, so you have time to buy or keep anything you might be forgetting!
These are the 5 most important things know before studying abroad. Be prepared and all the best for your bright future.
