Adjusting to Life in the United States as an International Student | International student council

Leaving your country, family and friends for a while to pursue a university experience can sometimes be difficult. Prospective international students don’t realize how overwhelming the process of moving to another country can be until they’re actually enrolled in their degree program.

Some of these challenges include find a place to live, adapt to different types of food, open a bank account and connect with its culture abroad. All of this scenario can create a burden on the student, especially in the first six to twelve months when they are most likely to to be homesick.

International student associations are great resources for international students. They can provide potential and newly arrived students with assistance in finding accommodation, opening a bank account, get your US documents and find a roommate, for example. Don’t hesitate to use their resources before and after you arrive in the United States

Depending on the program you participate in, you might have the chance to connect with your own community as part of a project. If you have a master’s or doctorate. student, you may find ways to relate your research interests to your own community. While he was a student at Harvard University, I participated in a public health research project with recent Latino immigrants in Boston. I found it extremely rewarding.

Finding ways to share your own cultural perspective might help your transition to life in the United States Many schools hold an event such as an International Student Appreciation Week, or they may have international students speak to students. new students entering from their experience at this school.

Many schools where I have been a student have used me as a resource for prospective and incoming students by talking to them or exchanging emails. It’s common, and we see it even more widely now, with the power of social media.

Keep in mind that the United States attracts people from all over the planet. You will find more diversity in bigger cities like Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and Boston.

In more cosmopolitan cities, you’ll be more likely to find programs that accept a higher proportion of international students, and you’ll also be more likely to find resources to reconnect with your culture while studying in the United States. United. I have found students who had a less pleasant experience as international students in more conservative states.

Some states in the Midwest and South will not be as culturally diverse and open to other cultures as the states on the east and west coasts. There are several exceptions to this statement, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Your country’s consulates and embassies in your area are a wonderful resource for events involving your country and culture. Many of them promote national day celebrations, community events, concerts and conferences. In my case, I was fortunate enough to attend a speech by the Brazilian President while I was in Boston where I met many people from my home country, Brazil.

One thing to keep in mind is that your overall academic experience abroad will be much better if you are willing to temporarily give up the things that you are used to doing and having in your country, as it will open up for you. mind for a whole new experience. – an experience that will enrich your life.

Enjoy the wonderful experience of being a student abroad. Using these resources will help you adapt faster and better to a new culture and will certainly give you a greater perspective in your academic experience..