February 2017
While studying abroad certainly has its challenges, leaving your home country is your chance to gain independence and experience new things, you will be presented with new responsibilities such as paying your bills and stocking up on groceries. Although this will take some time getting used to, these skills will be beneficial and will continue to be with you all through life. Studying overseas will also give you the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and a chance to explore the country's culture and activities. In addition, you won't be limited to traveling in just the country you are studying in, but you will also be able to visit neighbouring countries. Here are some of the hurdles most students face
Feeling like an outsider
When studying abroad, you may feel that your sense of fashion, your inability to communicate in the local language and your presence is different from the others, however do not let this get to you, it will only be a matter of time till you fit in. Make friends with the locals there, this way you will be able establish relationships and will start feeling relaxed in your new country.
Feeling homesick
Being homesick is a perfectly normal for a student who will be studying abroad. Alot of students feel homesick for different reasons. There are ways to deal with this, for starters you could get involved in on campus activities, it could be signing up for a sport or even joining a book club, this gives you a chance to meet new people and will also keep you from getting distracted and from feeling homesick.
Language Barriers
Even if your program is taught in English, it doesn't mean you won't have a few language barriers to overcome while exploring the city or if you are living with a local family. You will meet so many interesting people during your study abroad experience. It will make you more comfortable with the language and culture. If you are not fluent in the host country's first language, carry around a translation dictionary or download apps related to foreign language. Befriend locals and engage in conversation with them. Making new friends and learning to communicate with each other is often one of the most memorable and rewarding parts of your experience.
Emotional Burden
You will be going through different phases during your stay in a foreign country. You will miss home and miss being away from your loved ones, however do not spend all of your time talking to friends and family back home. There are tons of people in your program, or at your school, looking for some friends as well. Invite them to grab dinner, go see a movie, or go explore the new city together.
Getting Lost
When figuring out a new city, you will inevitably find yourself in an unfamiliar place. It can even turn out to be a fun adventure. However, the first thing you should remember is to remain calm, getting all worked up will only cause panic. Try to retrace your steps, be on the look out for big landmarks, they will be visible from anywhere you stand, this will give you an overall sense of direction. You could also ask the locals, they are always more than willing to help out.
Financial hurdles
Create a budget on how much money you intend to spend while studying abroad. Don't splurge on trips or sightseeing too early, you will have plenty of time to do all of it.Write down everything that you buy, it could just be pack of chips or a bar of chocolate, Write it down! this way you will be able to budget and track your expenses every month. By comparing your expenses on a monthly basis, you will get a fair idea of where you're spending your money. Making friends in your new country can teach you insider secrets on where to shop and eat for less and activities that you can do that cost little money.
What Edwise Students Studying Abroad Says..
"I am very happy with the services which Edwise has granted me.They guided me throughout and adviced me what to do and what not to do."
Name: Akshay Deolekar
Country: USA
University: New York University
"I had a fantastic experience with Edwise. The counselor was very patient and guided me through the entire application process. They also clarified all my doubts. On the whole I had a great experience with Edwise."
Name: Naveen Ramachandran
Country: USA
University: University of Bridgeport
"Counselor was extremely helpful.Edwise guided me perfectly right from choosing the university till my visa processing."
Name : MuneshkumarKachrabhai Patel
Country : USA
University : National University
"Edwise staff is very helpful right from counseling, application and visa process. Thank you."
Name: Archana Seshadri
Country: USA
University: Stevens Institute of Technology
We at Edwise streamline and personalize the process for each student irrespective of the destination, institution, course or any level of study. Our team of experienced professionals will provide you individual attention and exceptional guidance throughout your process of application. We provide assistance related to course selections, admission, visa, bank-loan and scholarships. We also host University delegates for direct student interaction and all these services are provided free of cost. We have established since 1991 and have been maintaining strong networks with over 725 universities in 16 countries, hence giving us a unique insight into the finest educational establishments worldwide.
Start your education overseas with valuable information on everything you need to know about studying abroad from study permits, temporary resident visas and how much it costs, to finding the best suited program for you.
Do visit your nearest Edwise branch & choose your university carefully under our expert guidance and ensure that you have all your paperwork in order. Once you apply, and the wait is over, you can really begin to look forward to not only studying in a beautiful and vibrant country, but also to a life experience quite like no other.