7 Essential Tips for Every New International Student

Starting college or university can be challenging for any new student, but perhaps none more than international students. International students not only have to contend with the usual freshmen confusion. They also have to deal with culture shock, homesickness, and an environment that might be completely different from the one they’re used to.

International students often feel a unique pressure to make the most out of their time in a different country. But where do you get started? Here’s a quick guide with seven tips that every international student should know before hopping on that plane.

1. Do Your Research on Your Chosen University

It won’t do well for you to get to the university you chose and then be shocked to find it far from what you had expected. Chances are, if you’ve already chosen a university, you did your research on it long before you submitted your application. But just in case, it wouldn’t hurt to do a bit more research on the university and the surrounding area. Not only will it ensure that you know what you’re getting into, but you’ll know what to expect when you get there. Plus, it helps you scout potential apartments and dorms nearby if you don’t plan to live on campus.

Check the university’s website and read through all the information relevant to you. Look at maps of the surrounding area so you know how to get there or any significant landmarks. If they’re available, take virtual tours of the campuses or look for student reviews of colleges. It’s always better to know more extra information and be prepared than to be entirely clueless.

2. Get a Local Bank Account and Phone Number

Before you can even think about renting a place, you’ll need to have your money exchanged for the local currency. But more than that, you’d need a local bank account. Having a local bank account can help you save up money and make it easier for your family back home to send you some in case you need it. In addition to a bank account, you might also want to look at getting a credit card.

Other than that, you also want to get a local phone number so your teachers and anyone you meet can contact you. You can either buy a new phone specifically for the region you’re in. You’ll also be able to apply for a data plan this way so you have internet access even without Wi-Fi.

3. Pack Only Essentials

It might be tempting to bring a lot of things, especially keepsakes and sentimental objects. But let’s face it: once you’ve settled down and unpacked all your stuff, you probably won’t be using half of the things you brought or even realize that it’s there. When it comes to traveling, pack the essentials and the stuff you know you’ll need, like your clothes, laptop, chargers, IDs, and passport.

Leave things like food, toiletries, and other consumable groceries for when you get there. You can always buy them at a local supermarket or grocery store. Your clothes will probably take up the bulk of your luggage, with school essentials taking up second. You can bring a few keepsakes. But remember to conserve space, especially if you’re moving to a small dorm or apartment.

4. Develop a Budget

Whether you plan to get a part-time job or if you’re relying solely on allowance sent to you by your family, learn how to budget your everyday expenses. It can be easy to get lost in the atmosphere of a new place but exercise self-control when it comes to purchases. You don’t want to spend too much money on things you don’t need.

5. Join a Student Org or Society

So you’ve unpacked, seen the campus, and settled into your first week. Now it’s time to make some new friends! One way you can meet more people is by joining a student org or society. On college campuses, you can find many student organizations dedicated to almost everything under the sun. Better yet, find an international students’ society or representatives from your home country. It’s a little bit of home in an unfamiliar place. Plus, you’ll get to meet other international students who’ll understand you, know exactly what you’re going through, and help you through it.

6. Get to Know the Local Culture

Admit it, part of the reason you decided to study internationally is to travel and see new places. Your learning shouldn’t be limited only to the classroom but to the entire area as well.

Get to know the local culture and customs. Study and learn the language. Explore the place to your heart’s content and map out all its streets and alleys. Ease off the homesickness by looking for more things to love about this new place. You’re in a new place now, full of new opportunities and experiences.

7. Take Everything as a Learning Experience

Savor every new experience you get, and don’t let any opportunities to grow and learn slip out of your hands. You don’t want to reach your final year in college having learned nothing about the place or its unique culture and people. Take everything in stride and look at it all as an opportunity to learn. You’ll start seeing things in a whole new light once you do.

The college experience is one that you’re only ever going to get once. So why not enjoy it while it lasts? International students, in particular, have the opportunity to start anew in an entirely different place. Savor the moment and take complete advantage of your unique situation by making the most out of your time there. You’ll have nothing but good memories to look back on once it’s over.