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Studying abroad is a life-changing experience with so many personal and professional perks
You’ll broaden your horizons, immerse yourself in new cultures, and gain a top-notch education. Best of all, you’ll have loads of fun and forge fantastic friendships.
For most pupils, studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your international adventure.
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Make a variety of friends
Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to meet and live with people from a diverse range of backgrounds, so don’t put a limit on your friendship circle. Getting involved with student clubs, athletic teams, and volunteering projects is a fantastic way to meet international and domestic students alike.
Don’t forget to befriend the locals either; they’re great sources of information and support. They’ll recommend the best restaurants, point you in the direction of must-see places, and help you adjust to life in your new home.
Try learning the local language
Depending on where you live, it’s possible to get by just speaking English. However, studying abroad is the ideal opportunity to get to grips with a new language.
Learning from scratch in a new country can be intimidating, but you’ll be amazed at how quickly you pick it up. Even a basic understanding of the local language will make daily activities easier, from popping to the shops to asking for directions.
Besides enriching your entire experience, mastering another language looks great on your resume and could open up lots of exciting career opportunities too.
Make time to travel
When you’re not studying hard in the classroom, set some time aside to explore your new environment. There’s so much to see and do beyond your university campus, so use the weekends and holidays to uncover hidden gems and visit world-famous attractions.
Record your experience
Time will fly by while you’re abroad, and it can seem like a bit of a blur once it’s all over. Taking pictures, jotting down journal entries, and using social media are just some of the ways you can cherish every moment of your international adventure.
When you’re back home, you’ll appreciate these memories and records for years to come.
Balance your studies and social life
Going to university is about so much more than just studying. Of course, getting a good degree should be your priority, but university is a priceless chance to live independently and have some fun too.
You shouldn’t ignore classwork or skip classes, but don’t let studying consume all of your time. Go out with your new friends and make some unforgettable memories. It’s all about striking the right balance, and if you’re on top of your assignments, there’s no reason not to let your hair down sometimes.
Break out of your comfort zone
Adjusting to an entirely new environment can feel overwhelming at times. Although it’s easy to stay in and binge-watch your favorite Netflix series, your experience will be more fulfilling if you take the leap of faith.
Get to know your flatmates, join interesting clubs, and sign up for local trips and tours. Once you graduate, you’ll remember all the fun times you had with new friends, not what you watched.
Keep in touch
Saying goodbye to the friends you’ve made at university and returning home can be tough, but there’s no reason not to stay in contact. Video calls and instant messages can help to bridge the physical gaps until you can next meet up in-person.
Keeping in touch with friends can open up exciting career opportunities too. Having professional contacts across the globe might prove invaluable when searching for your dream job.
