Studying abroad is often an appealing idea to most students. While the notion of living independently, exploring a foreign land, travelling and making friends from diverse cultures can be exhilarating, there are a few things you should consider before making the decision.
Listed below are 10 food-for-thoughts:
Homesickness is likely to happen: Moving away from home can be a challenging process as you may be habitual to a certain routine and support-system. A new land can often invoke feelings of anxiousness and loneliness.
Developing a social circle can take time: Unless you are going with someone you know or already know someone there, it can take time to form friendships.
Culture shock: Even if you have visited the country as a tourist before, it is not necessary that you would be entirely knowing of their culture. Research about the country and the culture beforehand to determine if you would be comfortable living there.
Reverse culture shock: It can happen that upon returning back to your country, it may feel strange and even uncomfortable as you have gotten used to the life and culture you were experiencing while studying.
Weather: Research about the weather and understand if it is appropriate for you. Are you a person who loves the sun and cannot stand the rain? Are you okay with snow?
Budgeting and finances: It is helpful to spend some time understanding the currency of the country and the daily/weekly/monthly expenditure to mentally prepare yourself.
Know what can be done in a case of emergency: It is important to note down and have a clear understanding of who you can contact if there is an emergency.
Have a plan for after you graduate: Do you want to stay back? If yes, what can you do to build the networks in order to secure a job? Are there any clubs you can join?
Value of your degree: It is important to research regarding the value of your degree in your home-country, especially with subjects such as Psychology or Law.
What kind of opportunities are available in the country? If you do plan on staying back, it could be helpful to understand what opportunities would be available once you have graduated.
Planning to go abroad for studies can be a big life decision. If you are struggling with it, you can speak to career counsellors.
Importance of Professional Counseling: A friend or family member may listen to you, but they aren’t professionally, technically qualified or experienced to offer you professional advice. If you wish you can contact us at MindTribe to receive help from our team of expert psychologists.
About MindTribe.in.
MindTribe Founder Dr. Prerna Kohli, India’s eminent psychologist, established the company to leverage the strength of the online to make counseling affordable and accessible to everyone. MindTribe provides counseling, workshops, support groups, forums, and eLearning.
About the Author.
Nataliya Bukalsariya is a psychologist at MindTribe.in. You can learn more about her by clicking here.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of MindTribe.in, the Founders, or management team.
Acknowledgement: All images used are open source and from Unsplash.