What would you do if given a chance to study abroad—in the U.S., for instance? Would you pack your bags and grab the opportunity? Or would you rather stay and pursue your studies in your own country?
Many students would rather stay because they do not want to leave everything they are familiar with and the people they love behind. Some fear of being homesick, not making friends, and not being able to keep up with everyone. Also, studying in the U.S. is nowhere cheap. On the other hand, studying abroad offers tons of perks. Excellent support facilities are provided to help international students prepare for their classes. There are research and training opportunities for those who want to work to fund their studies. You also get to stay after graduating to pursue a career.
There are other attractive reasons students from all over the world choose to study abroad and obtain a degree in the U.S. If you decide to grab the opportunity to study in the U.S., knowing what to expect can help you survive as an international student. To help you keep your sanity while studying abroad, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Think about medical insurance
Before enrolling in a university, it’s always a good idea to look for health insurance plans for international students in the U.S. Most universities require students to have medical insurance. This is a good thing as you’ll need some kind of coverage to avoid unexpected medical expenses.
Create a routine and try to stick with it
Spontaneity is good, but when you’re a student, you must stay on schedule. Create a routine, and you’ll find it easier to adjust. Don’t forget to make it into a loose structure as you also deserve to have fun, relax, and explore.
Be practical and manage your allowance wisely
Studying abroad is not cheap. Make sure to resist mindless spending and start saving. Avoid eating out often and cook your food as often as possible. Master the local transport to avoid getting lost, missing the bus, or arriving late for school.
Take advantage of the university school activities
You’ll find that universities abroad offer tons of opportunities for students to socialize, learn, and have fun. With the long list of impressive extracurricular activities offered, you’re sure to find one that will pique your interest.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Understandably, you will need some assistance since you’re still adjusting to the new student life. Don’t be shy and ask for help. The universities take good care of their international students and provide excellent assistance. Whether you need help finding accommodation, wants to find work opportunities within the school why studying, or needs visa assistance, there will always be some willing to lend you a helping hand.
Before choosing to study abroad, there are things to consider, such as the pros and cons. But if you ask the international student if it’s worth it, you’ll usually receive a yes. If given a chance to study in the U.S., would you say yes or no?
