Since college is starting again soon, I thought it would be a good idea to voice some advice for incoming international students. You'll likely be leaving home for the first time for an extended period, but there is nothing to worry about. Here are a few pointers that some of my friends and I came up with to keep you afloat until you find your way through.
1. ONLY carry 23 kgs/50 lbs.
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I've had this problem myself. I know there is a major urge to take everything with you, but whatever you can't fit in your 50 pounds of luggage is probably available where you are headed. It's better to buy it there than pay the extra bag fee. Check the weather and location of the place before you start packing. For me, I never wore all those skirts and heels that I packed as my college was on a hill and extremely windy. Be sensible and take only what you absolutely need. At the end of the day, all you need to hold on to is yourself.
2. Book your flight as early as possible.
Prices for the flights get more expensive closer to when you are leaving. Try to book your flight as soon as you can as college years start during the peak travel season. Check your school calendar, and book the most convenient flight. Don't forget to sign up for the frequent flyer card, as you will be traveling a lot!
3. Attend orientation
Needless to say you must attend orientation. It is there to guide you, help you, and educate you about the college and the rules. For me, the Indian system is so different from the U.S. system that it took me a while to adjust. But going to orientations helped me as it guided me in the right way. It is also a good way to make friends and meet different people. Orientation helps you learn about everything the college culture is like. They exist for a reason, so try to make the most of it. Orientation leaders and mentors can play a huge part in your college career as well. Build relationships and connections. They might come in handy in the future.
4. Break that stereotype.
Being an international student comes with a bit of a baggage. Unfortunately some people judge by background, race, and ethnicity. You should break those stereotypes. Through personal experience I have learned that through television and social media people are perceived a certain way. If a person is willing to learn, it is important to break stereotypes and give yourself a voice. Correct them if they say your name wrong, you are entitled to do so.
5. Independence is key
Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things. You're only in college only once, so get outside your house/dorm room and embrace college life.
6. Embrace new cultures.
You are going to be in a new place, a different country and new culture. Embrace that opportunity to try all the traditional and typical cuisines. Explore the place as much as you can. Find those unique spots in your new home that go beyond the typical touristy areas. Learn about their culture, talk to the locals and engage in their activities.
7. Take advantage of campus resources and get involved.
All campuses have so many facilities. Utilize them. Whether it is the writing center that will help you with your essays, the tutors who will help with your classes, the career center which will guide you in the right direction and also help with resumés and job searches, or your advisors and professors who are also willing to help. It's really important to branch out and join something that excites you.
8. Find a mentor or advisor
Finding a person who understands you, connects with you, knows where you come from and what your future goals are is very important. They have the knowledge and understanding to guide you in the right direction. They will tell you when you are falling off your path, or even taking a turn. Whenever you are in trouble, you can talk to them and they will help you out. I still remember sending a panicked email to my professor in the wee hours of the morning due to course registration not going my way. Even when I was studying abroad, I skyped my advisor to talk about future plans. These people are extremely helpful and know exactly what to say and do.
9. Talk, but also listen.
Be ready to talk. You will have to engage with many people and that's one way of making friends. Being able to share your story is important, but it is also important to listen to the stories others have to tell. It's a two way street, especially during orientation. Be ready to talk about where you are from, what your major is, which dorm you live in, and sometimes even why you chose to go to that school. One of the perks of being an international student is that people are interested in your background. So be prepared to answer questions about your country and your culture.
10. Ask questions
Going through the Indian system, I would always just sit and listen to lectures without engaging. Go to classes, be alert, and don't forget to ask questions. When you ask questions, it means that you are listening and processing. It makes you look smarter, too. Talk to your professors, go to their office hours, and interact with them. Also, take advantage of your student advisors. They are there for a reason, that is to help you out! They will constantly be there and ever ready to help out with anything.11. Have a healthy diet!
Once you go to college, you are free to eat whatever you want. That parent who always organized your balanced diet is so longer there. Remember to try and avoid the freshman 15. It happened to me, so be careful. Eat regularly and healthy. Try to avoid junk food, especially if you aren't used to it.
12. Ask for help when needed.
Traveling away from home without your support system can be hard. You can miss the food, place, and your family. Missing all those things is fine, but it can lead to a severe case of homesickness. Take advantage of campus resources and go to the counselor. It will only help. Tell the people around you that you are homesick, your friends will make a conscious effort to help you out.
13. TRAVEL AS MUCH AS YOU CAN!
14. Work experience
Take advantage of campus facilities. Most campuses have paid student jobs, some internships, and research opportunities. Working in a different country will give you perspective of the work culture and ethic in a place other than your home. Those student paid jobs can even lighten the burden of college fees and student loans.
15. Lastly, don't forget to study.
Be organized. Keep a planner. I think it's one of the most important things. It's hard to remember when all your papers/assignments are due or when you have a test while still being involved in activities. If you write it down somewhere, it's more likely you will remember it. Don't let your education take a backseat. Give yourself enough time to write your papers and study for your test. All-nighters might work in your first or even second year, but when your courses are more in depth, you will crash! Your GPA will last forever and also it's a key factor to getting jobs as well!
Finally, don't forget to have fun and enjoy! Best of luck and take advantage of the time you have there!
