Joel SutherlandUniversity is a path that many students take. In fact, according to the UK government, a total of 2,408,100 students were enrolled in higher education institutions in the UK in the 2020/21 academic year. However, a lot less students choose to go to university abroad. A report from Universities UK International in 2019 showed that 18,510 UK students studied abroad as part of their degree program in the academic year 2017/18. That is just a fraction of those deciding to go to university.
Choosing a university is a very difficult and important decision, and that’s even before you start worrying about getting the grades to get in. It is usually the first time young adults live on their own, without parents, and so it can be very daunting. Obviously, moving abroad for university will make this an even more daunting process and so that probably explains why so few people (in the grand scheme of things) decide to do this.
With all of that in mind, I thought I would write a blog post to give people some more information on studying abroad in case they were contemplating it. After completing my college education in England, I decided to continue my studies at the Free University of Berlin and I can say without hesitation that studying abroad has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It’s a chance to broaden your horizons, gain new perspectives, and challenge yourself in ways you never thought possible. In this post, I’ll share my personal experience and give you some tips on what to expect when studying abroad.
The Excitement of Studying Abroad
The excitement of studying abroad can be overwhelming, and rightly so. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in a new culture, meet new people, and experience things you’ve never experienced before. From the moment you arrive in your new country, you’ll be faced with new challenges, from navigating public transport to adapting to new foods and customs. But with these challenges come incredible opportunities for personal growth and development.
Culture Shock
One of the biggest challenges of studying abroad is culture shock. Culture shock is the feeling of disorientation and discomfort that can come with being in a new and unfamiliar culture. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, homesick, or frustrated during the early days of your stay. However, it’s important to remember that these feelings will pass, and that you’ll begin to adjust as you become more familiar with your new environment.
Making Friends
Making friends is an important part of studying abroad, and it’s something that can be challenging at first. However, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There will be other international students in your program, as well as local students who are eager to meet new people. Joining clubs or organizations is a great way to meet people with similar interests, and it’s also a great way to get involved in the local community.
Academic Differences
Another challenge of studying abroad is adjusting to the academic system of your new school. The academic expectations, grading systems, and teaching styles may be different from what you’re used to. It’s important to take time to understand these differences and to seek help if you need it. Your professors and academic advisors are there to support you, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or concerns.
Language Barriers
If you’re studying in a country where the primary language is not your native language, you may encounter language barriers. Learning the language of your host country can be a great way to integrate into the local community and to better understand the culture. There are many language classes and language exchange programs available, so take advantage of these resources to improve your language skills.
Exploring Your Host Country
One of the best parts of studying abroad is exploring your host country. From visiting historic landmarks to trying new foods, there are endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. I was always very keen on visiting Germany and after taking a trip to see Berlin (when I was deciding on which university to choose), I fell in love with the culture and the feel of the city. Being in Berlin has allowed me to easily visit other parts of Germany and I have enjoyed everywhere I’ve visited so far; including Munich, Dresden, Hamburg, and Potsdam.
My advice is to not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Whether it’s taking a cooking class or trying a new sport, these experiences will enrich your study abroad experience and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Returning Home
Returning home after a semester or year abroad can be a difficult transition. You may experience reverse culture shock, where you feel out of place in your own country. It’s important to give yourself time to readjust and to reflect on your experience. Stay in touch with the friends you made abroad and continue to practice the skills you developed while studying abroad, such as communication and adaptability.
Whilst it may not be the most simple option, studying abroad is a life-changing experience that will broaden your horizons, challenge your assumptions, and help you grow as a person. It’s not always easy, but the rewards are well worth the effort. If you’re considering studying abroad, I encourage you to take the leap and pursue this incredible opportunity. What have you got to lose?