Five Common Mistakes Students Make In when they plan to study abroad
While studying abroad is an absolute thrill and a very enriching experience, there are many common mistakes that international students make. Here we point some frequent errors that you can save yourself from making if you are going overseas for your education.
Not Doing Enough Research:
It is a tiresome process to choose the right place to study, with the right course, and the right university. But still, do no blindly follow a university or country just because of your friends or family. Do your own research; know what’s best for you as this is a question of your future. Do your homework, consult experts, read reviews, determine your passion and then make a decision.
Financial Miscalculations:
When you have a limited budget, you need to know where the money needs to be allocated in a given span of time. Minor mishaps are unavoidable but major miscalculations can lead to serious issues. Account for every expense in food, travel, and shopping for every month along with fixed expenses such as rent. Do not have unnecessary expenditures as this is a common mistake students make while studying overseas.
Not Learning The Local Language:
If you are going to a non-English country, it is a must that you at least know the basics of the language spoken in your host country. Brush up useful phrases and interact with locals to slowly master the language. It is agreed that learning a new and native language is a time-consuming process but not learning the same can prove to be a barrier for you while living and learning in that country. Therefore, if you’re going anywhere where English is not the primary language, ensure that you polish your basic communication.
Pre-departure Errors:
While doing your application process, it is understandable that you’re in a lot of stress but ensure that there are no pre-departure mistakes and double check all your documents that you will need in your travel. Do not over-pack or under-pack, ensure your flight details and have the necessary valuable such as international SIM-card and international currency.
Failure to Balance Learning, Working and Exploring:
It is exciting to live in a new city amongst new people but you need to remind yourself that your primary purpose is your education and with too much traveling, part-time jobs, social gatherings and parties, you might compromise on your learning. At the same time, it is also important to immerse in the local culture and not completely lose yourself in your studies. It is also crucial that you earn your living expenditures through temporary jobs. But it is just important to balance your classroom life with your social and work life. Your practical exposure will come through all these combined and this is what makes your learning process in a foreign country worth it.
Now that you know the common errors, we hope you can be more cautious and avoid them. Having said that,don’t restrain yourself as this is a very good opportunity for you to have an exhilarating experience.