IELTSTips to make your college life easier
The beauty of ambition is that it knows no bounds, geographically or while expanding the horizons of knowledge. Exposing yourself to a world filled with unlimited opportunities is the biggest motivation to follow your dreams.
Studying abroad is a giant leap, considering you would be out there on your own. There are several things to consider which are very rational, yet manageable. The basics include, but not limited to, the following:
Apply for scholarships:
Based on the university of your choice, you could research a little more about the institution, and check the guidelines to apply for a scholarship or special grants for international students. However, if you’ve succeeded in receiving the scholarship, the tuition fees are covered, leaving the other major hurdle of living costs.
Work, Work, Work:
The cost of living in developed countries like the USA or the UK can be expensive. However, there is a way to combat looming expenses. Universities give students opportunities to find and secure a part-time job inside the university. If you are a Ph.D. student, there’s a big need for researchers which will benefit both the parties. Since your student visa allows you to work 20 hours a week in term time, in most popular study abroad countries, you can earn a good amount of money and dedicate time to your studies. This also contributes to a stronger CV for the future and also helps to polish your practical skills.
Striking the right balance:
As the college fees in many countries are high, most students depend on student loans which entail heavy interest rates. You can reduce the level of debt by working several odd part-time jobs within your college or university, in cafés or stores, or maybe volunteer in art galleries and museums for better exposure to the field. These months are crucial in investing the right time in the right place; choose wisely.
The real king – Networking:
Living alone in a completely new country sounds quite isolating. However, once your university life begins, you will tend to get many friends, classmates and also have a closer relationship with your teachers. Living in student dorms with other students going through the same thing will give you a stronger and closer bond with each other. Talking to friends, exploring the new place with them is a great stress reliever.
If you need one, Ask for one (help):
There are times when the workload, homesickness, and stress can take a toll on you. Thankfully, universities provide free help for students and especially international students to cope through those times as well. There are one-on-one talk sessions where you could tell your worries and get help with any issues. Talking to your course leader is a good option, as well as the postgraduate and Ph.D. students, tend to work on a closer basis for the whole year. Talking to your friends and keeping regular contact with your parents and friends back home is a great support as well. Since you’re on your own, make sure to take care of yourself regardless of any stress.
Embrace the culture shock:
Living in a new cultural setting does seem exciting at first. Trying their authentic cuisines, experiencing their festivals, taking part in community work are all great ways to understand their culture. Yet, there may be some instances that will be hard to digest. Apart from getting help from your University, you can find your own communities in your city and clubs to have people celebrating Diwali or even new year together.
In the end, it’s just the beginning. The main goal here is to follow your dreams and reach the end goal. There will be many hurdles along the way. However, these experiences will also make it worthwhile in the end.
For expert guidance and the most comprehensive solutions on planning your study abroad journey contact Ever Aspire Consulting on +918657454590 or visit www.everaspire.in. You can enroll your interest to be contacted at https://everaspire.in/study-destinations/. Photo by Vasily Koloda on Unsplash