Your first year of college can be overwhelming especially for international students as navigating a new country is not easier at all. College is one of the new phases of life that comes up with many surprises and experiences. However, adjusting to a new environment can be daunting. You can find cultural shock too as you are from a new country altogether. Depending on where you are coming from, living in Swansea can be a whole new experience. As students from all over the world prepare for their first year in college, we have compiled a list of some helpful tips for international students. It takes time to adjust to different laws, strange customs, new food, or maybe a new language. But fret not. Here are some tips, which will help you survive and come out strong.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions
First and foremost, never be afraid to ask questions to anyone. When you are in a new place, you are scared to ask questions. Sometimes, you hesitate and sometimes you think you will look dumb. But it is definitely good to be over-prepared than under. Connecting with student counselors or advisors can help you. You can find many other people who will help you out and provide you with solutions to do your best. If you are not sure of something or need any kind of advice, then ask someone without any hesitation. You never know when you will find someone asking you questions.
Attending welcome events
Most colleges or universities host welcome events. You might have heard that participating in such events is not the coolest. However, these events are the best way to make some new friends. Welcome events might go up for a week or for a month, all depending upon which university you have applied to. Try to attend as many events as possible. These events are organized by the universities so that the new students can meet new people and get to know some other students from their classes. It might feel a little overwhelming, but it is definitely one of the best ways to know your peers and understand all about your university.
You will be glad to see students of different nationalities. These events are a great opportunity for the students to enquire, explore and become familiar with the new environment.
Go for a local city tour
Take some time out to know the city you are in. Swansea is a beautiful place and it will surprise you with its architecture and greenery. Often, universities also offer different tours for international students, which help them map out the campus as well as the surrounding areas. These tours will help you understand the campus and what is available for you on and off the campus. The guides will help you know about the important places on campus like hospitals, emergency rooms, grocery stores, canteen, etc. this will be really helpful sooner or later. If you go on a city tour, you can relax by visiting different museums, restaurants, shopping centers, etc. you can buy whatever is required immediately. You can also have a better idea about where the school is located and find some interesting places where you can hang out with your friends.
You will find many experiencing the same
In the whole process of applying, finding new accommodation, making friends, and joining clubs, you will see many students going through the same. It is good to know that you can find other students who are also experiencing the same. Everyone else looks like they have already embraced the new life at college, but the reality is that everyone is in the same boat as you are. No matter which country you come from, the students are nervous and worried in the beginning. It is a normal feeling, so don’t let your fear deter you to go out and make new friends.
For an instance, if you are participating in a student exchange program with your home university, you will be glad to find events just for you and other students who are here for just this semester. Depending on the size of the university, you can find dorms or student accommodation Swansea designated for study abroad students, which is the perfect place to meet students who are new to this place.
Campus life is quite interesting
The atmosphere of your college depends on the school’s location and what is offered to the students. However, taking advantage of it and understanding what events are happening around the campus will help you get accustomed to the new place. This way you will feel comfortable. You might not be the biggest football fan or do not know anything about art, but going to such events can help you get acquainted with different activities. You never know when will you find something that interests you.
Wrapping Up
College life is interesting, exciting, and a little bit hectic. You are never going to feel like you are doing everything perfectly and that is completely fine. Until and unless you are enjoying yourself and soaking up some new experiences, you are good to go.
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