TOP 5 CHALLENGES FACED BY INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS from Kerala.

Are you an international students from Kerala or a study abroad aspirant?

 You have come to the right place. 

Even though studying abroad is an opportunity to explore new cultures, get global perspectives, and acquire a world-class education, you may face some challenges. 

For most of international students, getting used to life in a new place is a big obstacle. But understanding the struggle and learning how to get past it can make your whole experience worthwhile.

In this blog, we are going to discuss the top 5 challenges faced by international students and how to overcome them.

The Language Barrier for International Students.

The most common challenge seen amongst international students from Kerala is their lack of language proficiency. Especially, when they are studying in another country, where the primary language is different. Language plays a crucial role. If you are not good at it, it may affect all academics, social interactions, and day-to-day activities.

Cultural Differences

Another challenge most international students from Kerala face is the cultural difference. When you are moving to a new country, you have to adapt to its social norms, traditions, and customs. These differences can cause cultural shock. This may confuse you to some extent.

Homesickness

Most students feel as if they are left alone without family, friends, and familiar surroundings. This makes them feel isolated and homesick. It can be serious in the first few months. The emotional toll of missing home can overpower your excitement of starting a new journey, in a new country.

Financial Management

To be frank, we all know that studying abroad is expensive. Managing finances in a foreign country without overspending is a difficult task. Also, a foreign country with a different currency can be challenging for some students. The cost of living should also be maintained in an orderly manner to avoid being broke. 

If you are going to become an international student, then you must learn to balance tuition fees, housing costs, and daily expenses. Getting into financial stress while you are trying to learn in a different country is very hard.

Academic Adjustment.

A vast change in academics will be noticed as you shift from Kerala to an international place. It may become tough for you initially, to understand the grading system, learning styles, or academic expectations.

As we came to know, what are the challenges, now let’s see about what are the solutions.

How to overcome these challenges as an international student from Kerala

Overcome Language Barrier

Understand the basic language rules and start your practice. Practice as much as you can, especially with a native speaker. Using apps like Duolingo, Babbel or Memrise can also help you practice.

You can also connect with the universities where they provide language support services.

Overcoming Cultural Differences and how to adapt

• Understand the culture: Get a basic understanding of the culture before arriving. Be aware of the country’s customs, traditions, and social etiquette. This will help you to prepare and you will know what to expect.
• Embrace the new culture: Try to acknowledge the new culture with curiosity instead of judgment. Be open to trying new things and be patient while you adapt.
• Connect with others: Get to know other international students and join student clubs and organizations which will help you integrate into the local group.

Overcoming homesickness

• Stay in touch with your loved ones: By scheduling regular video calls, sending messages, and sharing your experience with your friends and family, you will not feel lonely.
• A routine will help: A daily routine will provide you stability. Engaging in activities like exercising, joining clubs, or exploring that country will distract you from feeling homesick.
• Get new friends: Friendships with other international students help to reduce feelings of isolation and create a sense of belonging.

Manage your finances as an International Student.

• Budget: Know your income and expenses regularly to create a monthly budget. This helps to avoid overspending. This includes rent, groceries, transportation, and other itineraries.
• Seek Scholarships: The majority of the universities offer scholarships or grants or part-time work opportunities for you. Research them thoroughly and apply for financial aid programs. This will ease at least some of your burden.
• Use student discounts: In most foreign countries, you will get student discounts for transportation, entertainment, and shopping.

How to Academically adjust

• Get to know their academic systems: Familiarize yourself with the academic systems by attending orientation programs and academic workshops to understand how the system works. This includes understanding how assessments and exams works.
• Academic help early on: Never delay to reach out to the professors if you’re having any difficulty. Most of these universities provide academic resources such as tutoring, writing centers, and study groups.
• Time management is important: When you are hustling with academics, a part-time job, and a social life, managing your time is very crucial. Organize your life and never forget to stick self care time in between.

CONCLUSION 

Yes, studying abroad as an international student from Kerala has some challenges to it.  But it does give you a ton of opportunities. Overcoming these obstacles is part of this journey. Remember to enjoy the process and never miss out.

For more study abroad information follow us on socials and get updates through regular blog posts. For students from Kerala, contact 9567107000 or mail at aji@betterworldstudy.com  to clear any further doubts.