It’s really exciting to go out of the city/country after passing high school with good grades. Hats off! Whether you have completed A Level, Intermediate studies, or an equivalent programme, it’s a significant milestone to achieve. And then comes the time when you’re going out of town to study, it’s going to be a whole new experience in your life, living away from family and home. No more WWE’s with your siblings now! Prepare for your rollercoaster ride. Don’t be petrified.

Today, I am going to share with you some useful tips for your upcoming venture.

Dealing with homesickness

The first and foremost feeling that most of youngsters go through is homesickness. I know how it feels because I have been there, have gone through this.

Going far from your family for the first time makes you feel insecure first, then comes the longing part and this is where we call it homesickness. If you experience this, don’t worry it is part of the journey, and if you have a hobby, keep yourself busy with it so that you remain distracted.

I would also suggest you find friends with common ground so at least you get to be with those who can relate to you and lend a shoulder to cry on. In just a couple of weeks or a month, you’ll recover from homesickness.

A student’s roadmap to international education and surviving away from home

Responsibility and safety

Yes, at home, you have your parents to take care of your stuff. But going far away from them not only means that you are acquiring education, but you are also learning to live independently.

Be responsible with your valuables. You need to take care of them now by yourself. Keep an eye on your surroundings. Watch out before making new friends and don’t be naïve in trusting everyone who comes your way.

If you’re living in a hostel or rental which is at a distance from your university or college, then you have to take a metro or other public transport. So be vigilant and prefer going in pairs or groups if you can. And even if you are planning to roam around the city or want to go to the market, always have the company of two to three friends with you.

Also check out the timings, routes and stops of the public transport you will be using and know them well so that you do not miss your bus or get lost.

Time management

Don’t allow the clock to move its needles before you tell it to do so. Schedule your hours. Time management plays a really important role when you are away from home. Make a timetable considering how much time you should invest in your studies and how much to be allotted to entertainment and other chores that you now had to do.

Independent living skills

It is rightly said that living in a hostel makes you learn things and tasks which you had never learnt in your life at home, because your parents are there to do everything for you!

Make a list of things you have to do when living alone. You should know what you are getting into. It’s time to take the front seat. Mum is not there to get your shirts ironed. Before leaving home you need to learn to perform your daily chores. You should know how to wash dishes, cook, wash your clothes, iron your clothes, make your bed, clean the washroom and all other stuff of daily life.

Budgeting basics

Assign a budget to yourself and stick to it. Set realistic goals. It takes time, but you will learn with experience. Keep track of everything you spend so you don’t have to give an emergency call to your father or mother, letting them know that you’ve been bankrupt so early. Review your budget regularly.

Pack smart

You are going away from your comfort zone, but don’t stress about taking all your favourite hoodies and with you! Learn to sacrifice. Carry just the basics with you as you will have a smaller space available to keep your things. Plus, with fewer things to manage, you don’t have to stress all the time on taking care of your things. Enjoy your life by taking in the new experiences and seeing the world, instead of being left counting your suitcases.

Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Reach out to fellow students and university support services, and stay connected with loved ones back home. Your success story is just beginning to unfold.

Wishing you all the best in your international adventure. The world is waiting for you to make your mark!

Published in Dawn, Young World, November 16th, 2024