Adwiteeya Shiwakoti

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Published On: June 20, 2019 07:20 PM NPT By: Adwiteeya Shiwakoti

Tips and tricks while studying abroad

Tips and tricks while studying abroad

When studying abroad, a lot of unexpected hurdles appear so it’s always a good idea to be ready for the journey as a student. Being new to a place opens up many opportunities to a wide variety of experiences and knowledge. Traditions and cultural differences may come on as a surprise and encountering a foreign terrain is something that no book can fully capture the essence of. Every country is distinct and offers exposure to diverse backgrounds but while undertaking the adventures of a new environment, there are a couple of things that would be good to be aware of.


1 Dress code

Different countries have different perspectives on how one should present themselves depending on several factors such as weather, religion, security, etc. It’s a safe idea to understand the dressing trend in your local community to avoid offending anyone in a conservative country, looking too over-clothed in a more liberal environment or wearing something that will drench you in sweat in the potential scorching heat.


2 The school

Catching the dynamics of the students, teachers and other schools aids a smooth transition into an unfamiliar environment. Aside from the studies, the interactive factor is essential in ensuring a positive space and shouldn’t be undermined. Depending on if your school is highly competitive in sports or academics, it’s always good to listen to peers and get the gist of how the school works, and every single one is different.


3 Unspoken norms

Different unspoken social norms are particular to specific areas but exist everywhere. Is it normal to walk while you eat on the streets? Is it socially acceptable to walk through a certain area with a pet? Do people stand on a specific side of an escalator? It helps eradicate any potential awkwardness. Being aware of the societal aspect of your surroundings will make life easier and help you slip easily into the crowd.


4 Dynamics of the people

A good thing to have an idea of is whether the country has a formal or informal society. There are some places where it’s normal to strike up a conversation about the weather and others where it’s seen as impolite or rather bizarre to interact with strangers. Perhaps there are certain sensitive conversation topics that would be in their best interest to be avoided. Keeping security contact numbers such as the local police or the nearest hospital will aid in a feeling of insurance.


5 Consideration of the community

It’s important to acknowledge that there’s an already established society with certain rules which are expected to be adapted to. As a foreigner, it’s important to respect the environment and the local community bearing in mind that this is the home of the population living there. Both parties should be pleased with the experience of the stay.


6 Transportation

Understanding the local system is a very effective way to learn about the city, so, taking local modes of transportation is highly recommended. This is also a safe way to commute around the area in the case of being alone. Being a new student in a country, it’s difficult getting around and public transportation typically follows a specific route and getting accustomed to the followed trail is the easiest way to become familiar to the main drop of centers.


7 The map

Getting familiar with the local surroundings is crucial to having a smooth lifestyle. It can be difficult to travel around the city when you’re not aware of its geography. This is one of the first things that should be taken care of after being settled. Learning routes, malls, shopping bazaars, and popular hangout areas will only give you a head start and provide a sense of confidence.

 

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