CHALLENGES INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN THE UK FACE AND HOW TO OVERCOME THEM
Educational Expectations
It’s possible that the educational aspirations and study habits of others will be very different from your own. It’s common to address professors by their first names, and relationships with your lecturers and tutors may be much more casual. Additionally, rather than placing a heavy emphasis on exams, your course may place more emphasis on completing a number of smaller assignments like reports and essays. You’ll get used to all of these expectations eventually. Your educational institution may offer tools, such as coaching or study sessions if you are having academic difficulties. These might assist you to realize what you need to accomplish. Be aware that if you have any questions, you can also contact your instructors and course coordinators.
Budgeting
Rent and groceries are necessary living expenses, but since you’ve only recently moved into your new house, you also want to spend money. There are new items to buy, foods to taste, bars, theaters, and restaurants to visit. Budgeting your time in the UK is fairly easy; all you need to do is be conscious of your spending habits. To track your costs, you can use a variety of free applications or simply keep a notebook. You may become money-smart quickly by shopping around creating a budget, and looking for part-time employment. But always keep in mind to reward yourself now and again.
Getting lost
In your initial weeks as an international student, you’ll become lost. It’s frustrating and inconvenient, but you’ll experience these things as you grow accustomed to a new location. No one likes to be the last person to arrive at a lecture, so allow additional time to go where you need to go to account for this. Thankfully, Google Maps exists. You may use the app to plan your trips because it is functional throughout in the UK, offers real-time travel information (such as when highways are blocked), and integrates with every city’s public transportation system. You’ll eventually be familiar with every shortcut in your city.
Finding a home
Visa? Check. Bags? Packed. Passport? Found. What’s missing? Oh, that’s right, somewhere to live once you step off the plane.
Finding accommodation in the UK might seem daunting, but there are services and support systems in place to make the process as easy as possible. First, assess your accommodation options. If you’d prefer the ease of managed student accommodation, you can use this tool to match you to affordable options. If you’d prefer more independence, look for a private rental, but make sure you keep yourself safe from scams and know where to go if you need help.
Making Friends
It’s always difficult to make new acquaintances, but moving to a foreign nation might make it even more difficult. The UK is fortunately a very sociable country, and your fellow international students will also be eager to make friends.
While student housing providers frequently arrange activity evenings so you may meet other residents, joining organizations and societies within your educational institution is a terrific way to meet individuals who share your interests. If you want to meet people but don’t want to get off the sofa, that’s okay! Using apps like Bumble BFF and Friendly, you can connect with pals who are in need. Just remember that you should get off the couch someday and meet them, preferably over coffee.
