Have you ever wondered about the myriad problems faced by the international students in the UK?

If no, then you must know that every year as the students from overseas pour in the busy cacophony of London, they get troubled in this modernistic chaos. You see, being an international student is a big deal. It is an honourable status, and those who get this opportunity are considered as the future of our generations.

However, as the saying goes – trouble in paradise, so does these students’ lives fall for certain complexities.

Here are 5 major problems faced by students in this foreign arena –

1. Linguistic proficiency

Obviously, international students are proficient in English communication. The issues crop up when they have to get accustomed to specific British humour and accent. That is one tough nut to crack. Their way of articulating the syllables, the pause and breathe they take needs time to imbibe within the system.

2. Homesickness

After the initial excitement of coming into a new country and being able to study at a prestigious university dies down, there come those familiar pangs of nostalgia. Homesickness is a common syndrome that is experienced by the majority of international students in the UK. It is the distance and being away from your comfort zone that makes this case worse. However, with Skype and video call facilities of the modern digital era, nostalgia slowly fades away in the background.

3. Roommate issues

This is where the drama unfolds! Having perfect roommates seems almost surreal. You will be paired with people coming from diverse cultural backgrounds, and this may be a bit of a cultural shock to you. Their preferences and way of dealing with life will be absolutely in contrast to how you are used to. However, if from the very beginning you start with a friendly gesture by informal intro, then it can slowly improve the communication.

4. Financial problems

Sorting out your finances shall be a challenge. Starting an independent life for the first time in a foreign locale poses many financial issues where your budget may take a hit if you are not too careful. If you are to avoid such problems, then opting for student discount card like the NUS lets many of these problems go away. For example, this card provides you with clothes discount, travel fare discounts, food offers and educational equipment deals.

5. Cultural chaos

The friction between diverse cultures gets pronounced when international students are grouped under one single roof. You will be trying to “fit” in for sure as this is where your actual struggle starts. The utter chaotic situation that percolates amidst the diverse cultures seems to be out of control in the first phase. However, with the passing of time, you get to “settle” in the friction.

Now that you know about the 5 different type of challenges to expect in the UK, its time you give attention to these problem areas. As you pack your bags and set off for a new start to your life, remember that you will eventually overcome these issues with confidence and motivation.