Problems International Students Face in the UK and Their Solutions
Congratulations are in order I must say!
Getting accepted to study in the UK is surely crossing the first milestone. Yes, you are overwhelmed, a tad bit nervous and also excited. This is a phase of mixed emotions and it’s pretty normal to go through this roller coaster. Your worries might be justified as there are certain pertinent issues that crop up when you begin your journey. We have the right solutions up our sleeves only for you.
Intrigued? Read on…
Problems that you WILL face and solutions you need to know:
1. Language becomes a glitch
Usually, students who come from overseas have an excellent grasp of English communication. However, real problems arise when they have to get used to the particular British accent and humour. It often leads to a dip in the students’ confidence and they ultimately end up feeling discouraged for not being able to participate in group discussions or general conversations.
What is the answer to this problem?
To begin with, do not get all huffed up that you won’t be able to match up with their accents like ever! Start by taking language classes, and you sure will get to enjoy a lot. These are informative and quite fun to attend.
Secondly, you can also start watching British movies so that you catch up with their accents really fast. This is more for the introvert clan who will feel shy in a large class. You can also try out the Duolingo app that is very much helpful.
2. Homesickness is common
After your initial excitement ebbs away, nostalgia is sure to hit you badly. Away in that foreign land where the journey is like a constant battle, you are bound to feel homesick. With today’s Skype calls and social media catch-ups, you may feel a little less sad, but still, that ache in your heart for your dear homeland shall prick from time to time in the beginning.
The answer to this problem
Did you know that most universities in the UK offer counselling sessions for students who face such issues? You see, there is absolutely no shame in going for these sessions as letting your heart’s content pour out to someone who will listen to it is a relief! You can also go for a little self-creativity. Like, by decorating your dorm room just like it was back home. In this way, you will carry a piece of your home to this foreign land.
3. Financial problems
It’s a known fact that studying here is costly. You are going to face many challenges if you are coming to the UK for the first time. Saving up on your finances should be on your priority list as you have to learn to live independently here.
Solutions for this glitch
Start by applying for the NUS card. It will let you get access to the ample student discounts like low train fares, great food deals, low cost equipment for studies, discount on every day wear and what not! Sure it’s a great card to bag in, and you can also go for a part-time job. This will give you some credibility as a student. Also, there are money management mobile apps such as the Mint, Goodbudget and others which you can download to use.
4. Who are your roomies?
When it comes to roommates, this is where you either face a lot of troubles or you get along pretty well. You are going to live with a diverse group of people who hail from different cultural backgrounds. Thus, your lifetime habits and choices may often clash together.
Answers for such issues
Start with a casual and friendly introduction. This always helps. If you get to know what are the likes and dislikes of your roomies, then a mutual understanding will effortlessly develop and all those cultural gaps will inevitably go away.
5. What about the relationships?
Getting upset about leaving your loved one? Don’t be! Once you get to interact with your new friends, some of the heartbreak will go away.
Solutions for this
Regular WhatsApp chats or face calls are plausible options. However, constant calling or chatting may lead to a taxing situation in your relationship. Try to give space both to yourself and your partner. Long distance relations survive on trust, and you can also do certain things like shopping on live chat or video calls or cooking meals even.
6. Struggling in the first few days
In the first few weeks, you will surely find a bit of cultural shock. Their social life and cultural behaviours will be contrasting, and you may find yourself stuck for a while. Well, that is okay! It will be an adventurous ride, and you have to learn the intricacies to go ahead.