Savanna Hoffman
International students often face challenges when studying abroad, from navigating academics and career opportunities to adapting to a new culture and legal system. To help overcome these challenges, international students can seek advice from various sources, including designated advisors, mentorship programs, and peer networks. Familiarizing themselves with campus, understanding the academic calendar and grading system, and securing housing and health insurance are also essential steps for international students to settle into their new environment. Additionally, developing cultural intelligence and adaptability can enhance their marketability and competitiveness in their future careers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Familiarity with laws | Familiarize yourself with US federal, state, and local laws, especially those pertaining to immigration |
| Housing | Consider on-campus housing with a meal plan or a shared apartment for more independence and privacy |
| Health insurance | Enroll in health insurance provided by your college or university, unless you opt-out |
| Academic calendar and grading system | Research and understand the academic calendar and grading system of your school, which is typically a semester system with fall and spring semesters |
| Transportation | Learn about transportation options on and off campus |
| Orientation | Participate in mandatory orientation and optional pre-orientation activities to get to know the school better |
| Campus navigation | Utilize virtual tours on the school's website and social media to navigate the campus before arrival |
| Social connections | Join student organizations, campus clubs, or international student organizations to meet people and reduce stress |
| Cultural adjustment | Understand the cultural dos and don'ts of the host country and seek supportive peers or mentors to navigate cultural differences |
| Academic and career support | Reach out to advisors, mentors, or professors for academic guidance and career advice |
| Financial support | Explore funding opportunities, keeping in mind that international students have limited options and they often depend on immigration status, academic discipline, and research alignment |
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What You'll Learn
- Familiarise yourself with the laws, customs and culture of the host country
- Seek out mentors and advisors to help you navigate academics and campus life
- Research housing options and understand health insurance coverage
- Join campus clubs and organisations to discover new hobbies and build your resume
- Understand the financial support available to international students
Familiarise yourself with the laws, customs and culture of the host country
As an international student, you will likely encounter cultural differences and unfamiliar laws and customs in your host country. Here are some tips to help you familiarise yourself with these aspects and ensure a smooth transition to life in a new country:
Firstly, research the laws and regulations of your host country. Understanding the legal framework of your host country is essential to ensure you don't inadvertently break any laws. Familiarise yourself with federal, state, and local laws, especially those pertaining to immigration, as these may differ significantly from your home country. Respecting the local laws and rules is an important aspect of being a responsible international student and guest in your host country.
Secondly, take the time to learn about the customs and traditions of the local culture. This includes understanding social norms, such as personal space and dining etiquette, and being mindful of any practices that may be considered offensive or taboo. Embrace cultural diversity and be open to trying local dishes and participating in cultural activities. Respecting religious beliefs and practices is also crucial, especially when visiting religious sites or adhering to dress codes.
Additionally, pay attention to the language and communication styles of the locals. While it may not be practical to learn an entire new language before your trip, mastering a few basic phrases in the local language can be extremely helpful and appreciated by the locals. This can include simple greetings, pleasantries, and common phrases used in everyday conversations.
Lastly, be proactive in seeking out resources and support. Many universities offer comprehensive support services for international students, including mentorship programs, cultural organisations, and student services offices specifically for international students. These resources can provide valuable guidance on academic, cultural, and social aspects of life in your host country. Reach out to your university's international student office or seek advice from student ambassadors or alumni who have been in your shoes.
By familiarising yourself with the laws, customs, and culture of your host country, you will not only ensure a smoother transition to life abroad but also contribute to a positive cultural exchange and personal growth during your international student experience.
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Seek out mentors and advisors to help you navigate academics and campus life
International students often have to navigate an unfamiliar culture, academic environment, and job market. This can be overwhelming, and it is beneficial to seek guidance from mentors and advisors to help you settle in and succeed.
Many US colleges have mentorship or student ambassador programs that connect new students with current students or alumni. These programs can help you find your feet and answer any questions you may have from a student's perspective. They can also help you build a network of connections, which is valuable as many jobs in the US are obtained through referrals. If your college does not have a mentorship program, you can still seek out mentors by joining professional organizations or connecting with older students who were once in your shoes and are willing to share their knowledge.
Mentors can provide valuable academic advice, such as recommending elective courses to take in your first year or helping you set and achieve long-term goals. They can also guide you in your career by providing job search advice, helping with resumes and cover letters, and even offering insights into workplace culture. If your mentor was an international student, they can offer specific advice on visa sponsorship and navigating the job market as an international graduate.
In addition to formal mentors, you will also have access to advisors and professors who can provide academic guidance and support. Your school's international student services office (ISSS) can also assist with navigating campus life, and your career services office can provide information on the job market and resume writing.
Overall, seeking out mentors and advisors as an international student can provide you with valuable guidance, support, and connections as you navigate academics and campus life in a new country.
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Research housing options and understand health insurance coverage
As an international student, it is important to research housing options and understand health insurance coverage.
On-Campus Housing
On-campus housing is generally the most popular option for first-year international students. It is often within walking distance of the school and provides access to most of the resources students need. It can also be more convenient and immersive for international students than living off-campus. On-campus residence halls typically offer several options, including single rooms, double rooms, suites, and apartment-style units. The cost of on-campus housing is usually predetermined and covers a semester or academic year.
Off-Campus Housing
Off-campus housing options include apartments and houses. Living off-campus may provide more amenities, such as a full kitchen, living room, private bathroom, and bedroom. However, there are different financial considerations when living off-campus, such as paying monthly rent and utilities. The cost of rent will vary depending on location, amenities, and the size of the property.
International Student Housing
Some colleges and universities have buildings or floors dedicated to international students who choose to live on-campus. If dedicated international student housing is not available, some campuses may allow you to request to live with another international student.
Health Insurance Coverage
International students will typically be automatically enrolled in a health insurance plan provided by their college or university unless they opt out. There are also international student health insurance plans available that meet visa requirements and provide coverage for mental health, sports, and maternity. These plans can be tailored to meet the specific needs and budgets of international students, with rates starting as low as $29/month.
It is important to carefully consider your housing options and understand the health insurance coverage provided by your college or university, as well as any additional coverage you may need.
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Join campus clubs and organisations to discover new hobbies and build your resume
Joining campus clubs and organisations is a great way to discover new hobbies and build your resume. It can help you meet new people and improve your college experience. Student organisations and clubs are usually made up of people with shared interests, so you can easily make friends and seek advice from other students, which can be one of the best ways to adjust to a new culture.
Additionally, involvement in clubs or organisations can showcase important skills to future employers, such as teamwork, communication, organisation, and leadership. If you have leadership experience, be sure to highlight this on your resume, focusing on your ability to delegate tasks and collaborate effectively. Even if you don't have a leadership role, being a member of a club or organisation can still demonstrate your interest in personal growth and your ability to work well with others.
There are a variety of clubs and organisations available on campus, and you can choose one that aligns with your interests. For example, if you're interested in mathematics, you could join or start a MATH club to inspire and sharpen quantitative skills. If you're passionate about journalism, consider joining Quill and Scroll, an international high school journalism honour society. You could also look into the YMCA's Youth and Government program, which creates model governments for high schoolers.
Joining a campus club or organisation can provide you with valuable experiences and skills that will enhance your resume and help you stand out to potential employers. It's a great way to discover new hobbies, meet like-minded people, and showcase your abilities and interests.
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Understand the financial support available to international students
International students often require substantial financial aid to study in the USA, and tuition and financial assistance vary across schools, making it hard to budget. However, there are several financial aid options available to international students. Firstly, some US colleges and universities offer limited financial aid to international students through their financial aid offices. This is more common for graduate studies in the form of assistantships and fellowships. Undergraduate international students may have fewer options, but some public and private universities offer financial incentives for students. It is uncommon for US institutions to offer aid to undergraduate international students, so scholarships are often competitive and merit-based. These scholarships are granted based on special skills, talents, or abilities, such as TOEFL scores, academic records, artistic ability, musical ability, or athletic ability. Need-based scholarships are also awarded, depending on the financial situation of the student.
Additionally, international students can explore private international student loans to fund their studies in the USA. These loans require meeting specific eligibility requirements, such as attending an approved school and having a cosigner. It is important to carefully consider the amount borrowed, only taking what is necessary to cover the cost of studying and living in the US. International scholarships are another option, specifically designed to fund education programs overseas, providing financial assistance and cultural experiences. A variety of scholarships, grants, and fellowships are available for students wishing to study in the USA and worldwide, which can be found using scholarship search tools. Work-study programs allow students to gain valuable connections and experience while earning their degrees.
On-campus employment is also an option for international students, although the pay may not be sufficient to finance a university education. Students with F-1 status, the most common for full-time international students, can work part-time on campus for fewer than 20 hours per week. J-1 student status holders have similar employment opportunities with permission from their exchange visitor program sponsor. M-1 visa holders for technical and vocational programs are not permitted to work during their studies.
To keep track of expenses, it is helpful to create a budget worksheet. Consulting with the university can also provide information on available supplements or fee waivers. International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced Placement (AP) course credits can sometimes be applied to reduce the time to graduation. Beginning studies at a community college and then transferring credits to a four-year institution can also reduce costs.
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Frequently asked questions
International students can prepare by familiarising themselves with the laws, customs and culture of their host country. It is also important to research the academic calendar and grading system of the institution.
On-campus housing is often provided for first-year international students, with a meal plan included. Alternatively, a shared apartment can offer more independence and privacy, as well as a more central location.
Many US colleges have mentorship or student ambassador programs that connect new students with current students or alumni. There are also often international student services offices that can provide assistance with navigating the campus and finding community.
International student loans are available for those without a cosigner. Additionally, some international researchers may have access to funding through fellowships or their residency status.
Joining campus organisations or clubs can help international students discover new hobbies, meet people with similar interests and adjust to a new culture. It can also help to seek advice from peers and mentors who share your cultural background.
