When a student makes the choice to study abroad, they are not just adding a new address to their list. Not only are they expanding their horizons, but they are also gaining a cultural experience that cannot be had by staying home. No matter how exciting it might be, however, the student could still have questions. What should they do? What should they consider or see?
1. Absorb the Language
Although some students will already come from English speaking countries, this is still something for them to think about. It is important to absorb certain vocabulary words and sentence structures in order to avoid confusion and settle in more quickly. This helps them not only in a setting for learning, but also as they go about their daily chores and tasks. The more they understand the less nervous and scared they will feel. Their grasp on the language does not have to be perfect, but an attempt to improve what they already know is always helpful.
2. Look Around
The art of studying is always important, but this should never be all that a student does when they are in London. Taking the time to hold conversations with locals, observe cultural rituals, and so on can help a student become more well-rounded and aware. They can ask questions that have always sat at the back of their mind, learning more than what they could find from a textbook. The idea of adventure should not be feared; instead, it should be embraced as tightly as possible.
3. Have a Sense of Humour
Many people experience culture shock when they go from one country to another. Some of them choose to remain puzzled or even upset by these cultural differences, leading to difficulty in adjustment. When a student chooses to harness their sense of humour, they are likely to handle things differently. They should not think of something as strange or impossible to understand; it should simply be something that requires further research or observation. The student will be away from home, and to do well they must adjust. They need to have fun with it, rather than think of it as something to survive.
4. Keep a Record
It is one thing to visit relatives, but it is another to study abroad. In order to have something to look at and enjoy for years to come, the student should purchase or make a journal. Each day or whenever they feel up to the task, they can write down what they saw or did. When they eventually go home they can then easily recall everything, preventing the endeavour from becoming a series of foggy memories.
5. Choose a Good Living Location
If the student will not be living on school grounds, they should try to find a place that provides a healthy and safe atmosphere.
Studying in London can provide benefits that no person could count in one sitting. However, in order to properly make the best out of their new surroundings, the tips above should be put under consideration.
Tom writes on behalf of Richmond University which is the American University in London. Richmond have a limited amount of space on their courses for next year so if your looking for London Universities clearing, check out Richmond’s University clearing places 2011.