Why do students struggle with cultural differences

One of the most exciting times in a student’s life is when they study abroad. It is an exceptional experience that offers the ideal chance to travel, make new friends, learn a foreign language, and, of course, receive a top-notch education. However, for some people, transitioning to a new country is difficult, and there are obstacles along the road.

We’ll look at six problems that students frequently run into while studying abroad and how to fix them.

1. Language Barriers

The language barrier is one of the most frequent difficulties associated with studying abroad. Even though you’ve spent the last five years studying the language, it still seems entirely strange once you get there. There are multiple words for the same item and the locals are using lingo you don’t understand. You may occasionally feel alienated because of this, but look at it as an opportunity to grow. The majority of locals appreciate your efforts to converse with them in their language. Even while it could seem like a significant challenge to overcome, the more you practise, the more at ease you’ll feel. And hey, being perfectly fluent in a second language when you get home is a major plus!

2. Currency Differences

Another typical difficulty students encounter while studying abroad is attempting to grasp a different currency. You should make sure you are aware with the currency rate before packing your baggage and boarding a plane. Use an online currency converter, like the one provided by Google. Enter the desired amount, pick your home currency from the dropdown menu, and then choose the currency of the nation where you will be doing your study abroad programme.

Other monetary differences should be considered as well. International students should be aware that, unlike many other nations, Canada and the United States do not include taxes in the price of goods. This means that in addition to the product’s price, taxes must be computed. There is also money slang, which is similar to learning a new language. For instance, one pound is colloquially known as a quid in the United Kingdom. You’ll avoid misunderstanding at the checkout counter by brushing up on these distinctions.

3. Day-to-Day Finances

Students will also need to develop sound money management skills. Some foreign students may be fortunate enough to receive a scholarship, which will ease their financial load. All students will therefore need to develop their budgeting skills. Students must budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and other daily living expenditures in addition to tuition. In addition to lifestyle, lodging preference, and spending habits, costs are typically higher in larger cities.

It could be stressful to not have your family around to help you financially, but again, use this as an opportunity to learn how to create a budget and handle money.

4. Cultural Differences

Every nation has unique cultural norms. You will need to adapt to the local culture in addition to learning the language and using the local currency. You probably aren’t aware of the “unwritten rules” at home, which are customs that are commonplace but may be foreign to locals. A simple handshake is one illustration. A forceful handshake could be accepted etiquette in one nation but might be offensive in another. As with anything else, pay attention to the locals and become familiar with their way of life. You’ll gradually get used to it, and you can even share your culture with your new pals.

5. Homesickness

It’s simple to get homesick when everything is so foreign to you. The couch in your living room and your obnoxious but endearing sister are two things you will miss. No matter if it’s your first time living alone or not, homesickness is a normal and even expected experience when moving far from home. In fact, according to a UCLA Higher Education Research Institute survey, 71% of students experience homesickness at some point.

The most crucial thing is to avoid letting it prevent you from having an unforgettable experience during your time abroad.

When you return, your family and friends will still be there, and you may stay in touch with them remotely using technology in the interim. You will rapidly get over any homesickness by venturing out and discovering your new home and campus.

6. Not Wanting to Leave

You’ll realise how much you really adore your new home once you’ve overcome all of these obstacles. You will miss the locals, the food, and a lot of the little, everyday things when it comes time to go when your studies are finished, like the fantastic cafe down the street. You’ll miss the freedom, the experiences, and even the challenges, and leaving itself will be difficult. But you’ll be eager to return home and tell everyone about your amazing study abroad experience.