10 common mistakes first-year international students need to avoid

 10 common mistakes first-year international students need to avoid

According to experts, missing the orientation session, forgetting to change money or just making friends with fellow countrymen... are common mistakes made by first-year international students.

1. Not attending orientation

Some universities organize orientation sessions a few days earlier for international students to settle down and connect with the international student office.

Gina Wilner, a planning consultant at Advantage College Planning (USA), thinks that an early orientation session can include a tour of the school and some of the surrounding areas, helping students get used to the new environment. This activity is designed for students to connect with friends, learn how to own their new home, from finding classes, health centers and IT rooms...

"For the smooth sailing process of studying abroad, you need to have a basic understanding of the school. So as soon as your university sends out information about orientation, be sure to book your plane tickets right away," says Wilner.

2. Forgot to call home upon arrival

Students may be excited to start a new life, but families back home want to know that their loved ones have arrived safely.

Sarah Lopolito, assistant dean of the Department of International Educational Programming, Director of the Institute of American Language and Culture, Clark University (USA), said that the fact that students do not contact their parents when they come to school will make relationships. both sides become serious. Many worried parents may call the police and offices to track down their children.

"So, as soon as you land, you should use the wifi at the airport to let you know that you have arrived safely. During the first few days, communicate regularly to keep your parents comfortable and secure," Wilner said. .

3. No money exchange

Experts say that you need to bring some money that has been converted into the currency of the country you are going to, because some places only accept cash. "Tipping is a real-life example, especially if you're taking a taxi from the airport to school," says Lopolito.

In addition to exchanging money, you also need an additional credit card. In the event of a wallet loss, your funds will be safe as most credit card holders are not responsible for misappropriated fees.

4. Let the "jet lag" overwhelm you

"Jet lag" is a syndrome of the body caused by time zone changes without synchronization. "Jet lag" occurs when people move quickly through the hour, or when sleep is disrupted.

When you study abroad, "jet lag" is quite common, so you need to plan accordingly. "Plan to adjust to the new time zone, minimizing its effects by eating on time and drinking plenty of water," advises Lopolito.