08/12/2026
A KIND MESSAGE TO NEW INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS : REVISITED BUT STILL VALIDđđđ
Dear Friends,
We are in August, the time of the year you will find busy airports and campuses gearing up to receive freshmen. If youâre an incoming international student preparing to embark on your graduate school journey in a new country, or you have arrived your host country, youâre in for an exciting adventure filled with opportunities for growth and discovery. Itâs completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness as you step into this new chapter of your life. Remember you are not alone.
Letâs explore some essential tips Iâve got to help you navigate this transition smoothly.
đFirst and foremost, remember you have a student visa/permit which was issued to you for the purpose of studies. The document has rules that you must follow. The rules vary from one country to the next. Please follow the rules. If you arenât authorized to work whether off or on campus, please do not work. However, if you are authorized to work please respect the limit. If it is 20 hours max on campus during school time, please respect it.
đđâThere are resources tagged FREE that you CAN NOT access them as an international student (e.g. food stamps). No one will tell you about these, no one will refuse to give them to you if you show up to collect. You will be excited, very happy about it not knowing you are getting into tr0uble already. Please know that not every FREE resource is FREE for you as an international student. If you must collect any FREE resources, I recommend you contact your office of International Students or your DSO. If in doubt at any given time, please contact your DSO. Take this advise seriously.
đ When you get settled and have your home address, search for where to obtain an ID Card from your host country so that you will not be carrying your passport with you everywhere you go to. Also, do well to keep any administrative documentation safe. All of themâŠ. keep them safe.
đEmbrace the cultural differences youâll encounter. Every country has its unique customs and traditions, and being open to these experiences will enrich your time abroad. Take the time to learn about the local culture, language, and social norms. This not only helps you adapt but also shows respect for your new home.
đBuilding a support network is crucial. Connect with fellow international students, join student organizations, or participate in campus events. These connections can provide a sense of belonging and help you feel more at home. Donât hesitate to reach out to faculty and staff as well; they are there to support you and can offer valuable guidance throughout your academic journey.
đAcademically, be proactive in seeking help when needed. Graduate school can be challenging, and itâs important to remember that asking questions is a sign of strength, not weakness. Utilize resources like tutoring centers, study groups, and office hours to enhance your understanding of the material. Your professors and peers are valuable allies in your academic success.
đTime management is another key aspect to master. Balancing coursework, research, and personal life can be overwhelming, especially in a new environment. Create a schedule that allows you to allocate time for studying, socializing, talking to family, and self-care. Prioritizing your well-being is essential for maintaining a healthy mindset. Eat well oh and stay hydrated always because you need the energy.
đDo not procrastinate for no reason. Many international students get overwhelmed due to procrastination and tend to get into depress!ve state. You donât want to walk the depress!on route. It is r0ugh! Please do everything you can to stay focused and pass your classes. If you feel you need to talk to a counselor at any time please do it ASAP. Do not try to f!ght it. Talk to a professional soonest.
đSetup all your bills on autopay so you donât forget to pay them. You can get carried away and forget to manually pay and then you hear matters that touch. Additionally, if you have to get any credit card, please ensure you spend wisely. Donât use your credit card to buy stuff to impress people online because no one really cares. Every knows you are a bush faller so no need trying to prove a point. We donât really care. When you use your credit card please pay the money you spend because it is not your money. Pay your credit card bills.
đââ This point goes specifically to ladies especially single ladies. Head-sup that I will have to say it as it isđđ. From sis-to-sis! No sleep overs! There are cute âuncusâ waiting for newbies like you. Very naive newbies at thatđ. Donât cook for any uncu. Donât allow any sleep over either. You too stay in one place! One sleep over and it is game over sisđđ. If âkonjiâ catch you, just call your favorite family or friend and chat with them, or you take a cool shower and you will forget sis.This is not me talking ooh đ𫣠itâs my keyboardâs writing but the message has been delivered. I hope the volume is okay.
đLastly, take the time to explore your new surroundings. Whether itâs visiting local landmarks, trying new foods, or participating in community events, immersing yourself in the local culture will create lasting memories and broaden your perspective.
đ„°As you embark on this incredible journey, remember that itâs okay to feel a little out of your comfort zone. Each challenge you face is an opportunity for growth. I am excited for you and canât wait to see all the amazing things youâll accomplish.
Please note: If you copy parts or all of the post, please do well to give me credit. It is okay to copyâŠjust give credit to show respect for the writers intellect.
Thank you đ„°
Sunjo Claris-OFFICIAL|| Study-Abroad Mentor|| Multi Award Winning Researcher || Miss Intentional ||
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