Life as an International Student
What it’s Like Studying Abroad
Deciding to study abroad can be an extremely daunting experience. After all, you’re going to be moving away from home, possibly away from your parents for the first time. However, life as an international student should also be exciting! It’s going to give you lots of opportunities to learn new languages, explore different cultures, and find out more about the world around you.
We want to give you a better impression of what it’s like to study abroad, particularly if you’re planning on moving to London. So, with that in mind, here is our list of six ways that you can make the most of your life as an international student.
Enhance your language skills
If you don’t already speak the language of your chosen country, then it’s a good idea to brush up on a few basic phrases. This is nothing to panic about, though! Most universities have excellent portals for international students that can help you improve your vocabulary. You will also be integrating with native speakers on a daily basis, which will naturally enhance your speaking ability.
Experience new cultures
Different countries have different ways of doing things, even if they speak the same language. Life as an international student can teach you the importance of these cultures, and, although they may be different from what you are used to, it can be really fascinating to learn more about them.
Make new friends
Getting to know new people is perhaps the most daunting part of life as an international student, but it doesn’t need to be. Making new friends at university is something that tends to happen quite naturally, especially as you will be surrounded by like-minded students who will all be eager to get to know each other.
Make Connections
As you make new friends, you will also begin to forge valuable connections. These connections are an important part of your future, as they can lead to future job prospects and further education opportunities. Having a few global contacts can be extremely useful, particularly if you’re thinking of returning to the UK in later life. You will make these connections naturally, and they can make your life as an international student not only fun but also extremely useful.
Broaden Your Horizons
With access to the Eurotunnel, as well as thousands of different flight destinations, students choosing to study in London are not confined to the UK. They will have easy access to the rest of Europe, as well as to countries further afield. By taking advantage of these travel opportunities, international students will be able to easily explore more of the world around them.
Experience Variety
One of the best things about studying in the UK is that you will have so many options. In London alone there are over 40 higher education institutions, which means that your life as an international student can be made to suit you. Wherever you choose to live, you will also have a lot of options when it comes to accommodation. Most first-year students choose to live within their university campuses, but you will have also have access to a great range of alternatives (learn all about Beaumont House accommodation here).
If you are considering studying abroad, then we hope that this list has explained some of the fantastic advantages of life as an international student. You can experience a different culture, meet new friends, and explore the world! More than anything else, though, London offers a world-class level of education. By studying abroad, you can really make the most of your education.