FROM CULTURE VULTURE TO ADVENTURER
ADAPTING IN AN OVERSEAS UNIVERSITY
Having studied your whole life in Singapore, you may have decided to embark on an overseas undergraduate degree or you may have already pursued your first degree in Singapore and are now looking at higher education overseas. The point is on how to adapt to a foreign university. This article will share some tips on it.
Embrace all cultures
Overseas universities will have all different kinds of people and many different cultures. To an open-minded person, this could be the most thrilling aspect of studying abroad.
“Foreign students are flocking to the higher education system in the US. A recent study found that in 2011-2012, the number of international students in the US increased by 6.5% over the last year to a record high of 764,495 students. Of these, 56% came from only five countries: China, India, South Korea, Saudi Arabia and Canada” – Quartz Media LLC.
Understand some cultural norms and practices in Singapore may not be viewed the same in other countries or with other cultures. Some cultures, like in Japan, view talking loudly on the phone in public transport rude, but slurping your noodles loudly in public places okay. Hence know what type of cultures your friends are and be socially mindful and respectful of them.
Language
Some foreign universities only teach in their own language. While this may seem daunting at first, it is a fantastic opportunity to get an overseas degree and master a foreign language at the same time. Most foreign students adapt quickly after a while, especially those who immerse themselves in the country’s movies and culture.
Being independent
If you have always been used to having a maid or your parents clean the house for you, you are in for a rude awakening. Nobody is there to clean your room for you nor is anyone there to cook for you. Learn some basic cooking skills before you leave, this will help you save costs from eating out all the time and it is an important life skill for both guys and girls.