Moving abroad is both an exciting and stressful experience for students. Between family separation, discovering a new culture, and adapting to a new environment, proper preparation is crucial to turning this adventure into a rewarding success. Integrating into a new country is the key to fully enjoying this unique experience.
Here’s a practical guide to support you in your study or internship project abroad and help you achieve successful international integration.
Proper preparation before leaving for another country is essential to avoid unexpected surprises and arrive confidently in your host country.
Learn about the customs, culture, local habits, and gastronomy. Also, familiarize yourself with notable facts about the country to better understand its people. For instance, in South Korea, it’s customary to bow as a sign of respect, and sharing dishes at the table is common practice. On the culinary side, in Thailand, you’ll savor spicy dishes like Pad Thai or Tom Yum, while in South Korea, iconic dishes like kimchi or bibimbap, often shared communally, are a must-try.
If your host country requires a visa or permit to stay, apply in advance by contacting the relevant authorities. Each country has its own rules regarding the required documents, processing times, etc.
Purchase international health insurance for peace of mind. With STUDCORP insurance, you’re covered throughout your stay, including medical expenses from the first euro, civil liability, repatriation, and legal assistance. This prevents situations like paying €2,120 for one night in a U.S. hospital, excluding treatment costs.
Plan for accommodation, transportation, food, and leisure expenses. Implement strict financial management to avoid unpleasant surprises. Of course, various factors will influence your budget, starting with your destination. For instance, the cost of living in the United States is significantly higher compared to Asia, primarily due to housing costs.
Mastering the local language is a major asset for breaking the ice and integrating better.
Use apps like Duolingo to learn essential basics. Take online courses to familiarize yourself with common expressions. For example, in France, expressions can vary greatly between the north and south, and the language itself might seem different to foreign learners.
Join conversation clubs or take in-person classes outside your university courses or internship. Practice regularly with locals to improve fluency. Nothing beats spending time surrounded by locals to resist the temptation of speaking your native language with fellow exchange students.
Social life plays a central role in successful integration.
Start by attending international evenings organized by your school or expat associations if you’re an intern. Meet locals by joining university clubs or other activities designed for exchange students.
If possible, be volunteer or join sports activities, which allow you to mingle with locals outside your university if you’re on an exchange program.
Leverage social media by joining groups, as well as apps like Meetup or InterNations to meet other foreigners in your host country. They can introduce you to other internationals or locals.
Respecting the local culture is fundamental for integration and avoiding awkward situations.
Educate yourself about what to do or avoid in daily interactions. For instance, punctuality is highly valued in Germany, and being late might be seen as disrespectful. In South Korea, giving or receiving something with both hands is a key sign of politeness. In the UAE, avoid showing the soles of your feet, as it’s considered rude.
Engage in local events such as markets, celebrations, or festivals. Immerse yourself in festive occasions—join a tea ceremony in Japan, dance at Brazil’s carnivals, or celebrate traditional events like India’s Festival of Lights (Diwali). These experiences deepen your understanding of the local culture.
Remember that every individual is unique, beyond cultural clichés. For instance, not all Italians eat pasta daily, and not all Americans live on fast food. Adopt an open-minded approach and avoid preconceived judgments to build genuine relationships.
When you’re moving abroad, it’s natural to miss your family and friends.
Use video calls and messages to maintain strong ties with family and friends back home. Set up a routine for regular check-ins to ease the feeling of homesickness.
Establish habits in your host country to feel more comfortable and at home. While routines might have a negative connotation in daily life, they can provide comfort and security abroad.
Make the most of this unforgettable experience by exploring and traveling within the country, discovering breathtaking landscapes, and enriching yourself culturally.
Health is essential to fully enjoy your time abroad.
Eat balanced meals and get enough sleep to maintain a healthy balance. Try yoga, meditation, or sports like running.
Identify healthcare facilities available in case of need. Choose suitable insurance, like STUDCORP’s health mobility insurance, to avoid unexpected expenses.
Moving abroad, whether to study or complete an internship, is an exceptional opportunity for personal and professional growth. Successful international integration will help you make the most of this adventure, develop new skills, and create unforgettable memories.
Finally, don’t forget that suitable insurance, like the one offered by STUDCORP, is essential for traveling safely and fully enjoying your stay abroad. For any questions or unexpected situations, your dedicated advisor is available 24/7.
Camille de la team STUDCORP.