subject: What to Expect as a International Student at a US University [print this page] What to Expect as a International Student at a US University
If you're a bit nervous about studying in the US as a international student, you're not the only one. Moving away from your home nation, learning about and trying to blend in with another culture and studying at the same time is quite a challenge. Fortunately, you'll probably find a lot to love about studying in the US. If you're worried about being homesick, remember that most of the students at US universities will probably be very glad to meet you and will be very curious about your culture. Even if you study at a university where you're the only person from your nation, you'll likely find that people will go out of their way to make you feel at home.
Some American universities make a very concerted effort to reach out to students from international lands. This reflects a cultural value of the United States. The US has always been a nation where people have come from every corner of the globe to improve themselves, make their fortunes or just live a better life. You won't be the first person to come here seeking a different experience than you could get home and you'll likely find that many parts of American culture will make you feel extremely welcome.
For some international students, it's the smaller things that make the adjustment difficult. For example, you may be away from the types of food that you love, you may not be able to hear the types of music with which you're familiar and it may be difficult to constantly be speaking in a language other than your native tongue. Talk to the counselors at the university you're attending about the cultural resources they have available. It's not uncommon for international students to find somebody else on even the smallest campuses who shares their culture. In fact, you may meet American students who have parents who come from your home nation and would very much like to meet you.
Being a international student requires dedication, curiosity, savvy and, to no small degree, quite a bit of courage. There are plenty of people in most American universities that will be more than willing to try to make the transition as easy as possible for you. Look for a university that has a staff dedicated to helping international students. It can be a tremendous advantage for you.The more help the better when you are setting goals for your eductaion.
