Five challenges international students face and how to overcome them
Nearly 300,000 international students are enrolled at
Australian universities, making up 24.3 per cent of the total. While this is a
significant proportion, students from overseas are still outnumbered three to
one and as a minority, may find it difficult adjusting to some aspects of
Australian life.
Whether social, academic or emotional, there are various
issues that may affect an international student but that doesn’t mean there
aren’t ways to overcome these problems.
Language difficulties
It isn’t uncommon for foreign students to struggle with
coursework because English is not their native language. This can make it tough
not only to take advantage of lectures and tutorials but to participate in
general small talk.
Universities in Australia tend to be well-serviced when it
comes to language support programs and there is also ample opportunity to
improve your English by merely interacting with members of the local community.
Making friends
The first day of university is daunting enough for anyone,
let alone if you are from another country. However, it is worth remembering
that while you might be outnumbered by local students, they will all be feeling
just as nervous.
Simply saying hello to the person next to you might not seem
like a big deal but it is likely they will appreciate the gesture and
reciprocate. Joining a sporting club or student society is another great way to
socialise.
Different cultural norms
All cultures are different and adjusting to a new
environment can be confronting. Australian slang is often difficult to
interpret, with terms like “ta” (thank you) and “lingo” (language or
terminology) tending to puzzle newcomers.
While a firm handshake is common practice around Australia,
someone from Thailand would be used to placing their hands together and bowing.
Asking locals about social norms or doing some research on the internet can
both yield helpful information.
Homesickness
It is natural to miss home and when that place is across the
other side of the world, it’s hardly surprising. While many international
students move to Australia with their family, they are still leaving their
comfort zone and the adjustment can be tricky.
Most universities have groups or clubs dedicated to students
from specific countries, which can be an excellent way of alleviating feelings
of isolation or loneliness. Embracing different aspects of life in Australia is
a great remedy too.
Keeping up
Even after you’ve conquered all the social aspects
associated with moving overseas, there is the academic side of things. It can
be easy to fall behind, especially if you have plenty going on outside of the
classroom.
Help is available in various formats, ranging from
additional tutoring and study groups to managing your time outside of
university more efficiently. If this doesn’t seem to be working, speak with
your lecturer or tutor about how best to proceed.
