The excitement of studying abroad has an expiration date! Sometimes, you make mistakes that automatically reset your orientation abroad.
Going abroad for your studies can be stressful and challenging, especially for Nigerian students on tight budgets. However, finances may not be the only thing to worry about when you travel abroad.
As a first-year student, you must learn to adjust to the new culture and atmosphere. Pay4Me has listed some common mistakes you can avoid in your first year abroad:
1. Hanging out with Nigerians only
Humans are naturally drawn to people with similar traits or beliefs. As a result, we feel safer around these people and tend to develop relationships with them. As a Nigerian, you can quickly get more attracted to other Nigerians, but breaking out of this cycle to meet other nationals can be challenging if you spend more time with Nigerians.
University has become the ideal place to mingle with people who share different cultures, perspectives, and lifestyles. We recommend making friends from other countries to help you adapt better abroad.
2. Too Much Communication From Home
During your first few months abroad, you may be distracted, disoriented, or homesick because of culture shock and loneliness. However, the safest place to find solace is often with your loved ones in Nigeria.
With social media, you don't miss anything and find yourself drawn to people at home. However, the more you distance yourself from reality, the more you lose touch.
One of the reasons why you came abroad to study is to broaden your horizons. You can set a communication calendar to help you balance your relationship with everyone.
3. Poor Work-Life Balance
With the ease of study and conducive environment that encourages excellence, many Nigerians focus more on academics or have more fun than studying. However, you should find a work-life balance if you must stay insane and learn more.
Balance work and school activities with hobbies, religion, and your social life. When you plan, it becomes easier to manage your time.
If you succeed abroad, you should be realistic about your time and learn how to compromise.
4. Not Getting Off Campus Enough
Universities abroad have their uniqueness. Some are situated in urban areas, while others stay in rural areas. You must consider how to move around between your house and school. Find the simplest and fastest means of attending lectures. You can talk to the upper-level students about how best to move around your environment.
5. Not Asking for Help Enough
You should learn to ask questions. When you don't understand local law or university procedures, you should not feel embarrassed to seek help. You can miss out on life opportunities or trouble if you don't ask questions.
6. Afraid of Expressing Your Opinion
You have the same right as everyone in your school. As a result, you should express your opinions without fear. However, you must learn to respect boundaries and stay away from issues that might get you into trouble.
Most students have radical thoughts, and Nigerians often feel intimidated or scared to express their opinions in class. Make it a goal to engage in class activities or ask questions when you need help.
7. Not Knowing How to Communicate With Professors
While we study differently in Nigeria, studying abroad gives you more access to professors. In addition, you can likely communicate with your professionals outside the classroom via phone or email.
If you don't know how to talk to these lecturers professionally, you can ask for assistance from upper-level students.
8. Not Searching for Internships or Scholarships
It would help if you did not stop searching for scholarships or internships as a student. Many Nigerians lose out because they erroneously believe they may not receive such support.
9. Bad Budget
When you move to a new country, you should learn to plan your budget. Pay4Me recommends that you write down your estimated monthly costs. Additionally, you should know how much you plan on receiving from work. Will you be making money from an on-campus or part-time job?
You should divide your expenses into categories (food, clothes, entertainment) and try not to overspend.
10. Bringing Too Many Things from Nigeria
If you will live with a roommate, you may not need excess baggage. However, some things you bring from Nigeria may not make their way out because of space. Therefore, to avoid unnecessary stress during your move-in process, you should only pack the most relevant things from home.
