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Studying in an international university is the first step to broadening your horizons. You granted opportunities to travel abroad, to get a job and potentially reside permanently abroad. What about the awesome global network that you get to build, connections that will last a lifetime.
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So are you preparing to study abroad? Here are the important things you need to know:
Studying abroad is very expensive. You have to consider the cost of tuition, housing, feeding and many other important necessities. You may have to get a work – study plan, live frugally and save well. There are other means of alleviating the huge expense, you can apply for scholarships (either partial or fully funded). International schools have loan and grant programs to help their Students.
Traveling abroad requires a lot of processing and submitting of documents to embassies and consulates. You’d need a passport, you’d need medical fitness certification and a whole bunch of other documents. Most countries would require that you get a police certificate, to ensure you have no criminal record. Then there are documents needed contour visa application. Make sure all documents are correct and available at hand.
Make sure your bank is aware of your impending relocation to avoid unnecessary snafus while trying to withdraw cash. The best option is to set up an online account. Upon your arrival you might want to open a bank account with a local bank.
To keep in touch with family and loved ones, the best thing is to get a local sim card upon your arrival, this is cost effective and it offers you easier communication. International calls is definitely expensive, you may want to rely on WhatsApp and other social media to communicate.
Don’t be tempted to over pack. A checked bag and a carry-on is enough. Pack less clothes, you will be able to purchase more clothes when you eventually settle down. You don’t need to pack more than 3 pair of shoes for example.
Packing light affords you the ability to be move smartly and fast, you won’t be over burdened with luggage
Do an in-depth research to know the customs and culture of your host country. This would reduce the culture shock you would experience upon arrival. Learn culture, the systems and the people. Talk to people who have been there to get a feel of how the place is. What h movies and read books about your destination. Nigerians hoping to study in the US should read Chimamanda’s ‘Americanah’.
Learning about your host country’s culture wild help you to be sensitive and not offend any one or be offended. Also familiarize yourself with the local laws. For example, the law against littering is more enforced in the US than in Nigeria, you don’t want to run afoul with the law, most times ignorance of the law will not excuse you.
Understanding basic phrases in the local language will make a world of difference in adapting during those first few days of adjustment. There are free language applications like Duolingo which would come in handy here
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The insurance system in other countries is more developed than in Nigeria. In the US almost every possession can be insured a d every aspect of ones life can also be insured. Health insurance is extremely important, so sort it out even before you travel.
Good byes suck and they are often emotional but they are oa part of life. You will miss your friends and family, that is normal but you will also make new friends. Also be prepared to meet and experience people who are totally different from you. You will meet people with different views some good others not so much. You will meet judgmental people, even people who would treat you differently because if your ethnicity or the color of your skin. Generally people would be very inquisitive about life in your home country, some questions may come across as rude and offensive. Keep all these in mind, this would help you to react properly and handle every situation with class and wisdom
General travel tips