Cultural Adjustments- Tips for Indian students embracing a new academic environment
Are you an Indian student who has recently shifted abroad and are shocked by seeing cars and vehicles stopping for you to cross the street? Or super clean streets? Well, it's time to say hello to new changes!?
Starting your journey to study abroad is like opening a door to a world full of amazing opportunities and endless chances to grow personally and shine academically. But for us Indian students diving into this new cultural and academic world, it might feel like we're swimming against the current or a feeling of “Oh my god, I am never going to fit in.” Getting used to a whole new way of learning, social rules, and cultural customs might seem scary at first. But hey, don't worry! With a few smart tips and a sprinkle of positivity, you'll sail through this transition with style and confidence.
One of the most enriching aspects of studying abroad is the incredible opportunity to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Overcome your reluctance and put that first hand out in friendship! Embrace your new academic environment and cultural mosaic by actively engaging with your fellow peers, take advantage of student orientations, group projects, team sports. If sports is not your cup of tea, make use of camps, hikes and other such adventure activities to meet new people. Immerse yourself in this kaleidoscope of cultures, and watch as your horizons expand beyond measure, while forging friendships that defy the limitations of borders. A little push beyond your comfort zone like attending night-time activities of clubs and societies, international movie screenings, alumni dinner can make you slowly understand the new environment around you. So, grabbing a coffee before class or even hanging out with new friends on weekends can go a long way in cementing relationships!
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Get excited to learn from different cultures! Keep an open mind and be curious about what might seem weird at first.?It is important to understand the fact that what may appear strange at first glance might actually hold a treasure trove of fresh perspectives. Show utmost respect for local customs and traditions, even if they seem as alien as a breakfast on Mars! Remember, diversity isn't a roadblock, but rather a turbocharger for your personal and intellectual growth. Another major cultural barrier or shock that most Indian students face abroad is the sudden change in language and even accent. This is where developing effective communication skills comes into picture! Effective communication is absolutely crucial when it comes to conquering unfamiliar territories with flying colours! It's time you put your language skills to the test, both in spoken and unspoken forms, to guarantee impactful communication. Keep a sharp eye out for those subtle nuances in language, tone, and body language, as they can differ greatly across diverse cultures. And hey, don't hesitate to ask for clarification if you find yourself in doubt, because misunderstandings can sneak up on you in the blink of an eye during cross-cultural interactions.
Written by Shatakshi Khare