The pandemic has caused significant disruption for international students. But this can still be a year of opportunity

This year the Covid-19 pandemic has altered the lives of international students across the world. It has deprived many of them of the opportunity to experience new cultures, made collaborating with lecturers and fellow students much harder, and, in many cases, disrupted their career plans. Whether forced to return home at short notice or stuck in their dorm rooms, international students have certainly experienced the isolation of lockdown.

It’s no surprise then that many international students have chosen to either defer their studies until next year or start their studies at home, with 2021 set to see a significant spike in international study. As a product of international education myself, I know first-hand how the experience of different cultures, values and learning environments can help set young people up for success. It can share knowledge, improve our cross-cultural understanding and ultimately help to spread wealth.

Despite these challenges, this year presents a chance for parents to support their children as they take time to reset and consider what they want their future to hold. As a father of three, I want to help and encourage my children to find a purpose they are passionate about and support them while they pursue these ambitions, even if it takes them far from home.  For this year’s cohort of students, whether they continue their studies at home or overseas, gather some real-world experience through internships or work experience, or even develop their skills through self-directed learning at home, it’s an opportunity for them to discover new interests, passions and hopefully find something that excites and inspires them.

Studying in the UK and USA played a vital part in developing my career, but more importantly, it shaped me as a person. Studying overseas gives you the opportunity to experience a range of different perspectives. While studying is, of course, incredibly important, it’s also about the kind of people you interact with during the lived experience. They become your friends and networks for life, hugely influencing your view of the world at a very formative stage. My own experience instilled in me a strong belief in the value of experiencing new cultures and meeting as many new vibrant, interesting people as you possibly can. I have continued to seek out these experiences throughout my life and have now lived and worked in seven different countries, something I may not have done were it not for that first international experience.

While countries across the globe try and limit the spread of the virus and protect both their citizens and their economies, there has been a clear impact on social interactions – in many cases limiting these to a remote environment. With all these essential measures, parents are understandably concerned about what this disruption will mean for their child’s studies and ability to build networks and friendships.

But times of crisis often bring about significant innovation. Here at HSBC we have recently been reaching out to students to learn more about their current experiences and how they are adapting to ensure this year continues to be a year of opportunity. I have been impressed with how creative students have been in finding ways to continue to flourish in their new circumstances. Whether that is from simply creating a working space and routine that best suits their study needs or using video calls to connect with new and existing friends, students are showing an incredible ability to create their own positive outcomes in challenging times.

While it is great to see students adapting, as parents we want to help them make the right choices for their future and their current wellbeing. At HSBC we have launched a study abroad hub which provides useful guidance and resources for parents and students looking for advice and support, as well as exclusive education offers on our Home & Away platform.

The importance of education cannot be overstated and studying overseas can provide incredible benefits. While the pandemic has dealt a blow to many plans, this year provides a chance for students to take stock of what they value the most when they are looking at their chosen university. Whether they opt to defer to gather real-world experience or begin to study remotely, this year need not go to waste. With support and guidance, students can use this year to begin forging their own paths in the world.