University life is a new, exciting beginning. However, entering a new chapter of your life can make you feel like a fish out of water with many challenges, especially when you are a thousand miles away from home. But, take a breath and try to identify the challenges of attending university with us so that you can overcome them.
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8 Common Challenges of Attending University and Solutions
Oduwaye suggests that failing to address the challenges of attending university may cause international students to be nonchalant towards their academic ambitions and indifferent towards life in general. Thus, it is important to understand which challenges are overwhelming to figure out the solution. The list below is your answer.
1. Transition to University Life
The academic requirements in universities are different to lower education levels. Unfortunately, you must adjust not only to them but also to the foreign environment in another country, like language and cultural differences. Yet, take a deep breath and do everything step by step.
You can organize all the information about academic demands in your notes. If you are confused about something, do not hesitate to seek aid from the student services staff members. You can also get to know your colleagues and the communities around you to adjust better and feel supported.
2. Homesickness
Being away from your family and warm home can cause severe homesickness. Fortunately, it should be easier to communicate with them with your phone these days. Another way is to find people studying in foreign countries like you.
You can even join communities that have the same interests or perhaps the same struggles. Hence, you, at least, will not feel lonely in your journey to be independent.
3. High Expectations
Krishnan’s research implies that international students hold expectations in their journey of studying abroad, like potential high-paid career prospects and acquiring new skills. However, those ambitions may cause pressure, especially when adjusting to a foreign environment has already been overwhelming.
But worry not. You may even take short breaks or hang out with your friends so that you can achieve your goals smoothly.
4. Poor Time Management
You can get to know new people at university. Taking on too many tasks simultaneously is stressful. So, you can consider choosing your priorities. Afterwards, perhaps you can create a weekly or monthly schedule so that you can perform more effectively.
5. Relationships
Building connections is important for the future. Yet, the academic demands should not be overlooked. Otherwise, your academic results can be far from your expectations. Instead of getting tempted to join random activities, try to participate in university events or join clubs that match your interests to be more organised.
6. Academic Pressure
This happens especially when you are on scholarship terms. You cannot afford to retake classes, as financial aid usually sets the duration of completion at the beginning of the agreement. However, the pressure indeed can make you feel like you've lost your mind.
But Corner University proves that taking breaks for 5 to 60 minutes in between studying can promote a sustainable studying process. So, put down your books and breathe some fresh air outside.
7. Education and Living Costs
Higher education is not cheap. Thus, you must have a financial plan; the ideal time for planning is before you attend university. Choose your priorities so that you can avoid spending on unnecessary things.
8. Health Issues
As cited in Bay Atlantic University, your health can deteriorate if you ignore resting. Like our phone, our body requires resting. Try to balance your diet by avoiding unhealthy foods, like fast food and artificial sweeteners.
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Are You Ready to be a University Student?
Overcoming the challenges of attending university is challenging. Especially if you are living abroad, since the environment differs from your original situation. Still, this condition does not last long if you can survive. Learn the challenges that may occur, then overcome them regularly.
Another solution is to seek for comfortable college environment. You can take a step at a time, or you can attend Sampoerna University to receive a supportive and positive environment. Moreover, you can earn a S1 from it and a Bachelor's degree from the University of Arizona within four years, too. What a beneficial feature for students!
