College Survival Guide: International Students

Cartoon by Carolina Guillot/Contributing Cartoonist

Shannon Copeland/Contributing Writer

Welcome to a new world and a new school!

You probably have hundreds of questions and worries, but for a heads up, studying in a foreign country is not as worrisome as you might think.

I, too, am an international student, and these are a few tips that I can give from my experience.

First, don’t be afraid to ask questions if you need directions. When you are in a foreign country, everything is probably new to you, and Floridians are aware that there are many tourists in Miami.

One of my biggest fears was to be lost in a foreign country and, considering Jamaica’s size (4,244 square miles), which is nothing compared to Florida (65,755 square miles), I made sure I had markers (Burger King, Wendy’s, etc.) whenever I went somewhere. Also, you can probably take a bus to go wherever you wish to go;  just don’t be afraid to ask for directions.

Cartoon by Carolina Guillot/Contributing Cartoonist

Second, the best way to get used to being in a foreign country is to learn the language. Find a friend that speaks English and a native from your country, so if push comes to shove, you’ll have two people to assist you.

Third, don’t be afraid to let your professor know that you’re an international student, since you might not be used to having a full lecture in English. Professors here are more than happy to answer your questions and there are various tutoring services available in the Green Library. Never forget, in America, all you have to do is ask a question if you are uncertain.

In addition, the International Student Scholar Services is here to serve all international students; every now and then, events with free food and other activities take place at FIU. So, take this as your opportunity to go out, meet new people and enjoy your first class ticket to a beautiful country and even more beautiful people.

opinion@fiusm.com 

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