Dealing with Challenges of being a new International Student
Being an International Student is both rewarding and challenging. Being a new student is even more challenging. Some of the challenges that the students come across are assimilating into the new culture and traditions, having language barriers, missing homeland, and following the rules of maintaining a F-1 visa status.
When I first came to America, I came across those challenges. Looking back at it, I feel that I dealt with them the best that I could. It was definitely a period of adjustment and personal growth. I made some supportive friends through the International office and health science classes. It was great to get to know other students, share experiences, and support each other by listening or advice. Every International student has experienced challenges at some point of their journey in America. It’s great to share things with others and find encouragement and support. International Service Counselors are also there to assist the students and provide the necessary support. So, don’t be discouraged if things seem difficult. Find an International office Counselor and a friend to talk to.
One of the most difficult things for me was to deal with missing my family. Luckily, I started using Skype and visiting with them over the Internet. It was great to see them every day. It definitely decreased their and my anxiety about being apart.
Other ideas that I found helpful were journaling at the end of each day, identifying what was bothering me, and looking at how I can modify my own behavior about the situation. For example, I was struggling in a few classes when I started nursing school. I had trouble understanding the scientific terminology and meaning. When I was journaling, I realized that I was translating the terminology into my language, then processing it, and then translating it back to English. It didn’t make sense and it was a very slow process. It took me at least 25 minutes to read an Anatomy and Physiology’s page! It was frustrating. Once I’ve identified this was an issue, I tried my best to think in English and avoid translation into Russian. It took some practice but I was able to learn the terminology in English and actually make sense of it in English!
Another challenge that I came across was learning that F-1 visa status has strict rules and regulations in regards to travel and campus employment (up to 20 hours per week during the school year, and up to 40 hours per week when school is not in session if the hiring department needs help). I didn’t want to be in trouble by any means. Therefore, if I had a question or a million of questions regarding F-1 visa rules, I would contact the staff at the International office. They have always been helpful and welcoming of the students’ questions.
I hope sharing my challenges might help others to realize they are not alone. All of us, International students, go through the similar challenges. Therefore, talk to your friend and International Service Counselor regarding your concerns and questions. Everyone can be successful in their journey in America. It’s truly a privilege to be here. Having an opportunity to study in America enriches personal growth and exercises one’s character.
Written by: Anna Myburgh
WSU International Student
Kazakhstan
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