Studying in American universities is an enriching experience for many students. That’s why, today, almost a million international students are enrolled in different U.S. academic institutes. However, pursuing your studies in another country is a journey filled with many roadblocks. You need to learn another language, overcome cultural barriers, and earn enough money to sustain your academic pursuits overseas.
So, let’s discuss some amazing study tips for international students on U.S. soil who wish to thrive academically and make the most of their American education. Here’s how you should plan your studies in 2024.
- Create a Budget
Research the city where you’ll be living during your studies. Find out what’s the cost of living in that area so you can budget your expenses and calculate your monthly expenses. Plan it all early so you won’t have to face financial problems after entering the United States.
Many universities offer curricular practical training (CPT) to international students who want to work and study simultaneously. It’s a great way to earn while you learn, gain financial self-sufficiency, and afford to live in an expensive city. They are called Day 1 CPT programs because they let students start earning from the first semester. So, how do you locate such a university?
You should check out a verified list of Day 1 CPT Universities in USA, as many states offer students CPT programs. You can look into which city you’ll be living in and how much money you’ll make in a year by pursuing these programs.
- Develop your Language Skills
Develop your English speaking and listening skills to pursue a degree in America. You can now learn any English easily online with the help of a few mobile apps. Linguists believe that English can easily be learned in a single year with dedication.
It’s better to learn English from expert instructors, read books, and watch TV shows in English.
- Socialize with other Students
Socialization isn’t just important to expand your network in a foreign country; it’s equally helpful to retain your mental well-being. Join different student clubs and societies to easily get over the stress of being thousands of miles away from your homeland. Maybe you’ll realize your passion for a new hobby, befriend fellow students, and learn how to adjust to this unfamiliar environment.
American universities will offer you a lot of opportunities to socialize via extracurricular activities, so don’t miss out on them. You can improve your English skills and build your resume as well.
Extracurricular activities on a student’s resume greatly contribute towards career advancement.
- Learn About the Grading System
Different countries use different parameters to judge a student’s performance and precisely measure their progress. Get used to the U.S. grading system to keep up with your grades and see for yourself how you’re doing in your studies. Many countries today use a percentage system; however, the GPA system with a four-point grading scale is more common in the United States.
- Research Cheap Travel Options
Traveling in another country is a hassle, so research cost-effective transportation facilities in the United States. Hopefully, you’ve arranged accommodation close to your academic institute so you won’t have to spend hours on public transport or spend money on taxi rides. If you haven’t, then try ride-sharing options or use travel apps to compare prices.
- Immerse Yourself in the Culture
Tackling a different culture is difficult, and adjusting to new cultural standards takes time. One of the most prevalent challenges is facing “culture shock” and feeling nostalgic about home. You can easily overcome this culture shock by preparing for new cultural experiences beforehand.
- Create a Strong Support Network
In the end, building a strong support network is key to pursuing academics successfully in the US. So, don’t forget to attend the orientation session at the beginning of your course and keep in touch with your university’s international students office. That’s the kind of professional network you’ll need to stay afloat during your whole tenure as an international student in America.
Get involved in the social aspect of campus life so you can reduce the “moving blues.” Get connected to therapists, counselors, and academic advisors to get an idea of how you can leverage your degree to advance your career in the United States or find a decent job back home.
Conclusion
We’ve discussed some tips to ensure international students in America can have a successful academic experience. Work on your language skills, immerse yourself in the culture, socialize with other students, and be more familiar with the U.S. grading system. Make a budget for your academic pursuits and find Day 1 CPT universities that can help you find work while you’re studying in the United States. That’s how you can focus on learning while earning and advancing your career.
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