Studying abroad could be a road to loneliness. Before you rush to the U.S. for your studies, read the following.
The following content is excerpted form UCLA.edu.
Here is a story from a UCLA student.
Let’s say I’m an international student,” Chow suggested. “My parents are sending me here, paying high international tuition, living expenses and all — and I’d better do really well. Yet, UCLA is so challenging, and I’m not doing well in my first quarter. Even though my English proficiency was good back in my home country, I’m facing new nuances in language and culture. And I’m struggling with making friends. So my chances of feeling isolated and stressed-out are high, at the same time that I’m feeling guilty about disgracing my family with their spending all this money for me to come here. …………………………………………
In the Asian culture, there’s a teacher-oriented or didactic learning style — the teacher up at the podium disseminating information, the students absorbing what’s been taught and not asking questions,” said Chow. “In the United States, and particularly at UCLA, it’s more of a student-oriented learning style, which involves more interaction in the classroom. Students have to be more proactive in their learning … and they have to accomplish this in a 10-week quarter system.
As the challenges compounded, said psychologist Cherian, students can become sleep-deprived, financially distressed, severely depressed, isolated and sometimes even suicidal. “They may no longer be contacting their families and giving them accurate updates about what’s going on.”
Can You Face the Emotional and Cultural Issues While Studying in the U.S.?
If your answer is yes, you are ready to be onboard and head for America.
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