Culture Shock Abroad
This is the first challenge that students may encounter when they move to a foreign country. No matter how much you research another country, you are likely to experience unexpected surprises when you are actually living and studying there. This revelation is inevitable, especially if you have come to this country for the first time.
Tip: Don’t book a flight home at the first sign of discomfort. Keep faith in the fact that as time passes by, new social conventions will become familiar, and you will become more comfortable navigating life in your new surroundings.
Inability to Communicate Abroad
Students who are not fluent in the native language may have a difficult time communicating with their professors and classmates. Some programs may not provide accommodations for English speaking students, in this situation you might be expected to perform the same coursework in the same amount of time as student who do speak the native language.
Tip: Work hard to learn the local language and communicate with others about your language challenges. Ask your professors and classmates if they are comfortable conducting classes in English, request one on one tutoring sessions with professors, and befriend a student from the local area and ask them to help you become more comfortable speaking in the area’s native tongue.
Stereotypes Abroad
Whether the world admits it or not, people tend to stereotype others. So no matter where which part of the world you wish to pursue a management degree from, remember that you may be judged and stereotyped until people understand you better.
Tip: Do not get offended or take things personally. It is not about you, it is about the place where you’re from and what it’s known for. Show people who you really are as a person and simply focus on your learning. When students see that you are just as dedicated to learning as they are, they may forget all language barriers and stereotypes to welcome you to the student community.