How to overcome initial challenges when studying abroad
Nicolò Branchi – CMO at wearefreemovers | January 22, 2025
Deciding to study abroad is a bold step toward a life-changing journey. You’re about to experience something extraordinary! But alongside the excitement, it’s natural to feel a little overwhelmed. Language barriers, bureaucracy, homesickness—it’s a lot to think about when facing studying abroad challenges.
The good news? Overcoming these challenges is simpler than you might think. With the right support (and a few clever tricks), you’ll be ready to thrive. Here’s how to tackle the most common struggles and make the most of your experience.
Table of contents
The language: you don’t have to be perfect
“What if I don’t understand anything?” It’s a question many students ask themselves. The truth is, no one expects you to be fluent on day one. Preparation and an open mind are your best tools.
- Start early: your university studies probably include English courses, so build on
that base. To stand out, consider pursuing a certification like IELTS or TOEFL. - Immerse yourself: once you arrive, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Speak with
locals, watch movies, and enjoy music in the local language. Progress comes faster
than you think.
The paperwork: let us handle it
Applications, forms, and endless documents can be intimidating. But here’s the great news: with wearefreemovers, you don’t have to worry about it. From handling visa applications to ensuring seamless enrollment, we’ve got the details covered.
Need help finding accommodation? We’ve got you covered.
Struggling with local regulations or university requirements? No problem, we are here to help you.
We take care of all the complicated stuff, so you can focus on what truly matters: preparing for the adventure of a lifetime.
Homesickness: find your balance
Feeling homesick is normal (hey, we all miss family time!), but it doesn’t have to define your journey. There is a huge opportunity for growth while studying abroad. Here are some simple ways to manage homesickness:
- Stay connected: plan regular calls with family and friends, but don’t let screens dominate your time.
- Build a local routine: explore your new city, meet other students, and attend events. The more connected you feel to your surroundings, the easier it will be.
- Keep a journal: writing about your experiences helps you process emotions and realize just how amazing your journey is.
- And, most importantly, have fun! You’ll be so involved in your local activities that time will fly. Still, you will live a hundred lives by having a pack of experiences that everyone can be envy of.
Remember, every moment of homesickness is also a reminder of the incredible experience you’re on and of how much you’re growing.
Cultural adjustment: embrace the change
Every country has its unique customs and quirks, and adapting can be challenging. But these moments of adjustment are also what make your journey unforgettable.
- Be curious: ask questions, try local traditions, and show genuine interest. People will love your enthusiasm!
- Accept mistakes: you’ll get things wrong, and that’s okay. Every misstep is a chance to learn and grow.
- Find a community: join groups of international or local students. Having a squad to laugh with makes all the difference.
Ready to take off?
Studying abroad is a challenge. But every obstacle you overcome brings you closer to something extraordinary. We know overcoming challenges isn’t easy. But every step makes you stronger, more resilient, and ready to see the world like never before.
At wearefreemovers, we’re here to make the journey smoother, so you can focus on living the experience of a lifetime.
