Overcoming loneliness in a foreign country is one of the most sensitive topics of this experience. Being surrounded by so many people and yet not help but feel excluded is one of the most unpleasant things one has to try.
Being introverted
The first two weeks of this course have been the hardest for me. Being the introverted person that I am, takes me a lot of time to put myself out there and start a conversation. As expected, the course members were people of diverse backgrounds and that didn’t make it any easier. Different countries have different mentalities so even the approach can’t be the same. I spent way too many days locked up in my room reading books and watching movies.
Luckily my best friend lives here so at least, I could talk to her and hang out when she had the time. Having someone who can support you, especially if they have been through the same experience themselves, is very important in cases like this.
Everything gets better with time
But everything gets better with time and so did this. I tried my best to let my hair down and to just go with the flow. Starting a conversation isn’t really my thing and doing so without constantly feeling like you’re being a bother, makes it even harder. It takes some time to realize that even other people are in the same position as you. This is a new experience for all of us and each is doing their best.
InterDaF played an important role too. The many extracurricular activities they organized were designed precisely to encourage socialization and stimulate cultural awareness.
Take it easy
So, what would I suggest to someone who feels just like me:
Take it easy. Everyone is going through the same thing and we should all be aware of that. Do not spend your time in the dormitory as I did. Books and movies are great indeed, but they are not the reason you chose to come here. Getting over your anxiety, interacting with people from such different countries, the magical discovery of a brand new city; these are the things that make you grow as a person, be more responsible and independent.
A summer school is not only about the subjects. There are far more important things that you learn from this experience and you should really try to make the most out of it. Challenge yourself, step out of your comfort zone and you will realize that, at the end, this will be one of the most beautiful and invaluable experiences of your life.
at the end, this will be one of the most beautiful and invaluable experiences of your life
good article those who are looking to study abroad.
Good Article for the Students who are going for Overseas Education leaving their own Country.
//Do not spend your time in the dormitory as I did. Books and movies are great indeed, but they are not the reason you chose to come here// Could not agree more on this one. I am an introvert too so understand what you mean. As much as like being at my "sacred" room , I also realised not much will happen within 4 walls. I will never be able to live life fully behind closed doors. Dancing in rain, camping outside, playing football, walking barefoot on sand, even drinking beer etc. will happen outside , with real people. Need to control introvert feeling I guess. I don't think it will happen without intention because we have tendency to go back to our shell , to what is comfortable. Any way it was good read. Keep it up there :)
Thank you ☺️ Definitely right We truly need to keep that in mind in order to act, otherwise the days will go by without us even noticing it and at the end we will wish we enjoyed it more.
I was searching for blogs to read some details about courses and stuffs like that and got stuck in this writing....good one. This is really important and will help many out there who are starting afresh beginning in a new city and have no one to talk or share. good blog... :) http://www.europestudycentre.com/
I am glad to hear that! I really hope this article can help others who feel the same and maybe make them find the courage to just get out of their comfort zone sooner. Thanks for the link ☺️