Don't List When Studying in the US

The US is home to some of the top-ranked universities in the world and every year more than a million students from all over the world move to the US to study various courses. The USA boasts of an excellent education system, the largest economy, and diverse ethnicities. So, when you get to study in the US, you have accomplished the biggest feat in your education as well as your career. But all good things come with a few conditions or do’s and don'ts and is the same for studying in the US. 

Top Things To Keep in Your Don’t List While Studying in the USA

A new country gives you exposure to a new culture and new people who come from all walks of life. This means you need to adapt to new rules, customs, and ways of living, especially those related to your school or university. This is an ongoing journey but at the beginning of it, you need to know and understand a few things to avoid when visiting the US as a student. We have made it easy for you in the article by acquainting you with a list of some of the most common mistakes people do which you should keep in your DON’T list.

Let us jump right into some of the mistakes that you might be prone to and how to avoid them.

Do not invade anyone’s privacy: Americans are known to be particular about their space and privacy. So it is best not to interfere in their personal space as it can adversely impact your relationship and communication with them. You must ensure that people are comfortable talking to you, and maintain your distance whenever you are in a queue and never cut in between lines.

Do not call or text while driving: In the USA, traffic rules and regulations are extremely strict, and one has to adhere to them without fail. The lawbreakers are penalized heavily in the US. 

Do not forget to carry your passport with you always: Your passport is your only valid identity in a foreign land and ensures that it is present in your back pocket at all times. You might need to show your ID in clubs or restaurants or when you use your credit card at any outlet.

Do not disrespect the national flag: Never say anything derogatory or negative about the US troops and always pay attention to and respect their national flag. You might get into legal trouble if you fail to do that. Be mindful of your comments, as even a tiny bit of controversy in your statement can lead to trouble.

Do not breach your VISA conditions: You must follow all the rules and conditions as stated in your student VISA. Do not stay beyond the expiry date of your VISA unless you have extended your VISA in time. You must apply for a VISA extension ahead of the expiry date, if needed. International students are allowed to work in the US along with their studies, but there are a few caveats. F-1 and M-1 VISA holders can work on campus and within their training programs. But they can not work off-campus in their first year of college.

Do not be afraid to speak up or demand what you need: Many international students make this mistake while in the US. Since you are a stranger initially in a foreign land, it might take you some time to adjust and adapt. But once you do that, you will know that US culture is extremely liberal with very different rules than you are used to in your homeland. If you belong to a politically oppressive country, you might be afraid to question authority in the US. But in the US, you will not be punished for speaking your mind. People in the US are generally eager to help if they know you are an international student. As long as you are not asking for illegal things, you should not be afraid to ask for things you need.

Avoid foreign exchange issues: You must figure out the currency exchange rate before buying anything in the US so that you avoid overdraft. Most of the international students in the US come from countries that have weaker currency, lower prices of goods, and weaker economies. So a common mistake is to keep converting the USD into equivalent money in your home country for all goods and services that you buy. You might come across that the amount you pay for a haircut is more than the daily wages of a person back in your home country. If you get alarmed by such facts and keep looking for cheaper things you would end up getting low-quality goods and services.

Not doing adequate research: International students have a massive opportunity to get immersed in a totally different culture with a totally different education system. Because of this, it is extremely important to do well-rounded research when leaving your home country. You must research US culture, the school or college you are planning to attend, the area where you would like to live, etc. Before committing to a school, visit their campus and see it for yourself. It is the right of a prospective student to take a tour of the university. In case you can not travel to the US due to funds or other reasons, you could check with former students of the institute about their experience.

Also Read: Unveiling the Best MS in the UK

What Not to Do When Studying in the US

Neglecting Cultural Awareness: Studying in a foreign country comes with its cultural nuances. Ignoring or dismissing these differences can lead to misunderstandings and discomfort. Embrace cultural diversity, engage in cross-cultural interactions, and be respectful of local customs to foster positive relationships and create a more enriching experience.

Overloading Your Schedule: While it's tempting to take on numerous courses and extracurricular activities, overloading your schedule can lead to burnout. Balancing academics, social life, and personal time is crucial for maintaining your mental and physical well-being.

Underestimating Language Barriers: English proficiency is essential for academic success. Underestimating language barriers can hinder effective communication and impede your ability to excel in coursework. Regular practice and seeking language support can significantly improve your language skills.

Neglecting Financial Planning: Managing finances is a critical aspect of studying abroad. Neglecting financial planning can lead to unexpected challenges. Create a budget, track expenses, and explore scholarship opportunities to alleviate financial stress.

Isolating Yourself: While adjusting to a new environment can be daunting, isolating yourself can hinder your personal growth and limit networking opportunities. Engage in social activities, join clubs, and attend campus events to build a supportive social network.

Disregarding Visa Regulations: Adhering to visa regulations is paramount. Disregarding these rules can lead to legal issues, including deportation. Stay informed about your visa status, renewal requirements, and any necessary paperwork.

Ignoring Mental Health: The pressures of academic life can take a toll on mental health. Ignoring signs of stress, anxiety, or depression can be detrimental. Seek counseling services provided by your institution and prioritize self-care.

Procrastinating on Assignments: Procrastination can negatively impact your academic performance. Avoid the habit of leaving assignments to the last minute. Effective time management and disciplined study habits are key to achieving academic excellence.

Skipping Networking Opportunities: Networking is crucial for future career prospects. Skipping networking events, career fairs, and workshops can limit your exposure to potential job opportunities. Build connections with professors, peers, and professionals in your field.

Neglecting Health Insurance: Healthcare in the US can be costly. Neglecting health insurance can lead to financial burden in case of medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with your health coverage and seek medical attention when needed.

Not Making Friends with People Outside your Home Country

This is another common mistake that international students make where they tend to gravitate towards familiar zones. The ease of language, comfort, and cultural connection attracts students from the same countries together. Though this is understandable, it defeats the very purpose of studying in the US. It might feel difficult initially to develop new relationships with people of diverse cultures but your college or university will have provisions to make this process smoother. There will be many on-campus organizations that students can join where individuals with common interests meet and work with each other.

Traveling to a new country to study is exciting as well as confusing for most students. We understand the dilemma associated with studying in the US and jotted down some of the most common mistakes to avoid. Apart from all these “donts’,” your safety is of utmost importance. So conduct yourself appropriately and avoid getting into any embarrassing or dangerous situations by following the tips provided in this article. 

Studying in the United States offers an incredible opportunity for personal and academic growth. However, to ensure a fulfilling experience, it's essential to be aware of what not to do when studying in the US. This comprehensive guide outlines common pitfalls and provides valuable insights to help international students navigate their academic journey with success. 

For more assistance please visit us study abroad consultancy.

FAQs

Q: Can I work while studying in the US?
A: Yes, international students on F-1 visas are allowed to work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year.

Q: How can I overcome homesickness?
A: Homesickness is common. Stay connected with family and friends through regular calls and social media, and participate in campus activities to meet new people.

Q: Are there resources for international students?
A: Absolutely! Most universities have international student support services to assist with academic, cultural, and immigration-related matters.

Q: What should I do if I'm facing academic challenges?
A: Reach out to your professors, academic advisors, or tutoring services for help. Don't hesitate to seek assistance when needed.

Q: How do I adapt to the US education system?
A: Attend orientation sessions, read course syllabi, and actively participate in class discussions to understand the expectations of the US education system.