As more and more students choose to pursue doctorates abroad, transitioning to a new country and culture has become an integral part of the international experience. There are, however, many issues that international students face when they arrive at their new host institutions, and many of these can be considered part of cultural adjustment or socialization into a new environment. Transitioning to a new environment as an international PhD student has salient effects on the life of the student as well as the outcome of their studies.
An understanding of these challenges from different backgrounds and areas may help the international student to better navigate their new environment in academia and society as a whole. Upon arrival, new international students face lots of changes in their environment ranging from the physical (geographical location, housing, transportation, food, climate), to the social (new acquaintances, lack of family and old friends), to the academic/cultural (different education system, different academic traditions, competitors versus collaborators, etc.).
Several studies show that those who have been away from their home — even just for vacation — have a clearer picture of what they are going into than those who are going abroad for the first time. Adjustment is especially difficult for these students. Other factors also come into play that influence adjustment, such as sex, age, marital status, prior experience, language proficiency, field of study, financial situation, personality type, etc. PhD students with partners, spouses, and/or children generally find it more difficult to adjust to their new academic and social surroundings.
The Challenges of Moving to a New Country
The transition from one environment to another can be a challenge for most people. However, it can be even more challenging when transitioning to a new country with a different culture. International PhD students come from different educational systems and cultural backgrounds, meaning that they leave behind their home institutions, culture, and family, and move to a completely new place.
They need to adapt to the new system, culture, language, and many other things all at the same time. This process can be overwhelming and result in culture shock. They may also face challenges regarding their financial situation, self-esteem, and motivation. Since some of these challenges may hinder their adjustment to the new environment, this population is disadvantaged compared to domestic PhD students. Although many challenges come with transitioning to a new environment as an international PhD student, the following are the top challenges:
The first and foremost challenge international students face in their attempt to navigate a successful PhD journey is Cultural shock and adaptation. Cultural shock is a curse, but it can be a blessing at the same time as it depends on the attitude towards it. Those who are trained to doubt and think critically would cope better compared to those whose educational curriculums are bred and fed by unquestioning absorption of the cultures. An important aspect of culture is that culture is grounded within a society- an invisible ice-beard that freezes communication between different societies.
The second challenge international PhD students face after moving to a new country is Language barriers and communication issues. International PhD students come to an English-speaking environment with different levels of English proficiency. The expectations of students’ English proficiency levels differ among students’ home institutions, and thus some students may be fluent in English while others arrive in a new country with almost no English proficiency at all.
International students may have a high level of English proficiency, as shown by their test scores, but academic language differs from everyday English. This can make students feel excluded. To improve academic English in a new academic environment, consider taking English classes, finding a conversation partner, reading, listening, and socializing to immerse yourself in the language.
Academic Life and Expectations
Integrating into a new academic environment can be difficult, especially as an international PhD student. It involves adapting to a new academic system, research expectations, and relationships with professors and peers. PhD programs vary greatly by country and university. For example, in the U.S., students typically start with classes, while in Australia and the UK, the focus is on research. It’s important to understand your mentors’ expectations and deadlines. Cultural differences should be considered, and asking open-ended questions can help clarify any unvoiced expectations. It’s also important to adjust to having a new advisor and supervisor, as cultures differ in how to build relationships with professors.
Taking classes can be stressful, especially when they differ from what you’re used to. Research deadlines for a PhD program may also be daunting, and it’s important to meet these requirements early. It’s key to attend department events and make small gestures to help facilitate relationships with professors and peers.
Social and Cultural Integration
Adjusting to a new environment as an international PhD student comes with its own set of challenges in terms of both learning and personal development. Adapting socially and culturally is a key aspect of this transition. To thrive, one must explore ways to make friends and build a social network, understand local customs and traditions, and overcome homesickness and loneliness. While domestic PhD students also face difficulties in this regard, international PhD students have the added obstacle of language and cultural barriers that can make them feel cut off.
There are effective strategies to deal with this adjustment. Joining a department or research group as part of the PhD program provides the opportunity to connect with peers who share similar backgrounds, giving international students a chance to build support networks. Participating in group activities and events can foster the development of friendships and connections. In addition, joining campus organizations and student groups with similar interests can be a means to meet new people and create a sense of community. Actively reaching out to fellow students and colleagues can also help in building social connections and reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Adapting to new climate conditions and changing seasons can also be challenging for international students from warmer climates. However, embracing the winter season and engaging in activities that suit the new surroundings can help in mitigating these feelings of desolation. Over time, gaining familiarity with the local environment and engaging in familiar activities can help in easing homesickness. In the end, it’s important to remember that homesickness and loneliness are normal feelings when transitioning to a new environment and can be overcome with time and effort.
Practical Considerations
The transition to the new environment does not merely encompass immersion into academia, but also grappling with general life necessities. Here are some tips for practical considerations for finding accommodation and settling into a new city.
Typically, temporary accommodation is provided by the university upon arrival, and students are often provided with pickup facilities. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance and not to finalize any options before visiting in person. After settling in, students can begin searching for permanent accommodation, either through university-wide and local social media groups or real estate agents. When it comes to finances, it’s important to carefully record and plan income and expenses. Getting insurance and registering for healthcare is also crucial, and universities often have procedures in place to help with this. In addition to this, it is important to do thorough research and planning before moving abroad, as well as to consider budgeting and requirements.
Seeking Support and Resources
To ease the process of moving into a new environment as an international student and help you settle in, there are many resources available to you. It’s important to be proactive and know where to seek the right support. Many universities have dedicated staff teams to help international students with their transition. They offer intensive orientation programs, informational sessions, and international student offices to help with settling in. These offices provide various resources, from temporary housing to mentorship programs, campus tours, and seasonal events to introduce local culture.
It’s advisable to check your university’s website for more specific services available and to join support groups to discuss common challenges. Some universities also provide counseling services and support groups to help with emotional and psychological needs. Building a strong support network by connecting with peers, faculty members, and staff members is also crucial. While forming close friendships may take time, it’s important to make the effort to connect with others and create a sense of belonging in your new environment.
Conclusion
Adjusting to a new environment, driven by the pursuit of an International PhD, can lead to feelings of anxiety, apprehension, and discomfort. Changes to established daily routines can be a significant source of stress, especially when considering academic expectations. Incorporating some general tips might help ease the transition. Creating a schedule with set times for various activities (exercise, socializing, studying, etc.) can help avoid the feeling that every day is the same.
Participating in social events with other international students can alleviate feelings of homesickness and loneliness, as others likely have similar experiences. Researching what kind of resources a newcomer might benefit from (such as social support staff, language schools, welcome events, etc.) is also advisable. Seeking assistance from social support services can be valuable, as they usually offer a variety of services.
Obtaining information on the healthcare system, taxes, and insurance in the host country and/or city can also prevent future issues. However, it’s important to acknowledge that there may be challenges along the way. It can be helpful to discuss these challenges with someone in a similar position or someone who has gone through the same transition to gain perspective and ensure that you are not overthinking or obsessing over your situation. While individual experiences may vary, there are many universal challenges for PhD students when moving from one environment to another.
