Education abroad is prestigious. It's always interesting to find out what it's like to be somewhere else. That’s why young people from different countries rush to Belarus to get higher education, to undertake an internship or to complete a master's degree. But not many people are ready to face a "culture shock" that awaits them in a foreign country. The reason is the change of psychological and social factors. The following 10 tips from Myuniver.org will help you to adapt quickly in Belarus:
STUDY THE LANGUAGE
In 90% of cases the language barrier makes adaptation more difficult. We recommend you to start learning Russian before arrival in Belarus. The knowledge of basic phrases like "hello", "how to go", "I need your help", etc. will make adaptation easier, even if you decided to study in an English-speaking program. Pay attention that there are also Russian language courses at universities. Do not be shy about mistakes while studying the language – practice makes perfect.
BE INFORMED
Before coming to Belarus choose the educational program you want to study. Do research on the prices of products, services. Set up services to pay for your purchases. Figure out the peculiarities of medical institutions, know ambulance, police and fire service numbers.
LOOK INTO TRADITIONS AND MENTALITY
Try to make inquiries about the Belarusians beforehand. For example, the calm and friendly nation has its own linguistic characteristics - 2 languages are considered state, but Russian is more frequently spoken.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR DODY
Adaptation to life in another country will vary from person to person. At first, try to eat healthy food, take various vitamins and go easy on local food. Prepare for cold weather by buying protective creams and warm clothes.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY
Homesickness happens to 98% of foreign students. In fact, you are changing not only language, but also environment, climate, food and even wardrobe. Of course, sometimes you want to give up everything and go back home. That's where you need to keep yourself busy. Mark your calendar with different errands to keep yourself busy throughout the day. Start with a morning run, end with courses or university party. Don't compare living conditions at home and in new country. Don't shrink in memories. On top of that give yourself time to adjust, because you can't change right away.
BE ACTIVE
Don't withdraw into yourself. The universities where you will study can help you. Every university elaborates programmes for adapting and supervising foreign students. Even at the national level, a National Cultural Asociations Festival is held, where people can get to know and learn more about the culture, mentality and cuisine of students from other countries. Different thematic clubs are opened - from cinema and foreign languages to chess and hiking. There are many opportunities for creativity - student theatres, art, dance and music studios. Surely, sports clubs - gyms, stadiums and swimming pools are available. Most universities have their own football and volleyball teams. Festivals, concerts on public holidays and national culture days are held regularly.
CONNECT WITH CULTURE
Become more acquainted with the Belarusian sights. In your free time go on excursions and visit museums. In any city there are usually many events available for students, often free of charge. You can find information about them on the Internet. Feel free to explore new country by travelIing.
KEEP IN TOUCH WITH YOUR FAMILY
Keeping in touch with close people helps you get support and feel more comfortable. Call home and friends regularly – especially it’s important in the beginning, before you make some new friends. The Internet in Belarus isn’t expensive, but fast, so you won't have any trouble getting connected. Education buildings often have free wi-fi and student hostels a leased line.
HANG ONTO YOUR HABITS
Take with you ‘daily routine’ that was so precious to your heart at home. Try to incorporate old habits into the new ones. For example, at home you used to go to the cinema at weekends. Do the same here.
JOKE MORE OFTEN
Humour is an effective protective response which can help to keep balance between expectations and reality in the new country. Make jokes with friends, read humorous pages.
