So, you want to study abroad? Well studying abroad comes with oppurtunities for growth and experience. But there is also one major shift in one’s world while going to study abroad. Studying abroad, brings a cultural shift into our life. Every Indian student trying to go abroad for education should be ready for the cultural shift that comes along with studying abroad. So, understanding these differences early on can help you adapt to your life abroad easy and we are Leap Overseas Education Consultancy are here just to deliver that.
Here are some of our own tips provided by our expert team:
1) Communication Style
In India, indirect communication and polite forms are common. At the same time if we look at foreign countries, especially in Western countries, people are usually direct and straight-forward. Professors and classmates expect open discussions, questions and debates in class and don’t be afraid to share your opinions as respectful disagreement is valued.
2) Formality & Addressing People
Here in India, we are taught to address people with a certain form of respect in Sir/Mam. It is a norm in India. While in foregn countries, most professors or elders are addressed by their first name. I know, it feels very unusual but this is perfectly acceptable.
3) Time & Punctuality
Often times ‘Indian Standard Time’ is flexible. So we are used to being late to our jobs, schools, clgs, etc. But here in foreign countries, one must never be late as being unpuncutal is actually very disrespectful. Even being 5 minutes late is very disrespectful. Here is a major tip, always be 10 minutes early than you plan to arrive. This way you won’t be late for your office or classes and keep a good impression with your colleagues or teachers.
4) Classroom Culture
In India, our class emphasizes on memorization and formal lectures. When you go abroad, this perception completely changes. it’s not more memorization, it’s more about critical thinking, practicals, research and participation in the class. Things like group studies, presentation and case studies are very common abroad. So it really matters that you have hands-on experience in class instead of memorizing everything you have studied.
5) Food & Dining Etiquette
Us as Indians, we are used to eating food with our hands and sharing our food with others. In foreign countries, using cutleries to eat food is mostly mandatory. Not to mention, abroad people mostly don’t share food unless invited. Now you may find Indian food everywhere no matter which country you go to but it is important to know that eating foreign food maybe one of the fastest ways to adapt to the foreign enviornment as a student.
6) Social Interactions & Personal Space
In India, we have large families who often live together and they socialise with each other. Also the fact that in India, there is a lack of personal space due to large families staying together. Now you go abroad, people value personal space and privacy. It is considered disrespectful if you don’t knock the door before you go in the room of someone else or not keeping a comfortable distance during a conversation. Basically, socialising is good but don’t invade, someone else’s space.
7) Fesitivals and Holidays
In India, we have Diwali, Holi, Ganesh Chaturti and such holidays but it’s completely different in foreign countries. In foreign countries, you will experience Thanksgiving, Halloween and even christmas holidays. While India does celebrate Christmas, foreigners usually have a longer holiday for their winter season. Not to mention the fact that days like Black Friday also exist during which people usually go for shopping as it is a day where a lot of things are cheaper to buy. New countriese, new festivals.
8) Work Culture & Part-Time Jobs
In India, hierachy places a massive role at workplaces. In foreign countries, it’s flat and collaborative. Even part-timers have a role to play and their opinions are respected.
9) Gender Equality & Social Norms
While India is a progressing country, we still have traditional gender roles which influence the society. Abroad, gender equality and inclusivity are highly emphasized. It is expected from you to respect all genders, identities and culture, no matter where you are from.
10) Money & Lifestyle
In India, cash payment is still common. While UPI is starting to become a major part of India’s daily paymet method, it still is far from ready to overtake cash payment which is quite common. In foreign countries, digital payments and cards are the only methods used. Even the living expense, foods and transport might be higher than what you usually would expect it to be.
So after giving you tips for adapting to cultures abroad, what are our final thoughts?
Well, it might be hard at first to adjust to the culture abroad but it’s also the most satisfying part about living abroad. Embrace the differences, stay open-minded, and use this opportunity to grow into a global citizen. Remember, every challenge is a step toward independence and success!
We at Leap Overseas Education Consultancy always welcome you. We help students who want to go abroad for education. We don’t take consulting fees or processing fees, as all we wish for is for the student’s betterment for the future.
I hope this post helped you and I will meet you again, Leap Overseas Education Consultancy tuning out!
