Difficulties of an International Student.
Since times immemorial, man has traveled to far-flung places in order to quench his thirst for knowledge and comprehension. With the invention of jet planes and high-speed trains, traveling has become so easy that the number of students seeking education in foreign countries has grown significantly. .
Most students experience difficulties at one time or another while studying abroad. Some are unique or more intense because of the added pressure of adjusting to a new culture, language, and different academic environment. Others are relatively simple and easily over come by the student. .
The foremost problem that an international student faces while studying in another country is that of the different academic environment. Colleges and universities encourage learning through projects and assignments, by stimulating the mind of the student, rightly believing that after years of basic education, this is the right time to expand his mind by letting him apply the knowledge gained so far, in the practical world. Most international students find it difficult to adjust to such a way of education. Their orientation is more towards the traditional theoretical gaining of knowledge. They cannot adapt to the more challenging way, and as a result, either lag far behind their fellow students or in extreme cases, quit and return to their own country.
Language and culture also cause difficulties for the international student. Though English is the international language and is spoken and understood in almost all the countries of the world, it is not the medium of instruction in educational institutions of his country. Language barrier not only causes the student problems during his studies, but also during his day to day to life. He is unable to properly convey his message while performing even menial tasks, such as shopping or getting the groceries. The simple task of asking for directions or ordering food in a restaurant seems like Herculean to him.
