For international students, the novelty and excitement of starting medical school can quickly wear off—becoming overshadowed by homesickness, loneliness and isolation. You may begin to doubt that you made the right decision.
Here are a few tips to help international students cope with the challenges of living away from home and country.
Explore the new culture and community
Overcome your homesickness by creating a new home. There are multiple clubs on your university’s campus. Meet other like-minded people and explore the community.
Broaden your network by getting involved with clubs and societies outside of medicine. Universities have special interest groups with students from various backgrounds and you will find that having friends studying arts, law, or engineering can help you see more of what your university and Australia has to offer.
Try playing a team sport such as soccer or badminton. Join a hiking group and explore the nature walks Australia has to offer. Sign up to sing in a choir, or join a movie club.
If your visa allows, get a part-time job. The extra funds will help, plus you will be able to meet more people.
Take advantage of the opportunities to meet new people and immerse yourself further into the culture The busier you are, the less time you will have to feel homesick.
Utilise your resources
It is easy to neglect your physical and mental health when you are busy with your coursework.
Visit the university’s health service centre and get regular check-ups to maintain your wellbeing. It is normal for international students to need extra support.
Most universities provide an international student advisor. This makes it easy for international students to access counsellors and doctors on campus.
Eating healthy and staying active will help you feel good and enhance your experience in Australia.
Every university has an international student service. They can connect you with other international students, provide information about local activities, link you to mentorship programs, and give you resources if you want to improve your English.
If you are struggling in class, talk to your professor or tutor to help you get back on track. It is much better to ask for help early on and work with others rather than trying to do things on your own.
You are not alone
It is tough to be an international student, but remember, you are not alone.
There are many resources available to help you get through this hard time.
Call your family or friends back home when you are feeling homesick and seek help from your university. They are there to help you through this transition.
Being an international student will help you mature and grow tremendously, and before you know it, you will fall in love with Australia and make it your second home.
By Christina Hyunjin Kim (2020).
Christina is an international student from Toronto, Canada. After completing her bachelor’s and master’s at the University of Toronto, she decided to move to Australia to pursue the Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine at Monash University.