Student Voices

🌏Tips for International Students

 🍀For Asian students moving West:

• Be brave in asking questions: In Western classrooms, curiosity is encouraged and seen as a strength. Teachers often expect students to contribute ideas, challenge opinions, or even debate with them. While this might feel uncomfortable at first (since Asian classrooms are usually more teacher-led), speaking up shows engagement and builds confidence. Example: Instead of staying silent if you don’t understand, ask for clarification; teachers will see this as responsibility, not weakness.

• Embrace freedom and opportunities for creativity: Western education often gives students open-ended projects or choices in how to present learning (e.g. essays, videos, group work). At first, this can feel overwhelming because there is no “perfect” answer. But this freedom lets you develop critical thinking, creativity, and independence, skills that are highly valued in the West.

• Focus on wellbeing: balance study with social life: Unlike in Asia where long hours of study and cram schools are common, Western schools encourage students to join clubs, sports, or volunteer programs. Balancing study with extracurricular activities not only helps mental health but also strengthens your sense of belonging in the new school environment.

• Adapt to self-management: Western schools may not remind you of deadlines as often. You need to learn to plan ahead and organise your own work. A planner or calendar can help you avoid falling behind while adjusting to this independence.
  
  

 🍀For Western students moving Asia:

• Prepare for a competitive, exam-focused culture: Asian systems often revolve around high-stakes exams that determine future opportunities. You might find the environment more rigid, with a heavier workload, longer school hours, and pressure to achieve top marks. Understanding this early helps reduce shock and stress.

• Develop strong time management and resilience: Classes are fast-paced and homework/test loads are heavy, you will need to plan your day carefully. Building routines (e.g. fixed revision hours, prioritising tasks) can help you cope. 

• Protect your individuality: Asian schools often emphasise collectivism: group harmony, conformity, and respect for authority. While this can build teamwork, it may feel like your personal opinions or creativity are less valued. Hold onto your individuality. Find safe spaces to express your views (perhaps through writing, art, or clubs), so you don’t lose your voice in the crowd.

• Look after your wellbeing: The intense academic focus in Asia can sometimes overshadow mental health. Make sure you still rest, maintain hobbies, and connect with friends. Having supportive networks: whether with peers, teachers, or family, can make the adjustment easier and protect your mental health.