Parents Guide
PARENTS GUIDE
Going to university is a big step for any student. There is a lot to think about: which course, which university, where to live, how to survive financially, what to do if it all starts going wrong. As a parent you will also have your own questions.
We hope the below guidance will provide the answers to your queries about higher education and, more specifically, about Middlesex.
Understanding Homesickness
Homesickness
After the excitement of the first few days or weeks has worn off, you may find yourself feeling homesick. Being away from home for the first time can cause problems for any student, but as an international student, you will have additional worries such as getting used to different customs and communicating in a foreign language. You may also start to feel anxious, frustrated, disappointed and lonely and may even start to regret coming to Britain to study. Things you may find disappointing:What might help: Understanding yourself in this new situation
- The weather may be cold, damp and gloomy
- Your accommodation may not be what you expected
- Your first taste of British food is not very appetising
- People seem too busy to help
- No one seems to want to talk to you.
- Your English may not be as good as you thought it was. In the classroom back home it was good, now no one seems to be able to understand you.
Remember that this is a huge transition and all these feelings are normal and natural responses to adjusting to life in a different culture. Don’t be too hard on yourself, adjusting to a move and making new relationships takes time; Think about your strengths and try to identify what has helped you to cope so far; Remember that others may be sharing similar feelings and it can help to talk to others and find you are not the only one - this will help you to feel more part of things; British students may also share some of your feelings if they are away from home for the first time.
Adjusting to life in a different culture
- Take opportunities to familiarise yourself with the culture here (reading papers, watching TV, talking to others);
- Spending time with someone from the same culture can help you feel less isolated, you may find it easier to feel understood; you can talk about home, cook food you enjoy together, which may help you to feel less cut off; but try to get a balance – you will feel more part of things if you also talk to people from British and other cultures, as well as have a more interesting time;
- Try not to be afraid to ask if you do not understand something around you. Enjoy the rich variety of social and cultural experiences that life in a London university can offer!
- Keeping in contact with your friends and family back home can help you feel more settled (writing or arranging for them to phone you at an agreed time can help cut down on your phone bills)
Making use of the help and support available at the University. The International Student Office is in the Bounds Green Campus (Room 1E6 – within the Student Advice Centre on the Mall, telephone: 020-8411-5917). Students are welcome to call for information advice and practical help. In addition, there are members of the International Student Support team on all the major campuses, details can be asked at Student Office. The East Asia Manager Office also organises on-campus social events for Chinese students, like Chinese New Year Gatherings.