Top 5 Tips for Adjusting to Life in a New Country

Moving to a new country as an international student is one of the most exciting chapters of your life, filled with fresh opportunities and new experiences waiting around every corner.

But let’s be real—it’s also a bit overwhelming, with unfamiliar customs, language hurdles, and the struggle to feel at home in a place that’s totally new.

In this blog, you’ll find five practical tips to help you settle in, and turn those challenges into a rewarding adventure.

1. Get to Know the Culture

Diving into the culture of your new country is a big step toward feeling like you belong. It’s not just about knowing what’s polite or how people greet each other—it’s about understanding the little things that make the place tick.

For example, if you’re in Japan, you might notice people do bowing instead of shaking hands. It can feel awkward at first, but giving it a try (even a small nod) shows respect and helps you blend in—just practice a bit and don’t stress if it’s not perfect.

Another thing you might run into is different attitudes toward time. In places like Germany, being on time is practically a rule, and showing up late to a meetup could throw people off.

To handle this, set reminders on your phone and aim to arrive a few minutes early.

It’s a simple fix that’ll save you from those “where are you?” texts and make a solid impression. Getting these cultural quirks down takes a little effort, but it’s worth it for feeling more at home.

2. Find Your People

Settling into a new country as an international student can feel lonely at first, but finding your crew makes all the difference—it’s like building a little home away from home in your student housing in Washington, D.C.

One way to start is by joining student groups or clubs at your university; for example, if you’re into soccer, signing up for a campus team can connect you with others who share that vibe.

Don’t be shy—just show up, chat about the game, and let friendships grow from there.

Another spot to meet people is at language exchange meetups, which are goldmines for making local and international friends.

Say you’re in Spain and your Spanish is shaky—pairing up with someone who wants to practice English can lead to coffee chats that turn into real bonds.

Look online for events near you, bring a smile, and ask a simple “How’s your week going?” to kick things off.

3. Pick Up Some Local Words

Knowing a bit of the local language can be a game-changer when you’re an international student trying to feel at ease in a new country—it’s less about fluency and more about getting by.

Take ordering food, for example: if you’re in France, learning to say “Je voudrais un croissant, s’il vous plaît” (I’d like a croissant, please) can even earn you a friendly nod.

Start small with phrases like that, practice them in your head before you go out, and don’t worry if your accent’s off—most people appreciate the effort.

Another situation where a few words help is navigating public transport. In a place like Italy, figuring out “Dov’è la fermata dell’autobus?” (Where’s the bus stop?) can save you from circling the station in a panic.

Grab a language app or jot down key phrases on your phone, and test them out when you’re not rushed. It’s not about mastering the language overnight; it’s about having enough to feel less lost and more connected.

4. Figure Out the Everyday Stuff

Getting a handle on daily life in a new country can feel like a puzzle at first, but once you crack it, everything starts to click for you as an international student.

Take grocery shopping, for example—if you’re in the UK, you might be thrown by terms like “courgette” instead of zucchini or long queues at the checkout.

The trick is to go in with a short list, ask a local or staff “Where’s this?” if you’re stumped, and give yourself a few trips to get the hang of it—no rush, you’ll be navigating aisles like a pro soon.

Then there’s stuff like figuring out the laundry system, especially if you’re in a dorm or off-campus housing.

In places like Australia, you might deal with coin-operated machines that eat your change if you’re not quick.

Scope out how it works (watch someone else first if you can), keep a stash of coins handy, and don’t sweat it if you shrink a shirt—trial and error is part of the deal.

5. Keep an Open Mind and Chill

Adjusting to life as an international student in a new country is a wild ride, and staying flexible is key to enjoying it—things won’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. For example, if you’re in India, you might expect meals to be mild like back home, only to find spicy street food.

Instead of stressing, roll with it—try a bite, savor the chaos; it’s all part of the experience.

Another curveball might be how people socialize—like in Sweden, where folks can seem reserved until you crack through with time and patience.

Don’t take it personally if invites don’t pour in right away; keep showing up to class or events with a friendly vibe, and let connections build naturally.

Conclusion

Moving to a new country as an international student is a big leap, but with these five tips—getting into the culture, finding your friends, picking up some words, sorting out daily life, and staying chill—you’ll turn challenges into wins.

It’s all about taking it step by step, and before you know it, you’ll feel right at home in your new adventure.