Adjusting to Life in Malaysia
Adjusting to Life in Malaysia
"Any good teacher knows how important it is to connect with students and understand our culture." Adora Svitak
At the University of Reading Malaysia, we are committed to supporting you as you adjust to living in Malaysia. As an international student, you must transition into a new teaching and learning experience and our academic and support staff will help you. The teaching context, teaching approaches, learning, curriculum and intercultural competencies are all important areas of adjustment and your experience at the University of Reading Malaysia may feel unfamiliar. There will be opportunities for you to improve your skills by attending Study Skills sessions as well as discussing your progress in your modules and in your programme with your academic tutor.
Homesickness
It is normal for international students to experience homesickness during their time abroad. The most important part of dealing with the emotions you are experiencing is to remember that you are not alone! There are thousands of students who have already, or will be moving away from home to join university. It is normal to be nervous before you arrive or even to be nervous after you arrive. You may wonder why you decided to move away in the first place. Try to remind yourself of the positive reasons you decided to study at the University and the benefits of studying abroad. When you join us in Johor Bahru, start off with small 'adventures' like going to the grocery store or exploring the shopping centres. Most importantly, talk to people. Have conversations with other people in your hall of residence or the people on your course.
It is normal to miss your family and to miss your familiar surroundings. Everyone feels this when they leave home, even if they don't say so. Do not allow yourself to feel guilty. Your family will be very proud of what you are achieving by going to University. Arrange a time shortly after you arrive to talk to them. There are great social tools now that can make the distance feel smaller, such as Skype, Facetime, Facebook and WhatsApp Video Calling. Remember to talk to someone about how you are feeling. A problem shared is a problem halved! Staff at the University and other students will understand the difficulties of living away from your family.
The first few days when you arrive may feel quite overwhelming with all the new things you are doing. Most students will feel the same way, so be brave and talk to as many people as you can in those first few days. You may meet a life-long friend!
Tips for dealing with homesickness:
- Regular exercise is a great way to take your mind off feeling homesick and you will feel excellent afterwards.
- Surround yourself with a few items from your home.
- Keep in touch with home, Skype is a great tool for this as you can see your family too.
Meeting new people and making new friends will help you to enjoy your time here. Find time to learn about other cultures and people that you meet when you arrive. The more you talk to other students, the more opportunity you have to meet people with similar interests that you may enjoy spending time with.
Malaysian Culture
Brief Facts About Malaysia
Festivals
Etiquette & Customs
