Something I wish I had known is that no matter who you are or what you do, everyone is going to fail at some point in their career. Don't be afraid to try something new or put yourself out there to embark on a new journey.

Hope you enjoy your time here and feel free to spark up conversation with anyone around you, we are generally all very nice people who love to talk :)

- Kayleigh

I hope you’re super excited about coming to New Zealand, it is a beautiful place over here! I know you’re probably a little nervous and don’t know what to expect out of this opportunity, so I’m going to give you some coping strategies.

Whenever I’m in a new situation and feeling out of place, I always make sure I’m safe. This can be making sure I have someone to contact if something goes wrong, or just being in a safe environment where I won’t get harmed. It makes me feel a lot better about what is happening and where I am. 

Another coping strategy is to take yourself back to something which is familiar. This could be listening to your favorite song or calling a friend. This can make you feel a little less alone and it’s a reminder that you’re not by yourself on this journey. 

I have also been to another country before (Australia) and it definitely was a bit scary at first. I didn’t know what to expect and if Australians do things differently from me. What I wished I had known before I visited was there is really no reason to be scared. We are all human and we are learning all the time. Everyone makes mistakes and we should all take it as a learning experience and move on from it. 

Being in your panic zone is okay though, it’s completely normal but there are always heaps of ways to get out of it. Everyone has been in the panic zone before and can understand what you are going through, so they are more empathetic towards you. Try and meet new people and have a good experience, you’ll soon find yourself in the learning or even comfort zone.

I hope this letter helps you and you learn from it.

Best of luck.

-Hayley 

You must be very excited to start your learning journey in New Zealand. You might feel tense, panic, and confused to the new environment. Don’t be worried. I am going to share my experience about the coping strategies and resilience improvement for the beginning of your journey. 

 

I arrived at NZ a day before my nursing course started due to the more affordable flight ticket for myself. I was so confused and overwhelmed to everything new around me, e.g. the language people spoke was different from what I have learned back in my country, the language they used at daily life were so different from the academic English, the class format or style tended to be more freedom, few study resources were physical and they emphasized online and self-learning and so forth.

 

However, please remember that we are not alone. There are a lot of resources around us needed to be explored and they are there for help. And please don’t be quiet and voice your concerns to your classmates or tutors when you need help.For example, we have international student centre which is there to provide assistance to students in need. You can find a lot of resource from there. If you have problems about studying and assignment at the beginning, student learning service is another good support for us. Most importantly, I want to say learning at school is just a very small part of the journey. Making proper friends, maintaining a healthy routine, learning to be independent, and even looking for a part time job can also be effective ways for coping and improving your resilience. 

 

If I can start my journey again, I would come here earlier instead of a day before or start my journey from a language school. I found out students from the language school, they have studied in NZ for at least 6 months. It will be a proper amount of time to understand NZ’s educational system and living pattern. Even thought I have overcome this challenges currently, I still felt it was so hard and under pressure. 

 

Good luck to your future. I believe you can make it bright if you never give up. 

 

Kind regards

Fei

Having said that, it is equally important not to get overwhelmed by stress. Stay connected with friends and family, share your experiences with other international students, listen to music you’re familiar with, etc. You’ll find what works best for you.

Lastly, don’t let your negative experiences dictate how you approach life abroad. Instead, focus on the positive experiences and keep your long-term goals in mind. As the great Nelson Mandela said: “Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”

I hope you enjoy your time in NZ and I wish you the best in your studies!

- Richard

I also know that there are always people around who are willing and able to support and look after you. I know that communication can be difficult but trying once is better than not trying at all. The communication skills will come with time and effort, it’s frustrating not being able to communicate effectively in a different language. That is something I learned from my French internals.

 I always do my best to understand and be patient when an international student who isn’t confident is speaking to me. When things get stressful or a bit too much I like to switch my brain off, make a coffee, and spend time by myself away from everyone and everything that makes me stressed. I love to go out of the house and spend time with my friends as well as it helps to keep my mind off of things.

 In New Zealand at my school I have learned that I can manage and cope with a lot more stress than I thought I could, and that people are more resilient that they initially think.

You will have an amazing time and create some amazing experiences that will be so different to what you expect.

Good luck!

My top coping strategies when things get tough and when I’m dealing with something out of my comfort zone is to try to look at the positive things. I also try to evaluate what’s happening and try to look at it differently which normally doesn’t make things seem so bad. Then after feeling better about things, I feel more optimistic and that I can do it. 

I think the main thing is when living in another country is to make the most of the lifestyle and culture wherever you are staying. And the best way to do that is get amongst it and to have fun.

I came to New Zealand from England when I was 7 years old, and what I would say is the most important part of moving into a new environment is to be open minded. There are so many differences between countries, so I would say that talking to people and making strong connections and friendships is important. Having someone who will support you through your new cultural learning journey will make the transition much smoother and filled with curiosity rather than panic. Also, make sure to ask lots of questions so you can learn about your new environment. 

Some of my top coping strategies are reading, writing, and listening to music. Reading books often helps me to relax, and I can view book characters as friends whose presence can calm me and support me. Sometimes, writing down my thoughts in the form of poems, stories, or anything else can help me to recognise my worries and get rid of them. Also, music in general is a comforting thing - especially when you find a band or artist who you can connect with and relate too. It can be hard to find that connection, but when you do, you will view them as friends who will always love and support you. 

What I wish I had known before coming to New Zealand was exactly how far away I was going. Little 7-year-old me didn’t really comprehend what ‘the other side of the world’ really was, but I think I adapted well as New Zealand has a lot of similarities with England. 

As a child, I’m not sure whether my resilience was tested, but if you come to New Zealand, I hope you can enjoy new experiences and find a supportive group of people who will guide and comfort you. I hope you enter new experiences with an open mind and a smile, and hopefully learn something new about yourself. Don’t be afraid to talk to people, as New Zealanders are often quite open and willing to share and help!

I hope you enjoy the incredible moments New Zealand has to offer. Best of luck with your journey!

From Natalya 

Going into a new environment can be scary, really scary. So many new things to learn, try and to see. There may be some things that may be a challenge like trying to learn and speak a new language. The best way to learn something new is to give it a try. See what it’s like and reflect on it and find out if it is for you or not, if not try something else. Be nice to people and try to make some friends. Tell them about yourself and culture like the things  you celebrate, eat and how you think your culture is reflected from you. 

From

Savanna

Some advice for visiting a new place or moving to a new environment is probably to know what to expect, and be ready for anything. It is also a good thing to have someone you know in that country / that new environment so that way you can feel less scared, but if you don’t have someone you know that’s fine you can just make new friends. It is a really good idea to get out of your comfort zone and be a bit more outgoing, like try making new friends, interacting with new people, and trying new things. By doing these things it helps you feel a bit more at ease, and more safer than when you first arrived in that country or environment. 

Also another thing, try not to get too homesick otherwise it will make you feel a bit stressful. Call your family every once in a while, and make sure you talk to them LOTS so you don’t feel lonely. You could also get ‘Culture Shock’, since it’s a whole new environment. If you do get culture shock, then maybe try eating some food from back home or do something that you are familiar with, it could help you a bit.

With that said, it can be difficult to be away from home for so long and outside of your comfort zone, so I have a few pointers I wanted to share with you to help maximize your experience. Something I personally like to do when I feel stressed is listen to music, or bury myself in a good book. Keeping busy or distracted in one of these moods is important for your wellbeing, so try to do things that you enjoy. 

This program will help you and your peers build skills and a new approach towards culture, your surroundings, and yourself.

Yes, visiting a new place and environment can be nerve wracking, daunting, and challenging. But once you step out of your comfort zone, and try new things, at the end of the day you’d be glad you did.

Make lot’s of memories! It doesn’t have to be grand, a few goofiness won’t hurt. Keep doing the things you love, whether it’s watching movies, taking a nap, eating, or any of your hobbies.Take care! 

Sincerely,

Myan 

I heard that you decided to study here. Before you embark on your journey I want to tell you some tips and advice to help you! Living in a different country can be nerve wrecking, overwhelming or stressful but don't panic, things will get better. In order to feel comfortable and enjoy your stay, I advise you to first walk around your neighbourhood and the town you will live in, this way you can find a sense of familiarity. Next keep an open mind, since it is a different country they will also have a different culture and tradition, so take it in slowly and try to understand the culture.  You will encounter many things and each time you do keep an open mind. I also advise you to interact with other people, this way you could learn more about the country and culture. A good way to make friends is to join clubs like sports etc, this way it is easier to talk as you already have a topic and you'll get to meet other people outside of school. Next, whenever you feel lonely or homesick, talk to your friends and families from your home country. Lastly, whenever you need help, ask for it. This will help you navigate living in a different country better. 

- Iz

I am originally from Vietnam, I went to New Zealand to study at University. When I first arrived at the airport, immediately I was panicking. But don’t worry because everything will be fine after you left the airport. Living in another country is not easy, it requires some coping strategies to overcome the difficulties. I suggest you stay calm do not worry about making friends since everyone in New Zealand is very friendly so you will make lots of friends in no time. Try to engage in your school activities because it will develop your communication skills, collaboration, and trust. Do not keep things that troubling you to yourself, try to talk with your close friends or do some fun activities to relieve stress. 

The next thing that is very important and I wish I knew it sooner, is to take every opportunity you get. You will learn so much from every experience. Please stay positive, be brave and everything you wish for will come true.

Good luck!          

-Tommy

I think most of us normally believe that “the grass is always greener on the other side”, however this is not true since every single place has its own beauty(s) and beast(s).

First, let’s start with some bright-sides. New Zealand is a beautiful country with amazing people who’s always welcoming and friendly. More than that, it is undeniable that the scenario is unbelievably mesmerizing (like one of the other letters said: From the cityscapes to the stunning alpine terrain). So if you are still afraid of stepping out, don’t, because you’ll never know what you’re gonna miss.

Now, again, there should be some difficulties for students who are from other countries as we share different cultural perspectives. Then, my top 2 advices are:

     1/ Be respectful. To respect others is to respect yourself. If you are expecting people to be nice, then please remember that you have to treat people the way you want to be treated. Everyone is different and no one is like others, treasure the diversity as it may lead you to a brand-new but interesting environment.

     2/ If you have yourself under high stress, reach out for help as everyone is always willing to help you, as long as you find a way to share.

Keep calm, have some fun, and stay strong. Wish you all the best on your upcoming journey. 

Sincerely,

El (Nhi).

It must have been a great journey for you, whether commenced with a definite goal or simply frail sparks of interest twinkling within your heart. Congratulations on reaching this checkpoint 🎉

I’m writing to you - fellow travelers, from the perspective of someone who has yet to behold the beauty of a foreign world, who is up to now still noting down destinations in mind. 

Hopefully, though, my message can benefit you some relevant tips ❤️ 

 

1) While in the initial phase of settling in a new environment, panic-airplanes are inevitable, striking on multiple occasions (ex: center of attention, first time doing something, etc). 

To better prevent these sudden attacks, first, you want to remain conscious of the potential signs, heartbeat drumming louder than regularly, cold sweats, body trembling, and so on. 

Now, stop and inhale, exhale three extended breaths, feel the air circulating in your tummy.

Distract yourself from the daunting task, and focus on the surrounding (wind blowing, a picture on the wall). If you’re in the spot to speak, ask nicely for a few seconds beforehand for the routine, remember the phrase “start whenever you’re ready”. 

2) As one rolls into their busy studying schedule, things can get pretty hectic, adapting to a new world while keeping up with others. Feelings of uncertainty, distress, disbelief are common buddies, negative emotions tend to mount on one another, submerging the self.

At times like that, recall the motives behind initiating this significant change in your life, picture the things you’ve felt in love with during your days in the land. Moving onward requires shifting your life in a different direction, this choice of yours is already a courageous decision, you needn’t drive your limits. 

Embracing the path that you’ve taken every day, every second through loving and adjusting your mindset, welcome in cultural virtues, knowledge, and connections. If you don’t know yet the manner to act in, just be respectful, no one will return that politeness with negativity. 

I admire you deeply, whoever reading this, you’re the most wonderful being on the planet. I wholeheartedly send you a hug on the universe's behalf, cause I know you can live to the extent that your heart desires. 

Don’t hesitate to just send me an email, we can totally be friends! : livingdreamedu@gmail.com 😉 

PS: I'm a big bands fan, they always touch me (up there is the first video in my "Crying" playlist).
Recommend y'all LUCY (Snooze), Hoppipolla (Enough), Onewe (Aurora), Bandage (Coloring The Life), 

Big virtual hugs
Phoebe. 

Hi! My name is Cake. I am from Thailand. First, I have heard that you are students who are to be a part of the wonderful NZGCC program. Congratulation! Well, I would have you known you will get a lot out of this course. I have gone through many interesting topics, such as cultural differences. And one thing I consider being important for you guys as you are going to learn and discuss with other participants is “coping strategies”: It is the way you do to figure out the situation you are facing with which it might be new or unfamiliar. Sometimes it can you feel uncomfortable and that affect negatively on your ability to learn. Therefore, I am here to share my strategies and my experiences. First, when I confront a new event, perhaps stressful, I usually ponder about it and think of what I know about that - Am I capable of working out something in that situation? Then, I ask myself “ Well, if you do something though only a bit, isn’t it worth trying something and learning new skills?” Then, whatever happens, after you tried, it is valuable, it gives you a lesson and then you will realize it’s a part of your insightful experience that is always being fulfilled as you try anything more and more. But after all, sometimes, common activities like reading a book, listening to music, writing a journal can be powerful and the easiest way to relax. Just find your way and have fun!

For people who addict to music like me. Actually, my best coping strategy is none other than listening to music! When you are faced with a hard situation. Maybe some of the music, it could be any kind that you like can relieve you and make you feel more relaxed. You can feel like you are being with yourself, your surroundings and your soul.

Last but not least, the music that I have given to you is my favourite music that I use for healing myself or recover from bad days since I was 13 years old. I have a lot of memories of this music. Not only beautiful melody in this music which is elegant and lively like twilight sky but the comment section is also worth its weight in gold.  If you want, you can listen to this track. More or less, I hope that it will valuable to you.

The wound is the place where the light enters you.
-Nene Manasanun-

-       Taking a step back from the situation

-       Doing something that I enjoy to take my mind off of the situation

-       Talk about my feelings to someone else you trust

-       Taking things into bite-size chunks


While you may feel different, you are definitely not alone. There will be a lot people  a lot like you, or at least have similar interests to you. When you are talking to people, try to find things that you share something with, maybe you both have a similar hobby, or that you both have a pet. Finding common ground is a way to help you feel like you belong in a different environment. And if you are struggling with this, take it slowly and have  hope. Things will always get better, we just need to keep on holding on. Things may be difficult, but if you know that you are not alone and follow those strategies, hopefully, everything will be alright. People in New Zealand are pretty open to talk to, so if you ever feel like you need to talk to someone i guarantee that you would be able to find someone.

Last, of all, I hope you enjoy your stay in New Zealand and that you are able to make friends and memories that will last forever. Things may be difficult, but there is always a positive to every situation. New Zealand is my home, and I hope that you are able to find some sense of home here too.

Your friend,
Zac

Enjoy Aotearoa! You’re gonna love it!

My top coping strategies are taking your own time to organize your thoughts, writing it on a paper or anyway. 

Listening to music or watching a movie you like is a good idea too. I sometimes listen to music I like or find new songs, lying on my bed before sleeping.

When you have to adapt to new environment, think about what you're good at, trying to perform those in a situation. 

And when you are in new environment such as school and you have to adapt to that life and make new friends, try to show active moments and talk to other people. Without effort, there would be nothing you get.

I hope to enjoy all your time, good luck

The key learning I want to tell you is ‘do not be afraid.’ I know that it’s hard to do this when you first step into a new environment. But when you overcome the fear you can start a new, special life. I am a really really shy person, so I find it very difficult to make new friends. But one day I was angry at myself for being so unconfident. So I decided to change. It was a challenging task but when I succeeded the results were very satisfying. I was able to adapt quickly to my new life there, and therefore I gained more experience without wasting time. 

I changed after I moved several times, but I hope you know this faster than me. Good luck on your new start!☺️

My name is Caitlin, and I was born and raised in New Zealand. I currently study in Havelock North, New Zealand.

Being in a new place is scary, there’s no two ways about it. In leaving to wherever you’ve gone or are going to, you’ve left everything you know behind, and it’s frightening. However, it doesn’t have to be only frightening. Visiting or living in a new environment, be that a new city or an entirely new country, is an exciting thing, and an amazing opportunity. My biggest piece of advice would be to make new friends, leave your room and explore the city or country you’re in. Talk with the locals, get their advice. If you’re in a new country that doesn’t speak your native language, learn to speak the local language and talk with locals in their language. It may be hard, but it will be worth it for the connections and friendships you will be able to build. 

In saying that, wherever you are is likely unfamiliar. I would recommend calling home, calling your parents and friends, at least once a week. Because homesickness is a thing, and it isn’t fun to deal with. Talk with the people who are familiar to you, even if it isn’t regularly. Take walks, explore the city, wander aimlessly, and allow the city or place to become familiar to you. If you’re not feeling well, if you’re stressed or frustrated, acknowledge those feelings and talk to someone about them. Find someone who you trust and confide in them. Take deep breaths when something gets stressful or out of your comfort zone. 

Before leaving to a new place, I wish I had known how normal it was to feel homesick. How normal it was to miss family and friends and familiarity. I wish I had known how important it is to talk to someone, anyone, about what I was feeling. Being away from home is hard, and that is alright. If you talk with people, eventually it becomes easier. You just need to stick it out, be resilient and eventually everything will be fine. I also wish I had known how important it is to get a proper support system, to make friends and engage with people.

The experience of leaving to a new place definitely made me more resilient. Everything I had known wasn’t there for me anymore, and I learnt to adapt. Being in a new place is exciting and new, but it can be terrifying. It’s just up to you whether you let the fear take over or not. If you let it be, new places are incredible and can be some of the best times in your life. You just need to let the fear of being in a new environment go, be resilient and embrace the new place you’re in. 

I hope, wherever you are and whatever your circumstances are, you enjoy the new experiences that come with being in a new place.

Good luck!

Caitlin

Trying something new and different can be difficult, even stressful. Taking a step into the unknown is very challenging and scary. Here are some tips on how you can rebuild/regather your thoughts- 

Just always carry around a positive mindset and a whole load of confidence. 

Visiting a new place or moving into a new environment, trying new things can always be hard.So I would like to share some strategies that I use to overcome those situations. 

Remember that learnings new things is a fun experience, and that you can grow a lot from it! I really like how I can develop myself by learn new things. Meeting new people, studying a new topic, these may feel hard, but I can say with confidence that you are going to learn something from it and that you are going to become a better person by doing so. So don’t hesitate and try!

During the learning experience if you get stressed out you might need a refreshment. Sleeping, taking a walk listening to music, baking, reading books, there are many ways to stay a little bit away from the troubling project. 

I hope this helped you! Do your best, and have fun!

Firstly, embrace your feelings and emotions. It's absolutely okay and normal to feel anxious and scared when you're in this situation. When I feel uneasy about my surroundings, my way of letting these emotions out is often to speak my mind. Believe it or not, sitting down and just talking to yourself helps a lot. Alongside this, I also call my friends and family from back home and talk to them about my feelings. More often than not, they'll listen and help me empathize with my situation. 

Secondly, explore and familiarize yourself with the culture and surroundings. As humans, we have to learn how to adapt as well. Go around, see what the people there are like, what the environment there is like,.. Immersing yourself in the culture is also an important part of this trip! Enjoy the differences that an unfamiliar destination brings.

Thirdly, ask for help. Don’t be scared of asking anyone for some support. When you don’t understand anything, ask! I assure you, literally no one minds that you’re asking about something. Be brave, and make the best of your experience.

Through these tips, I hope they’ll help you somewhat. Remember, when visiting, the most important thing is that you enjoy yourself! Have fun, go experience the culture, and make the best of everything.

Best of luck, 
Emelia :D

These are the basic advice that I can provide, make sure to prepare for the situation. Good luck on your journeys.

Firstly, don’t hesitate to make friends. It is great to have someone who you can share your difficulties with, especially the one that is in the same environment as you.If it is a friend who is just as a newbie as you, you guys will have a bunch of things in common to talk about. What if he isn’t a newbie? Then you will have found for yourself a really good guide who can answer all your questions and help you solve your problems!

Secondly, if it seems to be overwhelming and you don’t have anyone to share, release your feelings with your most personal, comfortable ways.I usually cope with stress by drawing anything I can think of because I love playing with the colors.If you find yourself relaxed when you listen to music or simply when you take a nap, just do it.Take a little break, do what you like to calm down your brain and your body!

And finally, after taking a break, get up and write down everything that bothers you.Everything from school, family to friends.Then find solutions for each of them right away or whenever you feel comfortable enough.

That’s all! Don’t keep stress all in your brain, take it out and enjoy your life <3 

Love ya,

Mai

I imagine that moving to another country would be quite stressful so I have listed some advice on what I like to do to manage stress.  

1) I find going for runs in nature a great way to minimise stress. Any form of exercise is proven to help reduce anxiety however I believe that running is a great form of exercise because New Zealand has beautiful scenery and running is a great way to see some of this.

2) The most important piece of advice in my opinion is to reach out to friends or family. I find that even meaningless conversations with those who are the closest to me helps me find clarity and focus on what truly matters.

3) Don't be too hard on yourself. I often find that I am my own biggest critic and that often limits me. Know that you don't have to be perfect.

I hope this helps. 

Welcome to New Zealand,

Caitlin 

Even though I am a New Zealand citizen, I’ve been in an international school in South Korea for a long time. And, trust me, I know that there are a lot of things that challenge you when it comes to learning in a new place. I’ve felt that. I was completely panicking when I first went to the international school, and I was embarrassed by my failure to adapt both academically and socially in a new setting. I spent countless nights crying, and it was hard.

But, I want to let you know that challenging time indeed passes and how much you try to cope with those challenge will come back as a reward to you in many different forms. It could be a new perspective of self-reflection, self-development, self-love, ability to cope with a new environment, or a new friend in general! I went through tough experiences, and I sometimes gave up on trying to cope with it, but mostly made an attempt. The moment that I was trying to give up gave me nothing as a return. It just made my life worse. But, as soon as I try to do something with a given situation, I found a way. I made new friends who are now my best-friends-forever, and I developed a lot as a grown-up with ability to navigate social relationship in a healthy way. 

I hope my advice helped you with getting through the challenging times in a strange environment. Not going to lie, this is tough. However, I assure you that, later in life, you will look back to yourself and be proud of how smoothly you adapted to your new life. 

My name is Youssef from Egypt and I am almost 16 years old.

Going away from home is a hard change to deal with. The food might be different, the activities you can do here might be different, and your safety and wellbeing might change. For me, I had to take my time to slowly adapt and change myself in a good way which has given me really good health benefits. 

Although the culture is different, embrace yourself and teach others about your own culture. 

Personally to cope with any sorrows I listen to a lot of music.

Before coming here, I wish I searched up the culture and foods that they had here, as when I came to NZ, I had no idea what i was stepping into. I thought it was gonna be like the movies.

Recently I have been pushing myself to be better for my future, since I live with a host family and not my biological parents, I have learned how to motivate myself to get work done, and being proud of the good results to follow.

You got this!!! If I went through it, anyone can.

Some cool coping strategies to help with the stress of being in a new place are some like listening to music or taking a walk around the town you could be staying in, Drawing some things you see is good and also going sightseeing and meeting new people could help open yourself up to some of the new surroundings. Also have fun with it if you don't know what to do don't be afraid to ask. :)

I'm definitely not good at talking and it's even worse when I'm using my second language, so I was so nervous to go to school in nz at first, but now I am blessed with lots of lovely people, and also I'm writing this in English! So don't worry, whenever you have problems or feel stressed, anxious, you'll get lots of people who are willing to help you always. They may be your friends, teachers, homestay family or even strangers. Kiwi people are kind:)

Thanks for reading this and hope you enjoy your experience in New Zealand.

Cheers

 

You might be going through some discomfort adjusting to a new culture and environment so I hope I can give you some positive advice to take away. First of all I believe that it is important to stay true to yourself even though you are in a new environment and may be peer pressured into doing things. Please do not change your values and beliefs to fit in, as you will find the right people that will accept you for who you are. My favourite coping strategie when I am under pressure is lying in bed listening to music as it gives me time to relax and think about my day. I wish to tell you before embarking on this amazing journey, do not be afraid to seek support from teachers and students as you can talk to them about your concerns, hopefully getting insightful advice in return. Make sure to look after yourself, keep an open mind and remember to have fun. 

 

This will be an awesome experience!! 

 

 

Kia kaha

Willa

I tend to use music to cope with stress. I make playlists that are based around an emotion, like happiness and dancing moods. It takes my mind off of things and I can give myself over to the music.

I wish I had known about how other people work and view the world. It would have helped me learn and develop. My key learning is that new experiences can be tricky and hard to  deal with, but in the end things will be okay. 

As an international student, you are about to explore the country with a new perspective. All the best for this new adventure of yours! But before you embark on this unknown journey, I am here to give you a few tips on coping and resilience.

A new country can be very overwhelming and stressful. And this is where you need to learn to cope and be resilient. First of all take a step back, calm yourself down and go slow. Secondly there is no harm to ask help from others and don’t ever shy away from assistance.

Another coping method will be to reconnect and talk to your loved ones back from home. It's just like therapy.

Now the final strategy is to face the challenge and walk over it. 

There is a lot to explore here. Happy exploring!

Best of luck.

- Anugraha

Bonnie

Hello! I'm Pim, a 16-year-old from Thailand. I'm studying for a bachelor's degree in law while learning in grade 11 like normal teenagers. I got through a tight schedule a lot. Two things I learned are plan and time management. These two things are the first step to jumping the gun but learning this program only these two things aren't enough. Open-minded and confident speaking is the key. My tip is...

You should make your own short and long plan to get your work done on time and don't use your body too much. 

       2. Open-minded is the key to having a friend in another country.

Because of a different culture, you have to avoid judging. 

        3. Confident

Being confident to speak and share opinion and experience with others help you make friends with others easily.

        4. Get some rest to recharge yourself.

Find your comfort zone to recharge yourself when you get tired. If you tired, just get some rest then continue. Don't work too much because if you work too much, you may burn out soon.

   The last thing I want to tell a future student is to enjoy learning and what you do. Make it fun and be a part of your life. Good luck!

My suggestion for future students would be to learn to adapt to the new environment as soon as possible.  I am aware that it is easily said than done.  This is because the sooner you are able to accommodate yourself in the new environment, the happier you would be. And you would be able to learn new things.  In my opinion, my strategy to cope with the new culture is trying to be as open-minded person as possible. You may wish to see yourself as a little boy who is eager to learn and welcome new knowledge in any environment.  By doing so, you will naturally accept and learn new knowledge and be able to adapt to the new environment without any resistance.  It is normal to feel uncomfortable in a new environment, and some of us may face what we call a culture shock when we are exposed to a new culture, new friends, and new environment.  Therefore, we all have to learn how to cope with this new environment.

I do hope that my proposed strategy would be helpful to future students

A couple of months ago I got a job at a supermarket as a checkout operator. When I first started I was very scared as I would have to interact with complete strangers and meet and socialise with the staff. This was very out of my comfort zone as I was only used to talking to people I knew. Now I am so grateful that I pushed myself because my character has changed a lot since then. I am a lot more confident and am able to have conversations with strangers and people I hardly know, not only at work but also at school and in my personal life. 

I think that this is a great example of how being a part of a new environment can be pertrifying at first, but after relating to the people, keeping an open mind and being yourself, you can adjust to your surroundings and to the people. 

Of course it all sounds so easy but when you are actually experiencing it, it can be a lot harder to cope and adjust. When I’m stressed I usually do something that takes my mind off it, like reading, listening to music, or watching Netflix.

I wish that I had known when I started my job that all of the staff would be friendly, welcoming and supportive, especially all of the students that work there who are around my age. I love being able to go up to them and just have random conversations. 
If you find yourself nervous and apprehensive of doing something different or out of your comfort zone, think of the end result and all of the experience/skills you will gain.

Hope this helps :D
-Letitia

It is hard to move to a new environment that you are not used to with new people and new routines but it’s doable! You will eventually overcome any challenges you face whether you think it is doable or not. There are many different coping strategies that you can use when you need it which can help you take a break from your new normal when you need it. 

When I was 10, I moved from Australia to New Zealand to live permanently close to my family. There’s many differences in the two cultures, some being the language, weather, accents, etc. I think I found -and still sometimes find- the Maori language the hardest difference to get used to. I found that I couldn’t seem to understand it very well compared to all my classmates who had been taught it for 5 or so years already -it was very much out of my comfort zone. In my first year of schooling in NZ I tried to be resilient and listen to what they were trying to teach me but I didn’t always understand. 

I think this course has helped me become more open-minded and accepting of different cultures and traditions. I feel like if I had done this course before moving to NZ I would have understood that there would be differences in how they live and work which might have helped me adapt and be more open-minded towards their culture. I think it has made me a little more resilient too as well as teaching me about different cultures and how to read how their systems work and how to act respectfully towards them. If you were looking to go overseas I think this course would help.