Navigating through new connections in campus

A month or even less for that new phase when independence must be embraced for studying means within or near-campus living or even overseas residence.

Those butterflies a-flutter. Pure excitement and anxiety. Why not at this time and the rest of the summer seek some informal or in-school cooking lessons.

Indeed! Cooking lessons! For “cook what you miss (and share it) is among “ways” which Joshua Danan and his team at Studentluxe shared with Gulf Today.

The chief executive officer of the “student housing centre” in London, England has been oriented in “student accommodation space” since 18 years back. Alongside colleagues Supply Chain manager Sam Smithies and Marketing head Alex Obertelli, they have come up with advice on how undergraduates – either freshers or transferees – as well as post-graduate students are to acclimatise with their new surroundings – whether in their respective home countries, country of residence, or abroad.

Across the seven emirates for instance, full or partial scholarships, courtesy of government and private colleges and universities are replete.

As education consultant Rema Menon reiterated from a previous interview: “Due to the current geopolitical situation, visa regulations, post-graduate job opportunities or lack of it, and prohibitive costs, more and more UAE residents are opting to study in local institutions.”

In the UAE for several decades, the Counselling Point Training & Development director added: “Furthermore, local institutions are now offering a plethora of course options and scholarships to make it cost-effective for students from overseas.”

Menon cited the inclusion of exemplary students in the Golden Visa scheme.

She also repeated that another plus point for the UAE being an educational hub – at least in the Middle East and Africa – is the “unparalleled safety and security; so, students coming from other countries where there is conflict and war-like scenario find it easier” in the inclusive UAE “where people from various ethnicities live in peace and harmony.”

Dubai resident and mother-of-two general dentist Julie Macaranas said: “First times will always be hard. But these firsts are significant for both the parents and their children.”

Thus, on the “Ways to Make Friends and Feel at Home as an International Student” from Danan and his colleagues: “Cook what you miss (and share it). Food is a powerful emotional tool that involves all the senses, and the smell and taste of your favourite meal from home can help keep homesickness at bay, while easing away the unfamiliarity of the new country” or emirate.

Search for the best and fresh ingredients from “international markets.” In the UAE are specialised stores where, aside from international markets are sourced “treats and comfort foods from home that will help one feel more settled.”

Whether the living quarters are the mere bed-wardrobe-study table-bookshelf, a studio or a one-bedroom apartment: “Make your space yours” and have an extra box for mementoes.

“Your room is so much more than four walls and a bed; it is your little corner of calm in a whirlwind of change. Decorate your space with photos, familiar trinkets, and comfort items like your favourite fragrance, blanket or mug that reminds you of home. The smallest detail can make a space feel safe, familiar, and ultimately yours,” said Smithies.

On familiarity, Danan suggested: “Find your daily rhythm” particularly in the first few weeks “by setting a regular time to wake up, picking a cosy café to study in, or taking a walk at the same time each day that gives shape, purpose and familiarity to your week.”

“Local language apps” are going to be helpful especially when on the city or town exploration,” Danan said, citing the importance of connection and being present in the lives– though remote – of your family and friends.

Obertelli expounded that connection, by way of all the support systems provided for by “most universities,” particularly for out-of-towner/international students. This means mental health and wellness: “Academic mentors, mental health services, student societies are important. Do not wait until you are struggling to reach out. Make friends other than your flat mates. Do volunteer work.”

“Enjoy your new home,” said Danan.