Fear of the Unknown Hat 2
Worrying about having to go through immigration checks and interviews for visas.
It's Okay to be nervous before an immigration interview or when you go through immigration process. The process can go more smoothly if you are prepared and have the right attitude, even though the stakes seem very high. Anything first time always seems to be daunting but you can overcome it as days progresses.
How to get ready:
Put all the papers you need in a folder in the order that they might be asked for. Make copies in case you lose them.
Hear what you say. Plan your trip, your study time, and how much money you have. Be honest, clear, and short in your answer.
Act out interviews with friends or teachers to get used to answering questions under pressure and boost your confidence.
Advice for the day of The police are only checking the facts and not trying to catch you, so stay calm, look good, and get there early.
The first night I spent alone in a dorm or apartment
It can be fun to go to a new place, but it can also be scary to spend the first night there.
First, get everything you need together. To make the room feel like it's yours, take out some of your things, like toiletries, blankets, and other personal items.
Play music, light a candle (if you can), or hang pictures from your house to send relaxing messages.
If you're feeling lonely, call someone you care about and talk for a few minutes.
Make a simple schedule. A short walk around the block can help you relax and get used to your new surroundings.
Be concerned about how you fit in with your friends
When students use slang, jokes, or traditions you don't know yet, it can make you feel alone because of cultural differences.
Here what you can do is,
Say hello with a smile and a friendly question about chores or things you have in common.
Take your time learning new things. Write down any new words or references to other cultures that you want to learn more about later. Please tell about your past. Talk about cultural points of view; this will often get people interested in you and respect you.
Join in on events. Study groups, clubs, and workshops are all planned ways to meet new people outside of school.
Things you can do every day to lower the "unknown" factor
Add important people, places, and public routes to your phone ahead of time to get ready.
Stay up to date. To feel like you belong, keep up with what's going on in your area, in the culture, and at your school.
Get a small group of people together who can help you. If you have even one or two trustworthy friends or teachers, it can be easier to get through tough times.
To feel better about yourself, keep telling yourself that your doubts are only temporary and that you get more confident with each new experience.
