How Foreigners Think About International Students

News & Events

Friday — April 14, 2017

By:Study Abroad

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There was a time when I discussed the idea of studying abroad with my mother for the first time. Her first response was: “do you have any idea how they treat foreigners?” That also got me worried at that time. I got into thinking what people misbehaved with me or what will I do in case of racism. Racism has become too normal among the people who think of themselves as greater than others. Though everyone condemns it, many people unconsciously commit racist acts.

The topic of discussion in our today’s article about what foreigners would think of us as international students when we go abroad for education. Studying abroad is a once in a life time experience for most students and they try to get the best of it. No one would like to leave their education in middle and get back to homeland because people are making it tough for you. Well, one thing I can assure you is that it is not going to happen. Even if something bad does happen, you can always acquire the help of law enforcements.

As far as the question of bad behavior or thinking goes, I would say you should not worry about it. No one will behave bad or offensive to you but there is a possibility of happening so. Not all people are same; you will find good people everywhere in the world and with them bad as well. Where there good, there is bad and where there is bad, there certainly is good too. But it is not something you should worry about because this is not a big issue. You can never say with certainty that you will never in life get into a fight no matter how humble of a personality you have. Following I have discussed in detail, when you will feel that people don’t like you, reasons behind it and why people do like international students.

· SEE ALSO: Should We be Worried About Racism in Foreign Universities

When They Don’t Like International Students:

In this heading, I am going to discuss the instances when foreigners would think negative of international students and reasons behind it. As discussed above, you will find all kinds of people everywhere. Some may have an open mind others might be just introvert. In developed countries, most people are educated. You will also mostly hang out with educated people or people related to university. Most educated people are not racist and are against racism. There might come a time when you encounter someone irrelevant who might be just racist and have a narrow mind.

I was reading a survey online in which they mentioned some of the negative responses of foreigners about international students. Some said that they don’t like the way international students speak English, Their accent is annoying, They are annoying and They smell weird. As offensive as they may be, it is recommended to ignore them as everyone has their perception of the world. There have also been a few cases in almost every country where international students had to face racism from bunch of illiterates. If you act like you own the place, you do some offensive things then you can also expect the same in return. Other than this, some foreigners or I would say narrow minded foreigners don’t like it when international students dress the way they do in their own country. They would just like you to blend in with their culture instead of bringing your culture in their country.

· SEE ALSO: Weird Things That Happen to You While Studying Abroad

Why They Like International Students?

I have discussed why and when foreigners don’t like international students but in fact majority of foreigners like international students in their country and campus. They like it for multiple reasons. First of all, just so you know,

international students are a great profit for the country and their government. International students, when go to a foreign country, earn from their country and spend it in their country making their economy stronger. Other than this, international students also pay about the double or more of the fees that their natives pay.

Often success of a higher educational institute is judged by the number of the international students they have. It manifests their demand on global level. International students also make university campus make look more colorful and attractive. Most foreigners want to make friends with international students. It makes them understand the world better and they also like to spend time with people that are different from them. If you keep yourself in their position, you will also think the same and find curiosity in yourself about international students. It is a fascinating thing that someone who is not even from their country talks to them with proficient language and shares experiences.

· SEE ALSO: Afraid of Getting Homesick While Studying Abroad

How to Avoid Negative Responses:

As discussed there might be some negative responses that you have to face. So here are some tips for you on how to avoid these negative people and negative responses. First of all I would say to go with the flow. There is a famous

saying in Urdu “Jaisa Des Waisa Bhes” means to be like the place you are in. If you are in a foreign country, I would recommend you to follow their culture and styles. You don’t have to bring your home there. You will have plenty of your own culture and style when you will go back. Since you are in a foreign country among new, you should enjoy their lifestyle. This way, you will not only come in attention for negative people but it will also be easier for you to blend in with natives.

Secondly, try to improve your language especially English. If you can learn the native language of the country that is best otherwise make sure you have proficient English. Often people find it annoying when your communication skills are weak. Try not to be annoying by disturbing others. Try to talk only when necessary and mostly with just the people who are your friends or acquaintances. Always dress properly, look good and act formal. Just follow these instructions and you will never have any problem.