Part 3. Maximising Your Study Abroad Experience: Essential Tips and Personal Insights

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity that opens doors to personal growth, cultural immersion, and academic excellence. As you embark on this journey, it’s crucial to make the most of your time abroad. In Part 1, we have covered the advantages of studying abroad, and in Part 2, we have addressed some potential challenges. To continue the series, in Part 3, we will explore essential tips and personal insights to help you thrive academically and personally during your study abroad experience.

Please keep in mind what I am sharing are first impressions. I have started this study abroad journey for only six weeks; hence, my experience will develop throughout the academic year. As a result, I might have follow-up blog posts to add more insights later on for you. (If you want to contribute your experience to this blog, please email me).

1. Engaging in the Classroom

One of the keys to a successful study abroad experience is active engagement in the classroom. By coming prepared to class through reading materials provided in advance, you equip yourself with a solid foundation of knowledge to contribute actively to discussions. Making an effort to interact with your lecturers and classmates allows for a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Additionally, discussing your concerns or questions with peers and teachers fosters an exchange of ideas, leading to informed decision-making.

2. Staying Organised

It’s essential to be organised, and you will want to stay on top of all the academic and administrative aspects of your study abroad experience.

Most universities provide students with internal email accounts, serving as a hub for important announcements, deadlines, and access to learning resources. Hence, remember to regularly check your emails and creating a system to note down crucial dates on a calendar ensures that you always attend all lectures and guest speaker sessions. Synchronising your timetable with a personal calendar aids in effective time management and planning.

3. Maximising Learning Resources

Beyond attending classes and relying solely on lecture materials, it is highly recommended to supplement your learning with additional resources. Hence, reading the recommended materials alongside lecture slides gives a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. This approach helps the knowledge to stick and enhances your overall learning experience.

4. Reflection and Learning from Experience

Throughout your study abroad experience, reflect on your progress, challenges, and achievements. Keeping a journal, whether a physical notebook or a digital file, on your laptop can be a valuable tool to capture your thoughts and insights.

Both formats are helpful for different purposes. For instance, journaling is a way to reflect on my thoughts, and I usually rely on my trusty notebooks. On the other hand, On my computer, I prefer taking notes from lectures and writing blog posts. The key here is to establish a system where you can track your thoughts and revisit your progress periodically. Embrace the best approach for you, and stick to it consistently.

Periodically revisit your entries and assess your personal and academic growth. This self-reflection process will help you identify areas for improvement and make the necessary adjustments. And STOP procrastinating. Do not wait until the last minute to complete your coursework or assignment. You might want to leave enough time and space for reviewing and editing your writing before submitting your work.

Thoughts On My MBA Course

In life, there’s always another side to consider, like the flip side of a coin. It’s fascinating how the upsides and downsides exist simultaneously, leaving us with the power to make strategic choices.

As an MBA student, I’ve noticed the recurring theme of “strategy” or “strategic decisions” in the business field. This particular module, titled “Corporate and Competitive Strategy,” has captured my interest and ignited a passion within me. It’s made me realise that everything in life revolves around choices, whether as simple as deciding what breakfast to eat or as complex as making critical business decisions.

The module fondly referred to as “Strategy,” has been taught by a few exceptional lecturers who have inspired me to pursue a career as an International Business Strategist. While I’m still in the process of deliberation, I can’t help but share my thoughts on the two fields I’m considering. Firstly, I’ve spent the past nine years running my fashion brand, which has fostered my love for the fashion industry. On the other hand, there’s a certain allure in exploring an entirely new field like education, which has piqued my curiosity. Although I’ll touch on this topic again later, I am leaning about 65% towards education.

Embracing New Opportunities

Life is a series of choices, and it’s up to us to open our minds, embrace new opportunities, and follow our passions. Do you have (a) passion(s)? What are they?

By stepping out of our comfort zones and making these strategic decisions, we can shape our future and find fulfilment on our chosen path. So, let’s dive into the vast ocean of possibilities, armed with knowledge and the audacity to explore new horizons.

Embarking on the journey of studying abroad has been an incredibly enriching experience for me. It’s as if my mind is blossoming with new knowledge and ideas, and I can almost picture the growth of new brain cells within me. It’s fascinating to think that every experience we have leaves its mark on our brain, fostering the growth of new connections and even potentially producing new neurons. Just like physical exercise or taking antidepressants can bring about positive changes, learning something new opens up a world of possibilities within ourselves.

While there are some downsides to studying abroad, the benefits far outweigh them, and I’m genuinely grateful for the opportunity to pursue my MBA at Brunel University London in the UK. It took a leap of faith for me to leave Vietnam, but looking back, I commend myself for the courage to take that step.

Considerations for Studying Abroad

Has studying abroad been on your mind lately, or is it something you’re just starting to consider? I hope sharing my experience in this blog post adds value to your decision-making process. Regardless of the path you choose for your life, it’s crucial to gather as much information as possible, seek feedback from those with relevant experience, and make an informed and strategic decision.

Where do you start? Sometimes, going through the process alone can be overwhelming. My journey began with online research, eventually leading me to ISC Education, an agency that provided invaluable assistance at every step — from university information and applications to the visa process. I’m grateful to have found their support. I would recommend exploring several trustworthy agencies and gathering information from each of them to see which one offers the most value and guidance.

Once you’ve decided, trust your decision and embrace the journey, taking it one step at a time. I wish you all the best as you embark on your upcoming adventure. May it be filled with incredible experiences, personal growth, and countless memories that will last a lifetime.