Table of Contents for this study abroad blog
So how to stay connected with family for Indian students?
The whole process of going abroad is so very hectic, that especially in the last few months: keeping in touch with family becomes the last thing on our minds. So we cannot say the appropriate goodbyes. And then with all the pressure of studies – uff!
The work-life balance is one of the most difficult things to maintain, even more so for a student going abroad for the first time. This is one of the major reasons for the reported 40-43% of Indian students abroad facing severe anxiety and homesickness.
So let’s learn what our options are to not overwork ourselves and keep our long-distance relationships prospering!
What are the Challenges of Studying Abroad
Cultural and Emotional Adjustment
Getting used to a new culture while studying abroad can be challenging. It’s important to embrace cultural differences and find ways to integrate into your new environment while keeping connections to home.
Join cultural clubs and attend orientation sessions to help ease this transition. Loads of people are averse to meeting new people, but the connections you form abroad are WHY the abroad experience is worth it.
Don’t shy away from these new connections in fear of losing the old ones – you’re simply growing up buddy 😊
Time Zone Differences
Managing time zone differences can be tricky. Using time management apps like Google Calendar can help schedule regular catch-ups with family and friends. Setting up specific times for video calls or messages ensures you stay connected without disrupting your daily routine.
What are some Effective Communication Tools and Apps
What are Top Messaging Apps for Indian Students?
Staying in touch via messaging apps is the easiest solution. Set proper times to talk and boundaries for a healthy insecurity-free conversation. Here are some top choices:
- WhatsApp: Widely used for text messaging, voice calls, and video chats.
- Telegram: Offers secure messaging and group chat features.
Signal: Known for its strong privacy features.
Video Calling Solutions
For more personal interactions, video calls are a great option, having risen in popularity in the last few years. Seeing your loved one’s face, even if not upfront – is truly comforting.
- Skype: Reliable for international video calls.
- Zoom: Popular for both personal and group video calls.
Google Duo: Simple and effective for high-quality video calls.
Can Social Media Platforms help?
Social media helps you stay updated with friends and family. Please note – don’t be discouraged or have the all-time worst FOMO (Fear of missing out).
We’ll all miss out on some important things (maybe a friend’s wedding or the death of a close one) but it’s all about what you decide to invest your time in.
- Facebook: Connect through posts, messages, and video calls.
- Instagram: Share photos and stories to keep loved ones updated.
Snapchat: Quick and fun way to share moments instantly
What are Some Creative Ways to Stay Connected?
Virtual Family Activities
Engage in activities that bridge the distance. These are especially helpful when addressing long absences from talking with your significant other or family. Trust me, a thoughtful act is all that it takes sometimes to keep any relationship going strong.
- Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party): Watch movies together and chat in real-time on streaming platforms like Netflix, Hotstar and Hulu.
- Virtual Cooking Sessions: Share recipes and cook together over a video call.
- Online games: Various multiplayer games are out there that help people keep in touch, like Chess, Ludo – or Clash of Clans, and League of Legends for the more hardcore gamers.
Sending Care Packages and Gifts
Sending thoughtful gifts can bridge the physical gap. Send them occasional flowers or gifts (maybe a watch to your father with your first part-time job salary?)
- Amazon: Convenient for sending a variety of gifts.
- Flipkart: Another great option for sending presents.
- International Courier Services: For personalized care packages.
Collaborative Online Projects
Work on projects together to stay engaged. This works quite well even for the friends you make on campus.
- Family Blogs: Share updates and stories collectively.
- Google Photos: Create shared photo albums.
Spotify: Make joint playlists for a shared music experience. There’s nothing more special than someone making a playlist for you!
How to Balance Studies and Relationships?
Time Management Tips
Balancing studies with maintaining relationships is essential. Sometimes, you just will not have time for both, and that’s fine.
We say you choose to study, as you have a whole life ahead to relax and spend time with family. But a little time management never hurt anyone. These apps really help with that.
- Google Calendar: The most straightforward yet probably the most effective time management tool. Take your time to learn it.
- Asana: Manage tasks in a simple interface
- Todoist: Keep track of assignments and reminders – in a more robust display
Setting Boundaries
It’s important to set boundaries to avoid distractions. It’s hard as is to secure a work permit in the US after graduation, and harder still if you didn’t use your college years to the fullest. Don’t get off the grind 😉
- Allocate specific times for study and communication.
- Ensure that your academic responsibilities are not compromised by frequent communication.
How to Build a Support System in the USA
Connecting with Fellow Indian Students
Building a support network in the USA is invaluable mental and spiritual support. However, don’t shy away from branching out either.
- Join Indian student associations like the Indian Student Association (ISA) at your university.
Finding Local Support Groups
Support groups can provide emotional and social support. Being stuck in your dorm all day and night might seem productive but isn’t without some fresh air from time to time.
- Use platforms like Meetup to find local groups.
- University counselling services can offer additional support.
- Join clubs that are rooted in your interests.
So in the end
How do we stay connected with our families & friends as international students?
Staying connected with family and friends while studying in the USA is crucial for emotional well-being.
We won’t be censoring the obvious here, being away from family for so long gives too much freedom to students sometimes. This exposes them to bullying and/or drugs. Staying in touch with family and friends helps overcome these very real mental pressures.
By managing your time effectively, you can maintain strong relationships with your loved ones. Embrace the cultural and emotional adjustments, and don’t forget to make the most of your time in the USA by forming new connections.
FAQ
Q1: How can I manage the time zone differences when communicating with my family?
- A1: Using time management apps like Google Calendar can help schedule regular catch-ups. Set specific times for video calls or messages to maintain a consistent communication schedule without disrupting your daily routine.
Q2: What are some effective video-calling solutions?
- A2: Skype, Zoom, and Google Duo are reliable video calling solutions. These platforms provide high-quality video calls and are popular for both personal and group interactions.
Q3: What are some creative ways to stay connected with my family?
- A3: Engage in virtual family activities such as watching movies together via Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party), cooking together over video calls, and playing online games like Ludo King and Chess. Sending care packages and gifts through services like Amazon and Flipkart can also help maintain a connection.
Q4: How can I balance my studies and relationships effectively?
- A4: Utilize time management tools like Google Calendar, Asana, and Todoist to organize your tasks and manage your study schedule. Setting clear boundaries for study and communication times ensures that academic responsibilities are not compromised.
Q5: How can I build a support system in the USA?
A5: Connect with fellow Indian students by joining Indian student associations like the Indian Student Association (ISA) at your university. Participate in local support groups through platforms like Meetup, and seek additional support from university counseling services and clubs that match your interests.
Abroad For Better Future is an amazing study abroad community for Indians.
We don’t ask MONEY for the information we provide. We aim to help other Indian students in fulfilling their study abroad dreams by providing the right info. If you are a prospective Indian student, you can join our cohorts (WhatsApp groups, it’s FREE) to get access to:
Fill up this form and we will let you know if you are abroad. And if you know anyone interested but confused about how to go abroad, kindly refer us. We would really appreciate your support.
In case you are in doubt about Can You Beat the High Cost of AP Exams?
Feel free to read this: Guide to Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad After 12th Grade
Hope your study abroad dreams get fulfilled and you stay connected with family for Indian students
