COVID has spread and cause lots of tragedy in the US and around the world for almost a year. While the situation is difficult for everyone, things are particularly serious for international students who are studying abroad and far away from their families. The pressure not only coming from the living landscape but also from the study landscape was already challenging before the pandemic. COVID has drastically changed the educational landscape for millions of university students around the world, and international students have their own set of unique concerns stemming from this change.

 

With all this in mind, there are few tips we can share to help international students stay happy and healthy.

 

[Image Description: A diverse group of your students working on a science experiment together.]

Pictured: Our team of experts has lab tested these tips for you  

 

Be Your Own Advocate

There have been several xenophobic and racist incidents in the US and around the world during COVID-19. Universities will hold some seminars for international students to share their experience with COVID-19 intolerance or discrimination. If time is available, try to join those seminars, get the right information about resources for students on campus or anywhere else you can find help when you might need it. Additionally, do not be afraid to speak out about any needs you have or any xenophobia you are suffering.

 

Connect with others

Scientists have found that isolation is damaging not only to our mental health but to our physical health as well. Yes, that includes our immune systems too! Due to the COVID-19, it is difficult for people to hang out with their friends. It is also a barrier in the way of international students going back to their hometowns. Thankfully, technology allows us to easily connect with friends and families. Creating a schedule to meet with your family, join some coffee socials like the ones hosted by the Graduate Student Resource Center, and sticking to attending these scheduled gatherings can help you and your family adjust to your school and living environment.

 

[Image Description: A group of students and family celebrating together over Zoom.]

Pictured: You too can get in on this kind of socially distanced celebration

Stay Up To Date But Listen To The Experts

International students worry about things such as visas and graduation status. Those policies change from time to time but there is a lot of inaccurate news on these topics all over the internet. The government may release a detailed new rule about the how opportunities for international students to obtain their optional practical training (OPT) will become harder to obtain or may even be canceled. Or, you may have heard that the US border will be closed for international students coming from a list of specific countries. Before making any big decisions, please seek out knowledge from those who know the most about the situation and listen to them, be sure to know that the information you are getting is from reputable sources. It is important to stay up to date with current policies or rules, but please try to avoid watching, listening, or reading the news 24 hours. Do not just rely on social media.

[Image Description: A woman stirs her tea while squinting suspiciously out at the viewer.]

Pictured: How you will react to information that you can't verify by experts 

Take Care Of Your Body And Physical Health

If you can go outside and be in nature at a safe distance from others (6 feet!) - then do it! Enjoy some sunshine and jogging. If not, try to do some exercise at home. Break up your day to leave some personal relaxation time for yourself. After work, trying to make a healthy and delicious dinner for yourself. A delicious dish always makes people happy.