Adapting to a new environment

We conducted an orientation programme yesterday and the day before for a fun group of 16 year old international students ready to start their education in Singapore. Needless to say, there were lots of interesting questions posed by the students with regards to exam stress, the general lifestyle in Singapore, the transportation system and just general coping with the change of environment. The programme:
- A trip around Singapore to get great ideas of things to see and useful bargains for students. They visited places such as Orchard Road, Raffles Place, The Esplanade and Little India.
- A social etiquette workshop
- A stress management workshop
- An effective communication skills workshop
- Teambonding games

Here's some feedback from the participants:

‘It’s really eye-opening, very friendly Trainers.’

Liew Ling Tchii

‘Good programme overall. It helps us scholars to adapt amazingly fast and make friends too.’
Anonymous

‘Wonderful. Just about covered everything to make us prepared for a new life in Singapore. Brilliant.’
Agrim Singh

We are proud and honoured to receive wonderful feedback from our participants and we are glad that they have learnt invaluable lessons that would prepare themselves for a great career and life.

For students who are thinking of studying in a foreign country(and maybe even living there after completing your studies), here are some simple tips on coping with a change environment. As they say, we live in a world where change is the only constant, so learning how to adapt is key in making sure that you lead and enjoyable and fulfilling life in the new country/environment.

Here are some pointers:

- Read up about the country and its culture before arriving. This way the country and its people seem more familiar when you arrive. Know the major festivals, religions and general information(eg transportation, education, food, accommodation etc).

- Be open-minded. Travel to that country/environment with an enthusiastic mindset. Have something about that lace that you have always wanted to know/see/learn about. By lookingforward to something, it would take your mind away from any stress of adapting to the new place.

- Develop a support network upon arriving. One of the hardest things about being abroad is that you are separated from the network of support you have developed over many years. Such closeness cannot be instantly replaced. Nonetheless, you should make an effort to meet people so that new friendships can develop. Join your school's international students' club or community club. Volunteer on weekends at your favourite type of charity/organization. The key is to try to make as many close friends as possible.

- Try not to be judgmental. While it is natural to feel surprised at other culture's norms/behaviour,  It is important to avoid labeling everything in the as good or bad in comparison with your own culture. Try to assess and understand others' opinions before making a judgement. Put yourself in their shoes. Imagine what these people might think about your unique culture/practices. While you might never get used to certain behaviours, the least that you can do is respect it, just like how you would like others to respect you.

- Enjoy as much as possible. Ok, but do whatever you were here to do first(eg, study, work) but you must spend time doing things that you enjoy as well. Smile and make your days fun and interesting!