For students who are moving abroad for school, it can be a scary experience. As someone who grew up in Hong Kong and has been studying in Britain for the past two years, I know it can be intimidating.
So, here are a few of my suggestions to help you prepare for the year ahead.
What to buy before you go
If you are a picky person and prefer specific brands for your everyday essentials, you can search the websites of UK stores to see if they will have what you need.
Boots and Superdrug are common drugstores in Britain. Before you leave Hong Kong, check their websites to see if they sell the items you prefer.
But some products are harder to find in the United Kingdom. For example, the UK doesn’t offer as many options for period pads as Hong Kong does, so I usually put a few packs in my suitcase.
Skincare products are more expensive in Britain, so it’s a smart move to bring them from Hong Kong. Handheld electric fans and hand warmers are not common in the UK, and you may need them to deal with the summer heat and winter cold.
If you are worried about feeling homesick, you can bring along your favourite snacks from Hong Kong. But first, check online Chinese supermarkets like Oriental Mart and WaNaHong, to see what you can buy in the UK. Prices do run higher, so you should watch your budget when shopping.
Chain supermarkets like Sainsbury’s or Tesco usually have an aisle where you can find a limited selection of Asian seasonings and snacks.
Don’t overpack
On the other hand, many people make the mistake of packing too many clothes. You will probably end up doing some shopping once you settle down, so try to only bring basics and your favourite pieces.
When the temperature drops in winter, radiators provide enough heat when you’re indoors.
If you step outside, you only need a warm down jacket with thinner layers underneath. Thermal underwear like Uniqlo’s Heattech is a lifesaver during the colder months.
Tips for living on your own
Whether you’re going to boarding school or university, it will be very different to living at home. It is most important to stay organised when you’re living on your own. You’ll need to do mundane chores, like cleaning the laundry and cooking meals, while also managing your schoolwork.
Chores take up more time than you expect, so make time for them when planning your schedule.
Even if you occasionally treat yourself to a taste of home at a restaurant, it’s not affordable to eat out all the time. You can learn how to make your comfort dishes. But for busier days, you can stock up on microwaveable meals from supermarkets.
If you do not know how to do these chores yet, it is a good idea to pick up these skills before you leave.
Though you might be far away from your family, it does not mean you have to be alone. You can call home to keep in touch with loved ones there. But also take time to organise activities with new friends and build your new community. Film nights are a great way to get together, and even simple activities like grocery shopping can become bonding time.
Even if it seems fun to live with your friends, it can also come with a lot of stress. Living in boarding houses or dorms means you are always in school, and it can feel like your world revolves around studying.
To maintain a work-life balance, remind yourself there is a world beyond school. Go off campus for a day when you can – even going out for a meal can make a difference for your mental well-being.
Getting used to the culture shock
When moving to the UK from Hong Kong, many people experience culture shock with the pace of living. You might find that Britain has fewer forms of entertainment and that public transport is not as convenient.
Give yourself plenty of time to adjust to the new environment and find a routine that helps you feel calm.
Another tip for dealing with culture shock is to focus on the positives. So many people get frustrated with what they don’t like about a different culture and end up not enjoying their time abroad. Instead, take note of what makes you happy and savour your time there.
It’s hard to completely avoid homesickness, so bring a few items to make your new place feel cosier. You can also look for groups with people who have a similar cultural background as you do. But also remember to broaden your social circle and befriend people of all backgrounds.
Moving abroad is all about new experiences. Don’t shy away from new people or things outside your comfort zone. Instead, choose to embrace the unknown and make it your chance to grow.
