If you get the opportunity to study abroad or work abroad, it’s best to be prepared for that transition. Each transition brings with it excitement and anxiety. That’s part of the human experience.
Going from Nepal to somewhere abroad, there are many things an individual can do to be prepared and start with a solid foundation once reaching the destination. Here are a few things to pick up/hone/learn/experience while in Nepal (in no particular order) based on my experience and knowledge:
Language: One of the biggest things to adjust to when going abroad is the local language. One should be comfortable speaking in the local language to easily navigate around the area or go about his/her day. Taking even a basic level language course while in Nepal would prove to be extremely helpful later on.
Culture and traditions: From the web, one can easily find details on the local culture and traditions of the place you will be studying or working in. It’s important to understand and be aware of local cultural nuances and avoid chances of miscommunication, ignorance, or aloofness. Anyone going abroad from Nepal should research and learn the basics about the culture they are about to be a part of.
Driving: Although not as much a priority as other things when going abroad, having some driving experience can help you get a driver’s license or even a learner’s permit. As the person starts to settle in and become familiar with the environment abroad, he/she can look to get a car or a bike. Taking up driving classes once abroad can be expensive, time consuming or even a hassle. Getting some driving experience while in Nepal can be cheaper and easily manageable than abroad.
Cost of living: A major part to really understand and research is the cost of living of the area to which you are going to. Cost of living will directly impact your life on a daily basis so becoming familiar and prepared on how to manage it is critical. A little research on the web can make you ready for what’s about to come.
Internships/Jobs: An important topic to become familiar is the way to get a job/access to loans (if needed) while abroad. Again this is about researching what are the possibilities of finding an internship/part-time job/full time job, hours allowed to work per week and so forth. Understanding the details of job placement opportunities and working towards what is possible will make you a step ahead of other international students/expatriates. Plus, access to loans can be a bit tricky when abroad so learning about them beforehand will save you time, money and hassle later on.
