If your child is all set to pursue education abroad, it’s natural for you to worry about them. At the same time, you may want to make the transition to another country and culture easy for them. So, to help you navigate through the phase, we have put together a guide for parents for abroad studies for their child.
Hopefully, with some clarity, you will be able to stand tall beside your child as they spread their wings and make the world their oyster!
Why is studying abroad advantageous for your child?
Most 18-year-olds often find themselves googling ”how to convince parents to study abroad” because they are certain their parents wouldn’t allow it. They believe getting their parents to agree to their dreams would be a hassle.
As parents, we believe you wouldn’t want to strain your relationship with your kid. Hence, wouldn’t it be better if you were apprised of all the advantages of studying abroad?
A life-altering decision:
Imagine a child who has lived all their formative years with their parents, shielded from every adversity possible. That person likely lives in a safe bubble.
But as they say, nothing extraordinary happens in one’s comfort zone!
Studying abroad will open up avenues for your child that you wouldn’t even think were possible.
It would draw them out of their cocoon and put them in uncomfortable situations, testing their decision-making, willpower, and maturity. They will become whole individuals who would be responsible for their well-being.
Nothing teaches independence and self-reliability like living on your own overseas while pursuing your dream course.
Learning new cultures
The world is a fascinating place, with a variety of cultures, languages, and mindsets.
One of the most significant plus points of sending your child to study abroad is that they get a valuable chance to immerse themselves in a culture besides their own.
Functioning in a different environment, meeting people whose mother tongue differs from yours, witnessing various festivals and rituals, trying out new delicacies, enjoying never-heard-before music, and exploring local activities– all enrich the experiences.
Moreover, your child will also be able to share pieces of their own culture and experiences, allowing them to indulge themselves further.
Picking new language
The art of speaking a second language and having an in-depth understanding of another culture is something that many businesses find worthy.
Studying in a foreign country will allow your child a chance to learn a new language and gain a competitive edge in the ruthless job market.
On top of that, this experience will gift your kid precious memories and adventurous stories that will add to their character.
Global friendships
One of the significant rewards of pursuing higher education abroad is a chance to forge global bonds.
Your child will get to interact with a diverse group of people, making a life-long connection with them. This whole experience will facilitate their personal growth. Moreover, it will make it easier for them to establish their career outside their home country.
Money management
If the idea of your child building global connections and learning new cultures and life lessons isn’t enough, then money management will undoubtedly win you over.
When your child lives alone in a foreign country, they are naturally in charge of their expenditures. This will make them more mindful, ensuring they learn the savings basics.
Your kid wants to head outside their home country because of the growth opportunities abroad.
Because of globalization, the world has become more well-connected than ever. The modern business industries actively seek people with a broader understanding of the world.
Traits like quickly settling in with new people, appreciating opinions different than your own, and overcoming challenges of living alone far away are all considered during the hiring process.
Boost of confidence
Again, living alone teaches one the most!
Learning metro routes, interacting with people who don’t share your language, or trying out unconventional meals will make your child adaptable. When they return home, you will find them all confident and self-assured in their abilities to find a way out of their troubles.
It hones their hidden entrepreneurial and leadership skills!
Now that you are well-convinced of your child’s plan, let’s look at a quick guide for parents for abroad studies for their children.
In a time like this, when your child is contemplating studying abroad, it’s essential to sit with them and have a dialogue. Become their support system and help them make a smooth transition through this life-changing event.
Here are five things you can do to ensure your child truly enjoys this experience!
Understand your child’s viewpoint:
Sending your child to study at an international university is not easy.
But before arriving at that crossroad, it’s essential to sit with your young one and talk about the whole deal of studying abroad at great length. That said, keep in mind that kids do not always know how to convince parents to study abroad. So, brainstorm together if you must.
Ask them questions to ascertain if your child is truly serious about this or not. Address the following significant questions:
Why is your child so keen to study abroad?
What course of study or program are they looking to pursue?
Which country, besides your own, can offer the best education in the chosen field?
Is this whole studying abroad situation financially viable?
Before you start counseling your child, do your independent research as well.
You need to be clear about their goals and dreams and understand what they are aiming for in life. If you believe that you and your child are at an impasse, you can always consult a career counselor.
Elaborate on the behind-the-scenes
Movies and TV shows often depict studying abroad experiences inaccurately. However, enrolling in a university abroad is not just about experiencing a new culture, observing beautiful architecture, or partying every weekend. It’s about finding side hustles to gain extra money. It’s about coming home tired and cooking dinner for yourself. It’s also about tending to yourself when you fall sick.
These are all real situations that your ward should have clarity about.
As a parent, you must make them come to terms with the possibilities of facing difficult situations. Prepare them for the same, and encourage them to take it head-on.
Ensure medical safety
Health is of utmost importance. So, before you send your child flying abroad, get them a complete general physical exam, a dental test, and even an appointment with a mental health professional.
Double-check all the crucial vaccinations and boosters. All kinds of safety precautions are necessary.
Determine the expenses
As said before, the whole studying abroad experience requires a whole lot of money. You cannot simply consider the tuition fee and forget about the rest.
To make a well-informed decision, consider all costs – from accommodation and food to travel and health insurance.
Offer emotional support
Lastly, do not forget to emotionally support and guide your child through this transformative experience. They will require your assistance, affection, and consistent contact more than ever.
Make the best of video calls and instant messaging. Most of all, stay strong for your child!
Parting Words
Regardless of how difficult it is to part with your child, understand that studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for them. It will help them grow into the kind of people they want to be, push the boundaries of their comfort and learn essential life lessons.
They will appreciate your continued support and nurturing through this grind.
Bulbul is a self-driven professional and an expert writer & editor. She has been a part of the ed-tech industry for the past 2 years now and is motivated to provide study abroad aspirants with factually correct and relevant information. Her knack for impactful writing makes her blogs worth a read!
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