For parents, the mere thought of moving to the other side of the world (it doesn’t matter if it’s UK or USA, it’s the same for them) to study in a foreign country is a terrifying thought. Their first reaction when you tell them you’re thinking about taking a program abroad may not be positive. Instead of understanding the opportunities and benefits of studying, all they hear is that you will be wandering alone in an unknown place.
So what to do, how do you convince your parents to let you study abroad?
The first step is to give them more information about how much studying abroad means to your future. With the right approach, you can show them the benefits that will follow you for the rest of your life. This step can lead to academic success, improved career prospects, plus you’ll become more responsible and learn how to be more organized and down-to-earth.
Still haven’t convinced them? Here are 5 tips that can get your loved ones to support you on the journey of your life:
1. Document yourself
Prepare for the questions your parents will ask you. Find out as many details as possible about the program you have chosen, about the university and about the country in question. Talk to students or contact a Premium Edu advisor. Get good grades in school and study the language and culture of the country you want to go to. Your folks will be impressed, and you’ll be one step closer to going.
2. Look for financing options
Depending on the university and country you have chosen, there are several funding possibilities. In addition, international students can benefit from several global opportunities. Make a list of the options that apply to you (here we can also help you), apply for scholarships and try to save (an idea would be to get a summer job). Studying abroad can be expensive so it’s good to show your parents that you’re willing to find solutions.
3. Emphasize the benefits
Another important thing – convince your parents that, for you, studying abroad is not just about student parties and going to clubs without a time limit for returning home. The benefits of studying abroad don’t stop at nightlife. You go abroad to learn, study, experience and explore.
Studies show that young people who have been international students, who speak several languages, have work experience in an international environment or have done an internship abroad are preferred by employers from top companies.
An international education, even for a few months, can give you new, global perspectives in your field of study. When you are exposed to cutting-edge information, in an international environment, you have access to innovative ideas that could take you to a career level you may not have imagined before. In addition, as an international student you experience a different way of life, you mature faster and learn how to be independent.
Make sure your parents understand the benefits of studying abroad both educationally and socially and culturally. Tell them about the experiences of other students who have studied abroad and tell them about the huge impact an international program could have on your life!
4. Reassure them that you will talk regularly
Your parents are going to miss you! They must know that it will not be easy for you to be away from them either and that you will miss them just as much.
One of the benefits of studying abroad in today’s world is that there are multiple ways to stay connected no matter where you go. Make a plan for how to keep in touch, your parents need to know you’re okay, safe and well! And even plan a vacation together when they come to visit you.
5. Put yourself in their shoes
It is not enough to present them with a long list of the benefits of studying abroad and details of how you will manage on your own in a foreign country. You need to give them time to get used to the idea, get past their natural feelings of concern, and process the information you’ve presented. Be sensitive to their feelings and try to allay their fears with well-thought-out and documented responses.