Leaving home for university can be an exciting phase in a young person’s life, but it can also be one of the most difficult.
This is likely the first time students have left the comfort and safety of their home to live apart from family and friends. When it comes to living in another country like Portugal, this can be even more worrying. Even so, once you know how to find the perfect student accommodation and feel at home, there are some easy ways to make your transition smooth. Here are a few tips!
Look for communal accommodation for students
One of the biggest challenges when studying in Portugal is the fact that culturally everything will be so different than at home. Why not find upscale, multicultural accommodation so that you live in a community where almost everyone is from a different country?
Student accommodation in Portugal can be less intimidating when you find residences like the ones offered by college. With a variety of on-site amenities like community cinemas, gyms, restaurants, and public areas, you’ll soon meet new friends who share many of the same feelings and fears as you! Don’t forget that there is also location-wide WiFi so you can keep in touch with family and friends at home at all times.
Make your room your own
Student advisors point out that it is important to bring a touch of home with you when studying abroad. Keep pictures of family members and friends around the room, and maybe bring some decorative details from your room.
Everything from your favorite bed linen to decorative items that are special to you and that make you feel at home. The earlier you can “own” your living space, the faster it will feel at home.
Don’t wait to be on your way
Some students are naturally extroverted while others are less comfortable with new people in new environments. If you’re one of the latter, don’t wait to be on your way.
Accommodation like the one at the Collegiate makes it easy for you to meet new friends. These common areas are great starting points. They also offer a monthly wellness box with priceless support and information that you should take advantage of.
Remember, you are not alone, and whether they admit it or not, most first-time students living abroad have experiences the same exact fears You have to do it now.
What so many overseas students say about university life abroad is that it feels more like home when you live in off-campus student accommodations, but close enough for easy access. They find that student condominium living is more conducive to a smooth transition than dormitory living could ever offer.
Are you looking for the perfect student accommodation in Portugal and do you feel at home? Make your room like home and Don’t wait to meet new friends. Social life is what you might miss the most. So get the ball rolling and you’ll be home before you know it.