5 tips to help international students transition to ASU

International student Li Cao offers some advice to incoming international students based on personal experience. Here are five tips that can help you make a successful transition to college life in the United States.

As a junior in the W. P. Carey School of Business, I want to give some advice to incoming international students based on my personal experiences. Here are five tips that can help you make a successful transition to college life in the United States.

1. Step out of your comfort zone.

Try to make friends from other countries. I know it’s difficult, but I know you can do it. Sometimes you feel like it is easier for you to make friends from your own country. But, trust me, it is also a lot of fun making friends from somewhere else. You will be able to learn different languages, different traditions, and maybe some day you will travel to that country on your own.

2. Actively participate in group projects.

As a business student, you will be asked to complete a lot of group projects for some core business classes. You may never do a project like that in your own country, and you may find it a little strange to work with others. Try to complete it one step at a time. If this is your first time doing group work, try to come up with at least some ideas that you can contribute to your group. Your group leader may give you a specific task to complete. If so, make sure to complete the task accurately and on time. Also listen to advice from the other members of your group, and ask them for help if you have questions.

3. Have a healthy lifestyle.

In my first year, I gained 15 pounds. Looking back and asking myself why I gained so much weight, I came to the conclusion that I did not exercise enough and I did not have a very healthy diet. Try to do exercises three times a week and keep track of what you eat. You will be shocked that you take in so many calories that you do not need.

4. Get involved on campus.

ASU provides a lot of opportunities for students to be involved on campus. You can find an on-campus job, take a leadership position, or join a student organization. There are also a lot of student clubs related to majors within the W. P. Carey School of Business, such as the Supply Chain Management Association and Financial Management Association. Learn more about business clubs and organizations.

5. Stay in touch with your family.

Studying in America is the biggest challenge for international students. You may be homesick and feel lonely sometimes. Contacting your family often is a good way to still keep a good relationship with your family members. In order to get rid of your homesickness, you can talk to your family about your life at ASU. I believe by doing this, you will not feel lonely anymore.

These are all important things that you can do to make your transition to ASU easier. I hope all of you will enjoy your lives at ASU and the W. P. Carey School of Business! Go Devils!