Surviving Life as an International Student: A Journey of Challenges and Growth 🌍✈️ The experience of being an international student is not just studying abroad; it means living in a whole new world. 🌈🔍 Everything was new, starting from the moment I arrived. The accent, the culture, the academic system- it all felt so overwhelming. The bureaucratic processes, such as visas, bank accounts, and housing, were incredibly stressful. Some days, I felt completely alienated, missing the comfort of my home, struggling to understand the local way of life, and battling homesickness. 🏠💔 The academic pressure was intense. Different teaching styles and academic expectations, coupled with performance pressure while fitting into a new educational system, tested my resilience day in and day out. Learning to balance coursework, part-time work, and personal life felt like a constant uphill battle. At one point, I am pretty sure I had zero social life. And mental health? It was a constant struggle to keep it in check. But through these challenges, I discovered my strength. I became a master at juggling roles- from student to chef, from researcher to cleaner, and a savvy financial manager navigating budgets and expenses in a foreign country. Turns out, I can handle anything life throws my way! 💪 To my family, living thousands of miles away- Varshini Sathyamurthy and Dr. Sathyamurthy Balasubramanian- your love and support kept me going. The late-night calls, words of encouragement, and your unwavering belief in me were my lifeline. ❤️ To my friends back home and the wonderful ones I've found here- Mahesh Adhikari, Bipin Sahu, Anunaya Narayan, Saketa Yasasvi Varada, Hanu Avula, Nisitaa Karen Clement Pradeep, Toshna Rane, Xinye Wang, Nusaba Kazi, Rithu Maria Jose, Shantanu Hedaoo, Nikhil David, Rachel David, Milan Tharaka, Amrutha, Abdul Basith - Thank you for being my support system, my laughter, and my anchor when the waters were rough. 🤝 It has not just been an educational journey but a huge transformation. 🚀 #InternationalStudent #StudentLife #PersonalGrowth #Resilience #UniversityOfSouthampton #StudyAbroad
Thank you for sharing your journey as an international student Srinidhi Sathyamurthy. It's inspiring to see how you overcame the challenges and grew stronger through the experience. Your ability to adapt to a new culture and academic system is a valuable skill that will serve you well in your future endeavors. As i have been interacting and supporting day in day out with your progress and well being, I can relate to the struggles you faced, but I also agree that it's a transformative experience that helps you grow personally and professionally. Keep up the great work, and our support is always there with you in each and every step of yours. We are parted by distance but our thinking is always about you and your future/wellbeing. I am sure your experiences have polished your skills to succeed in your endeavours.
It has been wonderful getting to know you and observing your personal growth over the past year, Srinidhi! The international student journey can test you and you should be proud of the way you crossed all the hurdles life threw at you. Wish you all the very best for all your upcoming endeavours! ✨
The international student journey is truly a unique adventure, and having you as part of mine made it all the more special! I'm so proud of all you’ve accomplished, and it’s been amazing to share this experience with you. Here’s to even greater milestones and memories ahead! 😊🚀
It was wonderful to witness your growth this year, Srinidhi. Keeping the core that you learnt from home intact while upskilling in a foreign situation is critical and you’ve done so. Proud of you! Keep at it!
So proud of everything you've been able to accomplish Sri! Best of luck for what's yet to come!
Forever going to be there for you!! So proud of you always! Fills my heart to see you grow stronger and stronger everyday!!🥹💙
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1moYour journey as an international student has been nothing short of extraordinary. Watching you navigate the ups and downs with such determination has been truly inspiring. From the long nights of study and work to the moments of homesickness, you’ve turned every challenge into a stepping stone. It’s been such a privilege to stand by you, share laughter, and build memories that we’ll cherish forever. You’ve grown into a person who can handle anything life throws your way, and I couldn’t be prouder to call you a friend. Here’s to all the adventures yet to come! 🌟💙 Srinidhi Sathyamurthy