Stepping into university away from home as an international student, especially for the first time, can be a thrilling adventure, but it also comes with challenges. It can be easy to lose track of your wellbeing while adjusting to a new culture, hectic university schedules, and navigating processes like visas, banks, and accommodation for the first time. 

Building a support network

Try to connect and stay in contact with as many international students as possible who might be facing the same challenges as you. Queen’s offers many international student orientation opportunities on campus, online, and at Queen's Accommodation to help transition as smoothly as possible. Explore cultural societies from your home country or larger groups like the International Student Society.

A considerable part of your social support network that will be a constant is your friends and family back home. Regardless of time differences and distances, they will always be there for you, so keep them updated on your achievements, challenges, and discoveries in Belfast!

^{Build a support network through clubs, societies and accommodation events}

Time management, academics, staying organised

A lot of psychological stress at university comes with increased academic pressure. 

Staying organised with coursework, appointments, and extracurriculars will help you feel more comfortable in the university environment. Keep on top of your timetables, and include time off for yourself, your hobbies, and social interactions through apps like Google Calendar, Notion, Canvas, etc.… It is normal to feel out of your depth academically for the first few weeks while you get settled in; however, keeping organised to maintain stress will become second nature to you.

Physical wellbeing

Keeping physically healthy will directly influence your mood, wellbeing, and performance at university. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule and explore options for food and cooking early on to keep a healthy diet. Use the Queen’s facilities like the PEC and accommodation gyms to continue any exercise schedules and join Queen's sports teams (there's a sport for everyone!).

^{Queen's PEC}

Spiritual and mental wellbeing  

For many, a large part of wellbeing comes from spiritual practices, whether yoga, meditation, affirmations, or religion. Being away from home and your native countries does not mean giving these up – take time out of your day and week to practice mindfulness in the ways that suit you best. Explore and access the diverse cultural and religious centres in and around Belfast to continue your spiritual practices. 

^{Student Disability and Wellbeing Services at Queen's}

Social Immersion

Moving to a new country alone for the first time can often lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness; during this time, the people around you will help you the most. Immerse yourself within social groups whenever you can, especially during your first year, through clubs, societies, sports teams, accommodation common rooms, and even lecture halls. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple "Hi" in class to find your closest friends at university!

Exploring

Explore the city of Belfast and nearby towns to familiarise yourself with the country's people, culture, and history. Use time off and weekends to discover new cafes, restaurants, and recreational centres to boost your mood. Finding your way around these new places will help ease you into the environment and reduce the culture shock, too!

^{Get out and explore the city!}

Self-care

Self-care has unique definitions for everyone, whether through hobbies like reading, art, music, sports, or time in social settings. Keep hold of your definition of self-care and actively practise it throughout your first year. Losing track of your time while adjusting is normal; remind yourself to take time off to do the simple things you truly enjoy, which helps relieve stress.

READ MORE: How to Practice Self-care on a Budget

Reaching Out

The first year in a new city away from home is ultimately a challenge, and sometimes, we all need a little extra support to get through. Remember that it is completely normal to ask for help if you are struggling through student services, counselling, the students' union, your tutors, or pastoral support. Reach out to these lovely teams via email, appointments, or phone calls to address your concerns.

As you enter your first year settling into university life in Belfast, remember that your mental health and wellbeing are just as important as your academic success. Take the time you need to adjust to the new environment and stressors while forgiving yourself, as navigating your holistic health is a process of trial and error and active mindfulness with its hurdles. 

Find out more

World Mental Health Day - 10th October 2023

Queen's Student Wellbeing Service

More blogs about wellbeing and mental health

Hiya Grover MB BCh BAO Medicine | Undergraduate Student | Dubai, UAE & India I'm an undergraduate medical student at Queen's, originally from India; however, I've lived in Dubai, UAE, for the past 15 years. I am part of a few medical societies, namely Scrubs surgical society, SWOT, and QUB Cardiology society. Alongside these academic endeavours, I'm a committee member for the French society and thoroughly enjoy reading, horse riding, and volunteering in the community whenever I can! My journey to Queen's was a learning curve and a hugely gratifying experience; I hope to help aspiring applicants find their footing in this wonderful new environment.