For some, a new academic year means a return to familiar classrooms and routines. For others, it is the start of something entirely new - perhaps a new role or school. For others, it may even mean a new country.
That is an exciting moment but moving internationally also comes with plenty of questions and perhaps a bit of trepidation. While that is perfectly normal, there are things you can do to make your new start that bit easier.
1. Take advantage of group knowledge
Starting a new school is challenging on its own - add to that a long-haul flight and navigating a new city, and it can feel overwhelming.
Usually, HR teams will assist with essentials like moving you into your accommodation, setting up a phone, a bank account and accessing healthcare, but there are always plenty of unknown elements to moving, too.
This is why most international schools will create WhatsApp groups or other similar platforms to connect current and incoming staff. As such, it’s worth joining to be able to ask questions - or simply see what others ask.
I’ve seen everything from “Where can I buy an iron?” and “How do I get to school from [my house]?” to “Are there any Dudgeons and Dragons groups I can join?” There is no such thing as a silly question when you move internationally.
2. Pack and prepare
Not everything you’re used to will be available in your new country. I remember moving to Italy and discovering how expensive paracetamol was. Now, in Hanoi, vegetable stock can be tricky to find.
Asking current staff or doing some reading online ahead of time can help you find this out before your arrival and help you prepare accordingly.
It may seem silly putting a tin of baked beans into your suitcase, but those home comforts can be vital during dark and cold November evenings when the adrenaline of arrival has subsided.
3. Look up key apps
It’s a digital world now and so having popular apps installed for a country you are going to can help.
For example, Grab is a must for transport and food delivery in Vietnam, while Lazada and Shopee make getting household essentials much easier. Other countries may have other must-use apps.
Having these set up before you land is another small way to make your arrival that bit easier.
4. Socialise - but at your own pace
It can be daunting to arrive somewhere and not know anyone, but schools will usually organise plenty of social events to help you settle in and bond with new colleagues. These can be very helpful for meeting new people and feeling a bit more settled.
That said, you also don’t need to attend every event. If you’re more introverted or prefer smaller groups, give yourself permission to pace yourself, as it can feel socially overwhelming to start with for some. Trust that friendships will form over time.
5. Find connections outside school
It is equally important to build a life outside of school. Facebook is a fantastic tool, with each country having a group for foreigners that details trusted restaurants, hairdressers, dentists and more.
They also list activities available in the area, from book clubs to informal coffee mornings and crafting workshops.
These communities away from school can make a huge difference when you’re far from your family and friends at home and need a break from the work environment and your new colleagues.
6. Embrace the culture
Moving abroad isn’t the same as going on holiday. Reality sets in quickly, and it’s easy to start comparing your new country with your home country or the one you just left - especially if things are not as simple at first.
But try to embrace your new reality and learn as much as you can about the place you have chosen: it may be the beauty of the architecture, amazing food, sandy beaches or the chaos of city life. Find out what makes your new country special and revel in it.
Having an open mind to new places, new experiences and new ways of doing things will help you to make the most of your experience.
7. Learn some of the language
Linked to this, try learning a bit of the local language to immerse yourself even further. My Vietnamese is far from perfect, but greeting our security guards each morning - even with my poor pronunciation - always brings a smile.
Simple phrases like “hello”, “goodbye” and “thank you” go a long way. Some schools even offer language classes, so take advantage of those if you can.
8. Expect highs and lows
There will be many moments of joy - and definitely a few tears - as you adjust to a new job, country and life. That’s OK. We’ve all been there, and it will get easier. What feels strange will soon feel familiar.
The journey may be bumpy, but it’s rich with growth, adventure and unforgettable moments. Good luck!
Freya Odell is head of IB at Brighton College Vietnam
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