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Growing up in a third-world country, I never imagined that there existed a world beyond what I knew. But when I discovered the possibility of leaving and traveling to another country, I became filled with ambition and envisioned the best possible version of my life. So, I took the biggest leap of faith and moved to America, the land of opportunity.
The transition was not easy. I went from having friends, a community to serve, and parents to rely on to being alone and having no one to trust. The first year was a struggle, but with perseverance and determination, I eventually learned how to survive and adapt to the changes.
Here are some tips to adapt to your new environment:
- Make an effort to familiarize yourself with the area in which you live.
Discovering the ins and outs of your local area is a smart move that can bring numerous benefits. Get to know your neighborhood better by exploring the surroundings, meeting new people, and finding out about local events like sunset markets, game nights, etc. This will not only help you feel more connected to your community, but it can also make your daily routine more enjoyable and convenient. So, take the time to learn about the area where you reside and unlock all the hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered!
Klook.com2. Find a community to serve.
Discovering a community that could benefit from your service can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Why not take the time to find a cause that resonates with you and lend your skills to make a positive impact.
- Volunteer programs (https://www.volunteer.gov/s/)
- Local churches
- Food banks
- Run/Walk for a cause
3. Expect that everything will be different.
When I first moved to the US, it was quite a shock to my system. All I knew about the country was what my relatives had told me, and I was excited to come here because everyone seemed to want to. However, moving to a new country can be challenging and it’s important to remember that change is inevitable. You can thrive in any situation with the right attitude and a willingness to adapt. Don’t let the fear of the unknown keep you from chasing your dreams. Instead, view it as an opportunity to grow and learn new things.
For instance, in the Philippines, you can go anywhere using the public transportation system. However, in the US, there were only scheduled buses and trains to go anywhere if you didn’t have a vehicle. It’s necessary to have a car in this country. Without it, it can take hours just to be somewhere since you have to wait for transportation. So, when you learn how to drive and buy your vehicle, you don’t have to rely on other people to take you anywhere or wait for scheduled transportation.
4. Learn the commonly language of the country.
Moving to a new country can be an exciting and life-changing experience. However, it can also be challenging, especially if you don’t know the language spoken in that country. In such cases, learning the local language becomes crucial for effective communication and integration into the new community.
Learning a new language can seem intimidating at first, but there are many resources available to make the process easier and more enjoyable. One such resource is the language learning app Duolingo (https://www.duolingo.com/), which is free and user-friendly. Additionally, you can also consider hiring a language tutor or translator (e.g., https://translate.google.com/) to receive personalized instruction and feedback.
Reading books and watching shows/movies in the target language can also be helpful in improving your language skills. This way, you can familiarize yourself with the language’s grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation while also immersing yourself in the culture.
Overall, learning a new language is a worthwhile investment that can enhance your personal and professional growth while also allowing you to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
5. Do not shy away from communicating with people.
It is normal to feel isolated from people during the first few months of arriving in a new country. As you get accustomed to your new environment, you will observe how people interact with each other and the cultural norms. However, don’t stay in your comfort zone for too long, as it can hinder your growth and learning opportunities. Therefore, try to find people who are willing to help you navigate your new surroundings and be grateful for their support.
When I first moved to the United States, I was quite shy and lacked the confidence to speak up and share my opinions. My inability to communicate effectively negatively impacted my decision-making and the opportunities available to me. I also allowed situations to occur in my life that should not have happened. I had lost my voice, which negatively impacted my credibility. Therefore, I urge you to speak up, assert yourself, and know your rights. Don’t hesitate to communicate your needs and experiences, as your opinions and perspectives matter. Remember why you moved and stick to the plans you created for yourself.
6. Explore the country.
Once you have become familiar with your new surroundings and feel confident in navigating them, it is time to explore other places, cities, and states within the country. Even if you are a minor, you can still get the chance to visit many tourist attractions with the help of your parents, especially if you find yourself in California. From the iconic Hollywood Sign to the glamorous Beverly Hills and the magical Disneyland, Northern California has a lot to offer.
I remember when I first moved here as a minor, my dad took me to Big Bear Mountain. As we made our way up the winding roads, I was struck by the picturesque views of the mountains and trees. When we reached the top, I was amazed by the snow and the cold weather. It was my first-time experiencing winter in 18 years, and it was truly an unforgettable moment. The snowflakes were soft to the touch, and the air was crisp and refreshing. It was like stepping into a winter wonderland. These are the kind of memories that stay with you forever.
To this day, I make it a point to see the mountains at least once a year. The freedom of being stress-free and feeling like a kid again is something that I cherish. The mountains offer a sense of serenity and peace that is hard to find in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Klook.com7. Stay in touch with your hometown.
Moving to a new country can be a challenging experience, especially if you are alone. However, it’s essential to remember how far you have come, your goals, and the reasons you decided to make this move. Expect to feel homesick at times, but bring along something that reminds you of home and gives you comfort when you need it.
When I moved to the States, I brought with me a few things that reminded me of home, including my stuffed toys, favorite snacks, and contact information of my friends and family. Though I didn’t feel homesick until a year later, I coped with my struggles by staying focused on my goals and following the seven ways of adapting to a new country.
It’s a journey, and it can be challenging, but don’t forget where you came from, what you have accomplished, and who you are in the process of adapting to change. Remember that you are capable of overcoming anything that comes your way.
I found these steps to be very helpful in adjusting to my new environment, and they were easy to follow. However, it’s important to note that everyone’s situation is unique, so these steps may not work for everyone. Nevertheless, they can provide a good starting point for those facing an unfamiliar place. I hope these tips can help you adapt to your new surroundings, and don’t forget to enjoy the journey towards your goals.