scholarships

How to Make Friends and Network as an International Student: A Guide for Socializing and Building Relationships

Michael Nzeribe2 Comments

When you study in another country, you can learn many new things. You can see a new culture, speak a new language, and have new experiences. But you also have to deal with some hard things. You must get used to a different place, miss your home, and find your way in a new community.

One of the most important things to do when you study abroad is to make friends and network. Having good friends and connections can help you with many things. You can feel less stressed, do better in school, and have more chances for your future. But how do you make friends and network as an international student? How do you talk to people who are different from you?

In this article, I will tell you some tips and ways that I learned from my own experience as an international student. I will help you make friends and network with people who have different backgrounds, likes, and goals. I will also show you how to use some words and phrases that can make your talk more fun and interesting.

Tip 1: Be open-minded and curious

The first thing to do to make friends and network as an international student is to be open-minded and curious. This means you want to learn from others, respect their ideas, and like their differences. It also means you want to know their stories, cultures, and views.

Being open-minded and curious can help you start a talk with anyone. You can ask questions, tell your stories, and find things you have in common. For example, you can ask someone:

  • Where are you from and what do you study?
  • How do you feel about living and studying here?
  • What do you like to do when you have free time?
  • What are some of the hard things that you have as a student?
  • What are some of the things that you want to do in the future?

You can also use some words and phrases that can make your questions more fun and natural. These words and phrases have a meaning that is different from what they say. For example, you can say:

  • How do you deal with the culture shock? (meaning: how do you handle the feeling of being confused and worried when you see a different culture)
  • What are some of the rules and habits in your culture? (meaning: what are some of the things that you should do or not do in your culture)
  • How do you manage your time and choices between school and personal life? (meaning: how do you decide what to do and when to do it for your school and your personal life)

Tip 2: Be proactive and outgoing

The second thing to do to make friends and network as an international student is to be proactive and outgoing. This means you want to talk to others, join groups and events, and do things with others. It also means you are confident, friendly, and happy.

Being proactive and outgoing can help you meet more people and find people who like the same things as you. You can join groups and events about your hobbies, passions, or goals. For example, you can join:

  • A team or a class for sports or fitness
  • A group or a class for music or dance
  • A club or a group for language or culture
  • A group or an event for helping others or making a difference
  • A group or an event for your career or your future

You can also use some words and phrases to make your talk more catchy and easy to remember. These words and phrases use a part of something to mean the whole thing or vice versa. For example, you can say:

  • I’m a bookworm. (meaning: I love reading books)
  • I’m a night owl. (meaning: I stay up late at night)
  • I’m a foodie. (meaning: I like trying different foods)

Tip 3: Be supportive and respectful

The third thing to do to make friends and network as an international student is to be supportive and respectful. This means you want to help, listen to, and understand others. It also means you are nice, honest, and reliable.

Being supportive and respectful can help you build lasting relationships with others. You can show your support and respect by:

  • Listening to others and giving them feedback
  • Helping and advising them when they need it
  • Being happy for their success and achievements
  • Being there for them when they are sad or worried
  • Saying sorry when you make a mistake or hurt their feelings
  • Doing what you say and keeping your promises

You can also use some words and phrases that can make your talk more sincere and warm. These words and phrases compare two things that are not the same but have something in common. For example, you can say:

  • You are a ray of sunshine. (meaning: you are happy and make my day better)
  • You are a breath of fresh air. (meaning: you are new and different from others)
  • You are a diamond in the rough. (meaning: you have great skills and value)

Conclusion

Making friends and networking as an international student can be a good and fun thing to do. It can help you grow as a person, learn new things, and reach your goals. By following these tips and ways, you can make friends and network with people from all kinds of life. You can also use some words and phrases to make your talk more fun and interesting. Remember, the world is your oyster. (meaning: you have many chances and choices) So go ahead and enjoy it!

How to Write a Scholarship Application Letter that Showcases Your Personality and Interest

Liam JonesLeave a comment

A scholarship application letter is a document that you can use to apply for academic funding from an organization, individual or institution. It is an opportunity to demonstrate why you are a deserving and suitable candidate for the scholarship and how it can help you achieve your personal and professional goals.

Writing a scholarship application letter can be challenging, especially if you want to stand out from the crowd and showcase your personality and interest. However, with some tips and guidance, you can craft a compelling and effective letter that will impress the scholarship committee and increase your chances of getting the award.

In this article, we will provide you with some steps and examples on how to write a scholarship application letter that showcases your personality and interest. We will cover the following topics:

  • How to format and structure your letter
  • How to write an interesting and memorable introduction
  • How to state your purpose and goals
  • How to highlight your achievements and skills
  • How to express your enthusiasm and interest
  • How to request an interview and conclude your letter

How to Format and Structure Your Letter

Before you start writing your letter, you should review the requirements and guidelines of the scholarship program and follow them carefully. Some scholarships may have specific instructions on how to format and structure your letter, such as the length, font, margin, spacing and alignment. You should also check if you need to include any additional documents, such as your resume, transcript, recommendation letters or essays.

Generally, a scholarship application letter should follow a formal and professional tone and style. You should use a standard font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, and a font size of 12 points. You should also use a single line spacing and a one-inch margin on all sides. You should align your text to the left and use a clear and logical structure.

A scholarship application letter should consist of the following parts:

  • A header with your contact information and the date
  • A salutation with the name and title of the recipient
  • An introduction that grabs the attention of the reader and introduces yourself
  • A body that states your purpose, goals, achievements, skills, enthusiasm, and interest
  • A conclusion that summarizes your main points, requests an interview and expresses your gratitude.
  • A complimentary close with your name and signature

How to Write an Interesting and Memorable Introduction

The introduction is the first part of your letter and your first impression on the scholarship committee. Therefore, you should make it interesting and memorable by using a hook that captures the reader’s attention and motivates them to read more. A hook can be a question, a quote, a statistic, a fact, a story or an anecdote that relates to your topic and purpose.

For example, if you are applying for a scholarship to study abroad, you can start your introduction with a question like this:

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live and learn in a different country and culture?

This question can spark the reader’s curiosity and make them want to know more about your experience and interest in studying abroad.

After you use a hook, you should introduce yourself briefly and mention the name and purpose of the scholarship that you are applying for. You should also provide a thesis statement that summarizes the main idea and goal of your letter.

For example, you can continue your introduction like this:

My name is John Doe and I am a senior at ABC High School. I am writing to apply for the XYZ Scholarship Program, which offers a full tuition waiver and a monthly stipend for students who want to pursue a bachelor’s degree in international relations at DEF University in Germany. My goal is to become a diplomat and promote peace and cooperation among nations.

This introduction can give the reader a clear and concise overview of who you are, what you want and why you are applying for the scholarship.

How to State Your Purpose and Goals

The next part of your letter should state your purpose and goals for applying for the scholarship and how it can help you achieve them. You should explain why you are interested in the field of study and the institution that you have chosen and how they align with your academic and career aspirations. You should also mention how the scholarship can benefit you financially and academically and how it can support your personal and professional development.

For example, you can write something like this:

I have always been fascinated by international relations and how different countries and cultures interact and cooperate with each other. I believe that studying this field can help me gain a deeper understanding of the global issues and challenges that we face today and how we can solve them together. I have chosen to study at DEF University because it is one of the leading institutions in Europe that offers a high-quality education and a diverse and multicultural environment. I have also heard great things about the faculty, the curriculum and the facilities that the university provides for its students. By studying at DEF University, I hope to acquire the knowledge, skills and experience that I need to pursue my dream of becoming a diplomat and representing my country in the international arena. The XYZ Scholarship Program can help me achieve this goal by covering the cost of my tuition and living expenses and by providing me with a valuable opportunity to network with other students and professionals who share my passion and vision. The scholarship can also enable me to participate in various academic and cultural activities and events that can enrich my learning and broaden my horizons.

This paragraph can show the reader that you have a clear and specific purpose and goal for applying for the scholarship and that you have done your research on the field of study and the institution that you have chosen. It can also demonstrate that you are aware of the benefits and opportunities that the scholarship can offer you and that you are eager to take advantage of them.

How to Highlight Your Achievements and Skills

The next part of your letter should highlight your achievements and skills that make you a qualified and suitable candidate for the scholarship and the field of study that you have chosen. You should provide evidence and examples of your academic performance, extracurricular activities, awards, honors, leadership roles, volunteer work, internships, work experience or any other relevant accomplishments that showcase your abilities and potential. You should also mention any challenges or obstacles that you have overcome or any special circumstances that you have faced that demonstrate your resilience and perseverance.

For example, you can write something like this:

Throughout my high school years, I have excelled in my academic performance and extracurricular activities. I have maintained a GPA of 3.9 out of 4.0 and ranked among the top 10% of my class. I have also taken several advanced placement courses in subjects such as history, economics, politics and languages, which have prepared me for the rigorous and demanding curriculum of DEF University. In addition, I have participated in various clubs and organizations that have enhanced my skills and interests in international relations and diplomacy. For instance, I have been a member and a leader of the Model United Nations Club, where I have represented my school in several national and international conferences and won several awards for my outstanding performance and contribution. I have also been a volunteer and a coordinator of the Global Citizens Program, where I have organized and facilitated various events and projects that promote intercultural awareness and understanding among students and teachers. Furthermore, I have completed two internships at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Germany, where I have gained valuable insight and experience in the field of diplomacy and international affairs. These achievements and skills have not only strengthened my academic and professional qualifications, but also my personal and interpersonal qualities, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity and adaptability. I have also faced and overcome some challenges and difficulties in my life, such as moving to a new country and learning a new language and culture when I was 12 years old. This experience has taught me how to cope with change and diversity and how to appreciate and respect different perspectives and values.

This paragraph can show the reader that you have a strong and impressive academic and extracurricular record and that you have developed and demonstrated various skills and qualities that are relevant and essential for the field of study and the scholarship that you are applying for. It can also show the reader that you have a positive and proactive attitude and that you are capable of overcoming challenges and difficulties.

How to Express Your Enthusiasm and Interest

The next part of your letter should express your enthusiasm and interest for the scholarship and the field of study that you have chosen. You should convey your passion and motivation for learning and pursuing your goals and how they relate to your personal and professional values and vision. You should also show your curiosity and eagerness to explore and discover new things and to contribute to the field and the society.

For example, you can write something like this:

I am very enthusiastic and interested in applying for the XYZ Scholarship Program and studying international relations at DEF University. I am passionate about learning and exploring different aspects and dimensions of this field and how they affect and shape our world and our lives. I am motivated by my desire to make a positive and meaningful impact and difference in the world and to help create a more peaceful and cooperative global community. I am also curious and excited to learn more about the culture and history of Germany and Europe and to experience living and studying in a different country and environment. I believe that this can enrich my personal and professional growth and development and broaden my outlook and perspective. I am also eager to share my own culture and background and to exchange ideas and experiences with other students and professionals who have similar or different interests and goals.

This paragraph can show the reader that you have a genuine and sincere enthusiasm and interest for the scholarship and the field of study that you have chosen and that you have a clear and positive vision and purpose for your future.

How to Request an Interview and Conclude Your Letter

The last part of your letter should request an interview and conclude your letter. You should express your interest and availability for an interview and provide your contact information. You should also thank the scholarship committee for their time and consideration and restate your enthusiasm and interest for the scholarship and the field of study.

For example, you can write something like this:

I would love to have the opportunity to discuss my application and qualifications with you in more detail. Please let me know if you would like to schedule an interview with me. You can reach me by phone at 123-456-7890 or by email at [email protected]. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon. I am very enthusiastic and interested in applying for the XYZ Scholarship Program and studying international relations at DEF University.

To conclude your letter, you should use a complimentary close, such as “Sincerely”, “Respectfully” or “Best regards”, followed by your name and signature. You should also attach any additional documents that are required or requested by the scholarship program.

For example, you can end your letter like this:

Sincerely, John Doe (Signature)

Conclusion

Writing a scholarship application letter can be a daunting task, but with some tips and guidance, you can create a compelling and effective letter that showcases your personality and interest. You should follow the format and structure of a formal and professional letter and use a clear and logical flow. You should also use a hook to grab the attention of the reader and introduce yourself and your purpose. You should then state your goals and how the scholarship can help you achieve them. You should also highlight your achievements and skills that make you a qualified and suitable candidate for the scholarship and the field of study. You should also express your enthusiasm and interest for the scholarship and the field of study and how they relate to your values and vision. You should then request an interview and conclude your letter with gratitude and a complimentary close. By following these steps and examples, you can write a scholarship application letter that showcases your personality and interest and increases your chances of getting the award. Good luck! ?

Top 5 fully funded scholarships to apply for in 2024

Zoe Miller4 Comments

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience. It can expose you to new cultures, languages, and perspectives. It can also enhance your academic and professional skills, as well as your personal growth. However, studying abroad can also be expensive and challenging. Finding and applying for scholarships can be daunting, especially if you are unfamiliar with the requirements and procedures.

Fortunately, many scholarships are available for students who want to pursue their education abroad. These scholarships can cover your tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and other expenses. They can also offer you access to prestigious institutions, mentors, networks, and opportunities. However, these scholarships are also very competitive and selective. You must meet the eligibility criteria, prepare the necessary documents, and submit your application before the deadline. You also need to stand out from the thousands of other applicants who are vying for the same scholarship.

In this article, we will introduce you to the top 5 fully funded scholarships that you can apply for in 2024. These scholarships are open to students from all over the world, and they cover various fields and levels of study. We will also provide you with some tips and advice on how to prepare a successful application for each scholarship.

Scholarship 1: Yale University Scholarship

Yale University is one of the world’s most prestigious and renowned universities. It is located in New Haven, Connecticut, USA, and offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in various disciplines. Yale University also offers generous scholarships to international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need.

The Yale University Scholarship covers the full attendance cost, including tuition, room, board, books, and personal expenses. It also provides a travel allowance, health insurance, and a stipend for summer activities. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years for undergraduate students and for the duration of the program for graduate and professional students.

To apply for the Yale University Scholarship, you need to first apply for admission to Yale University through the Common Application or the Coalition Application. You must also submit the Yale Supplement, which includes additional essays and questions. You must also submit your academic transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency. You must also complete the Yale Financial Aid Application, which requires information about your family income, assets, and expenses. The deadline for applying for the Yale University Scholarship is November 1, 2023, for early action and January 2, 2024, for regular decision.

Some tips and advice on how to prepare a competitive application for the Yale University Scholarship are:

  • Showcase your academic achievements and intellectual curiosity. Yale University is looking for students who have excelled in their studies and have pursued rigorous and challenging courses. You must also demonstrate your interest and passion for your chosen field of study and how you have explored it beyond the classroom.
  • Highlight your leadership and extracurricular activities. Yale University is looking for students who have positively impacted their communities and shown initiative and creativity. You must also show how you have balanced your academic and non-academic pursuits and developed your skills and talents.
  • Write compelling and authentic essays. Yale University is looking for students who have a unique and diverse perspective, and who can contribute to the campus culture and dialogue. You also need to express your personality, voice, and values, and how they align with Yale’s mission and vision.
  • Seek strong and specific letters of recommendation. Yale University is looking for students who have impressed and inspired their teachers, mentors, and peers. You also need to ask for letters of recommendation from people who know you well and can speak to your academic and personal qualities.

Scholarship 2: France Eiffel Excellence Scholarship

France is a popular destination for international students who want to experience the rich and diverse culture, history, and art of the country. France also offers high-quality education and research opportunities in various fields and institutions. The France Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship program that aims to attract the best and brightest international students to pursue their master’s or doctoral degrees in France.

The France Eiffel Excellence Scholarship covers the monthly living allowance, which ranges from 1,181 euros to 1,400 euros, depending on the level of study. It also covers the return flight ticket, health insurance, and cultural activities. The scholarship does not cover the tuition fees, which are usually low or waived for international students. The scholarship is awarded for a maximum of 12 months for master’s students, and for a maximum of 36 months for doctoral students.

To apply for the France Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, you need to first find and apply for a suitable program and institution in France that matches your academic and professional goals. You also need to check the eligibility criteria and the application procedures of the program and institution. You also need to submit your academic transcripts, diploma, curriculum vitae, motivation letter, research proposal, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, you need to submit proof of French or English proficiency, depending on the language of instruction of the program. The deadline for applying for the France Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is January 8, 2024.

Some tips and advice on how to prepare a competitive application for the France Eiffel Excellence Scholarship are:

  • Choose a program and institution that aligns with your academic and professional interests and aspirations. France offers a wide range of programs and institutions in various fields and disciplines. You need to research and compare the different options and select the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
  • Demonstrate your academic excellence and research potential. France is looking for students who have a strong academic background and who have shown outstanding performance and achievements in their previous studies. You also need to show your interest and aptitude for research, and how your research project contributes to the scientific and social development of your field and country.
  • Show your motivation and commitment to study in France. France is looking for students who have a genuine and sincere desire to learn from and contribute to the French culture, society, and education system. You also need to show how studying in France will enhance your personal and professional development, and how you will use your skills and knowledge to benefit your home country and the world.
  • Provide evidence of your French or English proficiency. France is looking for students who have a good command of the language of instruction of the program, and who can communicate effectively and confidently in academic and social settings. You also need to show your willingness and ability to learn and improve your language skills, and how they will help you achieve your academic and professional goals.

Scholarship 3: Gates Cambridge Scholarship

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships in the world. It is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and it aims to support outstanding international students who want to pursue their postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge in the UK. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship also seeks to create a network of future leaders who will address global challenges and improve the lives of others.

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers the full cost of studying at Cambridge, which includes tuition fees, maintenance allowance, travel costs, visa fees, and health insurance. It also provides additional funding for academic development, family allowance, fieldwork, and conferences. The scholarship is awarded for the duration of the program, which can range from one to four years, depending on the level and type of study.

To apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, you need to first apply for admission to a postgraduate program at the University of Cambridge through the Graduate Application Portal. You also need to submit the Gates Cambridge Application Form, which includes a personal statement and a research proposal. You also need to submit your academic transcripts, diploma, curriculum vitae, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, you need to submit proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English. The deadline for applying for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship is October 14, 2023 for US citizens, and December 3, 2023 for other citizens.

Some tips and advice on how to prepare a competitive application for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship are:

  • Select a program and supervisor that match your academic and research interests and ambitions. The University of Cambridge offers a wide range of postgraduate programs and supervisors in various fields and disciplines. You need to research and identify the program and supervisor that best fit your needs and preferences, and that can support and guide your research project.
  • Showcase your academic excellence and research potential. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is looking for students who have a stellar academic record and who have demonstrated exceptional performance and achievements in their previous studies. You also need to show your originality and creativity in your research project, and how it addresses a significant and relevant problem in your field and society.
  • Highlight your leadership and social impact. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is looking for students who have a vision and a passion for improving the lives of others, and who have shown initiative and innovation in their extracurricular and professional activities. You also need to show how you have overcome challenges and obstacles, and how you have collaborated and influenced others.
  • Write a compelling and coherent personal statement and research proposal. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is looking for students who have a clear and concise expression of their academic and professional goals, and how they align with the Gates Cambridge mission and values. You also need to show your personality, voice, and values, and how they reflect your suitability and potential for the scholarship.

Scholarship 4: MOFCOM Scholarships

China is a rising global power and a leader in economic and technological development. China also offers a rich and diverse culture, history, and landscape. The MOFCOM Scholarships are sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of China, and they aim to support international students who want to pursue their master’s or

How to Manage Your Finances as an International Student

Ethan GrayLeave a comment

Studying abroad can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging to manage your finances as an international student. You may have to deal with different currencies, exchange rates, banking systems, taxes, and fees. You may also face unexpected expenses like travel, health, or visa costs. How can you plan your budget, save money, and avoid financial stress while studying in a foreign country? Here are some tips to help you manage your money as an international student.

Plan Your Budget Before You Leave

One of the first steps to managing your finances as an international student is to plan your budget before you leave your home country. You should research the cost of living in your destination country, including tuition fees, accommodation, food, transportation, books, and other expenses. You should also consider the exchange rate and the inflation rate of your destination currency. You can use online tools, such as Numbeo or Expatistan, to compare the cost of living in different cities and countries.

Once you have an estimate of your monthly expenses, you should compare it with your income and savings. You should also factor in any scholarships, grants, loans, or financial aid that you may receive. You should make sure that you have enough money to cover your expenses for the duration of your studies, as well as some emergency funds for unforeseen situations. You should also set some realistic and achievable financial goals, such as saving for a trip, buying a laptop, or paying off your debt.

Open a Bank Account in Your Destination Country

Another important step to managing your finances as an international student is to open a bank account in your destination country. This will help you avoid paying high fees for international transfers, withdrawals, or conversions. You will also be able to access your money more easily and securely, as well as use online banking services, such as paying bills, transferring money, or checking your balance.

To open a bank account in your destination country, you will need to provide some documents, such as your passport, visa, student ID, proof of address, and proof of income. You should also compare different banks and their offers, such as interest rates, fees, minimum balance, ATM network, and customer service. You should choose a bank that suits your needs and preferences, as well as offers benefits for international students, such as free or discounted accounts, cards, or transfers.

Save Money as a Student

Saving money as a student can be challenging, especially if you have a limited income and a lot of expenses. However, there are some ways to save money as an international student, such as:

  • Take advantage of discounts for students. Many businesses, such as restaurants, cinemas, museums, or public transport, offer student discounts. You can use your student ID, or get a student card, such as ISIC, to access these discounts. You can also use online platforms, such as Student Beans or UNiDAYS, to find deals and coupons for students.
  • Cook your own meals. Eating out can be expensive, especially in some countries. You can save money by cooking your own meals at home, or sharing them with your friends or roommates. You can also buy groceries in bulk, or shop at local markets, to get cheaper and fresher food. You can also use apps, such as Too Good To Go or Olio, to find food that is about to expire or be thrown away, and get it for free or at a low price.
  • Share your accommodation. Renting your own apartment or room can be costly, especially in big cities. You can save money by sharing your accommodation with other students, or staying with a host family. You can use websites, such as Student.com or Homestay.com, to find suitable and affordable accommodation options for international students.
  • Use public transport or bike. Driving a car can be expensive, as you have to pay for gas, insurance, parking, and maintenance. You can save money by using public transport, such as buses, trains, or subways, to get around your destination city. You can also use a bike, which is not only cheaper, but also healthier and more eco-friendly. You can use apps, such as Citymapper or Moovit, to plan your routes and find the best transport options for your trips.

Track Your Spending and Review Your Budget

The final step to managing your finances as an international student is to track your spending and review your budget regularly. You should keep track of your income and expenses and see if they match your budget. You should also monitor your bank account and credit card statements and check for errors or fraud. You should also review your financial goals and progress and see if you need to adjust your budget or spending habits.

You can use apps like Mint or YNAB to track your spending and budget. You can also use apps like Splitwise or Tricount to split bills and expenses with your friends or roommates. You can also use apps like TransferWise or PayPal to send and receive money internationally, with low fees and fair exchange rates.

Conclusion

Managing your finances as an international student can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding. By planning your budget, opening a bank account, saving money, and tracking your spending, you can avoid financial stress and enjoy your study abroad experience. You can also learn valuable skills, such as financial literacy, budgeting, and saving, to help you in your future endeavors. ?