Survival Guide: How to fake being a local(Until you actually become one)

Studying abroad is a thrilling adventure -but let’s be honest, it can feel overwhelming too. New country, new culture, new everything. Whether you’re heading to Malaysia, Canada, or the UK, this guide will help you blend in, find your rhythm, and start living like a local (even if you’re faking it at first).

Research and preparation  

Before you arrive at your study abroad destination, it's essential to do your research and  prepare yourself for the experience. This will help you navigate the local culture, customs,  and way of life with confidence. 

Start by learning about the local customs and traditions. For example, in Malaysia, it's  customary to remove your shoes before entering a mosque or temple. In Canada, it's  considered polite to apologize frequently and use please and thank you. 

At StudyApplyPortal.com, we have representatives and students who have already studied  abroad in various countries, including Malaysia, Canada, and Australia. They can share their  real-life experiences and provide valuable insights to help you prepare for your study abroad  journey. 

Additionally, research the cost of living, accommodation options, and transportation systems  in your destination country. This will help you plan your budget and make arrangements for  your stay. At Study Apply Portal, we can assist you with a cost breakdown and provide  guidance on managing your expenses. You can also check out websites like Numbeo or  Expatistan to get an idea of the cost of living in cities like Toronto or Melbourne. 

By doing your research and preparation, you'll be able to hit the ground running when you  arrive at your study abroad destination.

Language and Communication 

When studying abroad, language barriers can be a significant challenge. Even if you're  studying in an English-speaking country, you may still encounter regional accents, slang, and  cultural references that can be confusing. 

To overcome these challenges, it's essential to improve your language skills before and  during your study abroad experience. Here are a few tips: 

- Take language courses before you leave, such as English as a Second Language (ESL) courses  or language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. 

- Practice speaking with native speakers, either in person or online through language  exchange websites or apps

- Watch TV shows and movies, listen to music, and read books in the target language to  improve your listening and reading comprehension. 

Additionally, learning a few key phrases in the local language can go a long way in showing  respect for the culture and people. For example, learning to say "hello" (e.g., "Bonjour" in  French or "Konnichiwa" in Japanese) or "thank you" (e.g., "Merci" in French or "Arigatou" in  Japanese) can help you connect with locals and navigate everyday situations. 

At StudyApplyPortal.com, we can also connect you with language proficiency test preparation  resources and language exchange programs to help you improve your language skills. 

Living Like a Local 

Studying abroad is not just about attending classes; it's also about experiencing the local  culture and way of life. 

As the saying goes ‘fake it till you make it’ – this is one of the best ways to live like a local.  Start by trying local foods and drinks. Instead of eating at international chain restaurants or  fast food joints, try street food or eat at local cafes and restaurants. In Malaysia, for example,  you can try dishes like nasi lemak (traditional Malaysian dish). Another way to live like a local is to participate in local events and festivals. Find out what's  happening in your host city and join in the fun. You can attend concerts, festivals, or street  fairs, or even join a local sports team or club. 

By living like a seasoned local, you'll be able to experience the local culture firsthand and  make the most of your study abroad experience.

Studying abroad is a life-changing experience that can broaden your horizons, challenge your  assumptions, and help you grow as a person. By doing your research, improving your  language skills, and living like a local, you can make the most of your study abroad  experience and create unforgettable memories. 

Remember, studying abroad is not just about attending classes; it's about immersing yourself  in a new culture, trying new things, and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. With the  right mindset and preparation, you can overcome any challenges that come your way and  have a successful and enjoyable study abroad experience. 

At Study Apply Portal, we're committed to helping you achieve your study abroad goals.  Whether you need help with language proficiency tests, visa applications, or  accommodation arrangements, we're here to support you every step of the way.