Advice for new UGRAD students
Reflecting on her year in the United States, UGRAD student Dunja Lazic from Serbia shares advice for the new generation of UGRADs.
- Come without prejudice – you’re here to create your own experience, so don’t let stereotypes influence your opinion. If you don’t open your eyes, you won’t see.
- Don’t expect a world upside down – notice the differences and learn how to use them. Find something in common with every mentality you come across. The world is so small once you get to know it.
- “The traveler sees what he sees, the tourist sees what he has come to see.” – Gilbert K. Chesterton
- Use every day to improve your understanding of the world around you, rather than yourself. There’s so much more to see and know.
- Travel as much as you can – there’s always something interesting nearby. Don’t limit yourself to your college or the town/city you’re in.
- Try as many different ethnic cuisines as you can – the best way to meet people is by trying their food.
- Make friends within but also outside of your college. Make a few real, long-lasting friendships rather than a lot of acquaintances.
- Get out of your comfort zone – take initiative. Great things happen once you leave your bubble.
- Observe the world around you and compare it to your home country. See what’s different in the people, not the system. Learn about the United States – there’s so much we don’t learn in school.
- Don’t complain or be nostalgic, try to make the most of everything you have. If you’re feeling homesick/sad/sick of everything, go away for the weekend and do something different, you’ll feel better.
- Learn about American art and literature – we neglect it so much in our euro-centric education. Explore the state you’re placed in, learn what makes it special and different from others.
- Enjoy the diversity – make friends from around the world, learn a few words in every language, ask about religion, customs and history. You’ll be surprised how different the world will look like after this experience.
- Keep a journal – try to reflect on what you’ve seen/heard/learned so far. You won’t believe how much you’ve changed over time.
And finally, have fun and enjoy your UGRAD experience as much as possible. You deserve it!