How to live on the other side of the world

For those days when you're feeling a long way from home, try to say . . .

1.) It isn't forever.

When it all seems overwhelming, and the supermarket (grocery store) doesn't organise itself like it should and the neighbours are noisy and you just want a Hobnob; just think to yourself, 'This isn't forever.' It doesn't solve the problem but I find it helps a heck of a lot. Everything will be okay.

2.) The challenge is part of the adventure.

This is more easy to swallow in hindsight really, however it is important to keep in mind. I always knew my year abroad wouldn't be easy - it will make me stronger, braver, etc. etc. etc. More so, you have to go through the tricky bits to get to the great adventures which will follow.

3.) Today there were lots of good bits.

Maybe you gave your first tourist directions, maybe you nailed a question in class . . . maybe you got the milk to oats ratio in your porridge just right this morning. Don't let nerves or confusion make you blind to the simple pleasures.

4.)I'm in control of my own happiness.

Nearly always there is something you can do to help sort out your situation. Slow to find some like-minded friends? - Explore your university societies. The course proving impenetrable? - You've got the international office, your faculty, your home university . . . everybody is on your side (or at least somebody will be.) Want to travel,get planning now - time will fly!

Also I think it is very important to remember that you are still you. So much about being abroad is about fitting in and trying to adjust, but to keep your head sometimes you have to do things just for you. Treat yourself to an over-priced coffee, go to a museum on your own if you can't get anybody to come, get your hair cut, binge watch Gavin & Stacey with a bar of Cadbury's while waving a Union Flag (well, maybe don't go quite that far. . .)

So that's my advice - now let's see if I can stick to it!