Grad School in a New Country: What It's Really Like to Start Over Abroad
Beginning graduate school brings its own set of challenges, but doing it in a new
country turns that transition into an even bigger journey of growth and discovery.
It is exciting, intimidating, and transformative, often all at once. For many international
students at Tennessee Tech, graduate school is not just about earning a degree. It
is about stepping into a different world, navigating new cultures, learning new systems,
and discovering new versions of themselves along the way.
To better understand what this journey looks like, we spoke to two international students, Khirujjaman Sumon and Tong Chen, about their experiences. Their stories shine a light on what it really means to live, learn, and grow while far from home.
Why Study Abroad?
For both students, the decision to pursue graduate school abroad started with a desire for more: more opportunities, more knowledge, and more exposure to research.
Sumon, who specializes in environmental science, shared how studying abroad opened the door to advanced lab techniques, hands-on training, and research resources that were not available back home. For him, this move meant stepping into a world with state-of-the-art instruments and problem-based learning that pushes him to think critically every day.
Tong, whose academic journey has always revolved around fish and aquaculture, saw studying abroad as a chance not just to deepen his knowledge, but to broaden his worldview. “Studying abroad is a good chance to see the world,” he said. “It helps my mind become more open.” For him, Tennessee Tech and Tennessee’s natural beauty felt like the right fit.
Arriving in a New Country: Excitement, Nerves, and First Impressions
Before arriving, both students carried their own expectations. Sumon hoped to become more skilled in his research area, while Tong was eager to experience American culture firsthand.
Like many international students, their first impressions were a mix of excitement and adjustment. Tong remembered how far everything felt from home, yet how kindness from people around him quickly eased those early nerves. Sumon noticed something different. He immediately felt that life here was more stable in terms of basic needs and law enforcement, which gave him a sense of comfort right away.
Cultural Differences
Some differences stood out immediately. For Sumon, the biggest shift was seeing how independently people live. “People mostly live alone and are less associated with their family,” he shared, something that felt different from the community-centered culture he was used to.
Tong noticed how much religion shapes life in the United States. It was not something he grew up around, so adjusting to its presence in everyday conversations and traditions took time.
And of course, language played its own role. Sumon felt well prepared and confident navigating English communication. Tong, on the other hand, found language to be one of the most challenging parts of life abroad. Whether he is re-reading research papers, asking people to repeat themselves, or ordering from restaurant pictures, he has found strategies that help him learn a little more each day.
Building a New Life: Friends, Community, and Small Joys
No matter where you come from, settling into a new country takes time. For both students, connection played a huge part in finding their footing.
Sumon found it easy to make friends because people here felt open and friendly. Tong said it was not quite as simple due to language and cultural differences, but over time he built meaningful friendships. Both have connected with other international students, people who share their experiences and offer support when they need it most.
Along the way, each has found small joys that brighten their days. Sumon enjoys growing his skills and pushing his critical thinking. Tong says that one of the most rewarding parts of his graduate journey so far has been adopting his cat.
And honestly, that makes perfect sense. Sometimes comfort looks like a purring roommate who does not judge your late-night study sessions.
Academic Transitions
One of the biggest shifts for Sumon has been the academic culture. Back home, coursework was mostly theoretical, and lab resources were limited. Here, he is immersed in practical, problem-based learning that challenges him to ask questions and dive deeper.
Tong has noticed the same difference. There is more academic freedom, more encouragement to think independently, and more support when he gets stuck. Whether he is reading extra research papers, asking lab members for help, or checking in with his advisor, he has learned how to navigate challenges with persistence and curiosity.
Homesickness, Balance, and the Art of Adjusting
Living far from home means more than adapting to new systems. It also means missing the people and traditions that shaped you.
Both students miss their families deeply, and they have found their own ways to cope with homesickness. Sumon talks to his family every day, keeping them close through conversation. Tong admits balancing school and life is not easy, but long calls home, time outside, and caring for his cat help him recharge.
And even with the challenges, they have found new experiences to love, including hiking Tennessee’s natural parks, discovering new routines, and learning how to live independently.
Advice for Future International Students
When asked what they would tell someone considering studying abroad, their advice was simple and meaningful:
- Choose a field you are truly passionate about.
- Lear the language as much as you can.
- Respect the culture and laws of your new home.
- Stay focused on your studies.
- Be open-minded. It will change you in the best ways.
Studying abroad is not just an academic decision; it is a life-changing one. It is a chance to grow, adapt, stretch your comfort zone, and discover strength you did not know you had.
A Journey of Courage and Growth
At Tennessee Tech, we are proud of the boldness, resilience, and determination our international students bring to campus every day. Their stories remind us that graduate school is more than research papers and lab work. It is a journey of self-growth.
For students like Sumon and Tong, living and learning in a new country is both a challenge and a gift. It is a reminder that even when you are far from home, you can build a life filled with purpose, connection, and possibility.
Welcome to a new chapter, international Golden Eagles. And to all who are considering taking this leap, we hope this inspires you to spread your wings, step forward, and explore the world waiting for you.