8 Things Only International Students Will Understand

So, you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone and begin an adventure like no other—studying abroad. In 8 Things Only International Students Will Understand, we highlight those relatable moments that connect students across borders. From navigating culture shock to craving familiar food, you’re definitely not alone. While locals might not notice these things, international students feel them deeply.

So, let’s dive in and see what makes this journey both personal and surprisingly relatable across cultures.

1. The Time Zone Struggle Is Real

While your local friends might not get why you’re telling your mom “good morning” at 3 PM, other international students absolutely will. Even a three-hour time difference can make you feel like you’re living in another universe. And if you’re coming from Europe or Asia, staying connected becomes even trickier. You learn to juggle school deadlines, social plans, and family calls from back home—it’s a constant balancing act. At the same time, you become surprisingly skilled at converting time zones on the spot.

Keeping in touch means mastering awkward-time texting, and yes—midnight Zoom calls become totally normal. It’s not easy, but international students figure out how to stay close to home, even from far away. Whether you’re planning a quick call or attending a virtual family dinner, managing two worlds eventually becomes second nature.

2. A Pro at Small Talk

“Where are you from?” “Why did you choose to study in the U.S.?” “Do you have this back home?”—asked while someone holds up a bag of Funyuns—quickly become part of your daily life. At first, answering feels fun and new. But eventually, you craft the perfect reply, always ready with a smile. You also learn to explain your culture, country, and customs in a way that feels natural. Over time, you become a kind of unofficial ambassador for your home country—one small talk at a time.

3. Measuring Everything Twice

Fahrenheit vs. Celsius, miles vs. kilometers, pounds vs. kilograms—it’s a whole new world of numbers. At first, converting measurements feels confusing and inconvenient. Whether you’re checking the weather or cooking a recipe, nothing seems to match what you knew back home. Over time, though, you adjust. You start comparing temperatures in both scales and mentally converting distances without thinking twice. If you’re not already using a converter app, you’ve likely become one yourself. It’s a skill every international student picks up quickly—because you have to! And hey, it’s secretly kind of fun being a bilingual unit expert.

4. Missing Food You Didn’t Even Like

It’s funny how absence makes the taste buds grow fonder. That snack you ignored at home? Now it’s your ultimate craving. Maybe it’s your favorite can of pickles, that corner bakery treat, or a dish your grandma made every Sunday. Suddenly, you dream about it. You search international aisles hoping to find a similar version—only to be disappointed. And nothing, absolutely nothing, matches the comfort of a home-cooked meal from your own culture. Even if you didn’t love it before, it now brings you a taste of home—and that’s something no local meal can replace.

5. Learning Slang the Hard Way

When someone says, “That’s so sick,” you might wonder if they’re feeling ill—not realizing it actually means “amazing.” Words you’ve learned in class can mean something completely different in casual conversations. At first, it feels like learning a second dialect alongside English. You might copy phrases, not knowing exactly what they mean. That can lead to a few awkward—but unforgettable—moments. Thankfully, with time and exposure, things start to click. You begin to understand the tone, rhythm, and context. Whether it’s “no worries” or “my bad,” mastering slang helps you better understand the culture of your new home.

Check out our Top 10 Slang Words to Know in 2025.

6. Getting Excited Over Small Things

Trying something local for the first time feels like finding hidden treasure. Whether it’s a seasonal snack, quirky holiday item, or an unfamiliar soda flavor, curiosity quickly takes over. You snap a photo, send it to friends back home, and maybe post it with a caption like, “Only in [country name]!” These little discoveries spark joy and help you feel more connected to your surroundings. It’s not just about the item—it’s about saying yes to something new. Each small experience becomes a lasting memory and offers a deeper understanding of how others live and see the world.

7. The Unofficial Cultural Ambassador

As an international student, you quickly become the go-to person for explaining your culture. Whether you’re explaining a holiday or why shoes stay at the door, you’re always sharing pieces of home. You learn to challenge stereotypes and gently correct assumptions. Along the way, you gain a deeper appreciation for your own roots. Being a cultural tour guide abroad doesn’t just teach others—it makes you feel deeply proud of where you come from.

8. Living Between Two Worlds

You’re not just visiting, but you don’t quite feel like a local either. This “in-between” space is something only international students experience. At first, the feeling is strange—you miss home, yet you’re excited about building a life in a new country. Over time, you adapt. You build routines, make new friends, and find your favorite café. And although you may never belong 100% to one culture, but that mix becomes part of you. You grow into someone who blends two worlds—and that’s something truly powerful.

Final Thoughts

Being an international student isn’t always easy—but it’s one of the most rewarding journeys you’ll ever take. Beyond the classroom, you’re learning about cultures, building lifelong friendships, and growing into a more confident, global version of yourself. 🌍