By: An Indian student living abroad
When I first got my acceptance letter from a university in Europe, I was on top of the world. Studying abroad had always been my dream. Instagram was filled with dreamy pictures of cafes, clean streets, international friends, and a "free life" away from home.
But here’s what nobody really told me: life abroad isn’t perfect. And if you’re planning to move abroad for studies or work, I want to give you the real, honest truth.
Why This Article Matters
- This is not a generic guide you’ll find on every other blog.
- This is based on real personal experiences, reflecting the truth behind the Instagram filters.
- It's for Indian students, workers, and dreamers considering life abroad.
1. The Freedom Is Real... But So Is the Pressure
Yes, you can go wherever you want, eat what you like, and nobody questions you. But with that freedom comes the silent pressure of managing EVERYTHING yourself — bills, rent, cooking, cleaning, university, deadlines.
- You'll miss ghar ka khana.
- Your monthly budget will feel like a Google Sheet gone wrong.
- You’ll understand what "mental load" truly means.
🎯 Related:
How to Manage Living Expenses While Studying Abroad
2. Loneliness Hits Hard
No matter how social you are, loneliness is real. Your friends and family are now in a different timezone. Festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid go by quietly.
Even when you’re surrounded by people, it can feel isolating.
| Situation | How It Feels |
|---|---|
| Diwali without family | Like a regular cold weekday |
| No one to talk in Hindi with | Emotionally disconnected |
| Missing family functions | FOMO & sadness |
Tip: Find or create Indian student groups. They become your support system.
🎯 Related:
How to Deal with Loneliness Abroad
3. Food Isn’t Always Exciting
Western food might look fancy but after 2 weeks of bread, pasta, and cheese, you’ll crave dal chawal. And finding affordable Indian food can be a challenge.
- Cooking daily can feel like a chore, especially after classes.
- Some ingredients like hing, methi or poha are not always available.
- You'll realize the value of a simple roti sabzi.
🎯 Related:
Easy Indian Meals You Can Cook Abroad in Budget
4. Social Life Is Different, Not Always Better
People are polite but making real friends takes time. Cultural differences can make conversations awkward.
Don’t expect your European flatmate to understand Sharma ji ke ladke jokes. And if you’re shy, you'll have to step out of your comfort zone a lot.
- Group assignments can be tough due to language/slang barrier.
- Dating culture is vastly different (and yes, confusing).
- You might feel like an outsider initially.
5. Homesickness Can Show Up Anytime
It’s not just in the first few weeks. Homesickness can hit randomly — during exams, while eating alone, or even hearing a song from back home.
Emotions aren’t linear abroad. They fluctuate wildly.
Tips That Helped Me:
- Video calls with family twice a week (not daily, it creates more longing).
- Keep a small routine — chai in the evening, temple playlist in the morning.
- Journal your feelings. Helps way more than you'd expect.
6. You Grow Up... Fast
Paying bills. Booking doctor appointments. Fixing your broken toaster at 2 AM. Life abroad turns you into a mini adult overnight. But that’s the good part too.
I learned more life skills in 1 year abroad than a whole decade back home.
What I Learned:
- Basic financial planning
- Time management like never before
- Empathy — seeing different lives humbles you
FAQs About Life Abroad (From Real Students)
Is studying abroad worth it despite the emotional challenges?
Yes, it’s worth it if you’re mentally prepared. Emotional struggles exist but the growth, exposure, and perspective you gain can be life-changing.
How do you deal with homesickness abroad?
Stay connected with family but create a local life too. Join communities, cook your own food, and journal your feelings. Don’t isolate yourself.
Is it easy to make friends abroad?
Depends on your effort. Be open, join clubs or events. It takes time but people do open up. Friendships are slower but more meaningful.
Final Thoughts
Living abroad is not perfect, but it’s real.
It’s not always about cafes and castles. It’s about growth, discomfort, strength, and a new kind of self-love.
If you’re thinking of studying abroad, go with an open heart and realistic expectations. You’ll make mistakes, cry sometimes, but you’ll come out stronger.
📚 Also Read:
- Best Countries for Indian Students to Study Abroad
- How to Get a Scholarship for Studying Abroad
- Budget vs Premium Universities Abroad: Which is Better?
If this helped, share it with a friend or comment your thoughts below. You’re not alone in this journey.