Starting my university journey as an international student has been an exciting experience, brimming with both challenges and opportunities. Reflecting on my time pursuing a Master in Analytical and Pharmaceutical Chemistry at university, I recognise the significant growth I’ve achieved both academically and personally, particularly while managing my studies alongside an online job and family care giving responsibilities. In this article, I will share my learning journey abroad, the strategies I’ve implemented to maintain balance and the impact of my coursework on my career development.

Moving to a new country for education presents both exciting opportunities and significant challenges.

The cultural diversity on campus has greatly enhanced my educational journey. At IMU University, I have encountered a profound level of acknowledgment and acceptance of differences, fostering respect for diversity, effective communication, and meaningful relationship-building with individuals from various cultural backgrounds. Celebrating the achievements and heritage of different communities has been a rewarding experience.

I have had the privilege of engaging with peers from diverse backgrounds through international conferences focused on professional development and skill-sharing, which has expanded my perspectives and deepened my understanding of global issues. IMU provides numerous networking opportunities through workshops, seminars, and career fairs, while also maintaining strong connections with both national and international universities. For example, I was able to conduct part of my research at another university, which significantly broadened my academic knowledge and facilitated multinational networking.

Participating in group projects and discussions has not only improved my communication skills but also highlighted the importance of collaboration within diverse teams. Thus, IMU is an environment where everyone can flourish.

The academic atmosphere at IMU University is markedly different with my prior educational experiences. The focus on critical thinking, scientific literature analysis, independent research, and self-motivation has encouraged me to cultivate new study habits. I have effectively learned to stay updated on scheduled programmes and activities, manage my time efficiently, and balance both online and in-person lectures and assignments while adjusting to a new educational framework. Leveraging resources such as information technology services, academic advisors, tutoring centers, and libraries have been instrumental in facilitating this transformation.

While pursuing my studies, I am also employed in my home country. Balancing my class activities, work responsibilities, and family commitments remotely can be quite challenging. However, I have organised my work and family obligations into specific time intervals to ensure that they do not interfere with my academic pursuits. Fortunately, my job is aligned with my career goals, which provides an added benefit. Working in a field related to my studies enables me to apply theoretical concepts in practical situations, reinforcing what I learn in the classroom.

Juggling work and study requires effective time management.  I implemented the following strategies to achieve this balance:

Prioritisation:

I prioritise tasks based on deadlines and importance. Creating a weekly plan helps me to figure out my commitments and allocate time accordingly.

Setting Boundaries:

I establish distinct boundaries among work, family, and study periods to prevent any overlap. This discipline allows me to concentrate fully during my study sessions.

Self-Care:

Maintaining physical and mental well-being is essential. Planned regular exercise, healthy eating, and socializing with friends are all part of my routine to help restore my energy levels.

The university coursework is closely aligned with my career goals and surrogate skill development from various perspectives. One of the standout achievements is the enhancement of Critical Thinking, which equips me to analyse complex problems and make informed decisions. Engaging in presentations, literature reviews, and group projects sharpens both my verbal and written communication skills, essential for any professional environment.

Additionally, the coursework effectively boosts my technical competencies relevant to my career through programmes that integrate practical technological applications. This hands-on experience with currently tools that greatly enriches my understanding and significantly enhances my fieldwork performance.

My experience as an international student has been incredibly enriching, marked by personal growth, challenges, and valuable lessons. Juggling work, family, and studies has equipped me with vital life skills, including prioritisation, time management, and adaptability.

Additionally, the coursework I am pursuing not only deepens my academic understanding but also strengthens my technical abilities, paving the way for a successful career in the future.

Written by Marcelina Aloyce Mtalo