Pursuing higher education overseas, or “study picnob abroad”, holds many opportunities but also challenges for Pakistani students. Navigating the application process, visa requirements, and cultural adjustment can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, various support options exist throughout the study abroad journey.
Pre-Departure Support
Study abroad consultants and study visa consultants in Lahore help students determine the best program and institutions. Dunya Consultants, one notable agency, guides students to make informed choices regarding the country, university, funding, and application requirements suited to their goals and profile. Consultants provide authentic recommendations and address concerns about living and studying overseas. Their assistance minimizes stress while preparing necessary documents for university admission and securing study visas.
On-Campus Support
Once abroad, universities recognize the needs of international students. International student offices offer guidance through:
- Orientations introducing campus facilities, resources for settling in a new country for study purposes.
- Academic advising to choose suitable courses, research opportunities as part of study programs.
- Counselling and safe spaces for those facing difficulties adjusting to study abroad cultures and environments alone.
- Healthcare access and mental health support systems during the study abroad terms.
- Career centres assisting with internships, post-study employment options in study destination countries.
Community Support
Beyond campus, Pakistani student associations offer an invaluable network. Through socials, mentorship programs and cultural events, they help students overcome homesickness and loneliness common challenges faced by those studying abroad. Associations also organize community services like transport, affordable accommodations and guidance about local services, laws and cultural norms significant for compatibility while overseas.
Post-Completion Support
For students opting to continue careers internationally after graduation, consultants provide expertise applying for post-study work permits and employer-sponsored “study visa consultants in Lahore” like the Canadian Express Entry program. Agencies maintain alumni engagement through professional development workshops and networking events to maximize opportunities from international qualifications and experiences gained through studying abroad.
With informed guidance from experts and strong multi-level support systems, Pakistani students can pursue invaluable overseas educational experiences and global careers with greater optimism, achievement and fulfillment. Studying abroad becomes a truly rewarding personal and professional investment.
Mental Health Support
Adjusting to life abroad can impact mental well-being. Universities typically offer counseling services through qualified therapists. They provide a confidential space to discuss issues like anxiety, homesickness, culture shock or other stressors faced while studying overseas. Counselors are sensitive to cultural norms and help students effectively manage emotional challenges.
Pakistani student groups also arrange seminars on maintaining mental fitness when away from the familiar home environment. Senior members share coping mechanisms they found useful during difficult adjustment periods. Connecting with others facing similar experiences aids emotional support.
Financial Assistance
Financial concerns are a top stressor. Many Pakistani undergraduates rely on low-interest education loans from organizations like Beaconhouse and Akhuwat. They work with universities to disburse loan amounts directly to overseas branches, removing disbursement worries.
Scholarship databases by the Higher Education Commission and individual institution websites list funding options. Consultants help navigate these to find sponsorships for fields of study or research projects of interest. They assist with scholarship applications, presenting students in a strong light.
Alumni Networks
Successful alumni are invaluable resources. They advise current students and newly graduated peers. Many alumni associations around the world offer mentorship, inform about job/internship openings and guide the career development of younger members. They inspire others through their own study abroad journeys and continuing achievements abroad.
Social Support Systems
Staying connected to culture and faith groups is comforting. Pakistani mosques and centers worldwide warmly welcome students. Regular gatherings for prayers, iftars and festivals nourish a sense of community overseas. Culture nights organized by student bodies showcase food, music and traditions, alleviating nostalgia. Joint gatherings with associations of other Muslim nations foster inter-community engagement too.