Life as an International Student: M’s Story
Ever wondered what life is like for an international student?
If you’re considering international teaching as a family, you’ll know that the experience is more than just about the job. It’s about the adventure, the challenges, and the opportunities it can offer your whole family, especially your kids.
Meet M. At 12 years old, she is a fully fledged international student. She has lived in Australia, Peru, South Korea, and Malaysia, attending four different schools. Her story offers a glimpse into what it’s really like to grow up as an expat kid in an international school.
Being an International Student
One of the best things about going to an international school is the diversity it offers. M loves that she can make friends from around the world and experience a mix of cultures. But she admits that starting fresh in a new school can be tough.
“When I first moved to my current school, it was hard because everyone had known each other for years, and I didn’t have much in common with them at first. But I just tried to find people with similar interests, and it got better.”
School Life: Finding the Balance
Every international school is different, and for M, the biggest change between schools was the academic balance.
“My last school was more academic, but my current one is more balanced. There’s time for friendships and other activities too.”
Her favourite subject? Individuals & Societies.
“I love history, probably because of my dad who is a history teacher. And I like answering long questions.”
One of the unexpected perks of her latest school has been the chance to play more sports.
“In my last school, I didn’t have much time for sport because it was all about studying and academics. In Australia too, sports are usually outside school with fewer options. But here in Malaysia, everyone plays a lot, and I’ve gotten to try more, which has been fun.”
Life in a New Country: The Best (and Hardest) Parts
Every country M has lived in holds a special place in her heart. In Malaysia, she loves the variety of food, the malls, and the endless things to do. In Korea, the cooler weather and quirky attractions stood out. And Peru?
“Everything! I feel completely at home in Latin America!”
Learning languages has been a big part of her journey. She’s nearly fluent in Spanish, can read Hangul (Korean), is studying Bahasa Malaysia, and is also studying French at school. And when it comes to food, she’s all in:
“I love chaufa from Peru (Chinese-Peruvian fried rice), I tried lots of Korean food even though my family didn’t really eat it much, and honestly, I just love food.”
The Hardest Part About Moving
Moving as an international student is exciting, but it’s not always easy.
“Sometimes you miss the countries you lived in before and wish your new place had the same qualities. Also, it’s tough to to have start from scratch because nobody knows who you are.”
Her advice? “You just gotta be you.”
Despite the challenges, M says she can definitely see the benefits of being an expat kid and an international student.
“It can be difficult starting over all the time, but it’s also really fun. You get to explore and have a new opportunity to start again.”
Dreaming of Her Next Adventure as an International Student
M has already visited 15 countries, with Peru and Mexico being her favourites. If she could choose where to live next, her top picks are Italy and Peru—Italy because of a book she read recently (and, of course, the food), and Peru because it’s home in a way.
If you’re considering international school life, hopefully, M’s story highlights some of the incredible experiences, friendships, and personal growth that can come with it.
While moving schools can be tough at the best of times, it can be extra difficult when you’re also moving countries. But, for kids like M, it’s also a journey filled with adventure, discovery, and a world of opportunities.
