Cultural Adjustment, Community & Belonging

Adjusting to a new culture can be challenging for international students, especially when balancing study, family responsibilities, and building a social life. Differences in communication styles, dating culture, parenting norms, and community networks can contribute to feelings of isolation or being out of place.

ft. Lina

Lina

Lina is a Diploma of Counselling student living in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. Originally from Nigeria, she balances study with parenting while navigating social life, childcare options, and new cultural norms. Some days she feels isolated, but she has found that small steps — like visiting a community centre, joining a local group, or connecting online — can help Melbourne feel more like home.

There are moments when I feel completely alone, like I’m the only one figuring this out. Balancing study, kids, and adjusting to a new culture isn’t easy. But small steps really do help.

Cultural adjustment challenges may include:

•

Difficulty making friends or finding a sense of community.

•

Feeling unfamiliar with local social or dating culture.

•

Balancing study with family or parenting responsibilities.

•

Limited access to culturally familiar childcare or support networks.

•

Feelings of loneliness or isolation during the adjustment period.

These struggles with feeling lonely, figuring out childcare, or adjusting socially and will not affect your visa. It’s safe to focus on building your life here without worrying about that.

Chatting with someone at a local event or joining an online group is like giving yourself a tiny life hack. Asking for help? That’s just me being strategic!