Are You a Stranger in a Completely New Country?

Blog post cover: 'Flying to a new country'

Are you a stranger in a completely new country? With a language that sounds totally different from your very own?

If you answered yes, I want you to know: it comes with struggles, and it is very normal to be frustrated.

You will find yourself questioning your decision even when you are trying to find bread that tastes similar to the one you used to have back home. Or the food..which will taste completely different, I am telling you. It is often very disappointing.

My Story: The Flight Back That Almost Happened

I remember when I first arrived in Canada as an international student. As someone who was born and raised in Istanbul... wow. I was so ready to fly back as soon as I landed.

Not joking. It was very shocking from the very first moment. Then I saw the place I needed to stay. Yup, let’s go back. It was a place my language school found for me, and let's just say it was not good.

The Real Barrier: Vocabulary vs. Grammar

To make it harder, I had no English. Nothing other than “Hello,” “My name is…,” and “How are you?” Pretty basic, kindergarten English.

It was tough. I couldn’t ask anything without using a translation app, and it was not easy to find a way to study or practice.

Here is the truth: The problem usually isn't grammar. You can handle a conversation if you have the vocabulary. But without vocabulary? I’m sorry, but that is where you should start digging in. Without words, you can’t express your feelings or your needs.

Just Keep Swimming

There was a time when I regretted my decisions. The longer I stayed, the more I regretted it.

But if you are at that point right now, hang in there.

It is almost time for you to feel like you belong again. The more comfortably you speak, the more you will find your way in the country and the culture. It will all be worth it. You will be exactly where you were dreaming to be.

That is why we are building VocabKit. We want to help you bridge that gap so that language is never a problem for you again.

Just remember, when you feel alone, struggled, or stuck in a situation where no one understands you. We’ve been there. We feel you. And let us tell you: everything will be very normal, very soon.

Just keep swimming.

Now it’s your turn. What is the one meal or snack from home that you miss the most right now? Tell us in the comments, we might even know a place to find it!