How to Survive Your First Week of Study Abroad?

Going to abroad for study can be one of the biggest examples of stepping out of your comfort zone. Moving out of your home and going to a new country can be a life-changing experience. It may seem tough at the start, but, you can bet on it that it will be one of the most enriching journeys of life. But, regardless of how you plan study abroad transition, first few days of your study journey can seem a little edgy. You may find yourself distraught and home sick, however, you need to understand that it happens with most and there is nothing to panic.

When you set foot in a new country, the people, the culture, the food, in true sense almost everything is a drastic change for you and it can be hard to completely prepare yourself for what is in offing. However, this does not mean that you need to take everything as it comes your way, you can prepare yourself prior to your departure to ensure that things don’t come as a big surprise.

Don’t worry we have got it all covered for you. Read on to know how you can make that edgy first week of your abroad study easy and fun.

How to survive your first week of study abroad?

Settling down in a new country can be a difficult task at the start as you would be experiencing a new culture, environment, and people. But, here are a few tips that can help you ensure that you won’t take much time to set in-

Get familiar with your study destination

While there is still time to embark on your study journey, why not put this time to use? Read about your study destination, its culture, people and other things to help yourself feel at home when you are there. A little homework can help you a great deal!

Blend in when you are there

Once you are there, tour your campus, mingle with people and network with the locals. The lesser time you take to mingle with people the easier it will be for you to settle in.

Stay in touch with family

It is normal to feel homesick, so, keep in touch with family through phone, email, video calls, etc. Click pictures and share with family to keep your people updated.

Plan a schedule

The earlier you plan and start your schedule the better it will be for you. Having a routine will ensure that you are busy, and you do not feel bored. Your schedule should not only include studies and related stuff but extracurricular activities and things that interest you.

And don’t forget to get a card which offers student discounts!

Why you need a student discount card?

One of your best buddies abroad is a student discount card which offers discounts in abroad on things that you would need as a student. ISIC discount card is one of the best student cards because it is valid in over 125 countries across the world at more than 1,50,000 discount locations. It is the only UNESCO endorsed student card and getting ISIC will make you eligible for Global Study Awards Scholarship. So, together with discounts in abroad you can make your study affordable with scholarship worth £10,000. Get your ISIC today!

How to Study Abroad as a Transfer Student?

A transfer student is someone who wishes to transfer from their study institution to another university. If you are a student who is interested in studying abroad as a transfer student, you need to plan everything from your course to college and finances to ensure that your study journey is a successful one.

Studying abroad as a transfer student is an exciting experience. To make the most of your time as a transfer student you need to use a bit of foresight- like getting a student travel discount card. A student discount card can give you access to excellent benefits like student travel discounts, discounts at hotels, restaurants, adventure parks, etc. 

If you are planning to study as a transfer student, here are a few useful tips to help you hit the ground running-

Take advice from a guidance counsellor

Once you start looking for study abroad programs, you may find yourself overwhelmed with the opportunities. Hence, the best way to ensure that you choose a befitting course and college is by speaking to a guidance counsellor. You can tell the counsellor about your expectations and requirements, and accordingly the counsellor will suggest the best suited options. 

Do some homework

Do some homework online- read reviews from alumni who have completed the same program you are interested in. Further, universities usually have the contact of alumni transfer students, so, you can ask for their help. Plus, you can even research online to learn more about different study abroad programs.

Put forth your best in the application 

Pen down your essay in such a way that it showcases your academic ambitions and interests detailing why you wish to study a course. Further, also focus on your own reasons for wanting to study at that institution. Not only your academic achievements, also write about extra-curricular achievements and other interests.

  

Remember to clear standardized testing

International transfer students may also have to submit scores for standardized testing with their transfer application. Standardized testing can include aptitude tests or language proficiency exams. To ensure a streamlined process, ensure that you sit for the tests that are required as a part of the application form.

Recommendation letters

Recommendation letters are authorizations by your faculty or work supervisors about your academic or professional achievements. Most study institutions abroad require students to submit recommendation letters with their application.

If you are a transfer student interested in studying abroad, but worried that it may not be feasible financially, don’t worry your ISIC card can make things simpler for you!

Yes, International Student Identity Card is your straight ticket to various discounts that you would need as a student from student travel discounts to discounts on food, accommodation, international SIM cards, spa & wellness centers, retail shops, adventure parks, pharmacy, book stores, and many more. ISIC is definitely your best buddy abroad!

5 Life lessons you learn while studying in abroad

There is no doubt to the fact that studying abroad gives you many tangible benefits. From academic betterment to improving personal skills and landing excellent jobs, there are some great benefits that you can enjoy when you study abroad. Besides these benefits, there are some very important benefits that often go unnoticed, and these benefits are the life lessons that a student learns while at college.

When you leave your homeland to study in a new country, you are stepping out of your comfort zone. It is when you have the courage to step out of your comfort zone, you get to experience new things and learn a lot which helps you develop into a well-rounded person.

Let’s have a look at 5 life lessons which you can learn during your study abroad journey-

1.       Independence

When you go to another country to pursue your studies, you are most likely to find yourself in a place where you do not know anybody. In a new place you will have to do everything on your own- from facing the day-to-day challenges to making decisions. This experience of being on your own in a new country, teaches you a very important lesson of life- that is- being independent. You will learn how to handle difficult and challenging situations, learn a lot about yourself, and become more independent during the process too.

2.       Tolerance

In a new country you will meet people from different backgrounds and ethnicities, which will be an enriching experience for you. Such an exposure will make you aware of the variety and differences and with time you will learn to respect it. As your understanding of the world expands, you ultimately become more tolerant towards the society. Being tolerant is a huge strength to possess and will help you throughout life.

3.       Realism

Being practical and prepared to deal with a situation is another skill which every individual must possess. Being on you own in a new place, teaches you how to be closer to reality and deal with any problem with practicality.

4.       Being stronger

Every new experience in life comes with its share of hardships and the same goes for your study journey abroad. There will be times when you will have to face hardships and you may feel overwhelmed and frustrated. In those moments of despair, never lose hope and face every problem head on. Doing so will make you more capable and stronger.

5.       More adaptable

International education teaches you the ability to adapt under any circumstance. Being adaptable is a soft skill that will help you throughout your life. As everything around us is changing so fast, it is very important to adapt fast and be ready to face any situation head on.

There’s a lot you learn than just your subjects when you go to study abroad. When you embark on your study journey, don’t forget to carry your student card which offers discounts in abroad. ISIC discount card is the only UNESCO endorsed global discount card for students which lets you avail discounts in over 125 countries across the world on almost everything that you would need as a student.

Top qualities that international universities look for in students

The admission process in an international university can be challenging for many prospective students. With thousands of youngsters keen on pursuing their higher education abroad, getting accepted into your chosen university and course can be a challenge. In this article, we will talk about the top qualities that can help you land your chosen course and university abroad.

Obviously great academic score is a mandatory criterion for a ticket to an international university, but being an all-round student gives you an edge over others. There are many qualities that are sought after in the university admission process, and these qualities are similar to those that are highly valued by the employers as well. Besides academic scores which will always be an important factor in university admissions, skills like communication, leadership and passion for a particular area of study could also be key elements in ensuring a seat at an international university. 

Further, it would also be good to check for student ID card discounts which can make your time at the university more affordable and convenient. There are global discount cards for student like International Student Identity Card (ISIC) which allows you to access discounts on travel, shopping, food, accommodation, books, etc. across the world. So, get your student benefit card before you embark on your study journey to an international university.

If you are a student planning to take admission into an international university, you need to do your research about all the requirements and make all the necessary preparations that will help you get closer to the finish line. Here are the top qualities that you need to inculcate if you are planning to pursue studies from an international university-

•  Interest in the subject/course

Good academic scores alone are not enough to show that you are passionate about the subject, however of course they are still important. The perfect combination that universities look for includes both interest and high academic scores. It would be wrong to assume that admission panels at universities only care about grades. If you are serious about securing admission, it is necessary to let them see that you are interested about learning more about your chosen field and creating a career around it. 

•  A good level of English 

Having a good level of English (both written and spoken) is an important attribute for admission to an international university. Your English language skill can be demonstrated by the way you use the language to support your ideas in the application or personal statement that you write, and also during interviews at the universities.

•  Communication skills

Being able to communicate your ideas and opinions accurately is extremely important, whether you are a student or an employee. Communication includes both written as well as spoken communication, that is you are able to write essays, research papers and applications, and also come forth as a public speaker and can speak at debates or formal ceremonies with confidence.

•  Positive attitude towards studies

You need to show the admission panel that you have a positive attitude towards studies. In order to show your attitude, you can tell them about any relevant efforts that you put into learning more about your field, plus let them know about the books and papers that you have found helpful.

•  Responsible

Attributes of a good student also includes taking responsibility of their acts. Good students never play blame game in order to hide their faults. 

International universities look for bright and talented young people who wish to use their academic career for the welfare of the society. So, besides the academic scores, ensure that you develop the qualities that international universities look for. Also, before you begin your study life make sure to get a global discount card for students which offers a lot more discounts than your student ID card.

Source-https://www.idleexperts.com/article/180806070355/7/Top-qualities-that-international-universities-look-for-in-students.html

Top three myths about studying aboard that need to be debunked

Are you considering pursuing your studies abroad? An international study experience can be both daunting as well as inspiring. For some it can prove to be the most rewarding experiences of life, while, for others it can be different. Whatever the case maybe, an abroad study experience is truly worth it!

The journey from considering to study abroad to stepping foot on a university campus in a new destination may seem intimidating and full of hurdles, but a positive mindset and right planning can help in making your study journey a success. If you are in two minds about studying abroad, then here are some top three myths about studying abroad that you need to debunk right now-

Myth- Studying abroad is too expensive

Fact- Whether you are studying in your own country or out of it, higher education is probably going to be a costly venture. But, an international study experience can be a great addition to your resume. The good thing is that there are many opportunities for financial support such as scholarships that are available. Universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, also there are scholarships offered by various organizations for studying abroad. Also, there are student discount cards such as ISIC card which offer excellent discounts on various things that you would need as a student. 

Myth- You need know the native language

Fact- Not necessarily. Universities across the world use English language as a medium of instruction. So, if you are studying in a country which does not have English as its native language, then knowledge of some basic phrases in the native language is enough for you. There is no requirement to be a fluent speaker of the native language of the country.  

Myth- Studying abroad means all fun and no study

Fact: Studying abroad gives an all-round exposure including study and exploration which helps in building valuable skills for life. However, some may think that studying abroad is a vacation which is all about partying and going on trips with friends. But, overall an international study experience expands academic and personal horizons and opens up a world of personal and professional opportunities. 

Studying abroad is one of the most enriching experiences that you will have in your life. If you are considering to pursue your studies at an international destination don’t let these myths deter you from your journey to success. Do your research and plan your study journey well, and you will have a once in a lifetime experience. Also, don’t forget to carry your ISIC card with you. ISIC can is your identity card to a range of discounts. So, get your ISIC discount card today!

Top Tips For Successful Scholarship Applications

Educational scholarship is a kind of financial help extended to students for studies. International scholarships are the ones offered to students who wish to pursue their studies abroad. Getting a scholarship is an excellent way to take care of your tuition fees without the burden of an education loan.

However, there are some scholarships which are offered based upon financial need, but the main objectives of a scholarship program is to honor talent and promote education. And every scholarship has a set of eligibility criteria and requirements to meet. A scholarship sponsor may have certain goals in offering a scholarship- so it is important to understand the requirements as well as the story behind the scholarship in order to make a successful application. If you're looking to apply for an international scholarship, you can explore Global Study Awards (GSA) which has been started with the aim to reward academic success and promote overseas educational opportunities. With an ISIC card you will be eligible to apply for Global Study Awards and stand a chance to win a maximum value of 10,000.

If you are looking to apply for a scholarship to study abroad, here are some tips for a successful scholarship application-

Research about the scholarship

Before you apply, it is very important to research well about the scholarship. Take time out to understand about what the award is for, the eligibility and other requirements, and deadlines of application. Don't just apply for the first one you come across, instead choose the one that fits your profile in the best way. Making a smart choice is the first step to being successful in obtaining a scholarship. Besides the eligibility and the application deadlines, you need to know the story behind the scholarship i.e. what is the purpose of the scholarship so that you can fine-tune your application to meet their expectations.

Check about the scholarship provider

Check the company, institution or body behind the scholarship. If you're applying for a scholarship awarded by a company or organization, do little research about it, about the work they do in order to better tailor your scholarship application to their requirements.

Before you start to fill the form, don't forget to read the instructions carefully. Read the instructions and make sure you understand them as it is very important to write an application which meets the guidelines of the requirement. If you do not read and follow the instructions, your application may be rejected even if you are the best candidate. Besides this, also make sure to include all documents required with the application form.

Make the best impression

One thing to understand is that the assessors don't know you, so you need to make the best impression when filling out an international scholarship form. Make sure you put yourself forth as the best candidate through your application. Be clear and concise with your answers, and mention your achievements without sounding too arrogant. If there is a requirement of a personal statement, write everything worth mentioning about your academic career and extra-curricular activities, plus any awards or prizes that you have been awarded.

Finally, proofread

Proofreading is one of the most important part of an application. Read through each and every thing that you have mentioned in the application a few times to screen for errors and to make it sound better. If you feel the need, you may ask someone else to read it on your behalf as we often overlook our mistakes.

Remember, your scholarship application is your first and last impression, so give it your best shot. If you're looking to pursue your studies abroad apply for Global Study Awards. GSA has been launched collaboratively by prestigious bodies, namely ISIC Association, StudyPortals, British Council and IELTS, and offers a huge prize of up to 10,000.

Source - https://www.sooperarticles.com/education-articles/international-studies-articles/top-tips-successful-scholarship-applications-1651540.html

Scholarships for Students Planning to Study Abroad

It is a common assumption that scholarships are predominantly for students who are in need of financial assistance. However, this is not true. The truth is that there are many types of scholarships, such as national scholarships or study abroad scholarships, merit-based scholarships or need-based scholarships, etc. which are awarded as per the purpose aligned to them.

Winning a scholarship is highly beneficial for any student as besides acting as a financial support for studies, scholarships are looked upon as an achievement. If you are looking out for applying to scholarships, consider the Global Study Awards and access a great opportunity to win scholarship worth £10,000. 

Eligibility criteria for Global Study Awards-

• Candidate should have attained 18 years age or over as on 1 January 2018.

• Write IELTS test at a British Council Center, and receive an official Test Report Form (TRF) issued by the British   Council after 1st June 2017.

• ISIC Card- Have a valid International Student Identity Card (ISIC) at the time of application.

• Plan to enroll in a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programme abroad starting between 1 August and 31 October   2018

• Provide an acceptance letter from the relevant study institution

• Plus, you will have to share your experience of your study at SteXX.com

How can you apply for GSA?

• Candidates who wish to apply for GSA study abroad scholarships will have to register online and apply here. 
• Candidates will have to fill the application form online.
• In the GSA application, a candidate will have to fill personal information as well as academic details.
• The applications will be evaluated by a panel of eminent experts and the shortlisted candidates will be invited for   face-to-face interview.
• The names of the scholarship winners will be announced within 3 months from the application deadline.

GSA has been designed to reward meritorious students and promote international educational opportunities. To apply for the awards you need to be an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) holder. 

Do you know the benefits of having an ISIC card?

ISIC card is valid in 125+ countries, 1000+ universities and 1, 50,000 + outlets across the world. It is only UNESCO endorsed global discount card for students. With ISIC you can access discounts both at home and internationally. Just flash your ISIC and avail a range of discounts on travel, accommodation, food, grocery, entertainment, electronic gadgets, etc. Besides the amazing discounts, you can also make yourself eligible to apply for the Global Study Awards Scholarship.

The application for GSA round 5 is open till 20th July for students who will begin their course in autumn intake 2018 (between 1 August and 31 October 2018). 2 awards will be given for 5th round of GSA, each individual scholarship award will have a maximum value of £10,000. Apply today!

Source - https://new-delhi.storeboard.com/blogs/business/scholarships-for-students-planning-to-study-abroad/903272

Tips to make your scholarship application stand out

Scholarship to study abroad is an excellent way to fund your studies, and lower the burden of a student loan. Besides being a financial support, a scholarship is an achievement on your part as scholarships are mostly given to deserving students to support their higher education. There are many study abroad scholarships that you can find online, but you first need to know which ones you are eligible to apply to. While you will have to do some legwork to find a scholarship that fits your interests as well as eligibility, but once you find a scholarship you need to be sure that you apply for it the right way.

When it comes to writing a scholarship application, you need to make sure that you portray yourself in the right manner and put your best in it. By following these tips, you can create a standout scholarship application that will surely catch the eye of the election committee-

• Read about the scholarship before you start

Before you begin with filling the application form, read about the scholarship in detail. Know the purpose of the scholarship and what kind of students they are targeting. Knowing about the scholarship in detail will help you understand what is being expected out of you and it will help you fill the form in a better manner. After you’ve gone through the scholarship details, read the instructions that are given for filling the application form. Read the instructions as well as the entire scholarship application, along with all eligibility requirements, before you start to pen down the details. 

• Know your audience

Another important thing to ensure that you fill the application right is to make sure that you know your audience and exactly what is expected of you. The objective of the scholarship will be mentioned in the scholarship brochure and you need to understand it well to ensure that the goals you express in your application match the goals of the scholarship program.

• Show your strengths and clarify your weaknesses

Write about everything that shows your strengths and achievements. You can list down your achievements in academics, and extracurricular and community activities, to show your strengths. And if there are any weaknesses, like a gap in studies, explain it to ensure that you are not understood in the wrong way.

• Be clear and concise

An application form needs to be answered in the most clear and concise manner to ensure that you point is conveyed in the exact manner that you want it to be conveyed, and is not misinterpreted. So, it would be good to write a rough draft for your application first, and then re-read and improve on it.

• Proofread and submit within the deadline

Before sending, proofread your application and if possible ask someone else to read it once to ensure there are no errors. Also, send your application form within the deadline. 

If you are looking for study abroad scholarships, get yourself International Student Identity Card and make yourself eligible to apply for the Global Study Awards (TGSA). TGSA is a scholarship program launched to encourage youngsters to pursue studies abroad, explore new countries, cultures and languages. An individual global study award has a maximum value of £10,000 So, apply for ISIC and be eligible to win TGSA!

How to save money while studying abroad

Congratulations, you have secured admission into a reputed college abroad and are about to start a new journey in your life. As you are planning to start your journey, one thing that you need to understand that it is going to be a fun experience, but the only issue is that you will be low on cash. Firstly, you would not be having a steady source of income and secondly, you will also be under the burden of your student loan. So, you need to understand the importance of budgeting and learn to save money.

If you are student living abroad or are about to start your study at an international university, here are easy ways to save money-

• Learn to budget and stick to it

Learning to budget and sticking to it is perhaps the most important skill that you’ll need to master in order to manage your finances abroad. Depending upon the money you get to spend for your monthly costs, create a budget for everything that you would need and make it a point to stick to it. Look for a low cost living option, and keep a tab on spends, to ensure that you keep things under your budget.

• Use International Student Identity Card (ISIC)

Did you know that by flashing your ISIC card you can access excellent discounts including shopping, food, grocery, dine-out, travel discounts and many more in 125+ countries worldwide? If you are a student, you can apply for ISIC and avail discounts for a whole year at a nominal fee. With ISIC, you can enjoy a range of discounts, wherever you go, and save more every time!

• Get cheap flights with travel discount card

With ISIC student card and travel discount card, you can enjoy huge discounts on airfares and make travel easy, affordable, and accessible. So, why not make the most of student travel discounts and travel new destinations while you are in college without burning a hole in your pocket?!

• Use public transportation

Another good way to save some easy cash is by skipping the taxi rides and opting for public transportation instead. You can get a monthly bus or metro pass and save a lot on transportation.  

• Part time job

Along with saving money through student discount cards, why not earn some extra money to fund your expenditure by taking up a part time job? A part time job can help you earn good money and also give you experience. So, look for the job positions where you can fit in but make sure that you work doesn’t kill your study time as after all you are here for your studies. 

Financing your study program in a new country and managing your budget throughout your course is one of the most challenging and one of the least fun part of the entire process. But, don’t worry there are a lot of ways to save money during your studies, from student ID card discounts to student and travel discount card. All you need to do is to stick to a budget and save money using student discount cards. Discount cards for students offer a range of discounts including student travel discounts, discounts on food, shopping, electronics, books and magazines, and many more.

Tips to make most out of your time at college

The time you spend at school or college will be surely one of the best times of your life. So, it is important to make the best out of that time. As a student you need to make sure that you make the most out of your time both academically as well as socially. Embracing all the opportunities that come your way will make you a worldlier and a well-rounded person who will have a better and brighter future. 

Time never comes back, so it is very important to utilize it in the best way possible. To help you on make the most of your student journey, here is a list of the useful tips-

Study well

The primary thing that you are here for is your studies, so it is very important to understand the importance of time with respect to studies. Build your knowledge as much as you can. Study your course books, visit the library, and attend your classes, workshops, training sessions that are organized at your college, and make complete use of the learning resources that you have. 

Make new friends   

One of the greatest things about college is that you get the opportunity to meet people and make new friends. The more you interact with people around you, you get to know new things and the more aware you become. Further, interacting with people helps build your communication skills as well. So, make most of the time to interact and learn as much as you can. 

Enjoy yourself

Don’t get engrossed in studies so much that you forget to enjoy yourself. Only studying all the time will tire you, so, you need to find ways to entertain yourself. Play sports, exercise, read a book, pursue a hobby, or do something that interests you and makes you feel happy. Go out with friends, travel and explore places, and enjoy the time you have at hand, but keep your focus on your studies.  

Explore student discounts

Get a student benefit card that offers discounts on a range of things and is valid across the world. International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is a global discount card which offers student discounts on travel, food, accommodation, grocery, medicines, electronics, books, online shopping, eating out, etc. So, flash your student ID card and make the most of the discounts.

College is the time when you realize your true potential, learn invaluable lessons and begin to mature into a wiser person. So, explore and embrace every opportunity that comes your way and can enrich your life as a student, and make the most your of your college life. 

Travel tips for student traveling abroad

Whether you are a student pursuing your studies abroad or are looking to explore an international destination during your holidays or session break, knowing a few travel tips can help make your travel more affordable and better planned. 

Think you cannot travel abroad? Because as a student it is obvious that you’d be having less capital resources, but using a few tips and utilizing your money in a better manner, you can make your overseas trip a success without burning a hole in your pocket. In this blog, we will discuss a few useful tips that can help you save your precious pennies when traveling abroad.

From getting your hands on the best travel discounts to knowing where you can cut down on expenses and how you can enjoy your trip better, here is a list of excellent travel tips to make your every travel lighter on your pocket and more enjoyable-

A plan in time saves nine 

Planning is an integral part of travel. If you have a plan chalked out before you start, you sure will have a better trip. We are living in the technology-driven era where information is available at a click of a button, so why not use it to your best! Knowing the destinations you will visit, and researching about the affordable options for accommodation, or cheap places to see, eat, enjoy festivals, can expands your possibilities and also help you save more. 

Budget and be merry

Setting up a budget is an essential part of a trip. When setting up a budget for your trip abroad, there are some financial factors to consider, including the exchange rate between the currency you’re using and currency of the place you’re visiting. Use an online exchange rate calculator and look for the best ways to get a good exchange rate without excessive charges. Create a budget for the trip accordingly and try your best to stick to it.

Avoid peak seasons

When you want to save money on travel, the best way would be to avoid the peak seasons and travel during the off season. During off-season you’d get better prices on airfares, bus fares, etc. as well as on accommodation. Also, during off-season there would be less crowd and you’d be able to explore places in a better manner. 

Get a travel discount card

There are wonderful student travel discounts waiting to be explored. All you need to do is to get a card that offers travel discounts. International Youth Travel Card (IYTC) is a travel card that offers delightful travel discounts to youth under the age of 30 years. So, if you love traveling IYTC is your card!

Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. Using a few tips you can save huge on travel tickets, accommodation, and more. There are many ways to make your travel cheaper, and one of the best ways is to avail student travel discounts using a travel discount card. 

Why you should go on a solo trip?

Traveling with family and friends is one of the best moments of our lives, giving us with memorable experiences for a lifetime. But, have you ever thought of moving out of your comfort zone and traveling solo? Nowadays, people go on solo adventurers and heading to one gorgeous destination after another. Traveling solo has its own merits and there are many reasons why you should at least once go on a solo trip. 

If you love traveling and are looking for a discount card that offers discounts on travel, then get yourself an ISIC travel discount card which offers a range of discounts on airfare, accommodation, travel insurance, shopping, entertainment, etc. It is a global discount card which is valid worldwide and you can get excellent discounts every time!

If you’re still considering going on a solo trip, then here are a few reasons why everyone should go on a solo trip at least once in their life-

Self-empowerment

Solo adventures often make you feel more empowered and independent than you were before the trip. During solo travel, you are faced with different situations and challenges which make you more independent, and aware. As you schedule everything on your own that is where you will travel to or what all you will do, you become more self-dependent. 

Confidence 

Traveling solo is a great way to build your confidence. Stepping out of the comfort zone by planning a solo trip will help you gain great confidence which you will be able to feel yourself. As you’ll be going to a new destination where everything is unknown to you, you will face different situations, and learn how to face different situations with confidence. 

Self-discovery

Traveling alone gives you a chance to discover yourself in a new light. You find time out of your hectic schedule to reconnect with your inner thoughts. Solo travel gives you enough time to look back into your life, reflect on your decisions and discover more about yourself.  Spending some time in solitude allows you to embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Make new friendships

Going on solo trip doesn’t mean that you will be all alone; you will meet a lot of new on your journey and make new friends. You can find many package trips that offer opportunities to travel with people and make connections with like-minded explorers. Beyond making new friendships, solo travel will also offer you excellent opportunities to get to know new people and new cultures.

Full control

When traveling in a group, you will have a lot many people making plans about where to go, where to stay, and what to do. But, when you are traveling alone, you are in full control of everything. You can plan the entire trip by yourself; visit the places that you want to, and do whatever you want to do, while on the trip. 

Traveling solo has great advantages, but before you plan a trip don’t forget to get a travel discount card which offers discounts on travel, accommodation, and more. ISIC offers global discount cards which gives you access to 1,50,000+ discounts in 125+ countries including India. So, get you discount card today!

Healthy restaurant dining tips when you’re on a diet

So, you’ve food discount coupons of one the best restaurant’s in town, want to eat your heart out but your weight loss program is stopping you! If you’re every time trying to find a reason to opt out of the dinner plans only because you can't eat out as you are on a diet, then you need to read on to know some healthy eating tips. Worry not, we’ve got your back. 

If you’ve grabbed some great restaurant deals and coupons and are dining out, then here are simple and healthy restaurant dining tips that will keep you from gaining those extra kilos-

Look through the menu

Just like you look for discount on food on the internet, have a look at restaurant menu to find the healthy dishes on the menu. Take time and plan out what you will order and stick to your decided menu when you visit the restaurant. And if you’re looking for food discount coupons, get an ISIC card and enjoy easy-peasy discounts while eating out.

Ditch the snacks

If you eat a lot of appetizers, you will obviously exceed your calorie intake every time you go out for a meal.  And as appetizers are loaded with fat, they can spoil your weight-loss program. Switch the fatty entrées with low-fat appetizers or a side salad instead.

Drink water

There are studies that have claimed that if you drink water before the meal and during the meal, it reduces your appetite as you feel full and end up consuming less. Plus, replace the sugar-sweetened drinks that you consume during the meals with water to remove those extra calories.

Balance your meal

Balance your meal by adding healthier selections and reducing the high calorie foods. Include more of salads and veggies, and if you want to eat meat and fish, choose the leaner portions and the steamed versions.

Eat small meal portions

When you are dieting, food portions that you consume are really important. Make sure to eat smaller portions, and try not to overeat. If there’s anything on the plate that is more than you can eat, you can bring the leftovers home. 

Chew your food well

The more time you take to chew your food, the longer you take to finish your food. And there are research studies to prove that eating slowing leads to less eating and lesser weight gain. Additionally, eating slow makes you feel full more quickly.

Limit alcohol consumption

Alcohol is loaded with calories, and if you consume too much of alcohol it will spoil all your weight-loss objectives. The number of calories in a drink depends upon the amount and the strength of alcohol you consume. So, consumer smaller portions of alcohol and try mixing the alcohol with a low-calorie drink.

Sticking to a healthy eating plan can allow you to enjoy your restaurant meal without worrying about the calories gained! And if you are looking for some great discounts on food at the top restaurants then get yourself an ISIC card and get hands on the best restaurant deals and coupons.

How to utilize your time in a better way at college?

From traveling to pursuing a hobby, there’s a lot that you can do while at college. So, why not make the most of the time that you have at hand during college to become a wiser person altogether? Yes, being low on finances can restrict you from doing a lot of things that you would want to do as a student. But, you don’t have to worry when there are student discount offers to help you out. With International Student Identity Card (ISIC) you can get discount coupons for everything including travel, food, shopping, grocery, restaurants, shopping, etc. If you love shopping, there are delightful discounts on online shopping and at stores, waiting to be explored.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to utilize your time at college in a better way so that it helps you in the longer run. Here is a list of tips to help you utilize your college time in a better way-

Be an early riser but don’t compromise on sleep

A healthy body leads to a healthy mind and vice versa. So, be an early riser but don’t compromise on your sleep as lack of sleep can impact your health. When you wake up early you have a lot of time to do everything and that too on time. Waking up on time helps you stay productive and do many things each day. 

Make a to-do list

To utilize your time in the best way, you need to have a list of things that you have to do in a day. Staring with your classes, your self-study time, exercise, hobby, recreation- everything should have a designated spot in your list. Having a list keeps you from missing out on things while helping you make the most of the time.

Add to your skill-sets

Build on your skills whenever you have time. A skill can be anything, from learning a new software to leaning a new language. Keep learning something new every day and you’ll later come to know how these things help you in your future.

Read

Reading is a great hobby to pursue, as it makes you more informed. Further, reading enhances vocabulary and comprehension. 

Engage in constructive things

As a student, you may be all engrossed in your classes, studies, projects, etc. But, besides your studies, it is also important to enhance your talents and knowledge to achieve the best in life. College life is the best time when you have the opportunity and sufficient time for yourself to get engaged in constructive things, like a hobby, a sport, etc.

Life is about utilizing the time at hand in the best way. And if you think your finances are stopping you from making the most of it, then take benefit of the student offers. There are a range of discount coupons for students from discounts on online shopping to travel, entertainment, and more. So, why not make your life worth it!

Things to consider when buying electronics online

Are you considering to buy your favorite electronic gadget online? But, you are confused whether buying online would be a good decision or not? Buying online certainly comes with its share of anxiety, but the myriad offers and discount on online shopping definitely make it an option that’s worth trying for. 

Definitely, shopping online is an excellent option as you can explore, compare and purchase a wide range of products, with a click of a button or finger-tap from wherever you want and get it delivered to your doorstep. However, with electronic items, you have to be doubly sure that you buy from a genuine source. 

Buying electronic gadgets is not an easy task, and when you are buying it online you need to be extra cautious. A little planning and a few considerations not only can help you purchase the best gadgets, but also will save money with discount coupons.

Here are a few things that you should consider when you are buying electronic gadgets online-

Buy from a reputed website

When buying electronic items online, make sure you shop from a reputed online store. You can find many cheap low quality online stores, but you should always go with well-known stores like Amazon and eBay or any other online retailer which is reputed in your country.

Check the warranty

When you buy electronic items online, especially mobile phones you will find two types of warranties- “Seller Warranty” and “Manufacturer Warranty”. Seller warranty is the warranty given only from the seller or dealer and not from the product manufacturer. This means that you will have to contact the seller each time you have an issue with your electronic item. Manufacturer warranty means you have full warranty support from the product manufacturer. Always, choose products with manufacturer warranty when buying online.

Read reviews

Always read the product reviews when buying online. You can find two types of reviews- ‘product review’ by gadget websites and ‘reviews from customers’. Checking for product and customer reviews should be course of action to decide whether or not you want to buy the product.  

Shipping charges

If you buy from reputed online portals, they usually offer ‘free shipping’ facility. However, some retailers charge a nominal amount to deliver the product to your doorstep. Prefer websites which offer the facility of “free shipping” when buying online.

Know your discounts

Get yourself a discount card to hoover up any discounts on online shopping. If you’re a student, you can get ISIC or International Student Identity Card to grab student offers on electronics. Whether you like to travel or eat out or indulge in leisure activities, ISIC offers a range of cards that can get you discount coupons on a choice of things. 

The bottom-line of the above discussion is that you should take your time when buying gadgets online. Take note of the above points and apply due diligence to make your online shopping a successful one!

Smart habits to stay positive and happy at college

Bad attitude towards your studies or college can negatively affect your learning, grades, and relations with others. Unhappy or bad feelings can make things harder for yourself at college. A negative attitude may even lead to an unhealthy tutor-student relationship. However, if you follow a healthy and positive attitude at college, you can make your educational experience a lot more enjoyable!

Good attitude together with a happy mind can sow the seeds of a successful future. While there are many things that can make student life an amazing experience, and one such thing is ISIC discount card. ISIC is an international card that is valid in over 125 countries worldwide. This global benefit card is a perfect companion of students as it offers discounts on food, travel, accommodation, education, entertainment, etc. 

If you’re a student who has just joined college or you are a college student already, here are some tips to help you stay positive and happy at college- 

Keep that smile on your face

Smiling not only keeps you happy, but also makes others consider you as a cheerful and good person. Smile has the power to cut down stress, has a calming feeling and makes you attractive. Smile should be a part of you, which you should not leave home without. 

Stay in the company of happy and positive people

It will not be wrong to say that your company has an effect on you. When you are surrounded with people in good spirits with good intentions, you feel happy and positive about everything. It is all about the environment you’re in, so try to find good people who make you feel positive and good.

Cut off emotionally draining people

There are people who become your best friends and then there are people whom you don’t get along with well and these people can actually put you through hell. Find the people that make you feel lively, and keep them. And cut off any connections with people who make you feel stressed, people who only care about themselves or those who make you feel appalling. Remove such people from your life.

Find happiness in the little things

Enjoy the little things that are happening around you, as it’s not how much you have, but how much you enjoy that makes you happy. Celebrate small victories and cherish little moments of fun and laughter with friends. Appreciate the small things because they add up to everything.

Help others

Help the people around you. Helping others can make you feel more positive and happy towards your life and yourself. If you’re a student, you may support as a volunteer or take time out of your day to help the needy people around you. Even small acts of kindness can help uplift someone’s spirits and give you a sense of confidence and happiness.

Finally, if there is something that has been bothering you since a long time, try and find a solution to it. Certain problems in life only add to stress and trauma, so it is very important to find a solution to such problems. 

Top myths about studying abroad BUSTED!

Overseas education opens up a plethora of opportunities for the students and is surely a value-add to the resume. When you study overseas you become a worldlier person by exploring a new country, new culture and of course meeting people from different ethnicities. There is no doubt to the fact that studying abroad is a life-changing experience that helps you throughout your career and your future life. However, when you’re considering to study abroad, you should do proper research and planning to ensure that your educational experience is worthwhile. 

In spite of these benefits, students are still hesitant on taking the step forward to study in a foreign country. There can be many reasons for the hesitation, but usually the myths or misconceptions about overseas study is the main reason.

To help students make the right choice for their career, here are the top myths about studying in a foreign country-

• Studying abroad is expensive

The top most myth and obviously the common one is that studying outside your country is really expensive. This is however not true! If you do a bit of research you will find many affordable options to study abroad and there are many funding options as well. You can look for scholarships to fund your studies or take an education loan. Plus, there are student discounts cards, like ISIC or International Student Identity Card to make your student life more affordable with discounts on travel, accommodation, education, leisure and many more things.

• Foreign countries are unsafe

Well, there may be certain study destinations which may be unsafe, but there are a plethora of destinations that are not only student-friendly but also offer unlimited opportunities to work and settle down.

• You need to be multilingual

Absolutely not! Study institutions around the world teach courses in English. So, if you know English you do not need to know any native languages. And in case you have problems with fluency in English, then you can enroll in one of the English speaking courses to make yourself at ease.

• All programs are the same whether in my country or abroad

Not at all, different universities have different study-abroad programs, designed to meet the needs of all kinds of students. And above all an abroad studying experience is a value-add on your resume as employers prefer candidates who have a global exposure.

• You won’t have any friends in a new country

Overseas education is a great way to improve yourself personally as well. Just as you will be in a new country, there will be many students like you, so you need not worry about it. You will meet new people, make new friends and become more worldly wise!

Don't fall for these myths about studying overseas. Studying in a new country will obviously be a great experience, just ensure to plan everything well. Good luck!