6 Steps to Keeping Your Parents Happy During Your Time Abroad
Traveling abroad is an exciting and bold decision that takes courage, energy, and planning. But it’s not just about you – your parents play a big role in your journey too. They’re learning to offer advice and support while giving you space to grow and learn on your own. But they might need some guidance in navigating this new chapter. Yes, helping your parents feel comfortable about your decision can make things smoother. Lets explore how to convince your parents to let you go somewhere, especially if you’re in the process of traveling abroad for an internship or study abroad.
1. Do Your Research Carefully
Before heading abroad, thoroughly research both your program and destination. This will help you fully understand the value of the internship and ensure that the program is accredited and offers reliable support. Simply buying a plane ticket and hoping to figure things out later is risky and can lead to unnecessary stress and financial losses. This is not one of the ways to keep your parents happy while you are abroad. Parents feel more comfortable when they know you’ve put thought into your plan and that a solid, reputable program is waiting for you.
2. Make a Detailed Study Abroad Plan
Your study abroad goals may not align with your parents’ expectations. While you might see it as an opportunity for exploration, they may be focused on academic credits. Have an open conversation early on to make sure you’re on the same page. Share details about the program, including where you’ll be, what you’ll study, and how it benefits your education. Discuss logistics like costs, visas, and accommodation to reassure them that everything is covered.
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3. Set Boundaries for Communication
If you want to know how to convince your parents to let you go somewhere, you must decide ahead of time how often you’ll communicate. Gone are the days of letters and rare phone calls – now, it’s easy to stay connected. However, too much communication can make it hard to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Agree on how often you’ll check in and how you’ll do it, whether through calls, video chats, or social media. Be mindful that over-sharing can worry your parents unnecessarily, so keep things balanced.
4. Create a Budget or Financial Plan
One of the first questions your parents will ask is, “How will you pay for this?” Having a clear financial plan can make all the difference.
Prepare a simple budget that covers major expenses like flights, tuition, housing, groceries, and extra money for weekend trips or activities. Show them you’ve considered the costs carefully and researched affordable options. Mention scholarships, grants, and loans that could reduce the financial burden. Additionally, point out student discounts from services like UNiDays and StudentUniverse for flights, transportation, and meals, which can help you save money while studying abroad. This reassures them that you’re financially prepared.
5. Reach Out When You Need Help
If you want to know how to convince your parents to let you go somewhere, clearly explain how the experience will benefit you and address their concerns. Even though you might experience culture shock and homesickness, it’s important to communicate openly. If you find yourself struggling, avoid telling your parents one thing while reassuring your program coordinators that everything is fine, as this can cause confusion. Speak up to the right people if you need help. Stay calm, be clear, and keep your communication with your parents positive and focused on solutions.
6. Keep Your Parents in the Loop while You’re Abroad
Let your parents know how you’ll stay in touch, whether through regular calls, video chats, a blog, or social media updates. Some students set up separate social media accounts to share their experiences, which is easier than updating everyone individually.
While independence is key, keeping your parents updated on your wellbeing will ease their worries. If they’re not tech-savvy, help them set up social media accounts to stay connected. You can also suggest they join online forums or Facebook groups where other parents of students abroad share their experiences. This can reassure them that they’re not alone and offer support, with resources or through direct communication with our staff at World Endeavours.
Work Together with Your Parents
Remember, your parents aren’t the enemy. They want to understand why going abroad is important to you. If you want to know how to convince your parents to let you go somewhere, show them that you’ve done your research, planned carefully, and thought everything through! By working together, you’ll get their support and make your study abroad dream a reality.
