Introvert Student’s Guide to Zero-Anxiety Study Abroad Counselling

For introverted students, preparation is crucial for a successful studying abroad counselling session. Here's how to get ready: 

Reframing Your Mindset  

Instead of focusing on the potential discomfort, let's shift your mindset to the real purpose of the session: achieving your study abroad goals. Think about why studying abroad is important to you. Visualise a positive and supportive interaction with your consultant where you feel heard and understood. Focus on the desired outcome — a clear plan to pursue your dreams. Imagine walking away from the session feeling confident and empowered. 

Ask Your Counsellor About Themselves  

While you may not be able to research your counsellor beforehand, you can still spark off a connection by asking them about themselves. This isn't about deep-diving into their personal life but simply familiarising yourself with their professional background. Once you know about them a little more, it can help remove the perspective that you’re meeting a complete stranger, and make the initial interaction feel much less intimidating.

Knowing about them and their experience with specific destinations or programmes can help you to tailor your questions. For example, you could ask how university rankings in your chosen field relate to your study abroad goals, helping you understand the education system and make informed decisions. Besides, while they’re speaking, you can even enjoy an introvert’s much-needed moment of taking the backseat. 

Prepare Talking Points To Discuss  

Think of a few key points you want to cover. This can be particularly helpful for introverted students because you discuss topics important to you, such as scholarship availability and visa applications, without feeling like you don’t know what to talk about. This can ease anxiety by providing a sense of control and reducing the pressure to perform, making the interaction feel more like a comfortable chat. 

Choose Your Setting  

Remember that you have options! Consider whether you'd prefer an in-person or virtual counselling session.

Virtual sessions can be especially beneficial for introverted students, offering the comfort and convenience of your own space, which can help ease anxiety and promote open communication. At IDP Philippines, virtual sessions are done via Zoom, making it more comfortable and convenient for students. As long as you have a stable internet connection, you can visit our virtual offices:

Luzon: https://idp-events.zoom.us/j/91972286432

Visayas & Mindanao: https://idp-events.zoom.us/j/91233007085

Meeting in person, meanwhile, also has its own merits as well, allowing you to quickly dive deep into topics, which can reduce the amount of time you need in a session overall. IDP Philippines also has multiple locations all over the country, allowing you to visit any office that's nearest or most convenient for you:

Metro Manila: Quezon City, Pasig City, and Makati City

Rest of Luzon: Baguio City and Batangas

Visayas: Iloilo City and Cebu City

Mindanao: Cagayan de Oro and Davao City

Once you're in the studying abroad counselling session, remember these key tips: 

They're on Your Side 

Remember: your counsellor is your partner in achieving your study abroad goals, not a judge. Think of them as a friendly guide, invested in your success. Their supportive approach creates a safe space for you to explore options without pressure. 

Active Listening and Note-Taking 

Focusing on the present moment can ease anxiety. Active listening helps you engage fully, shifting your attention away from worries. Jotting down key points and advice for studying abroad helps you process information and reduces the pressure to memorise everything. Relax, knowing you've captured the important details. 

Communicating Your Needs 

Start small. Begin with a simple question to ease into the conversation. It's fine to go slow. Open and honest communication is key, even if challenging. You’ll find IDP’s study abroad consultants to be understanding and patient, and ready to support you. They want to hear your thoughts, so don't hesitate to speak up. 

Taking Breaks 

If you're feeling overwhelmed, it's perfectly okay to ask for a short break, including during virtual consultations. This can help you recharge and process the information more effectively. 

Processing Information 

There's absolutely no rush to decide during the session. Take all the time you need to reflect on the information and advice provided. It's perfectly fine to say, "I'd like to think about this a little more." Studying abroad is a big decision, and you should be able to feel completely confident and comfortable with your choices. IDP counsellors understand this and will give you the space you need to process everything. 

The studying abroad counselling session is just the beginning! Here's what to do afterwards: 

Reflecting on the Positive 

Take a moment to reflect on the positive aspects of the session. Did you learn something new? Did you feel heard and understood? Celebrate the fact that you took the first step! As an introverted student, stepping outside your comfort zone is a significant achievement. Acknowledge your courage and the progress you've made. 

Following Up and Building Rapport 

Don't hesitate to follow up with your counsellor. Send a thank-you note or ask any lingering questions you may have. This helps maintain contact and builds rapport, creating a sense of familiarity that can reduce future anxiety. It shows that you're engaged and invested in your study abroad journey. 

Recognising Your Progress

Each step you take, no matter how small, builds confidence. Booking the session, attending it, and following up — these are all accomplishments! Reinforce to yourself that you are capable of achieving your study abroad goals. You've already taken a significant step, and you have the support you need to succeed. 

Doing Further Research and Trusting Your Instincts 

Based on the information gathered during the session, conduct additional research to deepen your understanding of your chosen study destination and programmes.  Ultimately, the decision of where and what to study is yours. Trust your intuition and make the choice that feels right for you. 

As a student, introvert or not, you’ll want to know your study abroad advisor can give you the personalised support you need. You’ll discover that IDP’s consultants are experienced and equipped to understand and cater to your own communication style and comfort level as an introvert, creating a supportive environment for you to explore your study abroad options. 

You’ll get access to reliable resources through IDP, one of the world’s leading international education placement services:  

• Personalised counselling: Our counsellors take the time to understand your individual goals, preferences, and concerns, providing tailored advice and guidance. 

• Virtual counselling options: We offer virtual counselling sessions, allowing you to connect with our counsellors from the comfort of your own home. 

• Extensive resources: Explore our comprehensive online guides, webinars, and events designed to help you prepare for your study abroad journey. 

Don’t Put Off Your Study Abroad Journey Any Longer  

Still wondering if studying abroad is good for introverts? Absolutely! And your journey to a successful experience begins with a confident step into your counselling session. We understand that even the thought of this can spark anxiety in some of you, especially when considering questions like how to survive college as an introvert in a new environment.

But remember, overcoming anxiety about the counselling process itself is a process, and taking the first step to book a session is a significant achievement in your study abroad journey.  

Book a counselling session with IDP today. Our counsellors offer a supportive, zero-pressure environment where you can openly discuss your study abroad goals and concerns.