ENJOY YOUR STAY IN BENIN REPUBLIC, COTONOU WITH THESE AWESOME TIPS

10 AWESOME TIPS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE STAY IN Benin Republic, Cotonou

The necessity to adjust and blend in to new surroundings can present itself at any stage of one’s life. At beninfo247, one of our areas of expertise is helping new Nigerian student’s transition to Benin Republic, Cotonou a very memorable experience for them. We have helped lots of students settle down in this country comfortably. Shown them to really nice diners around, which they loved and now frequent occasionally.

Having to adapt and get used to a new set of cultural expectations and social norms, at the same time staying true to your own sense of self is never really easy. Mentioned below are some few tips to make the transition a smooth and easy one!

1. Read as much as you can about your new environment in advance before you get there. For a new student applying into a university in Benin Republic, Cotonou, study about the school on the website and any published materials you can find. Learn the names of those in leadership positions – school management, vice chancellor, registrar of the school etc. Familiarize yourself with the stated values of the university.
2. Decide what qualities you want to be known for: For instance, you might want to be known for being friendly, intelligent and a go-getter. This is a basic rule of “personal branding.” Being certain of your three top qualities will allow you to establish a strong platform early on.
3. Be polite to everyone: In Benin Republic, Cotonou, respect is highly ranked among the citizens and as such, it is expected of non citizens to adhere to this. Bear in mind that the people you treat like they are beneath you may end up being the boss of you tomorrow. Watch your words and actions and always take note of how they affect the people around you! The course mate you look down on today may be your benefactor tomorrow, the lecturer you don’t respect now, his signature may be a big determinant factor in your career. Courtesy always pays back with rich rewards.
4. Ask for directions if you need one: For instance, you find yourself in a new school, you have an 8:00am GNS class in Psychology, and you are having trouble locating the school,which you probably will in Benin Republic, Cotonou, asking a student who’s not new in the school for direction won’t hurt you. if no one invites you to lunch, ask someone for tips on where to eat. Just as you may feel uncomfortable with your new colleagues, they may feel uncertain about you. Or they may have forgotten what it feels like to be the new person on the block. A little reminder that you don’t know your way around can elicit warmth and support (and maybe a friend for lunch!).
5. Listen for opportunities to connect and then share relevant information about yourself: Students who have had the privilege of studying abroad, majority of them end up choosing to stay back in the country, for one purpose or the other. Mostly for jobs. Many decide to settle down in that country and start up their lives. This is as a result of them listening and keeping their eyes open for relevant opportunities and useful information. If u have a particular skill you are good at, get the right audience, let them know what you can do. Don’t wait to be asked about yourself. It’s your job to establish rapport.
6. During the first few weeks, take nothing personally. Most of us are on the lookout for personal slights and offenses 24/7. Instead, give people the benefit of the doubt. They don’t know you well enough to dislike you, and they are probably way too busy with their own lives to think about you much anyway.
7. If someone makes a remark that you find too insensitive to ignore, speak up. Open the lines of communication with that individual to express your concern. But remember, you’ve probably made one or two insensitive remarks in your own lifetime too, so keep your cool and remember that it is always wise to give others the benefit of the doubt.
8. Try to speak at the same volume as those in your new environment. If it comprises loud, boisterous types, staying quiet can easily set you apart. On the other hand, if it tends to be more subdued, a loud voice may grate on the nerves. Studies show that people respond best to others who speak at the same volume as themselves. Your vocal volume is something you can control, so pay attention to it.
9. If the transition involves a move to a new city, state, or country, get out and explore. The more you know your way around, the more comfortable you will feel.
10. Transitions are stressful, so make sure you take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, eat well and exercise. Now is not the time to crash in the middle of the day from too much sugar or not enough sleep. You want to be alert, refreshed and ready to go.