Advice on asking for help and getting a job

Leaving your home country and moving to a place you are not used to could be — and most of the time is — very difficult. Especially a place you’ve never even been on vacation to and you do not know what is waiting for you. Simply adapting to a new place is a challenge that many struggle to overcome, like new people, new food, new San Diego environment and especially school. 

People spend most of their days in school so it is a struggle being surrounded by students and teachers you are not used to, even possibly not fully understanding the language spoken. Fortunately, translation services are available practically everywhere. International students are pretty common around here going through the same struggles along the way and getting used to things. 

You will most likely find someone else maybe not necessarily from the same country as you but have the same story of leaving home. It is not unexpected to meet a classmate or even a teacher that is from elsewhere so you’re not alone.

Finding help at school

Luckily based on my experience in school, Grossmont College has the most welcoming people I’ve ever met. When I had issues with translation or finding my way somewhere, it was never too hard to find help. The administration office and counselors are there for any questions about classes, events, even sports. This school also has a wide option of sports and extracurricular activities to do. 

While earning credits you can participate in fun things that you enjoy like sports, music, performing arts, etc. I know for sure that I was surrounded by people who make you feel like you came to the right place. 

Applying for school was a bit of a challenge at the beginning since I applied from back home on my computer, and it was the first time. Though, I find that once you get used to using the website and registering for classes, it gets easier as you go. 

Grossmont College staff is available to do Zoom for any questions, concerns or guidance through which was really helpful for me to complete needed documents. I know that for me, the staff member that walked me through my application was really kind and explained everything I needed to know when going to Grossmont College. 

Getting a job

Another useful aspect was finding out about getting a part-time job on campus. Coming for school elsewhere without your parents gives you more responsibility to take care of your own things, and you might not find a job there and then because it takes time. You might want payments other than what your parents provided you with. 

The International Student Office, the Career Center, and the Job Placement Office can help you learn about possible jobs on campus. Speaking of jobs, my biggest suggestion is to find a job around your school schedule as soon as possible. As helpful as it might be, your parents’ funds will not cover every little thing and scholarships are not always guaranteed. Try to apply somewhere on campus where you can work an easy and chill job to earn extra money. You’ll get good experience and practice learning your new English language, too.

Khady Kebe from Senegal is majoring in world languages at Grossmont College.