Florida is a top choice for international students willing to pursue their higher education abroad. It’s also one of the cheaper places in the US where you can get a quality education for a fraction of what many other students have to pay in the country. Colleges and universities in Florida offer their students a variety of programs and degrees. They include everything from aviation and business to fine arts and law. Many of these educational institutions, and their degrees and programs, are internationally rated. The University of Florida, for example, is ranked among the top 200 universities in the world. So, it’s clear why over 30,000 international students are currently residing in Florida to pursue higher studies. With that, we transition to our concern for the day – what can you expect as an international college student in Florida? Let’s delve into this concern and help you realize what you’re signing up for.

Getting Used to the Weather

Florida has long and warm summers. These months are usually humid and dry. A quick look at Florida’s forecast for the summer seasons will show you that daily thunderstorms are not that uncommon. July is the hottest month in Florida, with the average temperature hovering above 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The average temperatures start varying as you move towards the coastal areas. The summers are slightly cool here, while winter experiences marginally warmer temperatures. It’s not too difficult to adjust to the weather in Florida. The first few months of summer and winter will feel a bit uncomfortable. However, you’ll eventually get used to the Florida conditions in a matter of months.

Finding Affordable Accommodation

One thing most international students struggle with is finding affordable accommodation. While living in college dormitories is the superior option for these students, many fail to get seats in those dormitories. So, they have to look at other, usually cheap, accommodation options, and luckily for them, Florida provides that. Not all parts of Florida are affordable, though. However, areas around universities or colleges do have affordable accommodation options. For instance, living costs in Miami are high. It’s a prominent tourist spot that justifies the high accommodation costs. However, Northern Florida, where the University of Florida is located, offers cheaper housing options. Talk to your college authorities first to see if they can provide accommodation in their dormitories. If not, they’ll still help you find affordable housing near the campus.

Mixing with the Locals

Florida welcomes millions of tourists every year. It’s a touristy part of America, and both locals and foreigners visit the state, especially during the warm summer months. Since Florida is used to having so many tourists every year, it’s usually more tolerant than many other places in the US. The tolerance towards people from abroad works in favor of international students. Most of the people in Florida are accepting of the idea of diversity. As an international student or even a tourist from abroad, you won’t find it difficult to mix with the locals. The culture is more prevalent in touristy parts of the state like Miami. However, other places are more or less tolerant, especially those near colleges and universities with international students.

Moving Within Florida

One of the significant benefits of living on campus is that your classes are usually just a walk away from your dormitory. In case you’re living a bit away from the campus, you might consider getting yourself a bike. It’ll also help you get around the town or city you’re living in. Another thing to consider if you’re living away from campus is your university or college’s shuttle service. Talk to the admins if you’re not sure whether or not such a service exists in your college. Many of your peers will arrive at the campus and get around town in their cars. However, it’s rare for international college students to own a car. You can, of course, carpool with some of your friends from time to time. That’ll save you money and time.

Tourist Attractions to Check Out

You can’t miss out on a visit to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Even as a college student, the wonderful place will tickle your imagination. While in Orlando, you might want to check out Universal Studios too. Apart from the 3D and 4D rides, you’ll also enjoy exploring the props and sets of movie franchises like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The exhibits at the Kennedy Space Center will also rattle your curiosity. There’s something for people of all ages at the center, and it’s almost always related to space science and technology. For a day out with your friends, you can always take a quick trip to Miami Beach. Apart from enjoying the sandy beach, you’ll also love the aesthetics surrounding it, especially the artistic area around Ocean Drive.

That’s all for this article on what international students should expect from their stay in Florida. As you start your classes and get to know the place better, you’ll see that life here as an international student is not that bad.