Globally, the concept of boundaries is consistently evolving. Technology has and continues to redefine the scope of globalisation. As economies and cultures come closer and mingle regularly, the phrase ‘it’s a small world’ begins to translate more and more into reality. Be it multinational companies setting up offices in foreign countries, skilled professionals migrating to earn livelihoods, governments working together to overcome global crises, or couples making their way through long distance relationships - all of this has been made possible due to great strides in technological and industrial advancement. The world has come a long way in overcoming hurdles posed by boundaries, and yet, in India, parents remain concerned about sending their children abroad to study.

Despite various options to help manage financing and living costs, many Indian parents tend to be conflicted when their children express the desire to study abroad. For Indian students, studying abroad can be a life-changing opportunity not just for career advancement, but also for personal growth. Exposure to different cultures, independence, a better standard of living and an opportunity to explore the world are some of the driving factors for students to migrate abroad, either temporarily or permanently.

According to UNESCO, 5 million international students were recorded across the globe in 2018, 750,000 out of which, were Indians. A recent survey revealed that 91% of Indian students are concerned about their future in a post-COVID-19 world, but there was hardly any reduced interest in studying abroad. So far, the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, have been popular among Indian students. However, during the pandemic, after careful re-evaluation, students are also considering countries such as New Zealand, Germany, and Ireland.

While many Indian parents acknowledge the benefits of studying overseas, there are certain concerns that prompt them to reconsider sending their children abroad. Here are some of the common things Indian students hear from their parents, with corresponding facts that suggest otherwise:

Myth #1: It’s too expensive

Fact: Planning finances well in advance reduces financial burden. Also, multiple factors like the tuition fees, location and duration of the program affect costs. One needs to make budgets taking into account all requirements and select a university. Avoiding redundant expenditures, spending cautiously and adopting a lifestyle that encourages savings can certainly help in managing expenses. Additionally, students can find part-time jobs in universities or outside to earn some extra money which can support their needs.

Myth #2: Children might face difficulty in finding jobs

Fact: Students can consider immigrant-friendly destinations where Indians outshine their global peers. Employers consider inherent and acquired skills Indian students have when studying abroad such as international exposure, socialisation, problem-solving, advanced communication and language proficiency, self-reliance, ability to take risks, cross-cultural dynamics, flexibility and adaptability. Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Germany are considered to be immigrant-friendly countries with promising job markets, cultural amalgamation and a keen interest in employing Indians.

Myth #3: Children might misuse money abroad

Fact: By setting a weekly budget and planning money transfers periodically, money can be managed well. Parents need to speak openly with their children and make them aware of prudent spending. Also, encouraging them to take up part-time jobs to support themselves will inculcate a sense of responsibility and independence, ease the burden on parents, and encourage children to spend hard-earned money wisely.

Myth #4: Child will feel lonely with minimal social interactions

Fact: Foreign education must be perceived as an opportunity to advance their social skills and broaden their networks. Universities conduct orientation programs and team building activities to connect students with their peers. Social media has made it possible for students to connect with their fellow classmates even before they land in the new country. Cultural exchange is one of the key elements of a foreign education experience and shapes students’ personality, making them more empathetic, independent and respectful of diversity.

Myth #5: It will be hard for children to take care of their health when they fall sick

Fact: Free test kits and university health policies for the student body makes it easier for students to manage health problems. Also, getting health insurance while enrolling in a university goes a long way in covering any costs that would arise in case of medical emergencies. Many universities provide for doctors on campus for physical and mental health purposes, which are often less expensive as compared to seeking medical help outside of campus. In light of the pandemic, universities too are taking the initiative by adopting new health care options for students living away from their home country.

There are several ways of ensuring that children studying abroad are well taken care of and have everything they need to survive any hardships they might face. Money ends up being a dominant factor in this regard. Be it for accommodation, health, travel, food, additional courses or meeting any other ends; parents want to feel assured that their children are able to handle any crises. Western Union has been effectively addressing this challenge- it moves money across borders for families, businesses and communities making it a valuable option for Indian parents. Today, millions of customers use Western Union technology to safely send money to family members for education, housing, and health care. The company enables money transfer through digital, mobile and retail channels with an array of convenient pay-out options to meet consumer needs, bringing the world closer by enabling seamless payments across the world.

Check out the video below to find out more about Western Union and how its features and services are making a difference.

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As the world slowly embraces new normalcy, many avenues are opening up for students to explore and build their futures. Parents can play an active role in making their children’s dreams come true by providing the right guidance and support. Hassle-free money transfers offered by Western Union will create a one-stop solution for financial assistance to children at every point in time, giving parents an assurance that despite being afar, their children are happy, safe and sound.

Click here to know more about Western Union.

This is a partnered post.