How to be Funny When You’re Studying Abroad

Travelling to a country for vacation is one of the most memorable experiences you can have in your life. Travelling to a country for entertainment purposes is one thing, and staying in a country where you need to adapt to different cultures is another. Not only do you need to adjust yourself to the new culture, but you will also miss your home, parents, friends, and loved ones. In addition, the academic workload might sometimes overwhelm you. In such a situation, developing a sense of humour will undoubtedly prove beneficial, especially for international students. 

Even though there are no specific rules regarding the do’s and don’ts of being funny, here are some effective tips to make sure you’re not being sentimental while showcasing your sense of humour. 

Avoid Ethnic Stereotypes

Keep in mind that stereotypes of different groups will be considered insulting. The situation can further escalate and develop a hostile atmosphere in the location. If you make jokes based on the people who think that ethnic group is clumsy, stupid, uneducated, or untrustworthy, not only your joke will be lame, but your colleagues will also conclude you as a judgemental as well as an awful person. If your friend cracks a joke about their national group or their ethnicity, make sure you don’t disrespect that group. As you’re a guest and student, don’t forget to respect the ethnicities. 

Also Read: Most Ethnically Diverse Universities in the World

Understand Cultural Differences

One of the most eye-catching advantages of studying abroad is that you’ll soon have opportunities to become a global citizen. You will be able to interact with your local community without any problem. This way you will get to know more about the different cultures of the country and numerous paths to adapt yourself to these new cultures. Make sure you leverage these opportunities to understand the differences between these cultures in your sense of humour. Even if you become sarcastic, don’t insult any culture.

Homophobia, Sexism, and Transphobia Aren’t Funny

Just like religious and ethnic groups, the typical stereotypical mindset about LGBTQ people and women is extremely insensitive as well as degrading. Depending on the country, this can also be considered hostile behaviour. It doesn’t matter which university you choose, they will have a code of conduct. Depending on the university, someone can file a harassment complaint against you. Keep in mind that these complaints are extremely severe and some countries take strict actions against these complaints. 

Body Shaming is a Big No-No 

Body shaming is known as the jokes or comments regarding the physical appearance of someone on the things that they can have no control such as the shape of the body, weight, colour, eyes, hair, armpit, and so on. Many people think that they look cool upon cracking physical-related jokes. But in reality, they only degrade their image. Even though this type of sense of humour won’t make you face disciplinary actions, your words can hurt someone deeply. Why spread negativity when you’re capable of cheering someone up and making their lives a little better?

Prank Wisely 

This is one of the most important things you should remember. You might have seen prank videos on YouTube. Some are undoubtedly funny, but some are over the limit. This is why you need to be careful while pranking someone. You don’t know what reaction they will give. Don’t take regrettable actions. 

This is how you can be funny while studying abroad. Do visit our content section to read blogs on different topics. Stay tuned to Wings by Leverage Edu for more such interesting blogs.