International Study Abroad Consulting: Navigating Different Cultures and Systems
different food and a different language may make it challenging for international students to adjust to living at a university abroad. Although culture shock is common, you shouldn’t panic. It will take some time, as well as perhaps some expert guidance, to get accustomed to your new surroundings. Use these tips to get over culture shock while studying abroad.
1. Realize that adjusting takes time
Students frequently experience culture shock and homesickness during the first several weeks and months of school. Recognise that it takes time, and teach yourself to be patient. You’ll experience excitement and intrigue at times as well as frustration or confusion when it comes to cultural differences.
Set goals for yourself, like learning a new hobby that you can’t do at home or picking up one new “local” skill every week to teach your loved ones back home.
2. Focus on the positive
You might find it easy to focus on what you think is “missing,” such as comforting foods and family customs. However, comparing scenarios won’t make you more able to adapt when you suffer culture shock abroad. Instead, focus on the good things about your surroundings. Never forget why you chose to study abroad: to gain new experiences and knowledge.
Make a list of interesting or fun discoveries, and keep adding to it over the course of the year. You can compose your list in a journal, blog or even a quick text message on your phone to practise your English.
3. Understand your academic expectations
You are becoming accustomed to a new surroundings in addition to a new educational system. It will take some time. If you are aware of what is expected of you, your anxiety over academics will reduce.
The expectations at your university should be discussed with your professors, advisor, and friends. Your nerves will quiet down, and you may approach your classes properly.
4. Accept that you will be homesick
Every student, whether they are domestic or international, eventually feels homesick. While it’s important to keep up with loved ones, don’t forget to take advantage of the opportunity to meet new people and enjoy your new surroundings.
Encourage yourself to start up conversations with them. Take the time to learn about their cultures while also discussing your own and celebrating where you are from.
5. Do not compare yourself to others
Every student, whether they are domestic or international, eventually feels homesick. While it’s important to keep up with loved ones, don’t forget to take advantage of the opportunity to meet new people and enjoy your new surroundings.
Encourage yourself to start up conversations with them. Take the time to learn about their cultures while also discussing your own and celebrating where you are from.
6. Get to know a variety of students
Connecting with other overseas students may be effortless for them because they share your perspective and make friends with American students as well. They could provide you advice, help you adjust to American society, and make your time abroad more enjoyable.
Even while many American students are outgoing, they could be hesitant to speak with an international student because they feel uncomfortable, just like you. Engage strangers in conversation by making the first move.
7. Find ways to relieve stress
It could be difficult to acclimatise to culture shock at a university. Exercise might assist you in releasing some of your pent-up energy as you explore your new home. Yoga or meditation may help you unwind. By trying out new things or joining a campus organisation, especially one that encourages networking and meeting new people, you can get over culture shock.
8. Keep an open mind
Think about things from several perspectives. Consider how a classmate or teacher’s upbringing and culture have influenced them if they act differently than you may expect. Do for them as you would have them accept and comprehend your peculiarities from your local classmates.