Culture shock can be described as a disorienting feeling that occurs when an individual enters a foreign culture or environment. Moreover, this feeling is common among international students and can significantly affect their academic and personal experiences abroad. However, recognizing and managing culture shock is crucial when adapting to a new environment. In fact, culture shock can even help you in adjusting to a new environment. That is why, it is important to be aware of this phenomenon and prepare for the possible challenges of studying abroad.
Therefore, international students need to get familiar with various measures that support them to deal with culture shock while studying abroad.
By reading this article, we provide you with various measures that help you to overcome yourself from facing Culture shock while studying abroad.
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Measures to deal with Culture shock as an international student
Here are some measures that support the international students in dealing with culture shock while living in a foreign country:
Understand that adjustment will take time
Culture shock and homesickness are normal- all students experience an adjustment period during the first weeks and months of study. Moreover, you need to be patient with yourself and understand that this is a process. Additionally, you are excited and interested in cultural differences, but sometimes you also get frustrated and confused.
Thus, set yourself goals, like one new “American” thing a week to share with loved ones at home, or start a new hobby that you can’t do at home.
Focus on the positive
It can be easy for you to focus on what is missing, like familiar foods and habits at home. However, the comparison does not help in adapting to culture shock abroad. Instead, you need to focus on the good things in your surrounding. Moreover, it’s important to remember that th reason for studying abroad is to uncover and acquire new knowledge. Additionally, write down fun or interesting discoveries and add them to your list throughout the year. You can write your list in a notebook, blog, or journal (in English to help you practice), or even write a quick note on your phone.
Understand your academic expectations
You are not only adjusting to a new country, but you are also learning to deal with a different academic system. But it will take time to adjust. Moreover, understanding expectations will reduce your anxiety about the work of your study. Additionally, talk to your professors, advisors, and friends about what to expect from your college. Thus, this will calm your nerves and help you approach your lessons properly.
Embrace Homesickness
Students whether international or American alike, go through periods of homesickness. Moreover, it’s important to stay in touch with your loved ones, remember that you’re also embracing your new home and opportunities to make new friends. Therefore, you need to force yourself to start a conversation with people. Thus, celebrate your home by talking about your culture and take time to learn about their culture as well.
Don’t compare yourself to others
Don’t compare yourself to others when dealing with culture shock, especially if they are American or have already spent a lot of time in the United States. Every student is different and adapts at their own pace, even if their home is closer to their university. While you don’t want to overexert yourself, do things that make you a little nervous, like trying foreign foods or practicing your English with a native speaker. You only grow when you step out of your comfort zone.
Meet different students
Connecting with other internationa; students can be easy because they share your perspective, but they also make friends with American students. Moreover, they will help you adjust to American culture, answer your questions, and also entertain you.
Therefore, American students are generally sociable, but they may be nervous about speaking with an international student, similar to your case. Thus, you need to take the first step and start the conversation with new people.
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Conclusion
Have a look at the measures that describe various factors for international students to deal with culture shock while studying abroad. Thus, they just need to enhance their knowledge about the above-mentioned measures.
