Cultural Shock

Almost everyone arrives excited. This initial honeymoon period, which may last anywhere from a week to a month or two, is often followed by a letdown. Little differences that may have been interesting and novel before may now cause irritability or stress.

These feelings can escalate when you are in an unfamiliar educational setting or taking classes in another language. You may find yourself thinking things like, “this isn’t the way we do it at home.” Some people will want to withdraw; others may act aggressively when faced with an uncomfortable situation.

Take advantage of any services that your program or host university offers to help get through this culture shock.

Eventually, your host country begins to feel more familiar; you will feel more comfortable with the second language, the education system, and your new social group. You will be able to pick up on cultural cues more easily. Your sense of humor will return, and you’ll notice that you can function now in both cultures. This is what in global education is known as "cultural competence.”

Remember that all these different stages are a normal part of the process!