How To Deal With Culture Shock: Studying Abroad Edition

By Kylie Exline on March 18, 2016

Throughout many students’ college careers, they decide to take the adventure of studying abroad. Differentiating between spans of a few months to an entire year, there are many differences to be found regardless of the total amount of time spent afar. They can range from language barriers, adapting to cultural norms, and of course my all time favorite, what and when they eat (this is a real thing).

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Though it can be difficult to accept foreign culture, there are various ways to overcome it. Below are ideas on how to deal with culture shock when visiting other countries.

Keep in Touch with Family & Friends

With already being in college, we are used to being away from home — unless staying close to the rents in order to attend university. It can be a struggle not speaking or seeing their faces everyday, but that is exactly why technology exists. True statement.

When being far from them, you will definitely have to first get used to your new time zone. This means figuring out a particular time to Face Time or Skype. Snapchat will obviously be an easy and simple way to keep up with communication, as is any social media realistically. This way, you will be reminded of home, all while being immersed in a new environment.

P.S. If you feel the need to cry, make sure to do it post Skype, because then the waterworks begin and we all know how mom can get.

Also, just under one out of every 10 students in the U.S. study abroad, so you are definitely not alone in this.

Surround Yourself with Similarities

Depending on which country you are traveling to, there are many common aspects from where you are homegrown. They could have a Starbucks, downtown area, and even a burger joint that is almost identical to your favorite spot. I know, crazy talk.

If homesick, do not think that it is completely abnormal. Most people tend to miss home (eventually), and therefore surround themselves with reminders. Be careful not to overdo it though, because you still want to be met with surprise. After all, you are paying for a literal change.

Be Open-Minded

Traveling abroad will offer many experiences that will either be new or sound crazy — or maybe both if you are ever so lucky. Just try not to shut down every random idea thrown your way. You want to be able to head back home having lasting memories, while also impressing everyone around you. It is okay to brag sporadically.

Being open-minded comes with accepting different things (obviously), as well as staying aware of the laws that do exist there. The drinking age will most likely be 18; depending, but driving laws vary. The last thing you want is for your dad to see your mug shot in Europe — unless you really are that rebellious. #Daredevil.

Cultural Norms Can be Taught

Moving to a different state can be a huge adjustment, so when leaving the country, it is even more diverse. Although we are used to a specific way of living, the world does not operate on the same wavelength. Sorry if you thought otherwise.

Good news is that we are capable of learning new lifestyles. Not saying we forget how to speak English, but it does not hurt to learn key Italian terms or phrases if living in Italy over the summer.

This way, we are once again being immersed in a new environment, all while keeping in mind our values. Plus, other cultures truly appreciate when we attempt to live their norms.

Make New Friends

Okay, so I know this may be difficult for some people, but change is good. As is being social and having friends. Whether you meet them at work, school, or at the local pub, they count.

By making friendships, you are creating memories not just by your lonesome, but also with others that may be experiencing the same feelings as you. Again, be open to new opportunities, including befriending someone who may be out of your comfort zone. You would be surprised at how great it could end up turning out.

Touring another country can always sound and maybe even be scary to many people. Do not fret it though, that is normal. Culture shock is a real thing, but it does not have to have the negative connotation that many associate it with.

There are various ways to overcome being in culture shock, but keep in mind that it can most definitely be a good thing. Being surrounded by other people’s environments can force you to acclimate and accept the differences found there.

Just be sure to stay off your phone and actually appreciate the beautiful country you are visiting. Also, remind mom you are alive so she does not believe you are living proof of Taken. None of us want that.

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