Culture Shock

Studying in a foreign country is obviously a very rewarding experience, but there is one aspect that should not be underestimated, and that is the culture shock.

While some of you will quickly become familiar with your host country, others may find it more difficult to acclimatise.

Culture shock: what is it?

Culture shock is a feeling of disorientation that can be experienced when someone is confronted with a culture or way of life different from their own.

Even if you think you are well informed about the culture of your host country, actually experiencing cultural differences for real and not behind a computer screen can be a serious challenge.

This is because we all have our own points of reference which are in fact the result of our background, our environment, or even the society in which we grew up. Without realising it, we are, in some way, deeply shaped by our culture. That is why when we are exposed to behaviours or places that are totally different from ours, it can affect us.

The expression of culture shock can be varied: disorientation, irritability and a lack of patience in everyday life when facing cultural differences. For those most affected, it is possible to experience a real phase of depression, or homesickness. It is natural to experience these symptoms and feelings, but it is also important to know the different phases you might go through to become a real actor of your exchange and to live it to the full.

The W-Curve Adaptation Model

Here is the model, which may be a bit schematic, to represent the succession of emotions you might go through. Of course, some of you will not go through this, or will not recognise themselves in certain stages, but for those of you who will feel down during their exchange or afterwards, keep in mind that this is part of the experience, you are not alone and there is a way out!

ideas for coping with culture shock

Learn about your host country

Take the time to find out about the culture of your host destination. Do not hesitate to vary your sources of information. Every country has its own positive and negative sides and there are no perfect countries. Actually, having this in mind might help you avoid becoming too disenchanted. 

Learn the language, or at least the basics

If you are going to a country where you have learnt the language, do your best to use it, as learning well the language is the key to understanding the culture. If it's not the case, try to enrol in local language courses. Indeed, learning the basics of the place where you live may open up more opportunities to meet people and help the locals to think well of you. 

Talk to others about your emotions

If you feel low at any time during your exchange, do not keep it for yourself. Talk to your friends and family back home, share what you are going through with your classmates and especially with other international students who may be feeling the same way. It feels good to be understood, but try not to get too negative and do your best to also mention the things you like about the country.

get out!

Don't be in the doldrums alone in your accommodation. There are many things to do to socialise and refresh your thoughts: make new friends, join a student association, participate in school events, go on adventures, why not take up sport? Student groups on social networks can be a great help too.

Do things that are familiar to you

Studying and living abroad is exciting and adventurous but it can be also stressful with days full of new experiences. To feel at home and in control, rituals are important and comforting. Resuming routines that remind you of the stability you had in your home country can help reduce your anxiety. 

Experiencing culture shock is not an end in itself, it is simply a fairly natural part of student life. Give yourself time as changes actually take time. In most cases, the negative feelings will diminish as you become more comfortable in your daily life until, after spending a semester or a year abroad, you may experience reverse culture shock on your return home! Finally, culture shock also helps you to develop skills that will be useful for your life, as you are very likely to be challenged on your adaptability, flexibility, ability to understand differences and open-mindedness.