Adapting to a New Culture as an International Student
Moving to a new country for your studies is a promising adventure. As an international student, you'll have to acclimate to a new culture and environment, with potentially unique customs, languages, and social norms. Although adapting to a new culture can be overwhelming at times, it offers an epic perspective that you will have for the rest of your life. Here is how to navigate the cultural adjustment and how to make the most of your experience abroad.
1. Accept the Culture Shock.
There is an adjustment period when moving to another country, whether for a semester or your entire undergraduate experience. Culture shock can be a natural part of being a freshman in college because you have never been to college before. While at school abroad, culture shock could come from certain language barriers you don't face in the United States, or perhaps unfamiliar foods, or different social norms or customs. It's okay to take time to adjust to not only the time difference but also these social nuances. Acknowledge the difference, and keep an open heart and mind towards this temporary feeling. Sometimes, our bodies and minds think we are unsafe when we are in different situations. Reminding yourself that this is temporary and that you are safe is important.
Tip: Bring an object that reminds you of home. It can be a small token of something familiar, like a stone, candle, or photo of your friends. Intentionally bringing something from home will remind you, through moments of acclimation, that you have people who love you. Home comes from within.
2. Learn the Language.
Learning and understanding language is essential to integrating yourself into your new place of study. Even if you are studying in an English-speaking country like Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand, there will be local words and phrases you might not be familiar with. If you are studying in a country where English is not the dominant language, learning keywords and phrases can help with your ability to connect with the locals. Practice, and don't be embarrassed about making mistakes.
Tip: Before venturing abroad, explore the possibility of taking a language class. Do some research on local slang before going. And while abroad, don't be afraid to put yourself out there. Talking to the locals is a great way to learn a language or colloquial slang.
3. Have a Support Network.
As social humans, we thrive when we have others to lean on. Cultivating a support system can be an important component when adjusting to a new place, language, and culture. Stay in touch with your community back home. Put yourself out there in your new place of study; hang out with your flatmate, walk around and explore, and go to language exchanges. Build your network and lean on your existing network as you transition into your new life abroad.
Tip: Say yes to everything! Do you want to join this student organization? Yes! Should we grab coffee after class? Yes! Attend social events, join student organizations, and make some new friends. Even if you tend to be more introverted, know that other students are in the same boat as you, and feel just as nervous as you do.
4. Be Flexible and Curious.
As you are adjusting to a new place, keep an open mind to the people or experiences you encounter. Approaching your new life with a sense of curiosity can help you get acquainted with an unfamiliar place. I adjusted my regular grandma schedule of an early bedtime at 9 pm to eating dinner at 10 pm, which helped me participate in cultural exchanges with the locals. Taste the local cuisines, participate in cultural traditions, and explore different places. Embrace the new! It is all temporary and will go by so fast.
Tip: Try writing a journal or a blog to keep track of all of your amazing experiences and reflections. Not only will this be a great memory holder, it will also give you the space to process different moments as they happen.
5. Conquer Homesickness.
It is normal to get a little homesick from time to time while studying abroad. Connect with a loved one back home, or go eat some french fries at McDonalds. Sometimes eating familiar food that tastes the same as back home can help you feel comforted. Ground yourself in knowing this experience of homesickness is temporary, and it will pass.
Tip: Go to the market and try to cook your favorite meal back home using the ingredients you find in a new country. For me, this meant making tacos. I'd host Taco Tuesdays for all of my friends. I'd also host Thanksgiving dinner annually. This is a great way to share a piece of your home with new friends, and will help you remember you are loved.
6. Care for Your Mental Health.
Adjusting to a new culture can be stressful. Always prioritize your mental health. Anxiety, homesickness, and loneliness are common feelings when you're an international student. It is okay to acknowledge these feelings. One of my favorite ways to keep my mental health in check is by speaking with a therapist and practicing meditation. Rather than trying to clear my mind (which is impossible), I try to imagine some of my favorite places: the old pine forest near my parent's house, the salt marsh on Plum Island, and the small farmhouse in southern France. Breathe in and out, relaxing with each exhale. If conventional meditation is not your thing, try tapping meditation. You can find videos on YouTube or visit the Tapping Solution website.
Tip: Maintain a healthy routine and practice self care when living abroad. Get enough sleep, go on long walks, engage in activities that make you feel good. If you still are struggling, reach out for support. You are never alone.
Conclusion
As you embark on this new chapter of life in college outside of the US, stay present and have fun! At Tango College Consulting, you'll be matched with a global advisor who will act as a mentor and coach you through your first year adjusting to life abroad.
