Making the Best of Reverse Culture Shock

Pray—ask God for wisdom, guidance, and joy

Connect with other returnees—the Office of International and Off-Campus Programs can help you find them

Become a Global Ambassador in our office! New students are hired regularly

Work to integrate the two cultures—journal, pray, talk through this with others

Participate in on-campus international events/forums

Connect with international students on campus

Continue to study the language of your host country

Transfer aspects of your host culture to your home: articles of clothing, photographs, recipes, music . . .

Compete in our Photo Contest held each semester

Enroll in courses in new areas of interest which you developed during your off-campus program

Keep up with events in your host country/city

Maintain contact with friends overseas and fellow students from your program

Think about going abroad again: plan a return trip, work abroad after university…

Plan your career to include your international experience

Use Bethel’s Counseling Services as a resource

Visit the Office of International and Off-Campus Programs at any time to talk things over

Visit the “What’s up with Culture?” website for information about re-entry

Look for tips on how to deal with reverse culture shock