Cultural Adjustment

Living in a new culture can be exciting but also challenging. No matter where you're from, it's normal for international students to go through a period of adjustment. Learning about this process and getting support can help you have a better experience both in and out of the classroom.

Adapting to a new environment takes time and the pace of transition varies from person to person. The typical pattern of cultural adjustment often consists of distinct phases: Honeymoon, Crisis, Recovery, and Adjustment. Notice that this cycle is then repeated upon re-entry to one's home country or culture of origin. The effect these phases have on one's mood is illustrated in this "w-curve" figure: 

This phase is best described by feelings of excitement, optimism and wonder often experienced when you enter into a new environment or culture. While differences are observed, students are more likely to focus on the positive aspects of the new environment. 

This experience is often called "culture shock." It describes the confusion, anxiety, or discomfort people may feel when living in a new cultural or social environment. This happens because it can be hard to understand what is considered normal or appropriate in the new culture. Sometimes, people may also feel strong dislike toward certain unfamiliar customs or practices. Culture shock doesn't always happen right away—it can develop slowly and affect your mood over time. How long it lasts depends on how long you're in the new environment and how aware you are of your own reactions and feelings.

Symptoms of Culture Shock

Culture shock manifests itself in different forms with different people, but some symptoms can be:

• changes in eating habits and sleeping habits

• acute homesickness; calling home much more often than usual

• being hostile/complaining all the time about the host country/culture

• irritability, sadness, depression

• frequent frustration; being easily angered

• boredom

• headaches

• self doubts; sense of failure

• exaggerated cleanliness

• recurrent illness

• withdrawing from friends or other people and/or activities

Everyone handles culture shock differently because we all have our own backgrounds, strengths, and challenges. With time and patience, culture shock can lead to positive growth—like stronger confidence, motivation, and cultural awareness. As you adjust and feel more comfortable, you’ll likely want to meet new people and try new things. You may start to see your experience more clearly and openly, blending parts of the new culture with your own traditions.

Suggestions for easing the transition:

• What you’re feeling is normal. Transitions are hard, but the tough emotions are temporary. Be patient with yourself—it takes time to adjust.

• Culture is relative. People from different backgrounds see things in different ways. Some may find American communication too direct, others not direct enough. You’ll come across many new customs. Try not to judge them as “good” or “bad”—they make sense within their own culture. 

• It’s okay to make mistakes. You’re learning, and mistakes are part of the process. If you can laugh at them, others will likely respond kindly. People may also make assumptions about your culture—use these moments to share more about yourself if you feel comfortable.

• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Asking for help or clarification is normal and helpful. Try saying things like, “So you mean…? Is that right?” to check your understanding.

• Stay connected to home. Read news, watch shows, and call family and friends. Keep photos or items that remind you of home, and try to find familiar food or places nearby.

• Take care of your physical health. Be mindful about keeping a healthy diet and getting enough exercise and rest. Try to find an activity that you enjoy and make it part of your routine. Being physically active can help reduce your stress level. Recreation and Wellness has several programs and services that can enhance your wellbeing.

• Talk to someone. The Health and Counseling Center has trained counselors from who can help you through the difficult parts of cultural adaptation. In the U.S. it is very common to talk with a counselor about problems or difficulties. Take advantage of the resources available to you at the university. In addition, an American friend (or another international student who has been in the U.S. for several years) can be a great consultant on cultural expectations. When you have questions or need a second opinion on something, this person can help clarify confusion and provide support as you adjust to your new environment. Many international students find it helpful to discuss their concerns with others who are going through similar transitions. Talking with others about their adjustment to the new culture can provide ideas and insights about your own experience. The International Student Association is a safe space for international students to share their experiences in St. Edward’s University and their experiences back home, help them adjust to a new country and atmosphere, and make new experiences and friendships through the club.

• Have fun and relax! Join student groups. Take up a new sport or participate in activities, clubs, and student organizations of interest to you. There are more than 100 student organizations on campus, and you can choose the level of commitment and area of interest in which you are involved. Student Involvement Coordinators help students connect with St. Edward's University student organizations, departments, and programs. Student Involvement Coordinators can either connect you with current student groups that match your interests or help you start a new student organization. Complete the Involvement Inventory, and the Involvement Coordinator will get back to you within a few days with a personalized report of suggestions.

• Improve your English skills. Cultural adaptation is greatly enhanced by perfecting your English skills. Not being able to communicate can create isolation and loneliness. Make a point to join activities that allow you to share in conversation and express your identity.