Remember that....

• There are many phases of culture shock.

• You may feel confused, tired, sad and scared at times.

• Culture shock is completely normal.

Tips:

• Before you leave home, research your host country so you feel prepared.

• Approach everything with PATIENCE – CURIOSITY – RESPECT

• Try as many new things as possible.

• Join clubs, sports clubs and societies. You’ll meet other international and home students with similar passions to you.

• Push yourself to make friends with locals.

• Try to learn the host language and speak it as often as possible. Learn to be OK with feeling embarrassed, especially when learning a language.

• Stay connected with friends and family back home.

• Keep a journal. When you first arrive, write down what you love about your host country to look back on when you may be feeling a little down.

• Talk with a counselor if you need to. Your program staff and ISOS can help you get in contact with a local counselor. These services are covered by ISOS.

Reverse culture shock happens when you return home after being abroad for an extended period of time.

Remember that....

• Your home may feel foreign to you.

• You may see the world differently which may cause you to question your home life.

• You may feel sad and disconnected.

• Your home may seem boring and uneventful to you.