Culture Shock: Tips for Studying Abroad

Culture shock is feeling anxiety, often accompanied by surprise, disorientation, uncertainty, confusion, and other feelings. It is often experienced when people are in a different and unknown cultural or social environment, a prime example being a foreign country. Culture shock comes from the difficulties in adjusting to the new culture, and not knowing what is appropriate and what isn't. Sometimes, people grow to dislike for or even become disgusted with certain aspects of the new or different culture. By following our advice listed below, you can prepare for and help reduce culture shock when studying abroad.

1. People do not build up a total immunity to culture shock, no matter how much they have traveled or studied abroad in the past. By being sensitive to change, keep in mind that you are learning and growing by your experiences in the host country. Every positive effort at stepping into the local culture usually opens another door of learning and growth and diminishes the effects of culture shock.
2. Try keeping a journal. Writing in your journal is a great way to express your thoughts and frustrations, and it is also a wonderful memento. 
3. Standards of living vary, especially in Latin America. If you are from the U.S. and plan on studying abroad in Latin America, make sure you know what the conditions will be like before you get there, and that you will be able to deal with it. Modern conveniences that you often take for granted may not be available.
4. Keep your expectations realistic. The number one reason for unsatisfactory experiences is unrealistic expectations. If you are unsure of something, do enough research prior to your departure to set yourself at ease.
5. Respect your hosts. If you are living with a host family, be courteous and they will help you feel more comfortable in your new environment. If you are going to miss a meal, tell them before they have started cooking. Same goes for if you are going to stay out late at night.
6. Take the differences in stride. If everything were exactly the same as what you are used to, where would the fun be? A few weeks or months with some inconvenience makes you appreciate your own life in a different way. More importantly, think of all the great stories you will have!
7. Be careful when you meet people! While most people that you meet will genuinely want to make friends and help you out, do not give your trust away too soon. Keep in mind that not everyone is always as sincere as they may seem. Do not give away your address or phone number to people that you just met.

By heeding these simple guidelines, you are well on your way to having a successful study abroad experience. Have fun!