experience international study with george washington university study abroad George Washington University Office for Study Abroad study abroad with george washington university

 

Helpful Suggestions for Re-entry

Just as you experience some form of culture shock during your first weeks in your host country, you may experience another period of adjustment upon return to your home country. Within the study abroad profession, this process is often called "re-entry shock." Many students do not expect to have difficulty when they come home, especially since they are returning to familiar surroundings and people. But do not be surprised if you are a little disoriented at first. The study abroad experience has enabled you to grow and has distanced you both geographically and culturally from your home country. You will likely have a new and different perspective on life in the United States upon your return.

Re-entry is a time for reflection on your experiences abroad. You may feel your emotions are taking you on a roller-coaster ride, with high highs and low lows. This is normal and part of the returning process. Everyone has different re-entry experiences, and it is normal to question yourself, make comparisons, and re-examine your beliefs and values. In doing so, here are some suggested questions you may wish to consider and think about:

  • How did your expectations differ from your actual experiences aborad?
  • What was the most important thing you learned while abroad?
  • What was the most important thing you learned about yourself while abroad?
  • Do you think your goals were realistic?
  • Did your goals change while abroad?

Be sure to attend a welcome back workshop or reception upon your return to campus.

Suggestions For Dealing With Return Culture Shock

Don't be surprised if many of your friends and family do not understand what you have experienced or demonstrate the level of interest in your semester or year abroad that you had expected. Below are some tips for you when discussing your experiences with others:

  • Use diplomacy in describing your host country.
  • Avoid criticizing the United States and always comparing it your host country.
  • Don't impose your cultural changes on others.
  • Seek out your good friends and share both the joys and readjustment problems.
  • Listen to those who have remained at home; they will also have stories to tell.
  • Always keep a sense of humor!
  • Stay physically healthy since stress may cause you to be unduly tired, easily depressed, or subject to minor illnesses.
  • Spend time alone to sort out your feelings, to set new goals and priorities, to put things into perspective, and to separate the lasting benefits from the casual impressions.
  • Meet with other returning students to share their experiences and advice on readjustment issues.
  • Extend hospitality to international students, faculty, and visitors on campus.
  • Keep up on developments in the host country. Maintain contact with your international friends. Make every effort to keep the friendships as strong as they were when abroad