10 Practical Tips for International Students to Manage Culture shock
Talk to Expert
Embarking on an international study journey is both an exciting and transformative experience. However, it often comes with challenges, one of the most significant being culture shock. Understanding and navigating culture shock is essential for international students to thrive in their new environment. This article explores the concept of culture shock, its stages, and practical tips for international students to manage it effectively.
For international students, the excitement of studying abroad in the chosen university may sometimes turn into a culture shock due to a sudden exposure to a new, strange, or foreign, social and cultural environment. However, it is important to understand that culture shock is a very typical experience for international students. By being prepared for it beforehand can help you deal with culture shock and smoothen out your educational experience in a foreign land. So here are 10 tips to cope with it.
What is Culture Shock?
Culture shock is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when individuals are exposed to an unfamiliar culture. It can lead to feelings of confusion, anxiety, and disorientation. For international students, culture shock often stems from differences in language, social norms, customs, and daily routines. Recognizing the signs of culture shock is the first step toward managing it effectively.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
Stages of Culture Shock
-
Honeymoon Stage: This initial phase is characterized by excitement and fascination with the new culture. Students often feel exhilarated by new experiences, foods, and people.
-
Negotiation Stage: As the novelty wears off, students may begin to experience frustration and anxiety. Differences in language, social etiquette, and everyday challenges can lead to misunderstandings and feelings of isolation.
-
Adjustment Stage: Over time, students start to adapt to their new surroundings. They develop coping mechanisms, form friendships, and become more comfortable with cultural differences.
-
Mastery Stage: In this final stage, students have successfully integrated into the new culture. They navigate daily life with confidence and have a deeper understanding and appreciation of both their own and the host culture.
10 Practical Tips for Managing Culture Shock
Check out the following section to understand everything about coping and managing culture shock abroad with these useful and practical tips for international students:
1. It is only temporary
Settling into a new country, learning how to live in a new town, speaking the language, making friends, shopping and cooking, may not be as simple as it seems. So, it will not be surprising if you start to feel anxious, depressed, or stressed. However, these feelings are temporary and will be over soon. As you become more confident in your language ability, as you make friends, and as you get to know your way around, you will start to enjoy all the differences of this new culture. And that, after all, is one reason why you wanted to travel in the first place.
3. Things will be different. But that does not mean they are wrong.
You may be surprised by how different the culture is. People may wear more casual clothes, behave differently with the opposite sex, be very strict about punctuality, or drink and smoke in public. This does not mean that you also have to do all these things. But you do have to accept that they are part of this culture. Embracing the new culture will help you adapt easily to your new environment.
3. You are suddenly on your own
This may be the first time you will live away from home. So, it is always better to learn some important skills before you leave. Learn how to cook a few of your favourite meals; make sure you can wash your clothes and do regular chores such as cleaning, and dusting.
You will probably be living with people you do not know, such as a family homestay or with other students. Think about how you can be considerate of their needs, and how you can communicate with them if they do not speak your language.
4. Acknowledge Your Feelings
Recognizing that culture shock is a normal part of the adjustment process is crucial. Allow yourself to feel the emotions that arise—be it frustration, sadness, or homesickness. Understanding that you are not alone in experiencing these feelings can be comforting. Share your thoughts with fellow international students or friends who may understand your situation.
5. Stay Open-Minded
Embrace the differences you encounter rather than resist them. Approach new experiences with curiosity and a willingness to learn. Whether it’s trying new foods, participating in local traditions, or engaging with locals, an open mind will enrich your experience and help you adapt more easily.
6. Build a Support Network
Connecting with other international students can be incredibly beneficial. Join student organizations, clubs, or social groups to meet people who share similar experiences. Establishing a support network provides a sense of belonging and a platform for sharing challenges and solutions. Additionally, consider reaching out to local students; they can offer valuable insights and help bridge cultural gaps.
7. Learn the Language
If you are in a country where a different language is spoken, taking the time to learn the language can significantly ease culture shock. Even basic phrases can help you navigate daily interactions and make you feel more integrated. Language classes, conversation clubs, or language exchange programs can be excellent resources. Additionally, using language-learning apps can be a fun and effective way to practice.
Check:
8. Educate Yourself About the Culture
Before arriving, research the culture, customs, and social norms of your host country. Understanding cultural nuances can help mitigate misunderstandings. Familiarize yourself with local traditions, holidays, and etiquette, which will enhance your interactions with locals and provide a deeper appreciation of your new environment.
9. Stay Connected to Home
Maintaining connections with family and friends back home can provide emotional support during challenging times. Schedule regular video calls, share updates, and send messages to stay in touch. However, try to balance this with immersing yourself in your new environment to ensure you’re not isolating yourself.
10. Engage with Local Culture
Participate in local events, festivals, and community activities. Engaging with the culture not only helps you adapt but also allows you to build relationships with locals. Volunteer opportunities can also be a great way to connect with the community while gaining valuable experiences.
Taking care of your mental and physical well-being is essential during the adjustment period. Prioritize activities that promote relaxation and happiness, such as exercise, meditation, or pursuing hobbies. Eating well, getting enough sleep, and seeking professional help if needed are crucial for maintaining overall well-being.
The impact of culture shock on international students depends on how they cope with it. There are various things you can do to make it easier. You will overcome it soon if you try to get the most from your international studies, boost your confidence and get the skills you need to work and travel around the world.
Want admission or application-related assistance? Get in touch with our counsellors by signing up for free Shiksha Abroad Counselling.
International Students Culture Shock FAQs
Q. What are the symptoms of culture shock?
A. Being in a new and different country can lead to a culture shock for many international students. It is important to look out for the following culture shock symptoms in order to deal with it effectively:
- Feeling fatigue despite enough rest and sleep
- Experiencing homesickness
- Getting depressed as you may feel lonely and disoriented
- Developing negative image about the host country
- Feeling lost and doubting your capabilities
- Overthinking and feeling anxious
Q. Whom can you reach out in case of culture shock?
A. If you are experiencing culture shock in an international environment, it is better to reach out to counselors or student support groups. Communicating your feelings with your close friends and family members will help you relieve the stress. Seeking out local friends will also help you to understand about the culture of the host country and cope well with the culture shock.
Q. What is most effective way to completely avoid culture shock?
A. The effective way to avoid culture shock is to address it before you move to a new country. Researching beforehand about the culture, traditions and food practices of a new country will save you from shocking experience. Also, learning commonly used words in the language of the host country will help you to gel with the local community and make your settlement easier.
Q. How long does it take to recover from culture shock?
A. The recovery time from culture shock depends on an individual and his coping abilities. However, it can range from few weeks to few months. By being patient, embracing the changes and seeking support from others may help in reducing the recovery time. The key is to know that this feeling of culture shock is temporary and soon you will be able to form new habits and feel normal again.
Q: Is university of West of Scotland good for international students?
Q: What rank is Wolverhampton University in UK?
The University of Wolverhampton is one of the best universities in the United Kingdom. The university is consistently ranked among the best universities nationally and globally. For nearly 200 years, the University of Wolverhampton has been consistently providing a quality of education to students and producing highly skilled graduates. The national rankings of the University of Wolverhampton are given below:
| Ranking Body | Ranking |
|---|---|
| The Guardian University Guide 2024 | #101 |
| The Complete University Guide 2024 | #117 |
Q: How can I get admission in the University of Manchester?
The application process at the University of Manchester may vary depending on the course and level of study. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses:
The Undergraduate Application Process:
Step 1: You can apply through the UCAS common application portal.
Step 2: Go to the website and select the course you are interested in.
Step 3: Ensure you meet the Entry requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.
Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.
Check out: tips to improve your SOP.
Step 5: You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS.
Step 6: Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.
Step 7: The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.
The Postgraduate application process:
Step 1: Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\
Step 2: Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.
Step 3: Complete the online application by providing your personal information.
Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course.
To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application.
Step 5: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester.
Q: Is Hertfordshire University hard to get into?
With a 70% acceptance rate, the University of Hertfordshire is not hard to get into and follows easy selection criteria during admissions. This does not mean the university accepts all the students applying for different programs. The selection is based on academic performance, English language requirements, references, and many more. Some of the programs at Hertfordshire even demand an experience of 4-5 years. Students must fulfill the eligibility criteria to enroll in any programme at Hertfordshire University. In addition, students with average performance can showcase their relevant experience or extracurricular activities participation to increase their selection probability.
Q: How much IELTS score is required for Hertfordshire University?
International students coming from diverse backgrounds must prove their English language proficiency by submitting the scores of IELTS, PTE, and Duolingo at Hertfordshire University. The university demands an IELTS score of 6 from the students. Along with the IELTS scores, students can refer to the table below for all the required English proficiency score:
English language test | Minimum Score required UG | Minimum Score required PG |
|---|---|---|
6 or above | 6 or above | |
59 or above | 58 or above | |
105 or above | 120 or above |
Q: How long does Hertfordshire University take to reply?
After applying to Hertfordshire University UK, the applicants are going to receive an initial decision about their application within 2-3 working days. After the submission of the application and documents, the applicants are required to pay their tuition deposit. Then, complete the Sponsorship interview and the financial declaration. International students are required to pay a deposit of £5,000 before registration. The balance can be paid in line with the liability dates related to the year and entry of the semester.
Q: What are the entry requirements for Bedfordshire University?
International students can check below the University of Bedfordshire entry requirements for undergraduate and graduate admissions:
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
· 2 A level passes (minimum C and D)
· Year 12 60% overall
· 70% English to waive IELTS
· Must meet the English language requirements
· A recognised Foundation degree
· Submit additional test scores for ACT/SAT (if applicable)
· Additional course requirements if any
Graduate Admission Requirements
· Bachelor's degree (55% or more)
· UK Bachelor's degree with Honours
· Additional course requirements if any
· Must meet the English language requirements
· Submit additional test scores for GMAT/ GRE (if applicable)
Q: What is Hult International Business School - UK famous for?
Hult International Business School, UK, is famous for its global perspective and multicultural environment. The school is known for its focus on practical education, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and executive education programs across multiple campuses located in prominent cities around the world, including Boston, San Francisco, London, Dubai, Shanghai, and New York. It is also recognised for its diverse student body, with over 128 nationalities represented among its students. The school has received positive reviews for its competent faculty, practical approach to business education, and the opportunity for students to interact with a wide network of contacts
Aishwarya is a professional Writer currently working as a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. She has over 5 years of experience and is skilled at creating Online Content with leveraged knowledge i... Read Full Bio
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
The University of the West of Scotland has five modern and diverse campuses in United Kingdom. The University has welcomed more than 3,000 international students which are representing 1/3 of the globe. They also have 130 European partners who are actively in global study and exchange options through the Commonwealth universities programmes. The University also offers study abroad opportunities for UWS who are eligible for the same and also have more than 20 transnational education partners worldwide which helps them deliver UWS Bachelors and Masters Degrees around the world.