Most new international students go through adjustment, often called "culture shock". lt is neither as shocking nor as sudden as most people expect, but rather simply part of the process of adjusting to a new culture. You have probably already started along this process even if you are still in your home country.
Right now, you are preparing for this new adventure. You are busy saying goodbye to friends and family, anticipating what studying at Tulane and living in the U.S. will be like. Surprises await you when you arrive. People may walk and talk more quickly (or more slowly), traffic patterns may be confusing, and buildings may look different than expected. The housing arrangements, the manner in which classes are taught, registration for courses, and other procedures may seem strange. Such differences are easy to see and generally are quickly learned.
At first, although the new situation is a bit confusing, most students also find it to be exciting. With so much to learn and absorb in the new culture, the initial period of settling in often seems like an adventure. During this time, you will tend to look for and identify similarities between your home culture and the U.S. You will find that people really are friendly and helpful. The procedures are different, but there are patterns, things that you can learn and depend on. You may classify other aspects of the culture that seem unusual or even unattractive as curious, interesting, or "quaint."
Gradually, as you become more involved in activities and get to know the people around you, differences rather than similarities will become increasingly apparent to you. Those differences may begin to seem irritating rather than interesting or quaint. Small incidents and difficulties may make you anxious and concerned. This anxiety and irritation, that grows little by little as you interact with other students, faculty, and people in the community is "culture shock."
Students are sometimes unaware of the fact that they are experiencing culture shock when these symptoms occur. It is important to remember that this is a very normal process that everyone goes through.
Throughout the period of cultural adaptation, take good care of yourself. Read a book or watch a movie in your home language, take a short trip if possible, exercise and get plenty of rest, write an email or skype home, eat good food, and do things you enjoy with friends. Take special note of things you enjoy doing in the U.S.
Although it can be disconcerting, the “shock” gradually eases as you begin to understand the new culture. IT is useful to realize that often the reactions and perceptions of others towards you– and you towards them– are not personal evaluations but rather based upon a clash of cultures. The more skilled you become in recognizing cultural values and behaviors, the easier it will be to make adjustments that can help you avoid difficulties.
Symptoms of Culture Shock
- Homesickness
- Desire to avoid social settings with host nationals
- Physical complaints and sleep disturbances
- Depression and feelings of helplessness
- Difficulty with coursework and concentration
- Loss of your sense of humor
- Boredom or fatigue
- Hostility towards the host culture
Combat Culture Shock
- Observe how others are acting.
- Describe the situation, what it means to you and your response.
- Ask a local resident or someone with experience how they would have handled the situation.
- Plan how you might act in similar situations in the future.
- Test the new behavior and evaluate how well it works.
- Decide how you can apply what you have learned the next time you find yourself in a similar situation.
If you feel you need help, consider reaching out to the OISS or the Counseling Center. Both offices are familiar with the adjustment process and would welcome the opportunity to help you.
