The reality of living in a different culture is a unique experience. It can be exciting, fun, difficult, frustrating, and life-changing all in one!
Regardless of whether you have extensive travel experience, you can still be affected by culture shock, even when travelling to places you may have visited before. Little things you might not have thought of can have more of an impact than you expect. It’s normal for the little differences to get you down or frustrate you, especially after the initial 'honeymoon' period. Many students find they have highs and lows during their study or work placement.
A year abroad is an amazing experience, but it comes with very low 'lows' and high 'highs'. It teaches you a lot about yourself and areas you need to improve in, but also helps you meet amazing people and make friends for life.
Below you will find a useful summary of the cycle of culture shock and the different stages you may experience:
Remember many of the skills you gain from going abroad come from the difficulties you encounter and from going outside your comfort zone.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my year abroad at PKU and I have met a lot of people from all around the world whilst gaining an insight into how the Chinese society works. Even with the difficulties and challenges I have faced during my time settling in it has been a wonderful experience that will be remembered fondly.
Researching key aspects of your exchange or placement destination before you depart can make it easier to settle in when you arrive.
Read more about Key things to research
You may not have any influence over the way things are done, so try to stay calm and accept the adjustment is part of the experience of integrating into another culture.
What to do if you're struggling
If you are feeling confused or frustrated by things you are experiencing abroad, the best thing to do is talk to others!
This could be with: locals or friends from the host institution or organisation who may be able to explain local customs and lifestyles, peers from Edinburgh also spending time abroad who are experiencing the same things as you, or your family and friends back at home.
Keep in mind
- The support networks within the University of Edinburgh are always available to you, even when you are abroad.
Learn more about staying safe and well while abroad
- Most students overcome their challenges and have a successful exchange. It's part of the experience as you develop into a resilient, problem-solving, global individual.
- No matter what you see from others on exchange (through social media or stories you hear), people often project a highlight-reel of their time abroad. If you are struggling, please know that you will not be the only one! Talk to your peers with you on exchange, and your friends and family back home about how you are getting on.
- If you are thinking of returning home, please speak to us as soon as possible to discuss your options and determine next steps. It’s not always possible to slot easily back into your courses at Edinburgh.
We are here to help you navigate both the highs and lows. If you are struggling with culture shock or homesickness during your time abroad, please don't suffer in silence. Talk to your host institution, and contact us. We'll do our best to help.
Just want to say thank you to the SWAY team. I was struggling greatly during the first half of my exchange but with patience and kind-heartedness from the team they helped me overcome my initial obstacles.
The following resources are also available to help you get through the challenging moments of your time abroad:
Join the Go Abroad Facebook group for peer support
Read the Go Abroad blogs and contact us if you'd like to contribute!
Visit the Student Counselling Service resources for students abroad