For international students, participating in different cultural activities and practices can create feelings of belonging. Overview Culture can be a vehicle for bringing people together. By exploring new cultures, such as the culture of the student's host country, one may gain valuable knowledge and appreciation for cultural and international differences. These insights can help international students better understand how culture shapes our customs, habits and perceptions that are part of who we are. At the same time, by continuing to celebrate our own unique cultural heritage, which can include food, art, clothing, language, and festivities, we can stay connected with our cultural identities. Theoretical perspectives Theoretical perspectives Cultural learning encompasses the skill of working effectively in new and culturally diverse situations. It is the capacity to successfully relate across cultures. International students get these skills simply by choosing to study abroad. Cultural competence is more than just being aware of diverse cultural norms; it is also the capacity to work effectively with and relate to people and tasks in a variety of settings (Zhou et al, 2008). Culturally competent persons can grasp the ideas, values, attitudes, and even body language of people from other cultures. International students use their knowledge and cross-cultural abilities gained through studying in a foreign country to better relate to people from various cultures. Relational skills (interacting with various groups), ambiguity and uncertainty tolerance, adaptation, and empathy are all examples of cross-cultural talents that are gained through experiencing different cultures. Culturally competent individuals can comprehend alternative viewpoints as well as the ideas, assumptions, and values of other cultures. As a result, these individuals are better able to articulate their personal points of view and settle problems in a more productive manner. References Zhou, Y., Jindal-Snape, D., Topping, K., & Todman, J. (2008). Theoretical models of culture shock and adaptation in international students in higher education. Studies in higher education, 33(1), 63-75. Context for scholars As a Mastercard Foundation scholar, you will be surrounded by international students every day. You will share classes, group projects, and maybe even live together. It might be beneficial to discuss your journey of studying abroad so that you can share your experience of adjusting to the new culture with others who are in similar situations. Discussing local culture and strategies to manage culture shock might help you better understand the country and its people, which can enrich your time abroad. Getting to know and to experience a new culture is a fantastic learning curve. It is a process that will allow you to discover more about yourself and how to navigate new situations with greater confidence. Remember that there are many people you can talk to, whether they be classmates or staff. There will always be staff available to assist you, from your personal tutor to the Mastercard Foundation team. The university is there to help you with anything from dealing with homesickness to questions about culture and living abroad. Practical Suggestions Do things that remind you of home. This can include finding cooking ingredients that are readily found at home, through shops, food suppliers or a restaurant that may serve familiar tastes. Celebrate your culture. Introducing your culture to your international friends can be a great idea, whether that be your national costume, some home snacks or even a national flag. Do your research. The first step is to conduct some research regarding your destination. Speak with people you know who have visited the city, consult travel books, and use your university's website for recommendations and information. It might also be beneficial to understand the cultural etiquette and values of the country in which you will be studying. Learning about the country's history, politics, national events, and weather will greatly aid in cultural adjustment in your new home. Set goals for yourself. Studying abroad is a fascinating time. This might be your first time visiting the country or even the continent. You'll want to explore as much as possible while still studying abroad. Set goals for your study abroad experience, such as what you want to see, eat, do, and experience. If you are studying in the UK, you will want to experience everything the country has to offer, including festivals, arts, museums, nature and architecture. Take part. Challenge yourself, discover and try different cultural experiences, and make the most of the time you'll live abroad. Participate in organised excursions or activities and join clubs and university societies. Mastercard Foundation scholars’ experiences Listen to the Scholars’ podcast: Adapting Tastebuds We share our individual and unique experiences in adjusting to food and diet in new environments. Here each scholar shares how they became more aware of their dietary needs as well as how important it was for them to take control of their food by adjusting their tastebuds and customising their meals. That's called a Maasai Shuka and it's the most Kenyan thing that a Kenyan can have. Basically you will just know a Kenyan if they're wearing that thing. When I was in the country, I never saw a need to wear it. When I was leaving, I went and bought it, for the sole purpose of wearing it when I'm gone. I really wondered and even a friend of mine made fun and said, ‘Oh now you've started wearing those things, indeed you're going’. If I see someone on the street wearing that, I will be very happy to speak to them. Mastercard scholar Useful links These links are places to explore and better understand Edinburgh and the United Kingdom. If you are from another institution, you are likely to find similar pages at your home university website or on the web in general. City UK traditions and customs This article was published on 2024-06-24
