The first and foremost challenge that every international student has to
face is the cultural shock you have to go through while you adjust to
life in a new country. The way certain things are done in the host
country are definitely going to be different from the ways you would do
things in your home country. It is true that pursuing higher studies
abroad is exciting and rewarding. However, it requires an extensive
preparation to manage the culture shock and to adapt to a new culture.
Beliefs, customs, laws and attitudes of people are very different from
the ones back in your home county. Culture shock can be more than a
feeling of homesickness; it can often lead to symptoms such as
frustration and confusion. But, with proper guidance and timely
attention to yourself, you can definitely overcome it.
The initial first four stages
Culture
shock generally moves through four different phases: honeymoon,
frustration, adjustment and acceptance. While individuals experience
these stages differently and the impact and order of each stage varies
widely, they do provide a guideline of how we adapt and cope with new
cultures.
Do not let depression dominate you
Dealing
with your frustration or distress and then letting it go is the best
possible thing you can do while studying abroad. Jot down your thoughts
on paper or start your own blog where you can share your thoughts (also
anonymously if you want!). It can also be a good exercise in reflection,
because when you look back a month later you will have more clarity as
to why you were feeling the way you were and how to prevent those
feelings from coming back a second time.
Make new local friends
Make
some local friends to understand the culture properly. It will help you
not only to mingle with them but also minimize the language barrier.
Make an effort to learn the language as it will help to understand the
culture better. Also develop friendships with other fellow students who
are from different countries as it will be easier to connect with them
on the same cause.
Be independent and do your own stuff
If
you are not used to doing things on your own such as washing clothes,
cooking and cleaning, studying abroad will teach you a thing or two.
This is the perfect opportunity for you to do things by yourself. By
learning to cook your favourite meals, you will be able to easily cook
them in your host country and be reminded of home.
Studying
abroad is not all weekend getaways and late night parties. It is a
challenge, an introduction to a new culture, and an emotional roller
coaster at times. However, it is one worth taking. Some of the top overseas higher education consultants in Bangladesh
believe that culture shock makes a student strong mentally as he/she
learns to take negativities in their stride. But, once you are home you
will forget the things that made you sad and be nostalgic about the
memories that you made with your new friends.