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International

Culture Shock

Adjusting to a new way of life in your new place of study

Culture is the way we live, our food, celebrations, religion, attitudes and family. Culture helps us to make sense of the world around us. When you arrive in a different culture, you may experience culture shock. We understand that you will be separated from the important people in your life and will be in a new environment, speaking a different language.

Culture shock is not usually sudden, but comes as the period of excitement at arriving in a new country fades. Differences may start to frustrate you and you may feel confused and/or isolated. Symptoms you may experience are sleep loss, appetite loss, lack of concentration and fatigue. This is a difficult phase for new students, but please remember that other new students may be feeling the same, so you are not alone!

After this phase, you may start to become hostile to the UK and dwell on the negative aspects of life here. It is OK to feel like this, as you are recognising what you value about your own culture. Most students then learn to accept the differences and similarities between the two cultures. You will learn to cope with new situations which will boost your confidence and make you feel happier as you learn to enjoy the difference.

How can I cope with culture shock?

• Keep in touch with home
• Have some familiar things around you
• Cook some familiar food - download a list of International Shops and Restaurants (PDF, 18k)
• Make friends with other international students who are likely to experience culture shock. Meet students from your own country. Try to make friends with UK students so that you can learn about each others cultures. We run social activities for you to take part in so that you can make friends with other students.
• Talk to the International Student Welfare advisor, who will listen sympathetically
• You may wish to go to a Place of Worship (PDF, 15k)
• Join the students union and take part in their activities
• Just understanding that culture shock is normal and that it is just a process of adapting to a new environment helps

Contact the International Office Team

Remember, the International Office Team and in particular the International Student Welfare Advisor are there to help make this an enjoyable and rewarding experience. If you feel that you would like to speak with us about this or anything else related to your time at the College, feel free to contact us.

You will find the team in the International Office on the second floor of Pelham Tower. You can get in touch with us by calling +44 (0) 1273 667739 or email intapps@ccb.ac.uk.