ISO - August 2008 e-Newsletter
A new semester in college is an exciting time for international
students. Some will be entering their freshman year, while others may
be moving on to graduate studies, or transferring to a new school.
Many international students, therefore, will find themselves in a new
environment when the Fall 2008 semester begins. The many changes that
occur in a new setting, at the beginning of the semester, can become
overwhelming, especially if the student is from a different country
and is accustomed to another culture. In many cases, students
experience varying degrees of culture shock, as they deal with the
loss of things that were familiar to them. While culture shock cannot
be completely avoided, you can take certain steps to minimize its
effects, and ensure that your transition into the new semester is as
smooth as possible. Here is some information that will assist you to
deal with culture shock.
SYMPTOMS OF CULTURE SHOCK
In order to adequately address culture shock, you first need to be
able to recognize some of its common symptoms. The following lists
some of the more common ways that international students manifest
symptoms of culture shock:
- Homesickness
- Withdrawal – spending excessive amounts of time alone, or
avoiding contact with American students
- Boredom
- Feeling overwhelmed and/or frustrated by simple things
- Exhaustion
- Mild uneasiness
- Excessive sleeping
- Depression
- Loss of appetite, or, on the other extreme, compulsive eating
- Stereotyping, or being hostile towards people from other cultures
DEALING WITH CULTURE SHOCK
Dealing with culture shock is a process that requires time, and
patience, as every human is conditioned by their cultural upbringing
to view the world a certain way. It will take time for you to
understand, and appreciate some of the differences of other cultures,
but keep in mind that you are not alone. There are other
international students who are also facing similar circumstances and
you can use the following suggestions to ensure that your transition
into the new semester is more enjoyable:
- Avoid isolating yourself – this will only increase any feelings
of loneliness that you might be experiencing. Attend some of the
activities that are held on campus at the beginning of the semester,
and you might find other students who have similar interests like
you. Socializing with other students will allow you to relax more,
and introduce you to various aspects of the local culture that you
may not have been acquainted with before.
- Join an organization – this is another great way to meet more
individuals, who can provide you with the necessary support to deal
with culture shock. You will find that you share something in common
with quite a few of these individuals, which makes it easier to
develop relationships and move beyond your comfort zone.
- Speak to a qualified person – most universities have a counseling
center where students may receive assistance from trained personnel
who can provide invaluable assistance in dealing with culture shock.
For example, a trained counselor will be able to provide you with
assistance that is specifically tailored to your particular
condition.
- Speak to someone who might have gone through the same situation
as you – talk to other international students who are in the class
ahead of you to see how they dealt with culture shock. You might be
able to use some of the same strategies that they have used to
overcome culture shock.
- Stay healthy – make sure that you are eating properly and on
time. If you provide your body with sufficient nourishment, it will
function better, and you will have sufficient energy to make better
decisions as well.
- If you know an American student, go out and do an activity with
this person. Something as simple as lunch, or watching a sport event
can allow you to get a better understanding and appreciation for the
local culture. Once you begin to understand the culture of the place
you’re in, you will be better equipped to deal with culture shock.
BEST WISHES FOR A SUCCESSFUL START TO THE NEW SEMESTER!
SOURCES:
http://my.simmons.edu/life/international/life/cultural-adjustment/shock.shtml
http://www.umcrookston.edu/internationalstudents/HandBook/CultureShock.htm
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