+ STUDY ABROAD PREDEPARTURE MODULE CULTURE Presented by: Study Abroad Office

+ 7 Reasons to Study Abroad You will get to know another culture first-hand Studying abroad is the most effective way to learn a language Develop skills and gain experiences a classroom setting will never provide Make friends and contacts around the world Learn about yourself Expand your view of the world It’s a once in a lifetime experience

+ Personal growth During your time abroad, you will likely: Mature personally and professionally Learn new ways of thinking and living Gain independence Experience a new academic environment Gain increased self-confidence

+ When in Rome… Respect the country’s culture Immerse yourself Try new foods, traditions, and ways of living, studying and interacting Find a balance of your home and the new culture Challenge yourself “There are no foreign lands. It is the traveler only who is foreign.” Robert Louis Stevenson, Writer

+ Culture Shock Everyone goes through it New cultures, people, food, music, and language are part of the study abroad experience All of this newness combined with the lack of familiarity may cause anxiety – called culture shock Being prepared is key Knowing what you will go through will help your experience Researching and learning about the culture from others will give you information about what to expect Be patient with yourself

+ The Stages of Culture Shock Each stage in this process is characterized by “symptoms,” or outward and inward signs representing certain types of behavior.

+ The Stages of Culture Shock The Honeymoon Phase Excitement and euphoria Anticipation of new experiences Everything and everyone you encounter is exciting You are ready to take on these new challenges Culture Shock Your initial excitement dissipates Feelings of anxiety, anger, and homesickness Rejection of your new environment and lack of interest in your surroundings Frustration with speaking the new language

+ The Stages of Culture Shock Initial Adjustment Everyday activities are no longer overly difficult Speaking the language becomes easier Depression You may begin to experience negative feelings Homesickness Loneliness Frustration and loss of self-confidence Desire to return home

+ The Stages of Culture Shock Acceptance Formation of an established routine True level of comfort with the people, language, and lifestyle The new country feels like your second home Reverse Culture Shock Re-entry anxiety Your home will not seem the same upon returning You have experienced something few may fully understand Others may not be as excited to hear your stories

+ How to manage Culture Shock Be patient with yourself and others Learn the rules of your host country Make friends and develop new relationships Maintain moderate contact with friends and family back home Do something that reminds you of home Avoid idealizing life back home Immerse yourself into your host culture and avoid constant contact with home

+ Personal Stories from students and staff