CULTURE SHOCK! an introduction

Language She had a right cob on about something That meal was a total rip off! They gave him the sack You’re taking the piss, mate! I’m skiving off early today Eugh that’s manky! Lend us a fiver, love Someone’s been telling porkies Fancy one for the road? I was flippin’ hammered last Friday and fell arse over tit down the stairs! I was knackered last night Give us a ring Pull the other one, it’s got bells on! It’s swings and roundabouts Can I share your rubber? I’m just nipping to the loo I fancy bangers and mash tonight... What’s for pudding? It’s only ten quid! It’s all gone pear-shaped It’s not my cup of tea

Culture What? “The effect that immersion in a strange culture has on the unprepared visitor... Culture shock is what happens when a traveller suddenly finds himself in a place where yes may mean no, where a ‘fixed price’ is negotiable” (Oxford English Dictionary)

“An Englishman, even if he is alone, forms an orderly queue of one” George Mikes

The same? Different? Weather Politics Sense of humour Religion Dress & appearances Food National holidays Conversation topics Architecture Drinking culture Queuing Media Language

“A man walks into a bar. Ouch!” An English joke… “A man walks into a bar. Ouch!” (Really? That’s funny?)

Where? My garden, 32B Bakedbean Road When? 21st September, 4 til late Scenario 1 Where? My garden, 32B Bakedbean Road When? 21st September, 4 til late BYOB You are invited to my Birthday Barbecue!!!

Sir Peregrine Muchcash Scenario 2 Loadsamoney Bank Dear Sir/Madam Many thanks for your recent application for an internship with our organisation. We are pleased to be able to invite you to attend an interview on Friday 21st September at 9am. You will be asked to give a short presentation entitled “How to make loads of money.” Directions are enclosed. Please confirm that you are able to attend. Kind regards Sir Peregrine Muchcash

Scenario 3 Dear Student We request the pleasure of your company at the Law Society Annual Dinner at the Ritz Hotel, Piccadilly, London. Date: Saturday 22nd September Time: 7 for 7.30 RSVP: dinnerparty@orientation.co.uk

Scenario 4 Dear Student Please be advised that your examination will take place at the Royal Horticultural Halls on Wednesday at 10am. The Exams Office

Embracing your new culture Make the most of College and Students’ Union events – keep an eye on the website and Facebook pages Talk to people and make friends Ask questions! Try new things – new food, new activities! Get to know your surroundings Buy some essentials – an A-Z guide and an umbrella! Explore the UK – leave London!!! Check out the International Students House Travel Club – lots of subsidised trips in the UK and Europe! Go on a HOST visit – you only pay travel costs! Celebrate local festivals and national holidays Don’t be afraid to ask for help – most people are very friendly 

Make yourself at home Buy a phone card, Skype or mobile phone with lots of free minutes to international phone numbers and make sure you have easy email access so you can keep in touch with your family and friends back home Check out the Students’ Union to see if there’s a group for students from your country Check out the country pages at www.kcl.ac.uk/international If you were involved with a specific activity or sport at home, see if you can join a club or group over here! Find somewhere that sells authentic food from your home country See if you can get international radio or TV channels, through a satellite package or on the Web Keep an eye out for festivals and activities – what’s going on in Trafalgar Square? Don’t be afraid to ask for help!

HELP! The Student Advice and International Student Support Team – visit www.kcl.ac.uk/advice Can help with immigration problems and provide advice on a range of practical issues The College Counselling Service – www.kcl.ac.uk/counselling The College Chaplaincy – www.kcl.ac.uk/chaplaincy Practiced listeners available for pastoral support, whatever your beliefs. Also run regular activities including International Student lunches and trips. The Students’ Union – www.kclsu.org – social activities, social facilities and academic advice The Compass – www.kcl.ac.uk/thecompass - letters, information and support