While You are Abroad

Experiencing a new culture, and obtaining a better understanding of your own, is an integral part of having a positive, life-altering study abroad experience. Your host country will have a rich and unique culture that you will experience and be integrated into. 

Elements of Culture

In order to maximize your experience is important to be aware of and attentive to all of the elements, both above and below the surface, that combine to form a culture:

Exterior cultural concepts

  • Dress
  • Language
  • Physical characteristics
  • Politics
  • Religion

Interior cultural concepts

  • Body language
  • Rules for social interactions
  • Notions of modesty
  • Gender identity
  • Emotional response patterns
  • Value individual vs. group
  • Sense of time
  • Rules that govern personal space

Adjusting to a New Culture

While the introduction to new and foreign cultures is very beneficial, it can also be overwhelming.  It is typical for individuals to pass through definite stages of cultural adjustment when moving from one culture to another.

Four Common Stages of Cultural Adjustment

The Honeymoon Stage--Initial euphoria and excitement

This stage is characterized by: Exhilaration, anticipation and fascination new sounds, sights, smells. Eagerness to please and a spirit of cooperation
Lots of interest in learning, very motivated, and actively interested

The Hostility Stage--Culture shock

The novelty of the new culture has worn off
Frustration, anger, anxiety, homesickness and sometimes depression
Blaming the external environment for your feelings, resulting in withdrawal

The Humor Stage--Gradual adjustment

In this stage, you decide to make the most of your experience
Increased familiarity with the new culture, its logic and values
Ability to laugh at minor mishaps and manage your new environment

The Home Stage--Adaptation and Biculturalism

You now appreciate certain aspects of foreign culture and critique others
“Feel at home” in the new culture, while retaining allegiance to one’s home culture
Successfully adjusted to the norms and standards of the new environment

Most people who spend time in a foreign country feel cultural stress. It is normal to feel overwhelmed and frustrated. This is all part of the cultural learning process!