Culture and Culture Shock
As a student new to the United States, you may require some time to become accustomed to being a different place. This section describes aspects of adjusting to a new culture, particularly U.S. culture.
Culture shock is a feeling of disorientation or confusion that often occurs when a person moves to an unfamiliar place. In the U.S., the buildings may look different, the food may taste different, and people may look, speak and act differently. You may not be able to convey your full personality because you are speaking a different language. Many things may be confusing.
This culture shock can result in cultural fatigue, which is tiredness and stress resulting from living and functioning among so many unfamiliar things. This fatigue comes from the necessary and positive energy it takes to develop the skills, abilities, and relationships needed to be successful in a new culture.
Some people are more susceptible to these feelings than others. Give yourself time to adjust because this is very normal.
Recognizing Culture Shock
Culture shock is a very normal part of adjusting to a new country. Learn to recognize the symptoms of culture shock:
- Sadness and loneliness
- Preoccupation with health
- Aches, pains and allergies
- Insomnia, desire to sleep too much or too little
- Changes in temperament, depression, feeling powerless
- Anger, irritability, not willing to interact with others
- Idealizing home country and culture; developing stereotypes about the new culture
- Constant contact with people at home, longing for family
- Inability to solve simple problems
- Lack of confidence, feelings of inadequacy or insecurity
- Developing obsessions such as over-cleanliness
- Feelings of being lost of overlooked
Working Through Culture Shock
The following are some ways to deal with culture shock:
- Be patient. Adjusting to a new culture will take time.
- Include a regular form of physical activity in your routine by visiting the RecPlex or participating in other activities offered through Campus Recreation.
- Practice relaxation and meditation, especially during periods of stress.
- Maintain contact with other international students, especially those from your region of the world by joining UD's International Club or another organization.
- Maintain contact with the new culture. Learn the language. Develop a hobby. Volunteer in community activities. Joining a club or organization on campus will introduce you to different aspects of U.S. culture.
- Allow yourself to feel sad about things that you miss from home like your family, friends, and home culture.
- Pay attention to relationships with your new friends here in the U.S. They will serve as support for you in difficult times.
- Establish simple goals and evaluate your progress.
- Maintain confidence in yourself. Follow your ambitions and plans for the future.