7 Ways to Cope with Culture Shock While Studying in the US

Studying abroad will probably be one of the best experiences in your life. You get to have a new beginning, to explore new places and meet new people, but how will you cope with the culture shock?

You are clearly an ambitious person if you are thinking about travelling to study in the US, but culture and language barriers are some aspects that every international student feels at some point. They say that you need to go through seven stages of cultural adaptation, but here’ we’ll focus specifically on tips to help you adapt as an international student in the US.

1. Keep a positive attitude 

As with anything else in life, staying positive is always the best thing you can do. When faced with a totally different lifestyle, it will be hard not to feel overwhelmed at some point. But as long as you remember that this is totally normal and that most international students go through this phase, the only thing that remains to be done is to stay happy and explore your new culture.

Things aren’t going to get any better if you keep dwelling on the negatives – so keep reminding yourself of all the good things about being here. You could even write a list of positive things about studying in the US and why you are there. Read it every time you’re feeling down. This really works. Of course, you need to really try it in order to feel the benefits.

2. Learn as much as possible about your host country 

Before you actually pack your bags and travel to study in the US, take some time to learn a few things about the country, its people and culture, and the city you will live in. What you’ve seen in movies might not always be the real deal. Moreover, if you already know something about the lifestyle and people before you arrive, it won’t be so much of a culture shock.

We live in the technology era, so if you want to talk to someone who lives thousands of miles away from you, you can do that from your own laptop. Join US students’ groups online, try to join the conversation and create friendships with colleagues and people on campus. You can also check out travel forums, guidebooks and news reports. The internet is your friend!

3. Join student groups and clubs 

American student life is well known for the clubs and sororities that many students join. This is your opportunity to get closer to both US students and other international students, to start making friends you can talk to and ask questions about things you do not understand. It can be refreshing to speak to people who have the same frame of reference for jokes and television shows.

If you are into sports, you should also know that any US university will have lots of different sports teams which you can join and pursue your passion even if you are far away from home. To get an overview of all the opportunities available, you should also attend all of your university’s student orientation events.

4. Set learning goals for your time in the US 

Before you actually leave to study in the US, you might consider compiling a list of the things you wish to achieve during your time abroad. This can be everything from learning about US culture and history, learning how to cook, gaining experience in your field of study or reading a particular book. It’s your list, your goals, so think about what you really want. Make it authentic!

If you keep track of the goals you set before you arrived, it will be easier to remind yourself of the reasons you decided to study in the US in the first place. It can also provide an instant set of plans and ideas for when you are feeling lost and don’t know what you do. Keep this list close!

5. Find a healthy distraction 

The difference between positive and negative people lies in the way they choose to act in an unpleasant situation. Rather than locking yourself in your room and feeling miserable, try doing something that you like and that keeps you in a healthy state of mind.

Exercising is something that will definitely help. Americans like to run in the park, so you could try to join them and see how you feel once you are part of the city’s atmosphere. Also, remember to eat well, get plenty of sleep, and regularly drink water. By keeping yourself in good condition, you will be able to reduce stress and depression.

6. Choose shared student accommodation 

If you are thinking of living alone, think again! Sharing a flat can be a great idea when you want to adapt to a new culture and discover more new things. It may also be cheaper. You should push yourself to make friends and try to see to see things through locals’ eyes. And the best way of doing that is actually live with a local student. You will get to know them and ask all the silly questions you are thinking about.

You will probably be living either in student accommodation on campus, or in shared housing outside the campus. Both options are good, but for most students it’s best if you can live within the campus of your university. This way, you will be close to all the student parties and activities, so it’s easier to join in.

7. Explore every day 

If you wish to adapt to the new culture, you should not avoid it, but try to immerse yourself and get to know as many people as possible. The best thing about studying abroad is that you get to learn new things on a daily basis. So make that your goal and try to learn something or explore a new place every day.

By getting out of your room and outside of your apartment, you are able to experience first-hand what the locals are doing. If you visit public places, such as a shopping mall or sporting events, you will be able to watch and learn how American customs are practiced.

Doesn’t sound so scary anymore? As long as you are prepared and excited about your adventure in the US, you’re sure to break through that initial culture shock.