You may be familiar with the term “reverse culture shock.” More than a catch-phrase, however, reverse culture shock can be a very real challenge for many students returning from study abroad experiences. Just as students may struggle in adjusting to a new culture abroad, they may also find difficulty in adjusting to “normal life” once they return  home. For in-depth information on re-entry and reverse culture shock, visit the School of International Studies’ comprehensive resource at www3.uop.edu/sis/culture/index.htm.

• Boredom - While abroad, it is likely that you experienced many new and exciting things. Because of this, some students may find home “dull” or “boring” after their time abroad. You can help alleviate these feelings by trying new and exciting things domestically - such as travel, cultural events or volunteer opportunities.
• Apathy From Others - You will probably be anxious and excited to tell others about your experiences and stories from abroad when you return home. However, it may be challenging for some friends to demonstrate excitement about anything more than your story “highlights.” It can be helpful to look for individuals who really do have a genuine interest in listening at length to your stories. A fellow traveler? Other students who have studied abroad? It may also help to capture such stories in writing.
• Trouble Articulating Experience - It can be very difficult to articulate your study abroad experience to individuals who weren’t there. Family and friends may not seem to “get it” - and that’s okay.
• Reverse Homesickness - Just as you may have missed home while abroad, you may also miss your “home abroad” once you return. This is a natural part of international travel. It may help, however, to stay in touch with roommates and friends you met while away.
• Relationships Have Changed - Upon returning home,  you may find that family and friends’ lives have changed or they have changed themselves. The best way to approach these changes is to remain open-minded and flexible.
• People Misunderstand/Don’t Understand You - Loved ones may notice and, at times, feel threatened by changes they see in you - or they may not understand behaviors you developed while abroad. Be aware of how others perceive these changes and how they respond to them.
• Feeling Isolated or Alienated - While abroad, you may have idealized “home” and become anxious to return to it. Students who return with idealistic expectations of home and find them unmet can experience feelings of alienation, isolation or even depression. It may be helpful to talk to an objective listener such as a counselor, professor or Study Abroad advisor
• Inability to Use Knowledge/Skills - If you learned a foreign language while abroad and return home to find few opportunities to speak it, you might become frustrated. The same is true for many new skills acquired abroad. Look for opportunities to continue your learning such as student groups, academic coursework or professional opportunities.
• Compartmentalization or “Shoeboxing” of Experience - Some students fear “losing” their experience once they return to “reality.” As much as possible, try to incorporate your international experience into your regular life.

(1) Anticipate the adjustment and give yourself time. Take time to think about the transition and reflect on how it’s affecting you.

(2) Know that things will be (or seem) different. Life at home has continued in your absence. Large political or cultural changes may have occurred. You may perceive family or friends differently. Understanding that things may be or seem different can better prepare you to react effectively.

(3) Reserve judgments and respond thoughtfully. Just as you adjusted to a new culture abroad, it may take time to re-adjust to your culture at home. Be cautious about making snap judgments or responding rashly to people or behaviors.

(4) Be sensitive to others. Family and friends may notice significant changes in you and not know how to respond effectively - or they may have trouble understanding your experience in general. Be patient and sensitive to loved ones who may also be adjusting to a  “new” you.

(5) Seek support. Readjusting to life at home can be just as difficult as adjusting to life abroad. Find ways to continue your experience through student groups, cultural organizations or Pitt’s Study Abroad Office. Contact the Counseling Center if you are having a tough time dealing with the challenges of re-entry.

Counseling Center - University of Pittsburgh
334 William Pitt Union
412.648.7930
www.counseling.pitt.edu
The Counseling Center provides an opportunity for students to explore personal problems or concerns they may not wish to share with family or friends.

Study Abroad Office
802 William Pitt Union
412.648.7413
www.abroad.pitt.edu
The Study Abroad Office provides students the opportunity to apply for SAO internships, to submit photos and writing, and to investigate other ways they might travel or study abroad again. Check out the “Welcome Back” guide for more information on how to continue your international experience.

Student Organization Resource Center
119 William Pitt Union
412.648.7116
www.sorc.pitt.edu
Check out SORC for more information on student groups at Pitt.