Coping with Culture Shock When Studying in the UK

Studying abroad is an exciting and unique experience, full of amazing new places to explore, people to meet, cultures to discover and – of course – adventure. However, all of this can be daunting, and can cause culture shock; a phenomenon often experienced by those leaving their home country for the first time. Studying abroad in the UK brings its own set of cultural challenges and we’re here to help you cope with the transition and make the most of your experience!

What is culture shock?

Culture shock is the disorientation and feelings of confusion that an individual can experience on moving to a new place, where the customs and language are unfamiliar. It is often experienced by those visiting the UK, or one of its many other countries and cities, and it can be an overwhelming and lonely experience. Culture shock usually occurs in three stages: the Honeymoon period, where the new culture is exciting; the Crisis stage, where the new culture can seem frightening and difficult to adjust to; and finally the Recovery stage, where you start to feel more comfortable and settled.

Coping with Culture Shock in the UK

Tips for overcoming culture shock

As daunting as the experience of culture shock can be, there are things you can do to make it easier and cope with the transition. Here are five tips for getting through it:

• Be prepared – do research on the UK and its culture before you leave, so you know what to expect when you arrive.
• Make connections – one of the best ways to cope with culture shock is to seek out support and make friends in the local area. Joining clubs, societies and other organisations is the perfect way to make connections.
• Take it slow – don’t try to take it all in at once, or expect to be fluent in the language or customs overnight. Give yourself time to learn and adjust to the new environment.
• Explore – don’t be afraid to explore the local area and take advantage of the new culture. Go to new places, try new food, experience the different customs, and enjoy the adventure!
• Be positive – try to focus on the exciting opportunities, and the positive aspects of the culture. Resisting the urge to compare the culture to home and embracing the new experiences is the best way to cope with culture shock.

Exploring Different Cultures in the UK

The UK is a wonderful place to explore different cultures, from the bustling city centres to the pastures of the countryside. Within its borders you will find a mix of locals, international students and people from all over the world, each bringing with them their own culture and beliefs.

The UK is home to a variety of languages, religions, customs and traditions, so remember to be respectful, open-minded and tolerant. Our advice is to put yourself in other people’s shoes, and do your best to understand and appreciate the customs and culture of others. One of the best ways to do this is to travel, and the UK is full of amazing places to explore.

Bridging The Gap: Tips for International Students

Adapting to a new culture can take time, and it can be an emotional rollercoaster. Here are some tips for international students looking to bridge the gap and make the most of their experience in the UK:

• Stay in touch – don’t forget to keep in touch with friends and family back home. Try to Skype, call, write to and visit them regularly.
• Get involved – there are lots of things to do in the UK, so explore cultural activities like festivals and take part in sports or activities that you enjoy.
• Learn about the culture – read books and watch films about the UK, and learn about the history and customs of the local area.
• Keep an open mind – it is natural to compare your home culture with that of the UK, but try to remember that every culture is different, and the best approach is to accept and learn from the differences.
• Share your own culture – don’t forget to share your own culture and beliefs with others. This will help others understand and appreciate your traditions and customs.

FAQs

What is culture shock?

• Culture shock is the disorientation and feelings of confusion that an individual can experience on moving to a new place, where the customs and language are unfamiliar.

How do I cope with culture shock?

• Be prepared. Do research on the UK and its culture before you leave. Make connections, take it slow and explore. Be positive and focus on the positives.

How do I bridge the gap between cultures?

• Stay in touch with friends and family at home, get involved in local activities, learn about the culture and keep an open mind. Share your culture and beliefs with others.

Conclusion

While culture shock can be an overwhelming experience, it can also be an incredibly rewarding one. By following our advice and tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in the UK and experience a wonderful new culture. So remember: be prepared, make connections, take it slow and explore, be positive and bridge the gap between cultures. Good luck on your adventure!