Adjustment Tips

Once abroad, you can take some steps to minimize emotional and physical ups and downs. 

• Learn as much as you can about the host country before going. (See Researching Your Destination)
• Keep yourself healthy through regular exercise and eating habits; get enough sleep.
• Try to establish routines that incorporate both the difficult and enjoyable tasks of the day or week.
• Don’t expect things to be the same as they are at home; you’ve left home to experience different things.

Stay in touch with your friends and family, but don’t just call them when you are lonely or frustrated: Share your accomplishments and the positive moments. Don’t confuse difference with inferiority. Don’t judge the people of a country by the one person with whom you have trouble. Resist looking down on or making jokes and comments about the host culture.  Avoid others who take part in such derogatory remarks.

Photo: S. Walter, Mexico 2006

• Treat yourself to an occasional indulgence, such as an American magazine or newspaper, a favorite meal or beverage, or a long talk with other Americans experiencing the same challenges.
• Accept invitations to activities that will allow you to see parts of the host culture outside the classroom and help you to meet new people.
• Remember that you are a guest in the host country and that when you treat a host with respect, you will be treated similarly.
• Above all keep an open mind, be sensitive to the feelings of others, and maintain your sense of humor.