Welcome Back!
We can’t wait to see you. Stop by to say hello. In the meantime, here is some information to help with the transition.
Re-Entry Shock
One of the biggest challenges for students who participate in study abroad can be the difficulty in re-adapting to the realities in the U.S. (otherwise known as ‘re-entry’). After all, when studying abroad, you went through many changes, re-examining your priorities, values, and what you think of yourself and the U.S. The ‘reverse culture shock’ may be more difficult than the ‘culture shock’ you may have felt when abroad. There are usually two elements that characterize a study abroad student's re-entry:
- an idealized view of home
- the expectation of total familiarity (that nothing at home has changed while you have been away)
Often, students expect to be able to pick up exactly where they left off. A problem arises when reality doesn’t meet these expectations. Home may fall short of what you had envisioned, and things may have changed at home: your friends and family have their own lives and things have happened since you’ve been gone.
The inconsistency between expectations and reality, plus the lack of interest on the part of family and friends (nobody seems to really care about all of your "when I was abroad" stories) may result in frustration, feelings of alienation, and mutual misunderstandings between study abroad students and their friends and family. Luckily, you can overcome reverse culture shock--here are some ideas:
Become a Global Ambassador!
One of the best ways to get involved with international education is to volunteer with our office. We look for returned study abroad and study away students to become Global Ambassadors. It's a great way to either become a peer mentor and advise students about the experience, or help others learn more about why global education is an important part of your education. We're accepting new applications now through January 19, 2024.
Photo Contest
Global Education is hoping to bring our annual photo contest back this year, so students can share their experience visually (and win a prize!). Stay tuned for more info soon.
Post-Study Abroad Academic Opportunities
After you begin to readjust to being back home, visit your academic advisor. Ask about conducting research abroad through the UNH International Research Opportunities Program or applying to a post-baccalaureate fellowship.
Career Development
If you are considering a career with an international component or looking for a job overseas, we also recommend that you visit UNH's Career and Professional Success office. CaPS provides various services for students seeking employment, and this is generally a good place to start looking for international job opportunities.
When you start looking for a job or career, think of the professional and personal growth you've undergone while away. If you can present these skills on your resume and in your interview(s) well, you can impress almost any employer.
