Coming Home
Coming Home
Welcome back from your amazing experience abroad! We hope your journey was filled with unforgettable moments, new friendships, and valuable learning experiences. As exciting as it is to return home, it’s important to recognize that re-adjusting to life back home can be just as challenging as your initial adjustment to your host country. This process, often referred to as “reverse culture shock,” can catch many travelers by surprise.
The Re-Entry Phase
The re-entry phase is a critical part of your study abroad experience, and the University Center for International Education (UCIE) is here to support you every step of the way.
“No one cares about the changes I’ve experienced.” It’s not uncommon to feel this way after returning home. You’ve had incredible experiences that have likely changed your perspective on the world, and it can be frustrating when others don’t seem as interested or cannot fully relate. Remember, it’s not that they don’t care—often, they just haven’t shared the same experiences and might not know how to engage with your stories.
To share your experiences:
✈ Get Active: Join UCIE’s vibrant community by sharing your photos and stories on our social media platforms.
✈ Participate in Events: Enter your best photos in the annual UCIE photo contest, and join us at events like the International Friendship Affair, where you can connect with others who understand the value of your journey.
✈ Engage with Your Community: Consider giving presentations or talks about your experiences, volunteering with international students, or mentoring future study abroad participants.
By actively sharing your journey, you not only help others understand your experiences but also keep the memories alive and continue growing from them.
Reverse Culture Shock
Just as you adapted to a new culture abroad, you now face the task of re-adapting to your own culture—a process that can be unexpectedly challenging. You may find that things that once felt normal now seem strange or that you miss certain aspects of your host culture. This reverse culture shock can manifest in feelings of restlessness, frustration, or even sadness.
✈ Be Patient with Yourself. Adjusting takes time, and it’s important to be patient with yourself during this process. Allow yourself to feel the emotions that come with re-entry, and don’t rush the transition. Engage in activities that bring you joy and comfort, whether it’s spending time with loved ones, indulging in your favorite hobbies, or simply relaxing in familiar surroundings.
✈ Reflect on Your Experience. Give yourself the space to process everything you’ve been through. Continue writing in a journal or blog, and take time to reflect on how your worldview has shifted. These changes may be subtle or profound, but each is a testament to your growth. Whether your perspective has altered in small or significant ways, the impact of these changes is deeply meaningful.
Reverse Culture Shock Video (Click to play)*
Reverse Culture Shock Video (Click to play)*
Academics: External Partner Programs and Exchange Wright State Students
For students who participated in External Partner Programs or Exchange Programs, it’s important to stay connected with your study abroad advisor:
✈ Notify of Course Changes: If there were any changes to your proposed course sheet while abroad, please inform your advisor promptly. This ensures that your academic records are accurate and that your credits are properly transferred.
✈ Grade Processing: Your grades will be sent from the foreign institution to the UCIE, and once Wright State has finished processing your international transcript, your grades will be posted online.
✈ Graduating Soon? If you’re graduating the semester after your return, let your study abroad advisor know. This allows us to expedite the processing of your international transcript, so your graduation plans remain on track.