After two semesters in northern Thailand, one student’s return to her rural Nevada hometown proved unexpectedly complicated. While she was back among familiar faces, Sarah Jongsma discovered that the hardest part of studying abroad might come after the trip is over.
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Study Abroad Options
Preparing to study abroad requires knowing what might go wrong during and after the trip
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding cultural differences is crucial before going abroad
- Returning home can trigger unexpected emotional challenges
- Feeling “strangely out” upon reentry underscores the impact of reverse culture shock
- Planning should extend beyond the overseas stay and into the return phase
The Experience of One Student
After spending two college semesters in northern Thailand, Nevada native Sarah Jongsma came back to her hometown expecting a smooth transition. Instead, she found herself “surrounded by everything familiar yet feeling strangely out…” This feeling, sometimes known as reverse culture shock, can make returning students feel disconnected in environments they once knew so well.
Understanding Challenges Beyond Departure
Most students focus intently on preparing for their overseas experiences—learning about local customs, culture, and academic environments. However, as Sarah’s situation suggests, the period following an international stay can bring difficulties that catch returnees off guard. Academic, social, and emotional challenges don’t always vanish once the passport is stamped; they can resurface in environments that are supposed to feel like home.
The Long-Term Effects
Reverse culture shock ranges from mild discomfort to a lasting sense of displacement. Students who have grown accustomed to a new culture may find old routines unfulfilling or alienating. A simple trip to the grocery store or a conversation with friends can feel unexpectedly strange, underscoring the complexity of transitioning between cultures.
Lessons for Future Students
As the article’s title suggests, it’s not enough to prepare for what might go wrong during a semester abroad—you must also plan for the aftermath. By researching reentry support programs, speaking with returnees, and staying connected to friends made abroad, students can ease the transition. Ultimately, anticipation and preparation can help make the homecoming experience as enriching and enlightening as the trip itself.
