It is important to keep in mind that reverse culture shock is just as prevalent of a feeling as culture shock, and can sometimes be felt more than the initial feelings of culture shock. Remember that these feelings are normal and it will take time to adjust back home, just as it took time to adjust to your host country.
Communicate
Keep in touch with friends that you made on exchange, whether it is other Guelph students you met or international friends, keeping those connections can make a difference
Reach out to other Guelph students who have studied abroad, they know what you are going through
Talk to your friends and family about your experiences, but keep in mind that it can be hard for other people to completely understand your experiences, especially if they've never done anything like it. Try not to get frustrated or upset if they don't understand your excitement or seem to get bored by your stories. In general, people really are interested to hear about your experiences!
Participate in our Study Abroad Ambassador program to share your stories and help encourage more students to participate!
Get Involved
Apply to be a Peer Helper with CIP! This is a great way to talk about your experiences and encourage other students to study abroad as well!
Attend "Travellers Connection Night" as a study abroad alumni to share your advice/perspective with outgoing students
Volunteer to represent your host university at the Study Abroad Fair (held each October) to help promote study abroad on campus
