Returning to the US and Berry College
There are many issues to consider when making the transition back home from the study abroad country. Check out studentsabroad.com for a list of topics.
One such issue is re-entry shock. Most people expect to experience culture shock when learning to live in a new country; however, few think about the process of returning home, known as "re-entry shock."
The important thing to remember when you are experiencing this transition and its frustrations, is that you are not alone. Every semester International Programs hosts a welcome back party, where returned study abroad students can share their study abroad stories and their experiences of returning to the US.
Other resources are available to learn more about and deal with this phenomenon:
There are many ways to share your education abroad experience with other Berry students. Contact International Programs (ext. 4065) about the following:
- entering the annual "What is Culture?" photo contest.
- attending First Year Seminar classes
- representing your host country at the Education Abroad Fair (every fall) and the International Student Fair (every spring)
- participating in International Education Week activities
- talking with prospective students at Discover Berry or other Admissions events
- helping prepare other students to study abroad by participating in the pre-departure orientation
- connecting with new international students at Berry; contact the Office of Multicultural and International Student Affairs, ext. 6985
- making a formal presentation on your host country
- meeting students from across the world and across the state at the Georgia International Leadership Conference
Be a voice for international education! Join Connecting Our World and advocate for Education Abroad.
Or share your stories with the wider world. Transitions Abroad is often looking for contributions to their publications.
Why not study abroad again? Students already having used their financial aid to study abroad may participate in an exchange program through ISEP. Or if you're graduating, look into opportunities with work or volunteer abroad, or check out an international fellowship.
By studying abroad you have accomplished something only 3% of US college students do. Help make the opportunity a reality for others by telling your story!