Returnees - MSU Office of Study Abroad

As difficult as it is to adapt to an entirely new culture, it can be just as challenging to come back home after being away for any period of time. It is best to know what you might encounter to prepare for this adjustment period.

Expect to experience some measure of reverse culture shock. Reverse or re-entry shock can be defined as the unexpected confrontation with the familiar. Remember that the world at home hasn't stopped while you were gone. Upon returning home, you may find you aren't the only one who has changed during your absence. Remember to take time to readjust slowly.

You'll notice that you think differently about the United States. You'll spend time reflecting on the differences between the U.S. and the former host country, just as you did when you left. Friends and family may be interested in stories or slides for a while, but "really don't understand." It may be difficult to express your feelings. Remember that many people may have difficulty relating to what you are saying it wasn't their experience. Refer to the personal insights on re-entry, which are included in International Healthclips (part of your orientation packet): it may help to know that other students experience the same feelings.

There are countless ways to use the interests and skills you gained while abroad. Be creative in applying what you learned so your growth can continue:

Talk with students from your program or others who have studied abroad.
Develop a Web site for the program.
Share your experiences by working as a Peer Adviser in the Office of Study Abroad.
Join the Globetrotters group (see OSA for details).
Volunteer in the Office of International Students and Scholars or Internationalizing Student Life.
Get connected with MSU's Area Studies Centers (Africa, Asia, Canada, Caribbean, Eastern Europe, Latin America and Russia).
Think about joining the U.S. Peace Corps -- U.S. Peace Corps at MSU
Talk about your experience.
Work with international students.
Join international organizations and clubs.
Continue your foreign language training or take courses with an international focus.
Enter the OSA photo contest.
Write for the State News, the Lansing State Journal, or your local home paper.
Continue studying your host country by taking related courses, reading international papers, viewing films and videos, writing research papers, etc.
Volunteer to work in the community or on campus. Help organizations that support community service and development. Look for groups working with immigrants, refugees, or the aged that can use your skills of listening, patience and empathy.
Start thinking about when and how you'll return. Some students have applied to graduate schools in the country in which they studied, have found employment possibilities while they were on the program, etc.
Integrate the best of the two cultures. Don't feel you must give up one at the expense of another.

There are a few health issues you need to consider when returning from travel abroad:

If you become ill within 12 months after traveling, inform your physician of the countries you visited while abroad.
If you have been taking anti-malarial medication, continue doing so for four weeks after you return home.
Schedule an appointment with a health care provider for a sexually transmitted disease check if you were sexually active while abroad.

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