There is life after study abroad...
Common Challenges in Returning from Abroad
- Boredom — While abroad, it is likely that you experienced many new and exciting things. Because of this, some students may find home “dull” or “boring” after their time abroad. You can help alleviate these feelings by trying new and exciting things domestically—such as travel, cultural events, or volunteer opportunities.
- Apathy From Others — You will probably be anxious and excited to tell others about your experiences and stories from abroad when you return home. However, it may be challenging for some friends to demonstrate excitement about anything more than your story “highlights.” It can be helpful to look for individuals who really do have a genuine interest in listening at length to your stories. A fellow traveler? Other students who have studied abroad? It may also help to capture such stories in writing.
- Trouble Articulating Experience — It can be very difficult to articulate your study abroad experience to individuals who weren’t there. Family and friends may not seem to “get it”—and that’s okay.
- Reverse Homesickness — Just as you may have missed home while abroad, you may also miss your “home abroad” once you return. This is a natural part of international travel. It may help, however, to stay in touch with roommates and friends you met while away.
- Relationships Have Changed — Upon returning home, you may find that family and friends’ lives have changed or they have changed themselves. The best way to approach these changes is to remain open-minded and flexible.
- People Misunderstand/Don’t Understand You — Loved ones may notice and, at times, feel threatened by changes they see in you—or they may not understand behaviors you developed while abroad. Be aware of how others perceive these changes and how they respond to them.
- Feeling Isolated or Alienated — While abroad, you may have idealized “home” and become anxious to return to it. Students who return with idealistic expectations of home and find them unmet can experience feelings of alienation, isolation, or even depression. It may be helpful to talk to an objective listener such as a counselor, professor, or Study Abroad advisor
- Inability to Use Knowledge/Skills — If you learned a foreign language while abroad and return home to find few opportunities to speak it, you might become frustrated. The same is true for many new skills acquired abroad. Look for opportunities to continue your learning, such as student groups, academic coursework, or professional opportunities.
- Compartmentalization or “Shoeboxing” of Experience — Some students fear “losing” their experience once they return to “reality.” As much as possible, try to incorporate your international experience into your regular life.
Strategies for Readjusting to Life at Home
- Anticipate the adjustment and give yourself time. Take time to think about the transition and reflect on how it’s affecting you.
- Know that things will be (or seem) different. Life at home has continued in your absence. Large political or cultural changes may have occurred. You may perceive family or friends differently. Understanding that things may be or seem different can better prepare you to react effectively.
- Reserve judgments and respond thoughtfully. Just as you adjusted to a new culture abroad, it may take time to readjust to your culture at home. Be cautious about making snap judgments or responding rashly to people or behaviors.
- Be sensitive to others. Family and friends may notice significant changes in you and not know how to respond effectively—or they may have trouble understanding your experience in general. Be patient and sensitive to loved ones who may also be adjusting to a “new” you.
- Seek support. Readjusting to life at home can be just as difficult as adjusting to life abroad. Find ways to continue your experience through student groups, cultural organizations, or Pitt’s Study Abroad Office. Contact the Counseling Center if you are having a tough time dealing with the challenges of re-entry.
IUP Re-entry Celebration
If you are currently abroad, your re-entry celebration will be during the first month back at IUP. Time and location will be announced.
On-Campus Opportunities
- Join in the festivities at our International Unity Day celebration (March).
- Become a conversation partner with an international student.
- Volunteer at our Study Abroad Fair (September).
- Be a member of our Study Abroad Panel during International Education Week (September/October).
- Attend Coffee Hour to meet others interested in international education (two per semester).
- Write an article for the Global Gazette.
- Donate photos from your experiences abroad.
Graduate Schools with an International Focus
International Volunteer Opportunities for after Graduation
International Work Opportunities
International Education Sites
- NAFSA (National Organization for International Educators)
