Homesickness and culture shock
It is completely normal to feel a little confused and lost when you have just moved from a culture you are familiar with to a completely new one. Likewise, it is very usual to feel homesick when you first arrive at university, regardless of whether or not you have been away from home before.
Culture shock
Culture shock describes the impact of moving from a familiar culture to one that is unfamiliar. All sorts of factors contribute to culture shock, such as a change in climate, different food, rules of behaviour which can seem strange and hard to understand, and being away from your familiar support network.
Studying in another country can be a stressful experience; even if it is something you have planned and prepared for.
UKCISA has some really useful information to help you understand culture shock, what it is and how to support yourself through it.
Homesickness
Most people will feel homesick at some time in their lives. Our Counselling service explain what homesickness (pdf) is, how to cope with it, and where to go for support if you continue to feel bad.
Top tips for coping with culture shock and homesickness
- Understand that it is normal. This in itself can be helpful.
- Acknowledge how you feel, and tell yourself it will pass, because it almost always does.
- Take time for regular exercise.
- Cook food that is familiar to you. Here are some international food suppliers
- Brighton (94k pdf)
- Eastbourne (321k pdf)
- Hastings (78k pdf)
- Make friends! Other international students will understand how you are feeling. For more information on this see Social life.
- Join in activities or take advantage of opportunities on campus – join clubs or societies, find a part-time job, do some volunteering, take part in some sport.
The most important thing to remember about culture shock is that it is completely normal, and that it will eventually go away. However, just because it is normal, doesn't mean you can't talk about it with someone if you feel it would be useful. If you are having problems settling in, and it is affecting your work, there are lots of people you can talk to.
Within the university you may want to talk to your Personal Tutor, your Student Support Tutor (if your School has one), or a member of the International student support team. We also have a Counselling service for students who would like a safe and confidential environment in which to discuss how you are feeling.
