Culture Shock
You will find that once you arrive and get settled in the U.S. there will be a period of adjustment. This adjustment will be exciting, challenging and rewarding (at times - all at once). Experiencing highs and lows is very common when adjusting to a new setting with new people, cultures and experiences. If you are traveling in a group with people who are also from your home country it would be good to share these thoughts with them as odds are they are experiencing something similar. This is a phase experience by most, if not all, travelers and will pass in time.

Stages of Cultural Adjustment

• Euphoria & excitement - you are in a new place, maybe it's the first time you've travelled anywhere or at least to the United States. This is an exciting time and should be enjoyed.
  
• Cool down - you have settled down into your new environment and become accustomed to that which is around you. The euphoria has worn off and your excitement may have as well. This is a point when you may begin to think about home and miss that environment.
  
• Settled - now that you have been in your new environment for a while you have become accustomed to the people, places and things around you. You are used to and hopefully are enjoying your location.
  
• Returning home - you have worked and traveled now for a period of four months or longer within your new environment and now you are returning home. This may be one of the biggest adjustments you will have to make throughout the entire program. You will return to an environment that most likely hasn't changed, but you have just participated in a program abroad and you may have.

While these stages seem simple, there may be rough periods in between. For this very reason we would like to list for you a few ways of thinking that can help you in this regard:

• Think positive and create a positive environment around you.
  
• Understand and know that there is a transition period and that you will adjust just fine when being open and allowing yourself to do so.
  
• Know that you are not the only person going through these stages/feelings and remain close to those around you, including, friends (American or foreign), co-workers and others.
  
• Be open minded and understand that stages will pass. Using the different aspects of your personality is a formidable way to ease your way through those stages, for instance, sense of humor, lightheartedness, understanding and respect.

Should you need anyone to talk to in regards to these subjects above you are always welcome to call or email ICEO at any time. Your comfortability during the program is a goal we all want to accomplish successfully.

ICEO takes pride in communicating with our participants. If you should ever need assistance in any manner, please give us a call or send an email and we will help you in every way we can. Contact Us