Things that seem exciting and fascinating can later seem ______ according to Ali

Katarina: So, Jatinder and Ali, how did you deal with culture shock when you first came here to study?
Jatinder: Well, Katarina, when I first arrived in the UK, I was just so excited to be living in a foreign country: away from my parents ... that I just didn’t really notice anything at first. How about you, Ali?
Ali: Yeah. Same here. That’s quite typical, isn’t it? Everything seems new and fascinating. But, after this initial enthusiasm wears off, all the new experiences may begin to overwhelm you. Things that you found exciting at first may now seem strange and a little frightening. Even minor differences, such as being unable to buy your usual brands of various products, can add to the sense of strangeness.
Jatinder: Yes. That’s right. Then you may start to experience sudden mood changes and strong reactions, feeling lost, disoriented, and even irritated and resentful. Most of all, you may wish you were back among the familiar people and places at home. All international students can experience culture shock in some form ... even those coming from countries with very similar lifestyles to those in the UK. It is important to understand that this reaction is entirely normal and that it will pass.
Katarina: OK. So what suggestions do you have for me?
Ali: Well, I made sure that I arrived early. I got here about ten days, yeah, ten days before most of the other students, so that I could settle in before things got busy. Many universities run special induction programmes for international students in the week before term begins. A typical induction programme provides a tour of the college or university, an overview of its facilities and how to use them, help with registering for your academic programme, and social events where you can meet other students and staff. This can help you to start to get used to your new environment.
Katarina: Yeah, I heard about those ... but too late unfortunately. Jatinder, did you go on an induction course like Ali?
Jatinder: No. I wish I had, but my parents wouldn’t let me go a day sooner than absolutely necessary. It was very annoying.
Ali: Every university has counsellors who can give you practical advice on adjusting to your new environment. These people have special training in offering advice and support, and they understand the challenges you face. They can listen to you sympathetically, offer practical suggestions, and refer you to other professionals if necessary. Your personal tutor and the staff in the international office of your college or university can also be helpful.
Jatinder: Have you heard about the ’buddy’ or mentoring system? Students who have been at the university or college for a longer period give advice to new arrivals, and are available for help and guidance throughout the year. There is information on schemes such as these at the students’ union or the international student association will help you become involved. I used the system when I arrived and found it really opened some doors socially: you know, I got to meet lots of people, like Ali, right?
Ali: Right! Katarina, I think that it’s also important to keep in touch with home. Use the telephone, e-mail and conventional mail to keep in contact with your friends and family at home. In larger towns or cities with large international communities, like this one, you may be able to find people from your country. Spend some time with them. Many international students find that it helps to make contact with people from a similar background because they understand what you are going through. Spending time with people from your country can also be a relaxing break from the ’strangeness’ of the UK. You can speak your own language, eat your own foods and talk about what is going on back home.
Jatinder: Yes. and don’t forget that the university has a variety of cultural societies, as well as an active international students’ association: ask at the student union. They may also have information about national or cultural groups outside the institution.
Ali: Another thing you should try to do is to keep healthy and active. Make an effort to exercise regularly ... you will feel better and it can also be a good way to meet people. Eat a balanced diet and find a shop that sells food from your part of the world, so that you can enjoy familiar meals when you want them.
Katarina: That’s a really good idea! I’ll sign up at the university sports centre this afternoon!
Jatinder: I don’t know whether you believe in God, but if you do, remembering your faith can be helpful and comforting. If you follow a religion and worship regularly at home, you can keep this up while you are in the UK ... it can provide a sense of stability and be a link to your life at home. Every major religion in the world is represented here, and most large cities have Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and Buddhist centres, as well as synagogues and churches of all denominations. The student union keeps a list of places of worship.
Katarina: I’m not religious, but I do see your point. So, there’s plenty I can do ... practical things, I mean. And above all, I need to remind myself that culture shock is normal: and temporary.