Written by Ozcan Inanli, MA Education, Year 1 Student

Culture shock is an inevitable part of human experience which can range from moving from one country to another, one environment to another (e.g. city to countryside) or even from one part of the country to another. Moving from one area in the UK to another can also be a culture shock (e.g. north-south divide in England). Many things can cause culture shock such as moving away from family and friends, food, different social norms, traditions and customs and way of life to what you are familiar with. Having studied in three different countries, I can fully understand what it is like to experience culture shock – this is completely normal and will become easier over time! I know that you can do it.

Although I am British, I strongly identify as being international having been exposed to so many different cultures and grown up in a multicultural environment. Also, I come from a Turkish Cypriot background which is very different to English culture, for example. Consequently, I experience culture shock regularly both in my own country and abroad and can fully appreciate and empathise on the challenges of adjusting to a new environment and culture having moved a lot! In addition to interacting with so many different unique and wonderful cultures, my love for languages also helps me with understanding cultural norms better.

When one first arrives at another country or foreign environment, culture shock is common due to unfamiliarity with the way of life and distinct traditions, behaviours, social norms to name a few which can be puzzling at first to understand. I have begun to appreciate that although we all have different cultural backgrounds, we can learn from one another and that by adapting in a wide range of situations, we can further enhance our interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships. 

Having studied in three different countries, it has allowed me to appreciate how things work differently and to embrace differences as well as similarities. Interacting with different cultures has increased my sensitivity and improved effective cross-cultural communication skills. Additionally, it has broadened my horizons to fully acknowledge and appreciate that each culture is unique and that there is no right or wrong way, but a different approach. No matter what culture each person is from, individual differences also play an important role, so it is important to get to know different people as individuals and focus on building good, strong connections! You can read about my blog regarding making friends for tips and advice on this.

The best place to start is the Global Lounge who plan, organise and deliver a wide range of activities catering for international students. For example, crafternoons, cultural workshops and the language café in addition to opportunities such as study abroad. Moreover, you will meet so many international students from different cultural backgrounds and it is the easiest place to make friends. The environment is so friendly and supportive and the Global Lounge team are fantastic!

Open-mindedness is key to overcoming culture shock! We want to feel a sense of belonging and be in a very positive environment that encourages inclusivity no matter your nationality, ethnicity and cultural background. Nottingham proudly is a multicultural city which means that you can meet people from all over the world. I would also fully encourage to interact with as many of the local people as possible and ask questions – most will appreciate the effort! It is important to try not to generalise a population based on one or two interactions but rather to learn and find out more about the history and culture of Nottinghamshire. Furthermore, I would encourage you to travel to different parts of the UK to further enhance your experience and learn about the different cultures.

In summary, below are my top tips for coping with culture shock:

1. Openmindedness – embracing different ideas, fostering curiosity, promoting awareness.

2. Curiosity – Ask questions, learn from each other. If you know some words or phrases in their language, even better and will be very much appreciated!

3. Appreciating similarities and differences – Different cultures have parts that maybe similar to your cultural background that you can relate to and appreciating the unique differences between your culture and the host culture will be very helpful for a smoother transition.

4. Being kind to oneself – It can be tough adjusting and adapting to a new culture and be confused by many of the culture norms that are different to you own. The only advice I can give is to be patient. Reflect on why you wanted to move to your new environment, what motivated you to come here and also thinking about your own personal qualities and attributes.

5. Visit the Global Lounges – NTU has so many activities and events at the Global Lounges on City and Clifton campuses and also run regular sessions on culture shock. Many international students and home students will experience some kind of culture shock or adjustment to their new surroundings and this would be a great place to start as everyone will be feeling similar to you.

6. Adjustment takes time! – Try not to be too hard on yourself! You have made a bold move moving to an environment and culture different to your own – well done! It’s a big achievement in itself and not everyone is brave like you to do the same thing.  

7. Say “yes” more often when invited – The more you get used to saying “yes”, the more you will be able to explore and get the most out of your time. Remember, life is too short and you may not be given another opportunity if you are in your new environment for a short time.

8. Feel the uncomfortable – You may feel uncomfortable with some of the customs of your new environment or disorientated but rest assured that this shall pass. Try not to take certain cultural behaviours personally particularly if they do not coincide with your own culture, it will take time to understand another culture.

9. Avoid generalising – It is very easy to generalise a category of people based on social interactions or perhaps prior experiences, but it is important to take into account individual differences in culture and personality.

10. Stay connected – Make a routine to keep in touch with family and friends back home, maybe by arranging a phone call once a week or a video call. Some familiarity will help you and discussing how you are feeling and also sharing your experiences will be beneficial.

Well done for making the big move which takes a lot of courage and congratulations on getting onto your university programme, you should be very proud of yourself! I wish you a very happy and enjoyable experience and hope that these tips will help you to cope with culture shock better 😊

For help, advice and resources whilst studying at NTU, take a look at the following for sources of support.
Support from NTU
Self-Care books in NTU’s libraries
Silvercloud: SilverCloud is our online system designed to help with a range of mental health issues.
Health and Wellbeing resources
NTSU Information and Advice service
Wellness in Mind: Advice and support for anyone in Nottingham experiencing issues with their mental wellbeing
Student Minds or Student Space
10 Keys to happiness
Mind
Papyrus
CALM