How You Can Support Your Student at Home and Abroad
Supporting Students Through Culture Shock, Homesickness, and Reentry
Students studying abroad often encounter culture shock and homesickness, which can arise unexpectedly, usually within the first few weeks abroad, and may ebb and flow throughout their experience. To best support your student:
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Maintain consistent, but balanced, communication through regular emails, messages, or video chats. Too much contact, however, can sometimes intensify feelings of homesickness.
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Offer ongoing encouragement, affirming your support for their decision to study abroad and reminding them of the personal growth and valuable experiences they are gaining.
Adjusting to life back home can also be challenging. In fact, reverse culture shock may feel even more difficult than adapting to a new country. When your student returns:
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Be a patient and active listener. Students often feel that those at home do not fully understand or value their experiences abroad.
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Show genuine interest and let them share their stories and reflections.
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Encourage your student to attend our global ambassador events. These events are meant to bring together international students and students who have studied abroad. These events are a great way for your student to connect with others who have had a similar experience.
Your understanding and support are key in helping your student thrive both during and after their time abroad.
How We Prepare and Support Your Student
Study Abroad and Global Engagement (SAGE) is committed to supporting students throughout every phase of the study abroad experience. Our engagement typically begins with a student’s initial visit to our office, where we provide information about a wide range of program options. These include 海角论坛 faculty-led and exchange programs, as well as third-party and direct enrollment opportunities when applicable.
All students participating in a study abroad program are required to apply through our website. This process ensures that every program has been thoroughly reviewed and meets 海角论坛’s academic standards.
Prior to departure, students must attend a mandatory pre-departure orientation. This session covers important topics such as health and safety, packing tips, managing culture shock, and navigating identity-related issues while abroad.
While students are overseas, we continue to offer support for both academic and personal concerns, and we are available 24/7 in case of emergencies.
Upon returning, students receive assistance with transferring credits from third-party or direct enrollment programs. Additionally, we offer Global Ambassador events to help students connect their international experiences to their academic, professional, and personal development.