Newsletter
Sort by Year
Third Year Newsletter - Reverse Culture Shock after International Exchange
April 2023
Reverse Culture Shock after International Exchange
Many students experience reverse culture shock (yes, it is real!) when they return home from exchange. It is normal for students to feel homesick for their exchange country, or to feel frustrated or lonely when they return home.
If your student is having difficulty adjusting after their exchange experience, encourage them to take time to process their feelings. They may also find it helpful to share and reflect on their experience, and stay connected with the friends they made on exchange.
When they return to Queen’s, they can stay connected to the Centre for International Management by promoting their exchange university at the International Fair and at the Exchange School Event.
Keep in mind that students will have experienced personal growth during their time on exchange. Their values, beliefs, and perspective may have changed and it may take time to reintegrate. Students can contact their Exchange Advisor at any time if they would like to find out more about reverse culture shock and coping methods.