Expectations of Returning Home & Reverse Culture Shock

Returning home from a study abroad program is often more difficult than we anticipate. Some may experience "reverse culture shock" or "re-entry shock." What was once familiar may feel completely unfamiliar to you right now and it is important to recognize that you are not alone!

The following resources provide firsthand student accounts of managing "reverse culture shock." We hope you take the opportunity to read some of their stories, reflect on your experience, and consider how you will use what you have learned in your life moving forward. It is important to note that taking time to process your journey will prevent you from shoe boxing or putting away your memories, connections, and personal growth from life abroad. 

Small Planet Studio has many articles dedicated to re-entry and "culture shock" with tips and advice for students. 

Go Overseas provides a series of resources to assist students in reflecting on their experiences coming home from abroad. 

We also love when students send us photos, videos, and updates during/after their study abroad experience. You can provide a write up of your experience for us to post in our Study Abroad Blog. 

Prepare for Next Summer

Part of staying busy and getting into a routine is making sure your credits transfer into UT Tyler and that you get enrolled for your next semester. It's important to ask prior to returning if the University will automatically provide the transcript to you, or if you need to sign a transcript release form.
If you have any issues with course credit transfers, please let us know so that we can help.
Once you’ve taken care of that, we encourage you to reach out to the study abroad advisor for a debrief appointment (mostly if you've returning from a long-term trip, but we always love to hear about our students experiences, so everyone is welcome!)

You can get involved with UT Tyler’s International students by asking about our mentorship program. At the start of each semester, the OIP holds International Student Orientation for new international students. Since returning study abroad students know what it is like to adjust to a new country and education system; they can play a vital role in our efforts to welcome international students. 

If you received a scholarship that has service hour requirements, options also include volunteering at upcoming study abroad events or fairs where you can talk about your experience and encourage other students to also participate in study abroad.

Update Your Resume

Did you pick up another language? Bilingual and multilingual abilities are highly valued. Did you develop key skills like adaptability, self-confidence, resiliance, and resourcefulness? Did your time abroad deepen your knowledge in your field of study? (We hope it did!) All of these experiences can enhance your resume. Contact Career Success to learn how. 

Scholarship Follow Up

Students who've received a UT Tyler scholarship will need to follow up with the study abroad advisor in order to plan how they will fulfill scholarship requirements. Scholarships from UT Tyler require you to complete 15 hours of relative community service within 1 year of receiving the scholarship. Some possible service time can be at OIP events (Welcome Back, International Education Week) or at study abroad fairs, round tables, or other presentations.

Post-Graduation International Opportunities

Fulbright U.S. Student Program

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program expands perspectives through academic and professional advancement and cross-cultural dialogue. Fulbright creates connections in a complex and changing world. In partnership with more than 140 countries worldwide, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers unparalleled opportunities in all academic disciplines to passionate and accomplished graduating college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals from all backgrounds. Program participants pursue graduate study, conduct research, or teach English abroad. Learn more by visiting Fulbright U.S. Student Program.