Overcoming the overwhelm.
Cultural Adjustment Resources
Understanding Your International Experience
Adapting to a new culture and way of life can be confusing, stressful, and lonely. Our team is here to make sure you have the skills necessary to overcome any overwhelm you might feel. First, it's important to recognize that you'll feel a variety of emotions during your first weeks or months in Canada - and that's okay. Over time, and with our support, you'll find your community and learn how to navigate societal differences, and have a successful and enriching university experience!
What is Culture?
- behaviours, customs, and social institutions
- religion, beliefs, myths, and legends
- ceremonies, traditions, and rituals
- ideas and thought patterns
- language, arts, and humanities
- knowledge and history
- values, morals, and concept of self
The Cultural Adjustment Cycle
Honeymoon Period
Fascination and excitement! You're filled with energy and thrilled to be a part of something new.
Culture Shock
You begin discovering the challenges associated with using a second language, experience impatience with trying to comprehend societal norms and customs, and question whether studying internationally was the right decision. This is not a bad thing! This is simply part of the process and experience.
Beginning to Adjust
You start to be more comfortable with communication practices, settle into classes, and begin making a few friends. You start to feel more relaxed and that you're beginning to integrate.
Recurrence of Culture Shock
Even though you're settling into a new culture and you've started enjoying your experience more, you may still experience an emotional lull, including feeling isolated and lonely from missing your home country, family, and friends. Although it can be frustrating, this is also part of the acculturation process and support is always available if you need it.
Acceptance and Integration
Over time you've established a routine for school, work, and life, and have adjusted to many of the new cultural norms you've been introduced to. You feel stable and successful with clear avenues for connection and community.
Reverse Culture Shock
Culture shock can also happen when you return to your home country. You've become accustomed to new traditions and norms, so be prepared to potentially experience some of the emotions you felt when coming to Canada.Cultural Adjustment Tips
During your cultural transition, it can be difficult to navigate some of the emotions you feel. You may become quick to judge others or be too hard on yourself, but it's important to remember that these are normal emotions and there are strategies that you can learn to help manage your feelings.
If you encounter an experience or behaviour and don't quite know how to navigate it, respectfully ask someone who is familiar with the culture about its meaning (e.g., "tell me about..., is this common?, I'm curious to learn more about...", etc.).
Learn about the spaces you will be studying, living, and working in. Discover their histories and understand how they came to be so you learn how to make the most of the environment. This could be through touring the City of Regina, asking student mentors about class expectations and university systems, and noting down recreation areas and other facilities and service centres.
The best way to become more comfortable with learning in a new language setting is to use the language as much as possible! Join conversation groups, attend your class lectures, talk with friends, and listen to music in the language you're learning. The more you practice, the easier your transition will be.
Discover how people communicate and interact with each other by attending workshops, observing how people walk in hallways and around the city, and their mannerisms in other public spaces. In addition to attending workshops and cultural sessions about how to interact in Canadian society, you can gain insights simply by taking note of how people tend to behave.
The University of Regina has events happening all over campus and within our virtual community and most student engagement opportunities are free to attend! Find a workshop or event, register if needed, and connect with other peers who have similar interests.
Whether your friends and family are here in Regina with you or back home, it's important to make sure you stay in communication with them. They can be your motivation to continue on your international journey, will help you overcome feelings of loneliness, and remind you of why you chose to study globally.
Don't forget to take care of your physical and mental wellbeing. Eat healthy foods, make sure to get enough sleep, and engage in recreational and leisure activities that help you stay active and connected to your community. The University of Regina offers a variety of physical and mental wellness support through the Student Wellness Centre and the Global Learning Centre provides a setting for you to build a strong academic foundation. If you need support, take the first step and reach out.
International Student Services
College West 109
University of Regina
3737 Wascana Parkway
Regina, SK S4S 0A2
Email: International.StudentServices@uregina.ca
Phone: +1(306) 585-5082