Exotic lands and new experiences fill almost every college student’s mind at one time or another but only few (less then 20 percent) will endeavor into a “study-abroad program”. For those who do, the hardest part about the program itself is the return to one’s home country/educational institution. 

Wake Forest University student Clare Rizer wrote a highly influential article that discusses post study-abroad issues. In her article, attached below, she mentions 4 specifics on what one should and should not do after returning home. She encourages students to take time to decompress immediately after returning and to share customs/traditions of the country with friends and family members. Likewise, she stresses that students should be attentive to their friends events during that same period they were gone as well as not to dwell/become consumed with their study abroad life so that memories and reality blend into one. 

My experience studying abroad was ultimately a life-changing event as it made me develop my understanding of different cultures through immersion in a different culture. For me, I studied in Lingnan University in Tuen Mun, Hong Kong during the Spring 2009 semester. I agree with Rizer’s suggestion as one who makes efforts to understand their new culture can easily become “shell-shocked” when he/she returns to the everyday monotony of their life at home. That said, students should use their experiences to encourage others to study abroad, or not, based on each individual case. 

In Chinese belief, when one passes away their body must be returned home to their place of birth so that the deceased will be at peace in their original surroundings. Likewise, students should cherish their time abroad but never forget that which they call their home and embrace their culture for what it has provided them. 

I leave those who have studied abroad as well as those perspective students with a quote from Ms. Rizer, “By remaining grounded and appreciative of your time across the pond, you will invite good vibes and well-wishes from your fellow Americans”.

Studying Abroad: http://tinyurl.com/7xbem4q