Returnee Resources

When students return from studying abroad, they sometimes have a second period of culture shock (commonly called “Reverse Culture Shock”) as they adapt to being back in their home country. Fortunately, study abroad students have adjusted to a different culture once, and with a little support, they can use strategies and coping mechanisms from their first culture shock experience to navigate this second culture shock experience, if experienced.

Additionally, students will want to consider how to speak professionally about their study abroad experience, turn it into a leadership/networking opportunity and how to articulate it on a resume. The sections on career enhancement and on campus involvement below help meet that need.

On Campus Involvement
Career Enhancement Resources
Cultural Adaptation Tips
Social Media

Keeping Your International Experience Alive

On Campus: Opportunities Abound

Many student organizations are internationally focused
Study abroad alumni have the exclusive opportunity to speak about their experiences on panels (admissions open houses, pre-departure orientation, etc.), to students interested in studying abroad as a volunteer.
In Ohio (and beyond) there are many internationally focused companies looking for volunteers, interns and more. Here is a short list: Global Ties, Cleveland Council for World Affairs, Refugee Response, the International Institute of Akron, US Together Inc., Peace Corps, etc.

Career Integration

Professionalizing Your International Experience - tips for interviews, elevator pitches, speaking professionally about your study abroad, and putting your study abroad experience on your resume.

Cultural Adaptation

Reverse Culture Shock YouTube Video
Top Ten Challenges of Returning Home