Coping strategies for Culture Shock: tips for international students adjusting to life in the UK

Some tips to combat Culture Shock

In my previous blog, I established the various elements that contribute to ‘Culture Shock’ for international students living and studying in the UK. Adapting to life in Northampton requires resilience and proactive strategies.

Read part 1 of Nora's story

Here are some tips for students:

1. Build a Support Network

• Join student societies, to connect with peers who share similar experiences. The University of Northampton Student’s Union have a host of free clubs and societies you can join.
• Attend social events organised by the University to meet people from diverse backgrounds. UON’s Friendship International Students and Hosts (FISH) group has been running since 2006 and they host regular events which provide you with a great opportunity to get to know fellow international students and local people, and a chance to improve your English listening and speaking skills.

2. Embrace British Culture

Learn about British customs, traditions, and holidays like Christmas and Guy Fawkes Night. You could watch a few beloved British TV shows or listen to local radio stations to familiarise yourself with accents and slang.

3. Stay Connected to your Roots

Cook meals, in my case Nigerian, that you would make in your home country and share them with friends to introduce them to your culture. Celebrate cultural holidays and traditions with fellow international students in Northampton, to give you that feeling of creating a home from home.

4. Prioritise Mental Health

• Seek counselling services offered by the university if feelings of loneliness or anxiety become overwhelming. Take advantage of our full suite of student wellbeing support.
• Practice self-care by engaging in activities that bring joy, such as sports, music, or art. UON is an active campus and we fully support students in boosting their participation in sport and physical activity.

5. Adapt to Academic Life

Attend workshops on academic writing, time management, and research skills. UON offer several Academic Support channels to help you get to grips with the curriculum and get up to speed. And try to build a rapport with lecturers and seek their guidance when needed.

6. Prepare for the Weather

The weather can be a bit unpredictable, but often cold between October-February. Invest in warm clothing, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella. Embrace indoor activities on campus like football, netball, volleyball, cricket, table tennis and much more – if that’s not really your thing then reading, watching movies, or joining some more special interest UON clubs and societies (such as esports and games) during winter is a good idea.

The Rewards of Overcoming Culture Shock

While culture shock can be challenging, overcoming it leads to immense personal growth. An international student in Northampton will gain:

• Cultural awareness: Exposure to a different culture fosters open-mindedness and adaptability.
• Academic excellence: Adapting to the UK’s education system enhances critical thinking and research skills.
• Global networking: Building relationships with people from diverse backgrounds opens doors to international opportunities.
• Resilience: Navigating the challenges of culture shock builds confidence and emotional strength.

Conclusion

For an international student studying in the United Kingdom, culture shock is an inevitable part of the journey. While the differences in language, social norms, academic expectations, weather, and food can be overwhelming, they also offer opportunities for growth and learning. By embracing the experience with an open mind and proactive approach, students can turn culture shock into a transformative chapter of their lives. The key is to remember that adaptation takes time, and it’s okay to seek support along the way. Northampton, with its welcoming community and rich cultural heritage, has the potential to become a second home for any international student willing to embrace its unique charms.

Find out more about studying at UON

Nora Fadeyi

Nora, an MBA graduate at UON, works on our International Enquiries team as part of the Department for Global Engagement