Fans at a Michigan football game

Many students coming to U-M from around the globe (and even other parts of the U.S.) will experience culture shock as they adjust to new life on campus. Most people adjusting to a new country go through a series of stages (see graph below). The University is here to support students throughout the culture shock process and prepare them with the resources and skills to tackle whatever comes along with it.

UM Educational Theatre Company Sketches on Culture Shock

What is culture shock

A feeling of disorientation that one may feel when experiencing an unfamiliar or new way of life due to immigration or a visit to a new country, a move between social environments, or adjust into another lifestyle.

Sources of Culture Shock:

Separation from family and friends
Lack of social support in host/new culture
Language barrier
Lack of recognizable cues to help determine behavior
Absence of what is familiar to you
Spiritual/religious isolation
Fears and insecurities
Academic stress

Symptoms of Culture Shock:

Irritability
Stress
Depression
Over- or under-eating
Withdrawal from hobbies or social groups
Lack of hygiene
Boredom
Physical pain (stomachache, headaches, tiredness)

Ways to cope with culture shock:

Recognize it as a challenging experience
Don’t expect that you will like everything
Expect surprises and strong feelings
Pursue your interests in and out of the classroom
Know your campus resources
Develop your English skills
Expand your support system
Acquire an understanding of how Americans generally think and act
Make Michigan your second home

This International Transfer Orientation course will give you information about the many resources at U-M that can support you as you manage culture shock and your new life as a Wolverine. The International Center also provides resources and many workshops and events throughout the year to support you as you adjust to your new life in the United States.

A graph demonstrating culture shock