When I first landed in the U.S. after my semester abroad, I remember a distinct creeping sense of disgust. Granted, a 5:00am layover with no phone and a poor night’s sleep is not anyone’s sense of a triumphant homecoming. Still, something else was wrong; I felt uneasy, somehow guilty.

It took a few minutes to realize that it was the English, overheard from every angle, which was bothering me. In Buenos Aires, hearing an onslaught of English normally meant one of two things: one, that I wasn’t doing right by the language commitment encouraged by my program, or two, that I had landed in some touristy locale where I was likely to pay triple what I should for a drink or some food. Either way, in Buenos Aires, hearing a lot of English meant that I had to switch up what I was doing. But there was no escape in the airport, and I wasn’t quite ready for my semester of Spanish to be over.

It is in this way—unforeseen, often subconscious, difficult to control—that re-entry or “reverse” culture shock can creep into your heart and mind. It is distinct in every case, but most generally it will take the form of difficult-to-express frustration, restlessness, uncertainty, nostalgia for the foreign country, or a strange dissatisfaction with the home you had left behind. Moreover, you can often be unprepared for re-entry shock, whereas the initial culture shock is highly anticipated. So how to fight it off?

First and foremost, be aware of its possibility. It may not happen instantly—in many cases, the thrill of seeing old friends and old locales will dull the shock—and it may develop unexpectedly. A few deep breaths and an understanding of what’s happening can do wonders to calm the uncomfortable feelings.

Second, try to bring more back with you than photos and souvenirs: bring back a routine. Did you sip mate in the mornings, herbal tea at night? Did you listen to certain music or get into a TV show? Did you cook certain foods, rely on certain habits? I’ve found that sticking to a few select routines you developed abroad, and sharing them with your family and friends from home, can bridge the gap.

Third, don’t forget to keep in touch with the close friends you made abroad. Don’t let these relationships fall to the wayside; nothing will make you feel better than a self-confirming conversation with a friend. It will make study abroad feel less like a dream.

Last—and this is important—keep a sense of humor. Things may frustrate you; let them make you laugh. You may reminisce, but do so happily, with a sense of accomplishment. After all, you survived study abroad, and pride is well-deserved.

By Matt Getz, Peer Advisor, [email protected]