Just as you braced yourself for a period of psychological disorientation when you left the U.S., you should prepare yourself for a period of readjustment when you return 'home.' Why? Simply because, if you have had a full experience living and learning overseas, you are likely to have changed some while you have been away. The place you return to may itself appear to have changed, as indeed it might have. Even though these changes are seldom huge, and may not be apparent to others, you are likely to be very aware of them, and this can be confusing, especially if it is unexpected. Here are some typical Re-Entry Phases:
- Euphoria and excitement to be back home;
- Disappointment that friends and family seem less interested in hearing about your experiences than you had expected;
- Frustration that US culture is not perfect and that you are not adjusting “fast enough” and;
- Integration as you synthesize your experiences and readjust to your new life at home
[For a fuller discussion, see the accompanying webpage on Returning from Study Abroad]