Re-entry Advice
Reverse culture shock can be brutal. It can even be more upsetting than the intial shock you experienced when you arrived in France, because it is usually unexpected. After all, you are returning home to your "own culture". It may be frustrating at first, but it will be worth it. Not only will you have learned about another culture, but you will also have gained a greater understanding of yourself and your own culture.
Here are a few suggestions for overcoming reverse culture shock:
- Stay in touch with your fellow AUCP program participants, and share your re-entry experience with them. You will all be facing the same challenges.
- Join groups or activities that have an international focus. You now possess a certain experience in living abroad and will most likely have a lot to contribute.
- Continue a new interest you acquired in France and find ways to continue speaking French on a regular basis.
- Keep a journal, as you did in your Cultural Patterns class, and express your feelings in dealing with situations you may no longer understand about your own culture.
- Start thinking about how you will use your experience abroad, both in your personal life and in your future career choices.
Top Ten Immediate Re-entry Challenges
by Dr. Bruce La Brack
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Sharing your Experience
One of the most potent remedies to "re-entry shock" is to share your experience with those who are eager to know what you have gained from your time abroad.
Most universities or colleges host an annual or bi-annual Study Abroad Fair or organize informal meetings where returning students share their adventures and stories of personal growth. The AUCP encourages former program participants to take advantage of all such opportunities.
Become an AUCP Ambassador
Enthusiastic and insightful, AUCP alums make the best ambassadors. Inquire about the possibility of representing the AUCP at your school's study abroad fair by contacting denise@americancenter.fr.
The following guidelines and support materials are available to you to help present your AUCP experience.
Brief by Lilli Engle
Prospective Student Form
General AUCP Brochure
Summer Program 2010
Aix Program Highlights
Marseille Program Highlights
AUCP Highlights Poster A3 format
AUCP South of France Poster A2 format
Why Study at the AUCP - Fact Sheet
Why Choose the AUCP - Flash Presentation
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