When you hear someone talk about studying abroad or about their recent semester-long adventure, you only hear the positives. “The drinking age was so low.” “The dessert treats were amazing." “I have never had food like the food in (insert country here)” “We partied all semester.” “My classes were so easy and I made so many friends.” This is all probably very true, but it took a whole semester to realize how amazing all those things were. This causes false expectations about what really happens those first few weeks you are there. What you probably do not hear anyone talk about is the first few weeks of study abroad … the culture shock weeks.

I am in China, versus some European country where there may be less of a difference, however I think culture shock probably happens regardless of where you go. No one likes to talk about the bad, but in this case I think it is important to emphasize that studying abroad is not ALL fun and games. There is a whole lot of fun involved in studying abroad, and the experiences are incredible, but there are some hurdles that you have to get through.

The food. The food will probably be so delicious and you will want to try everything right away. The food is most likely prepared differently than it is in America, and that is where the belly shock part of culture shock comes in. Your stomach is not going to appreciate all the new goodies you are putting into it. As a matter of fact, your restroom may be one of your main tourist attractions for the first few days. It is okay and it will get better. Also know that you are not alone. Everyone is experiencing the same thing as you. Do not be embarrassed. As a matter of fact, it will probably turn into a laughable dinner conversation.

The culture itself. Obviously culture shock got its name from somewhere. While you are most likely an easily adaptable person, general culture differences are going to make you feel really overwhelmed at first. People may do some unexpected, even rude things just because it is their culture. The language and the language barrier will be really overwhelming, but just take a second and breathe. Realize each person that you are talking to is in fact a PERSON. They most likely want to help you and feel bad that they also cannot communicate. Use your hands, pictures, or even a translator on your phone. It will be okay and you will start picking up on the language in no time.

Missing home. Before you leave, you are going to be so excited to go so far away from where you have grown up. The idea of new faces and new places probably excites you to no end. You do not even think about missing home before you leave. A semester or two is no time, right? That is right - a semester or a year of your life is really so little time in the big scheme of things and will be the best time you have ever spent. But, you will miss home. One day it will rain outside and all your new friends will be sleeping. You will find yourself sitting and watching the clock until your family will be awake and you may even cry because you want to be home. You start to remember your favorite food (cheese dip and sweet tea) and you are so ready to hop right back on the plane and head back home to your comfort zone. It will happen. You will want nothing more than to be hanging out with your pets and your best friends. IT WILL GET BETTER. The sun will shine the next day upon a beautiful city that you get to explore, learn, and enjoy. (Also, your parents' phone calls are now very exciting.)

I only wanted to shine a little light on the INITIAL negatives of study abroad so that way when the next person goes to a new foreign country, they realize they are not the only ones with the thoughts they are thinking. It takes time to make those lifelong friendships, find your favorite place to eat, and realize you are only away from home for this short time and you will make it through and have the time of your life. Enjoy!