Re-Entry

If you've just returned to the U.S. from your study abroad experience,

WELCOME BACK!

Re-Entry Requirements

All returning students must upload [ten] 10 photos to the UofL Office of Study Abroad Cardbox account. Each photo MUST include the location of where it was taken and a brief description of the photo. These photos will be used for marketing and promotion purposes. If you selected to not allow your likeness used for marketing on the Likeness Form, you are welcome to upload photos without your image in them. Photos of landscapes, urban centers, food, animals, etc are all acceptable in these instances.

Email to request access to a Cardbox folder. You must create a folder titled your name and upload your photos along with descriptions there.

    Re-Entry Shock

    Many study abroad students say that the re-entry phase, in which a study abroad student returns to the U.S. and readjusts to American culture, is the most difficult phase.

    Understand that like culture shock, reverse culture shock is perfectly normal and even expected.

    Symptoms may include:

    • Boredom
    • Restlessness
    • "Host-country-sickness" (missing people and places from your study abroad program)
    • Nostalgia
    • Frustration
    • Impatience
    • Negativity towards home culture
    • Irritability
    • Hostility

     

      How to Deal With Reverse Culture Shock

      • Continue reflecting on your experience. If you journaled during your study abroad experience, continue writing and reflecting on your feelings and perceptions.
      • Understand that you are not alone and that most if not all study abroad students are dealing with reverse culture shock.
      • If you are interested in attending a "Study Abroad Returnees Meet & Greet" for students who have returned from their study abroad experiences, please email us so our office can gauge interest.
      • Stay connected with the friends you made while abroad.
      • Volunteer! It's common for friends and family of study abroad students to not fully understand or be as enthusiastic about your experience. If you're still eager to talk about your experiences and adventures, volunteer for the Office of Study Abroad & International Travel! As a returnee, you're our greatest resource for motivating students to study abroad! If you'd like to volunteer, please contact our office. We'd be happy to have you speak at classroom presentations, information sessions, or the Study Abroad Fair.
      • Get to know our international students on campus! They may be experiencing similar situations like you did when you studied abroad, so you can serve as a guide and help them transition at UofL.

      Helpful Websites on Dealing With Reverse Culture Shock

      International Studies Abroad: Life After Study Abroad

      Study Abroad Student Handbook Worldwide: Reverse Culture Shock

      University Studies Abroad Consortium: Re-Entry/ Reverse Culture Shock