How to Adapt to the Cultural Shock in the UK? A Guide for International Students

However, for many students in the UK, even the accents, slang and idiomatic expressions of British English can be challenging to adjust to. British humour and sarcasm are usually very subtle and complex for non-native speakers.

The UK is also littered with cultural differences in how people behave socially. UK people are generally polite and reserved to other people and strangers.

First and foremost, becoming an international student in the UK comes with a particular academic culture that must be considered. British universities are steeped in independent learning, critical thinking, and active participation. Students from foreign countries with more structured and guided classes may perceive this as a self-directed approach, but it isn't.

Students coming from more consistent and warmer climates can feel like the UK's unpredictable weather, which can be rainy almost every day and grey skies, can be so unfamiliar. Shorter daylight hours in winter can affect your mental health, too. Seasonal depression can also be an issue.

For students in the UK, homesickness is very common, especially for those who have left their family and friends close by. In other words, it can become much more profound if you can't speak a person's language or your background and cultural differences inhibit relating and building new friendships.

The cuisine and dietary habits may be a culture shock for many who are used to a specific cuisine. For international students, this is nowhere near as easy as finding something familiar to eat, which can be challenging, and some students end up missing the tastes and comforts of home.

Researching the country's customs, language and general behaviour will help minimise cultural shock in the UK. It allows for managing expectations and reduces surprises by understanding much about British culture. Watch British movies and British TV Shows, or listen to British Podcasts. It will allow you to get used to accents and slang words.

If you are not going to join language exchange programmes with other people, you can practise your English by speaking to locals. Knowing British slang and idioms can also be helpful because they make up much of everyday conversation. If you still need to get something, ask people to explain. People most locals will accept it if you take the time to learn and will most patiently explain.

Look around and find other international students in the UK, whether at your university or student groups. Many institutions have international societies where people can meet, exchange, share ideas, and connect. In the UK, university counseling sources such as counselling services or international student advisors can help you deal with the issue of cultural shock for international students.

Take the British education system challenge during discussions and critical thinking exercises. Remember that professors want to hear your unique perspective, so don't hesitate to give it. Use planners or academic apps for assignments, and use study groups with peers to see how they work on their studies.

Becoming a part of local and university activities can help you fit into the UK as an international student. This can be an excellent way to get exposure to the culture and social norms, which can help you practise your language skills and feel more connected. Talking to locals and learning about what makes them the people they are can help you to feel more like part of the community and less like an outsider.

Talking regularly to friends and family through video calls or messaging will make you feel less homesick. Even small rituals like cooking that familiar meal or watching that favourite TV show can help ground you. Furthermore, being part of online communities or social media groups where the UK is your home country students are also active can bring comfort and advice.

Prepare with the proper clothing during the winter months and plan to take breaks. Getting out during daylight hours or using light therapy can help treat seasonal depression and help boost your mood. Find indoor activities that keep you active and avoid an empty feeling of isolation in cooler months.

Naturally, you will experience cultural differences in UK by trying local dishes. Unfortunately, if you miss familiar flavours, many grocery stores have national food sections, and larger cities bring speciality stores. If you cook meals from your home country, that can also be a great way to get new friends into the fold and share your culture with them, particularly to bridge cultural differences through shared experiences.