Awareness: Be aware of the fact that you will be mingling with people who have different values, culture, practices, and traits. It is imperative to know, understand and acknowledge the differences you will be facing. Like a weather forecast, knowing about others helps you prepare for good or bad weather. Read about and observe local culture and practices.

Adjustment: The second phase is becoming familiar with the new culture. It’s ok to experience anxiety or homesickness, but adjustment will help you to develop new coping strategies and ways to resolve problems. Start learning the native language, try local food, interact more, and make new friends. All this will definitely improve your comfort level and gradually, you’ll develop a ‘safety net’.

Adaptation or acceptance: The final phase is the acceptance, the socio-cultural adaptation. It brings joy and peace and your current abode will start to feel like your second home. Someone once said, ‘Peace is not unity in similarity but unity in diversity, in the comparison and conciliation of differences.’ And right they were. Sometimes strong ties to your own culture and a slightly inflexible disposition can prevent you from settling in. So just respect the differences and be open to ‘agree to disagree’.

This cross-cultural adjustment is an ongoing process. A better understanding of this transition will enable you to have a more fulfilling experience, both academically and personally.