Returning home after a period of study in the UK

There are many positive aspects of returning home, such as being with friends and family and rediscovering your country. However, it can also take some time to settle back in.

Here are a few ideas to help you prepare for your return home:

1. Give yourself time

The most important thing that you can do to deal with reverse culture shock is to simply give yourself time when you get home. Ensure you give yourself enough time to adjust to the time zone and get into a routine and don’t exhaust yourself trying to see all your family and friends at once.

2. Understand that life at home will have changed

When abroad, there is a tendency to create an idealized version of home in which everything is exactly how we left it – and is a perfect version. Recognise that there will be aspects of life that will have changed in your absence. Keep in contact with friends and family while you are in the UK so you can know what to expect. When home, ask them to help you fill in any gaps.

3. Share your experiences with others

Although you might feel like no one wants to listen, there will be people interested in your experiences in the UK and who will want to know more. We encourage you to also maintain contact with the scholars you met whilst being in the UK, as well as getting involved with Chevening Alumni activities in your country. Read more in the new alumni section about how the Chevening team in your country can play a role in helping you settle back in at home.

Read more about becoming a new alumni below:

Click to read New Alumni Guidebook