"I was so much more critical of things that are considered 'normal' in the U.S. once I had adapted to another culture that did things differently. When I was overseas, I ate differently, I looked at time differently, I socialized and studied differently. Once I arrived in America, I felt as though I really didn't have a 'home culture' anymore."
You might have taken your country and your culture for granted before you went abroad. Then differences in beliefs, customs, resources, and values become apparent, and out of necessity you adjusted. Now that you have returned home, your new awareness may give you critical insights. You may unconsciously accept again the conveniences you missed while abroad, and, at the same time, you may be sharply critical of practices that you once took for granted. Your home culture, from social conditions to mass media, looks different to you now and you may be more critical. You might have the sense that you no longer fit in. Political changes, economic developments, and even fads in fashion and music that you may have missed make you feel like a stranger in your home country. You may even feel awkward speaking English again if you developed other language skills overseas.
If you miss the host culture, it can be helpful to get involved in international organizations, see a film in the language of the host culture, and keep up with the international news. Write to your friends overseas-and plan your next adventure.
Borrowed, with thanks, from the University of Minnesota’s Global Campus
275 Eastland Rd.