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What might help

Orientation

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What Might Help

Understanding yourself in this new situation

  • Remember that this is a huge transition and all these feelings are normal and natural responses to adjusting to life in a different culture.
  • Don't be too hard on yourself: adjusting to a move; and making new relationships takes time.
  • Think about your strengths and try to identify what has helped you to cope so far (and with difficult situations in the past).
  • Remember that others may be sharing similar feelings and it can help to talk to others and find you're not the only one. This will help you to feel more part of things. Singapore students may also share some of your feelings if they are away from home for the first time.

 Adjusting to life in a different culture

  • Take opportunities to familiarise yourself with the culture here (reading papers, watching TV, talking to others).
  • Spending time with someone from the same culture can help you feel less isolated. You may find it easier to feel understood. You can talk about home, cook food you enjoy together, which may help you to feel less cut off; but try to get a balance – you'll feel more part of things if you also talk to people from Singapore and other cultures, as well as have a more interesting time.
  • Try not to be afraid to ask if you don't understand something or need help.
  • Be open to the differences around you and enjoy the rich variety of social and cultural experiences that life at IBISO can offer!
  • Keeping in contact with your friends and family back home can help you feel more settled (writing or arranging for them to phone you at an agreed time can help cut down on your phone bills!).
  •  If feelings of depression, isolation or anxiety persist, take them seriously; talk to a counsellor.
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