Handling Hardships and Poverty Abroad
Written by: Shannon Pinholster
Studying abroad can be an exhilarating experience. The excitement of visiting new places and learning about other cultures can be a defining moment in a student's life. But for students used to the high standards of living in the United States, visiting countries where poverty and hardships are present can be quite a shock.
The term culture shock refers to the anxiety one may feel when entering a completely new environment. Whether visiting countries in Europe or on the African continent, you will most likely experience some degree of shock. These feelings may hit you when you realize that you are in another country far away from home or when you first experience the frustrations of communication barriers. Culture shock can be even more significant when visiting a country with third world conditions, you may experience grief, anger, and in some cases depression. Though these may sound unpleasant, it is important to remember that this is merely a step in your personal growth and a part of the study abroad experience.
Poverty is an ever-present circumstance in many countries today and while it is sometimes difficult to understand and easier to avoid, it should not stop you from visiting a country. Experiencing the hardships of other countries can make you appreciate your own lifestyle and also motivate you to make a difference for those in need. Many colleges and universities are becoming more aware of the importance of this type of worldly experience and have begun to offer courses aboard that focus on the economic conditions in other nations.
When visiting a place where hardships are evident you might feel extreme sadness and a desire to help or you may become angry with the leaders of the nation and wonder how they could allow this type of poverty to exist. But you should remember that not every country has economic power similar to the United States. For many nations historical circumstances, crime, or cultural differences have made controlling poverty impossible.
When studying abroad, here are some suggestions that will help you to cope with the hardships you may encounter:
n Attend any pre-departure orientations your program offers. These meetings will provide you with valuable information about the countries and will give you realistic expectations for your trip.
n Research before you travel. This will help you to become familiar with the social issues, history, and political situation of the area. You may find it helpful to talk to others that have visited the country as they can give you insider information that you may not find in your research.
n Keep a journal. Not only is this a good way to record of your journeys but it is also helps to sort out your feelings.
n Break up your time so that you are not constantly experiencing difficult situations. Give yourself a mental break and spend some time shopping, relaxing at a park, or exercising.
n Make friends both with the locals and your peers that are traveling with you. The locals will be able to explain the details behind what you are seeing or express a different view to the situation that may comfort you. Talking with your travel partners will help you understand that you are not the only one who is going through culture shock and you will provide a valuable support system for each other.
n Keep in touch with your family and friends back home. It is good to let others know what is happening and this will also prepare you and your family for re-entry when you come home.
n Remember you can make a difference back home. You may consider starting a club to educate the public about the area you visited or have a fundraiser.
n Remember that this stage of culture shock will pass and before long you will embrace the country you are visiting, in fact, you may begin to feel as if you never want to leave.
When you come home you will likely experience a similar form of culture shock when you are re-exposed to the wealth of the United States. Your friends and family may not understand all of your experiences because they did not encounter the country themselves and they may not understand the changes that you have been through. But integrating these changes into your life back home is one of the most important steps of your study abroad experience. You have broadened your scope of the world and you can keep your memories to yourself or share them with the public to expand their views as well. Your stories and experiences will stay with you for the rest of your life; they will help you with future academics, your career, and mostly importantly help you define yourself.
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