As an international student we understand that moving to the UK to study can be exciting and scary at the same time. If you need any help with anything, please contact the International Operations at international@bpc.ac.uk.
British Culture
When you first get to Bournemouth, it will take you a while to settle into your new area. The British culture will most likely be different to your own and this will take some time to adjust to life in the UK. This is something that every international student will go through and is normal even if you were able to carry our extensive research in preparation for your move or you have studied or travelled a lot before.
The first few weeks are when you will start to notice culture changes between the UK and your home country. With this in mind, GB Mag has put together a handy guide to British etiquette to help you feel at home as quickly as possible.
Culture Shock
'Culture shock', moving from the culture you know to one you do not, can affect you in many ways, however this is normal.
The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has information that might help you adjust as well as identify ways that culture shock might affect you whilst you are adjusting to life in the UK.
If you think you might be experiencing the effects of culture shock, there are a few things below that you can do to try to minimise the effects.
Please see the suggestions below:
- Remind yourself that this is normal, and others will be going through the same.
- Make sure to keep in contact the best you can with friends and family back home.
- Have something from home in your room, bag or person, that will remind you of home and good memories
- Have a look on the internet and try to find somewhere that serves familiar food from your culture.
- Go out for a walk, cycle or swim. It is important to keep your body healthy and fit whilst you are not feeling 100%.
- Have a look for a faith community in Bournemouth or Poole that you can identify with.
- Find other students who are in a similar situation as you.
- Have a look around Student First and the International Department's social media in order to find activities that you can participate in both with UK students as well as other international students.
- Check out Student First, sign up for activities, events, Ambassadors and get involved to meet new lifelong friends.
- Take time to find out what services are available at The College. For example, your personal tutor, information from the International Department, and other support services. Even if at home you wouldn’t consider doing this, in the UK it is normal and may be of help when familiar support is missing.
- If you feel upset, look for help. There is always someone or some service available to help you at The College.
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