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International Students Job Search: Preparing to Return Home
Prepare for the adjustment process
Reentry into your home culture is not simply a matter of getting resettled or resuming your earlier routines and relationships. Be aware of the reentry process.
Allow yourself time
Adjusting to a new culture takes time. Give yourself permission to ease into the transition.
Understand the familiar will seem different
You will have changed; home has changed as well. Expect to have new emotional and psychological reactions to being home. Everyone does.
There will be much “cultural catching up” to do
You may have some learning to do about your own culture (Note: most returnees report that major insights into themselves and their home countries occur during reentry).
Reserve judgements
Try to resist the natural impulse to make snap decisions and judgements about people and behaviors once back home. Mood swings are common at first and your most valuable and valid analysis of events is likely to take place after allowing some time for thorough reflection.
Respond thoughtfully and slowly
Cultivate sensitivity
Showing interest in what others have been doing while you were away is an excellent way to reestablish rapport.
Beware of comparisons
Making comparisons between cultures is natural. However, be careful not to be seen as too critical of home or too lavish in praise of things foreign. Avoid romanticizing the USA.
Remain flexible
Keep as many options open as possible.
Seek support networks
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