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Photo by Jametlene Reskp on UnsplashStarting a life in a new country is a big deal. You'll probably feel scared, lonely, and excited at the same time. I know I did...
The good news is, you're not alone. Out of every 30 people you meet, at least one of them is an immigrant.
Having gone through the journey of starting my life in a new country, here are a few actions that made the transition easier for me.
1. Learn the Language
Learning the language of your new country will make everything easier. You'll be able to:
Make new friends
Find your way around
Do well in school
Get a job
Photo by Leonardo Toshiro Okubo on UnsplashVisit your local library to check out books and DVDs, take a class, look for mobile apps like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone to start learning, or hop online to learn with the help of ChatGPT.
Did you know?
If you're moving to a country where the most common language is your own native language (for example if you're moving from the US to Australia), there might be some local variations of the language you'll need to be familiar with. Youtube is a great resource to learn more about slang, idioms, and regional accents.
2. Make New Friends
How do you meet new people? Well, there are LOTS of ways! I registered for English as Second Language classes at the community college and met other immigrants in class. Here are a few more ideas:
Join community organizations
Go to community events
Pick up a new hobby
Volunteer
Attend religious services
Take a class
Photo by Julián Gentilezza on UnsplashThe more connections you build with the community, the more people you meet, the more connected and supported you'll feel. You could start reaching out to people even before you move!
3. Be You
It's important to learn how to navigate your new country and try new things, but it's also important to be YOU.
This includes:
Staying connected with family and friends in your home country
Making new friends who share your heritage in your new country
Celebrating your holidays
Sharing your culture with others
Photo by Edgar Castrejon on UnsplashThis will help you feel grounded and connected, especially during times of homesickness and culture shock.
Did you know?
If there's an established community of expats in your new city, there will probably be at least a few stores selling food and other items from your native country. Having a small piece of home can ease culture shock and give you some comfort. Enjoy your shopping trip and don't forget to meet new people while at the store!
4. Beware of Culture Shock
Culture shock is the feeling of disorientation and discomfort that comes from being in a new and unfamiliar environment.
It can look and feel different for everyone, such as:
Struggling to adjust to the new culture
Feeling homesick and lonely
Feeling like you don't belong anywhere anymore (my personal struggle)
Photo by Annie Spratt on UnsplashCulture shock is a normal part of immigration. Talk to your friends or find professional help to cope with culture shock.
Quiz
Ana moved to the United States last month, and though she already has a job and has met a few people, she feels uncomfortable in her new life. What could help her cope with culture shock? Select all that apply:
Staying in touch with your old life while also being adventurous and trying new things from your new country will help you cope with culture shock. Isolating yourself will only make you feel more homesick and alone. Be patient with yourself and lean on your friends, old and new!
Take Action
Photo by Ian Schneider on UnsplashStart building a foundation for your new life!
This Byte has been authored by
Anita Damjanovic
Customer Education Specialist | Educator
PhD