Page 83 - CROSS CULTURE

culture shock and that an advisor will be available to assist them

when problems arise.

2. The Culture Shock Stage.

Stage two is characterized by irritation and frustration with the
differences between the home culture and new culture. Cultural

differences in communication styles and emotional expression can

expound the problem and make it harder to recognize students

having issues. Advisors may find it difficult to engage students in
this stage. Guo provides excellent strategies for building trust and

engaging international students.(Guo, 2016) In some cases,

advisors may need to direct students to international student

services or counselling resources on campus. Advisors should also

continue to provide opportunities for international students to
interact with native students to increase their social experiences,

allowing them to move to the next stage.

3. The Gradual Adjustment Stage.

In stage three, the gradual adjustment stage, individuals begin to

learn more about and understand their host culture. They also
tend to idealize their home culture, and they may initially make

fun of values and behaviours that are different from what they are

used to. However, as they gain a deeper understanding of the new

culture, they also gain a deeper respect for their host country. This

process is gradual and longer than the other stages, and it may
contain many ups and downs. Students need to learn new

strategies for dealing with stress and loneliness without the

support structures they are used to at home. Advisors can

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