What are some tips for students who have never traveled abroad?
Culture shock is often been described in terms of waves: Usually, students initially feel excited in their new environment, then discouraged by its differences from their own culture, then accepting of the differences. Each student goes through these waves differently; some skip phases or never experience some. For more information on culture shock, please visit the WorldWide Classroom. To prepare for culture shock, students should to take photos with them of their home, family and friends. Families can use Skype (a free Internet phone service) to keep in contact. It is not unusual for students to want to, or even ask to, come home. However, learning to be independent is a great benefit of studying abroad, much like going to college. Students can prepare for their experience by reading about the history and culture of Prague and the Czech Republic. This knowledge can help students anticipate differences between Prague’s culture and their own. There are many Web sites and travel guides
