Returning Students

Welcome home! We hope you had a great time abroad. Here are some ideas for keeping your study abroad experience alive now that you’re back at Western Illinois University.

Come see us! Bring in your pictures, your stories, anything you want. You are the expert on your study abroad experience and we want to learn all about it! 

Evaluate the experience

We encourage and greatly appreciate your input on the Program Evaluation and the Safety Incident Survey (PDF). These take only a few minutes to complete, but provide us with invaluable information for future students.

Be aware of "reverse culture shock"

Even though you’ve been away, things at home probably didn’t remain exactly as you left them. Returning home can cause adjustment issues just like entering a new culture.

Additionally, you may find you miss the food, your friends, and the other things you loved about your host culture.  For tips and strategies for combating this normal psychological phenomenon, visit: What's Up With Culture?

Advocate for Study Abroad

Join initiatives that support international education:

• Join Phi Beta Delta International Honor Society
• Support the Office of International Student Services 
• Becoming a Conversation Partner
• Attend Cultural Cafés 
• Join the International Friendship Club
• Visit the Multicultural Center & attend their events

Consider expanding your study abroad experience by gaining access to other international opportunities.

• Peace Corps 
• Life after study abroad
• Transitionsabroad.com

 

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