Culture shock for international students in Germany. Adjusting to a new culture can be both exciting and a tad bewildering, especially when you encounter habits that differ significantly from what you’re used to. Germany, with its unique cultural quirks, is no exception. For newcomers such as students, expats, and young professionals, some German habits might seem a bit unusual at first. Here’s a humorous guide to the top German habits that might leave you scratching your head, along with some tips on how to navigate them.
Remember how exciting it was to finally be in the land of your dreams? How you screamed when your admission was approved? Finally, you get to live the life you’ve always wanted. But sometimes, that euphoria doesn’t last. Over time, you find yourself overwhelmed with many foreign issues and ideologies.
When you move to a new environment with a different culture, you’re likely to feel disoriented. That experience is what is known as culture shock for international students in Germany.
What is Culture Shock?
Culture shock for international students in Germany is like postpartum depression for a first-time nursing mother. Getting into a new country like Germany makes everything seem strange to you. Everything includes the surroundings, food, language, education system, and many more.
You may feel overwhelmed with the new environment, language, and culture you need to keep up with. The process of identifying, processing, and adapting to this new norm is called culture shock.
You experience culture shock when you immigrate to a new country, move between social environments, or transition to another type of life. If not handled, culture shock can lead to traumatic conditions such as anxiety, depression, uneasiness, distress, unhealthy comparison, inferiority complex, and unnecessary stress.
Important Aspects of German Culture
Understanding the core aspects of German culture can significantly help in reducing culture shock for international students in Germany. Here are three important aspects of German culture that can aid in your adaptation:
1. Punctuality
Germans are famously punctual. Arriving late, even by a few minutes, is often considered rude and disrespectful. This emphasis on punctuality extends to all aspects of life, including social events, business meetings, and public transportation. Being on time is seen as a sign of reliability and respect for others’ time. To adapt, always plan to arrive a few minutes early and ensure you account for potential delays.
2. Direct Communication
German communication is known for its directness. While this may come across as blunt or rude to those from more indirect cultures, it is intended to be clear and straightforward. Germans value honesty and clarity, and they prefer to address issues head-on rather than beat around the bush. Understanding this aspect of the culture can help you appreciate their communication style and respond appropriately without feeling offended.
3. Order and Structure
Germans appreciate order and structure in all areas of life. This is evident in their meticulous urban planning, efficient public services, and even their personal lives. Rules and regulations are generally followed to the letter, and there is a strong sense of civic duty. Adhering to these principles will not only help you fit in but also enable you to navigate daily life more smoothly.
Tips to Overcome Culture Shock
Be Patient with Yourself
Adjusting to a new culture and environment takes time. It is normal to feel weird at first because of the change, but do not be in a hurry. Consciously allow the new culture to excite and intrigue you. If you are in a country like Germany, understanding the new culture will always take time. So be patient with the process.
- Give yourself time to adapt.
- Celebrate small victories as you get accustomed to the new culture.
- Avoid rushing the adaptation process.
Understand The Academic System
You have to accept that you are in a foreign place with a new or strange academic system. Make an effort to ask questions whenever you are confused. As an international student, your main aim is to study and excel in school. But it doesn’t have to be boring. Make it fun by relating with your fellow students, lecturers, and your course adviser.
- Attend orientation sessions and academic workshops.
- Utilize university resources like libraries and study groups.
- Engage with professors and academic advisors for guidance.
Acknowledge That You Will Miss Home
Being homesick is a reality for most international students. The earlier you accept that you may miss home, the easier it will be for you. Don’t feel weird when you miss home. You have spent most of your life in the country you call home. So changing the environment will not be easy and shouldn’t be something to pretend about. Everyone misses an interesting part of their home, so be ready to miss yours someday.
- Allow yourself to feel homesick.
- Share your feelings with friends or counselors.
- Plan visits or virtual calls to connect with loved ones.
Keep in Touch with Family and Friends
Speaking with family and friends can help you overcome homesickness quickly. It’s easy to forget about home but their support will help you adapt to your new environment easily. Tell them about your fears and difficulties. It would make you feel loved and not alone. Also, sharing your new experiences with them builds excitement to do more every day.
- Schedule regular calls or video chats.
- Share your experiences and achievements with them.
- Use social media to stay connected and updated.
Don’t Compare Yourself to Others
Not everyone has the same adaptation rate. Many adapt quickly, others on an average level, and the rest on a slow one. On the other hand, many have been there a while or might have even grown up there. Others may have a similar culture that helps them adjust faster. So, comparing yourself to others would not help. It could result in feeling inferior and thereafter, people-pleasing.
- Focus on your own progress and experiences.
- Understand that everyone’s journey is unique.
- Celebrate your milestones, no matter how small.
Co-live With Fellow Students
Getting to know fellow students will help you adapt quickly. One way you can do this is to live with other students. Apart from getting a student residence, co-living spaces offer you the opportunity to meet new people while maintaining your privacy. If you are in Germany, it could be tempting to want to stay alone or relate with people you know. But, a coliving agency like Kummuni offers you access to a community where you can share ideas and learn more about the new country.
- Join student housing or coliving communities.
- Participate in social activities and events.
- Share experiences and learn from your peers.
Be Open-minded and Explore
To adapt to the new environment faster, you have to be open-minded. Yet, you may take time to explore new things gradually. But don’t rush into them. Don’t see everything that discomforts you as negative. Ask questions but don’t be judgmental. Try to see through your host country’s eyes. That way, you’ll appreciate everything better. Have fun and try out new things like food, games, and visiting places.
- Explore local attractions and cultural sites.
- Try new foods and participate in local traditions.
- Approach new experiences with curiosity and an open mind.
Avoid Country Comparison
Sometimes, you may want to compare your country with the new environment. But that will only make it worse. Instead of pointing out things you prefer about your home country, why not look out for things to appreciate in your new environment? Think about the friends, studies, and interesting memories you will share with people when you leave your new location.
- Focus on the positives of your new environment.
- Appreciate the differences and similarities.
- Avoid constant comparisons that might lead to dissatisfaction.
Learn the Local Language
Don’t run off. You may not want to do this but hear us out. Even if your program is in English, try to learn the basic words of your host country. How do you feel when someone attempts to speak to you in your native language? You will be interested to listen to the person, right? So, no matter how hostile or friendly you think your new environment is, learning the basic phrases creates a stronger bond between you and them. It’s also a way to learn more about the culture and make new friends. More importantly, it’s not just fun; it’s an added skill too.
- Enroll in language courses or use language learning apps.
- Practice basic phrases with locals.
- Use language skills to enhance your cultural understanding.
Don’t Let Culture Shock Stop You from Pursuing Your Dreams
Studying abroad is not always fun. Challenges like culture shock for international students in Germany show up but don’t let it stop you. Apply these tips and you will find out that your new environment is a beautiful place after all. Choose to overcome them one at a time and you’ll be glad you did. In the end, what matters is that you achieved your goal and made memories along the way.
