Culture Shock

[wasim]

Greetings I'm a primary school teacher trying to prepare for a stint in Japan or Taiwan. Does anyone care to share any experiences of culture shock in Japan (accommodation, isolation etc)? and/or What were some of your biggest professional challenges, i.e. new curriculum or dealing with administration etc?

All information will be gratefully processed.

Regards Wasim

[Antonio]

Culture shock affects people in different ways. If you have never travelled outside your country before and are straight out of university, then it will hit you hardest.

You must remember that Asian cultures are so very different to the western world. Everything you do and see will seem out of place if heading to live in a new country for the first time. Don't expect things to go smoothly at first. I always believe that if you expect the worse, then often you can come out smiling. Just keep an open mind.

Some of my first experiences when being subjected to a new culture were:

• Frustration - can't understand the language.
• Loneliness - no friends or family in the country you have just arrived to.
• Excitement - strange ways will mean there is never a dull moment.
• Popularity - instant stardom. Everyone wants to be your friend and talk with you.
• No Popularity - yep, it can work to the other extreme too. You may find yourself sitting in a packed train with an empty seat next to you and no-one wants to sit next to you.
• Character Building - grow stronger and more mature through your international experience.

The list can go on and on. Just remember not to criticize the way things are done. After all, it may seem strange to you but it wont be strange in their country. Keep positive and try to make some friends from the start.

[wasim]

Thanks for the perspective Antonio, it's not easy to find people willing to elaborate on specific teaching experiences. I'm trying to prepare for a Southeast Asian placement and have found it very difficult to get information relating to professional challenges.
Regards Wasim

[cool ice]

Yeh, culture shock can really hit you at first. Especially if you are young and insecure. Always a good idea to find foreign friends as soon as arriving in a new country. Let out some steam together with like minded people.

[exported_kiwi]

Dunno about culture shock in Japan but I imagine it'd be pretty much the same anywhere you go. It hit me, here in China, like a damned freight train!
Small secret for you though: drinking isn't the answer.
Good luck.

[bosslove72]

Wait drinking ISN'T the answer?!? Hmm, I'm heading off to China in January. I'm excited, yet concerned. Not knowing the language, nor a single soul out there is very scary. As I man from the States. I wonder about my teaching style, if it is appropriate. I don't want to be this terrible half assed teacher out there. I want to be a good instructor that will make a difference. I also want to have fun and enjoy the country.

Damn, I'm so confused...

[bustour]

Thanks for that great list of things to expect Antonio. This gives me a good sense of what to expect when I am finally able to make the plunge.

I have some friends that have recently travelled throughout Japan, and some of the things you mention sound familiar.

And bosslove72, I'm sure you'll do fine when you get to China. It seems like you've given this some thought so I imagine you'll be pretty prepared.

[exported_kiwi]

Nope, drinking isn't the answer at all! Beer is so damn cheap here that you can get plastered on a few dollars if that's your thing!

Bosslove, where in China are you heading, might know some folks there, or someone else might, and may be able to help in some small way!

Best wishes and that's my 2 cents!

[gfell]

Guys, please keep the topic on culture shock. If you want to start a new thread with a new topic, please do so. Thanks.

[bosslove72]

Sorry,

This is shock for me, it may be getting a bit more personal when it comes down to a specific city. I'll give him a personal email then and take it from there.

Thanks!