Post-Study Abroad Blues: How to Bring the Experience Back Home
Returning from studying abroad can feel surprisingly emotional. Youâve spent weeks, or months â exploring new cultures, meeting new people, and expanding your worldview. Then suddenly, youâre home, and something feels⊠off.
This feeling is known as the post-study abroad blues, or in more technical terms, reverse culture shock. Itâs completely normal, and with the right mindset, you can turn it into one of the most valuable learning experiences of your life.
Hereâs how to adjust after study abroad, stay connected, and bring your global perspective into your everyday life.
1. Understand What Post-Study Abroad Blues Really Are
What is post-study abroad blues?
Itâs the emotional low that many students experience after returning home from studying abroad. You might feel disconnected, restless, or nostalgic for the friends and lifestyle you built overseas.
This happens because your mindset has expanded, but your environment hasnât changed. Recognizing that this is part of your study abroad re-entry journey is the first step toward readjusting.
đĄ Tip: Be patient with yourself. Journaling or talking to other study abroad alumni can help process those feelings.
2. Expect and Manage Reverse Culture Shock
Why do I feel reverse culture shock after returning home?
Because your perspective has changed! Youâve adapted to new customs, languages, and ways of living. Coming home, even to something familiar, can feel strange or dull in comparison.
To manage this:
- Keep learning about global cultures or languages.
- Share your stories with others who understand.
- Remember that feeling different means youâve grown.
Reverse culture shock after study abroad usually fades within a few weeks to a few months, but staying proactive helps you move forward faster.
3. Stay Connected to the People You Met
Your international friends are part of your global network now.
Keep in touch through group chats, video calls, or even joint travel plans.
đ Tip: Connect on LinkedIn and tag them when posting about your experience, it strengthens professional connections while keeping friendships alive.
4. Integrate Your Study Abroad Experience Into Daily Life
How do I bring my study abroad experience into my everyday life?
Start small but intentional:
- Cook dishes you loved abroad.
- Follow international news or creators.
- Volunteer with global organizations or mentor other students.
Each of these helps you stay globally engaged and prevents your study abroad experience from feeling like a âclosed chapter.â
5. Turn Your Study Abroad Story Into Career Value
How can I bring my study abroad experience into my career?
List your GLO Study Abroad Program under âEducationâ or âExperienceâ on LinkedIn.
Use your program as proof of adaptability, global awareness, and communication skills.
Example:
GLO Winter Europe Program â London, Paris & The Hague
Explored international business strategies, attended executive lectures, and developed cross-cultural communication skills.
Recruiters love to see students who can think globally and adapt quickly, two major advantages from any study abroad program.
6. Reflect and Share Your Experience
One of the best ways to combat post-study abroad blues is to turn reflection into creation.
Post your photos, write blog articles, or create short videos about what you learned.
What should I share on LinkedIn after study abroad?
Focus on lessons, not just travel. Example:
âTen days in Europe changed how I view leadership and culture. Studying abroad with GLO reminded me that business isnât just global, itâs personal.â
This helps future employers see your initiative and ability to extract meaning from experiences.
7. Plan Your Next Global Adventure
The best cure for post-study abroad blues? Plan another one!
Whether itâs another short-term program, an internship abroad, or a global fellowship, having something to look forward to reignites your curiosity.
Final Thoughts
Feeling the post-study abroad blues means you had an experience that mattered.
Instead of seeing it as the end, see it as the start of applying everything youâve learned, from new friendships to global perspectives, to your next chapter.
đ Ready for Your Next Study Abroad Experience?
GLO offers short-term study abroad programs across Europe and Asia that fit into your academic schedule.
Earn college credit, expand your worldview, and gain real-world business experience â all without missing a semester.
đ Explore Upcoming Programs
â FAQ: Life After Studying Abroad
Q: What is post-study abroad blues?
Itâs a temporary emotional phase that happens after returning home, often linked to missing your international routine and friends.
Q: How long does reverse culture shock last after study abroad?
Usually between a few weeks and three months, depending on how quickly you re-establish routine and stay connected with your experience.
Q: What should I do when I feel disconnected after studying abroad?
Reflect on your growth, talk to other alumni, and channel your experience into something creative â writing, volunteering, or mentoring others.
Q: How can I use my study abroad experience for personal growth?
Apply what you learned about communication, independence, and problem-solving into your academic and career life.
Q: How can I keep my global mindset alive?
Follow international news, attend cultural events, or plan a new study abroad program through GLO.
