Coming home can be the hardest part of an internship. After struggling through cultural adjustment there, you may be surprised to find yourself struggling again here. Many interns face "Re-entry shock" that is as bad or worse than culture shock.

You have changed socially, emotionally, mentally, and physically. The longer that you have been away, the more pronounced it will be. You may have different perceptions about poverty, wealth, food, clothing, and behavior than the people who stayed behind. You may also feel some frustration if family and friends aren't able to appreciate or understand the depth of your experience and its impact on your life.

Read back through your journal and identify how you have changed through your internship. Once at home find a peer group who can relate to your experiences. This may be as part of a re-entry course or club on your campus, or through other IE3 alumni.

A few resources for dealing with re-entry shock are listed below. Take time to read, think and reflect on your experience. You will find willing listeners in your campus coordinator and regional director. We always want to hear what you have learned, seen, done, and accomplished while abroad!

Suggestions for dealing with re-entry shock
Handout for family and friends on re-entry shock
Reading list on re-entry
Re-Entry Journal Questions
What's Up With Culture? Re-entry Guide