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This blog has been written by Swikriti, a Masters student ambassador from The University of Edinburgh.
Moving to a new country is thrilling, but it can also be overwhelming. When you find yourself in a place where everything—from the food to the way people interact—feels different, cultural shock is inevitable. But it doesn’t have to be a bad thing.
I know because I’ve been there. Moving from Nepal to Edinburgh, Scotland was a big change. Nepal, with its tight-knit communities and deep traditions, felt worlds apart from Scotland’s more reserved and independent way of life. For instance, in Nepal, it’s common to have spontaneous visitors, with friends or relatives dropping by without prior notice—a sign of close bonds. In contrast, I found that in Scotland, people often scheduled visits weeks in advance, valuing personal space and planning. Such differences initially caught me off guard, but by learning from these experiences, I found ways to adapt and make the transition smoother. Here’s how you can do the same.
Start by doing your research. Dive into the culture of your new home — what do people eat, how do they dress, and how do they spend their free time? Are you heading to a place where social life revolves around pubs and nightlife, or is it more about outdoor activities like hiking? Knowing these details in advance can help set your expectations and make the transition smoother.
But research isn’t just about reading articles online. Reach out to friends, family, or acquaintances who have lived there or visited before. Their insights can provide a more personal and realistic perspective, helping you feel more prepared for the cultural landscape you’re about to enter. When I was preparing for my move, a friend who had studied in Scotland advised me on the local etiquette, like the importance of saying “please” and “thank you” in almost every interaction—something that wasn’t as emphasised in my home culture.
No matter how much you prepare, living in a new country will always come with its surprises. For example, even if you’ve studied English your whole life, as I did, you might still find yourself struggling to understand the local accent. In Scotland, the accents were so thick that for the first three months, I spent most conversations just nodding along, hoping I was following. It was both funny and a little intimidating at the same time.
But here’s the thing: this is all part of the adventure. Living among locals is very different from learning about a culture in a classroom. The key is to approach these challenges with curiosity and a sense of humor. You’ll pick up the local lingo and gradually what once felt foreign will start to feel familiar.
I also initially found it challenging to navigate the social norms in Scotland, where people tend to be more reserved compared to the open and expressive nature of Nepali society. However, as I spent more time there, I discovered that once you break through the initial reserve, Scottish people are incredibly warm and welcoming. The key is to give everything a try—whether it’s the local food, customs, or just striking up a conversation, even if you’re not sure you’ll understand every word.
When I started experiencing significant cultural shock, I realised that observing the culture from the outside wasn’t enough. I had to become a part of it. So, I made local friends who taught me about local traditions, slang, and even how to navigate the Scottish weather, which was quite different from what I was used to in Nepal.
I also made an effort to learn about the history that shaped the society I was now part of. Understanding the historical context behind the traditions and customs helped me appreciate them more deeply. I began to see how the past influences the present, giving me a richer connection to my new home. Over time, I even found myself adopting some Scottish habits, like enjoying a “cuppa” during the frequent rain showers.
Moving abroad is one of the greatest opportunities of life. You’ll discover new interests, develop a fresh perspective, and build relationships that bridge cultural divides. Over time, you’ll find that this new culture has become a part of you. It will challenge you, inspire you, and ultimately, help you grow as a person.
Cultural shock isn’t just a hurdle to overcome—it’s an integral part of the journey. By embracing it, you allow yourself to fully experience and enjoy the richness of your new environment. So, dive in, let the culture shape you, and before you know it, you’ll feel at home in ways you never expected.
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