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You are about to embark on totally NEW experience. “New” means "recently discovered, recognized, or learned about; different from the former; being in a position or place for the first time." You probably expect that things will not be the same in the United States as they are in your home country; but are you prepared to deal with those differences?

New challenges always accompany new experiences. You may occasionally feel confused, unsure and uncomfortable in the United States. People may have different values and new ways of doing things that seem strange to you. You may feel that everything has changed, including your immediate support system of family and friends.

All of these things may contribute to “culture shock.” To minimize the shock, you will probably want to keep in touch with family and friends back home—but it is important to also identify new sources of support. People that you meet through your school’s international student office may also be a likely source of support. You could also contact relatives or friends who live in the United States to ask for their advice.