Staying in touch with your student during their stay in the United States can help your student feel supported and help you stay engaged in your student’s experiences. This website (https://educationusa.state.gov/experience-studying-usa/information-parents) provides general information about the experience of studying in the United States to help you have a general understanding of your student’s experience.

Staying in touch with your student is important, but healthy boundaries matter too. Excessive contact can hinder their adjustment, independence, and overall US experience. Consider setting a regular communication schedule (e.g., weekly or bi-weekly) to manage expectations, reduce frustration, and help your student balance their home and US connections.

Culture shock refers to the adjustment challenges a person faces when moving to a new culture, including changes in environment, language, academics, food, and climate. It is a common experience for those studying or living abroad and is part of “cultural adaptation,” which involves both acculturation (adjusting to the new culture) and enculturation (maintaining one’s original culture).

As a family member, you play a key role in helping your student through this process. Research shows that balancing integration into the new culture while preserving their original culture supports a healthier adjustment. Visit this site for more information on culture shock and adjustment. 

Keep informed about what is happening in the United States and in your student’s specific state, county, or city. Check out credible news outlets (e.g., Associated Press, New York Times, local news outlet, etc.) for specific information pertaining to your student’s local region and general information about travel and safety.

If you are concerned about your student’s mental health, please encourage your student to visit the UCI Counseling Center. You can also reach out to the UCI Counseling Center for a consultation during business hours but please note there are limits to what information can be shared about your student (please refer to the Parent and Family FAQ page for details regarding limits to confidentiality). We have a few bilingual staff that may be able to speak your language and additional translation assistance may be available.