Going to study in a new country can be a stressful experience, from learning cultural norms to new foods. Culture shock is common among international students. Culture shock can include meeting new people, language barriers, social behaviors, and a sense of community. A student's comfort with the culture of their new home can determine their learning experience. Being so far away from family and friends can be an emotional roller coaster. American culture is difficult to understand. International students find Americans confusing. Social norms vary depending on what part of the country a person is in. Everyone reacts differently to new environments. While some are thrilled, others are upset at having to leave important people behind. Culture shock comes in many different shapes and sizes, some may find it harder to adjust than others. Adaptation difficulties do not always manifest themselves immediately (TeensHealth). Culture shock is experienced in many different ways, some common feelings are; sadness, loneliness, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, feeling excluded, negative feelings towards the new culture and frustration (TeensHealth). These feelings are temporary, over time people get used to their surroundings. Although many have been planning the change for a long time, many still experience the impact of culture shock (International Students and Culture Shock). The vast majority of cultural norms are based on language. New languages ​​are always overwhelming. English is a difficult language to learn, especially if it is not practiced often. The English language includes rules that can be frustrating to understand. Many international students face the fear of not being understood or not pronouncing something correctly... middle of the paper... International students and culture shock. (n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2014, from http://www.washington.edu/counseling/resources/resources-for-students/international-students-and-cultural-shock/Meeting the Needs of International Students. (n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2014, from http://www.cgu.edu/pages/948.aspNathan, R. (2005). My First Year: What a Professor Learned by Becoming a Student. Ithaca: Cornell University Press. Share your world and open theirs. Host today. (n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2014, from http://www.ayusa.org/TeensHealth. (n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2014, from http://teenshealth.org/teen/your_mind/emotions/culture_shock.htmlTensions Simmer Between American and International Students | Inside the Higher Ed. (n.d.). Retrieved April 10, 2014, from http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2012/10/16/tensions-simmer-between-american-and-international-students