As most of you know, I am currently living in Kiev, Ukraine to teach English for a semester with International Language Programs.

I wanted to travel my entire life, but the entire first week I was here, I cried all day about how I wanted to go home. I felt like my dreams of traveling were unrealistic. That every time I would leave the country, I would just cry until I could come home. I even hoped that I would get dangerously sick to the point that they would have to rush me back to the United States for medical care, or that I would get injured to the point that I could no longer teach.

The hardest thing was that everyone expected me to have the time of my life. Everyone commented on how jealous they were, and that they would kill to have the same opportunity. Meanwhile, I was jealous that they were at home, with people who loved and cared for them.

As it was my first time leaving the country, I had no idea how difficult the culture shock would be. Suddenly, all the signs and menus were in Russian, I didn’t understand the music or conversations around me, the food tasted bland, and the roads were terrifying(there’s like no driving laws here, so whatever speed, in whatever made up lane you want)

It may seem difficult but here’s a few tips to adjusting to culture shock:

1.Stay busy and explore your surroundings

An idle mind is the devil’s playground. I used every possible chance to hang out with my fellow teachers and every moment to explore the city around me. I noticed that every time I was home watching Netflix, I ended up feeling lonely and homesick. It would soon result in a huge crying festival with How I Met Your Mother as the soundtrack.

Once I eliminated down time, there was less time for my mind to wander. Additionally, I was able to gain a deeper appreciation for the city around me.

2. Make some friends

I am lucky to have come out with a group of teachers. Not all travelers have that luxury. I spent my free time trying to get to know the group I came with. Whether that was planning lessons together, watching movies, or looking up flights to nearby countries for vacations. It’s so nice to have people also from America who are going through the same culture shock and homesickness as I am. We are able to be there for each other and pick each other up on our bad days.

If you are a solo traveler try going to the gym, the club, the library, or any other place to meet people with similar interests as you.

3. Bring something from home

It is so nice having the comfort of something familiar. I have printed pictures on my wall of friends and family, a small blanket to cuddle up with, and American snacks for when I am missing sugar or carbs. If there is something small that can fit in your suitcase and reminds you of home, BRING IT! I promise you won’t regret it, especially if you will be gone for an extended period of time.

4. Rewire your brain

Living in a new country for 4 months, having negative thoughts and wanting to pack up and go home is inevitable. The challenge is learned to combat those. It takes time and a lot of effort. Whenever I think of something negative, I try to think of something positive as well.

For example, I was eating ground salmon the other day…..it was as bad as it sounds. But then I thought of all the amazing chocolate I get to eat here and cheap it is to eat out. I got a raspberry cream croissant and a snickers coffee for $3 total the other day! Soon you will be able to have more positive thoughts than negative.

5. Incorporate your at home routine

If you enjoy morning yoga, don’t stop doing it just because you’re somewhere new. I love blogging and making videos. Ukraine has been a great opportunity to have new things to write and film about. It also is giving me a way to feel like I am still improving in my school work.

Another HUGE part of my life is my family and boyfriend Daniel. It has helped a lot to make sure I have a set time to video call them. It gives me something to look forward to and still feel connected. Make sure you don’t overdue it though. Daniel and I noticed when we talk too much and are on our phones constantly, we get disconnected from the world around us and end up feeling more miserable.

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It truly is beautiful here. Sure, not every day is perfect. But I’ve only cried for two hours total this entire week and I call that a success! Time is starting to go by faster and this grand adventure will be over before I know it. But in the meantime, I’ll soak up every minute.

Much love from Ukraine,

Maria Jo Stephens