What is the W-Curve?

Developed in the 1960s, the W-Curve model was proposed to help explain the feelings associated with culture shock. Since its initial proposal, it has been applied to the adjustment that university students face as they navigate this huge change in their lives. Moving away from home is a big adjustment for any student (whether they stay in Canada or choose to study abroad), so being able to navigate and understand the feelings that come up with such an adjustment is key to coming through the other side stronger.  

Regardless of your expectations or prior experiences, it’s completely normal to experience ups and downs when adjusting to your new life in the UK. Understanding that others will be in the same position as yourself is going to be a huge factor when reflecting on your own journey and adapting to your new life so that you can try to avoid panicking and feeling as though a huge mistake has been made.  

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The “Honeymoon” Period

Students tend to enter this period before they’ve even left for the UK! Think about it – you’re anticipating your new adventure, and your mind is filled with exciting possibilities! You may be thinking about your programme, meeting new people, eating new foods, exploring new landmarks (being a tourist is fun!) 

Similarly, when you arrive in the UK, you’ll be flooded with new student activities that bring on a new sense of independence. These could include participating in your university’s Fresher’s Week, meeting new students, setting up your bank account, moving into your new flat (especially if it’s your first time living on your own!) 

The fist few weeks are a whirlwind and often leave little space for students to miss their home. 

The “Culture Shock” Period

Once the excitement of your first few weeks wears down, you may start to think about your initial expectations of your programme, location, university etc. and start to compare those expectations with reality. In this stage it’s common to start comparing your experiences with others which may lead students to feel overwhelmed, isolated or homesick.  

Some distress and confusion are common here while you question your choices and whether you belong in your new environment. Small differences in your new environment from what you’re used to may bring on further feelings of isolation as you examine cultural differences and familiar resources, or support systems may not be immediately available.  

The “Initial Adjustment” Period

Once the initial culture shock passes students start to find successes in their everyday lives. Habits are being made/maintained, schoolwork becomes more manageable, bonds are being made with others and essentially a routine is being put into place.  

Your new successes and growth in areas like mental wellbeing, social skills etc. will become more apparent, and students will then be brought back to the initial feelings of excitement. You’ll remember why you were so excited in the first place and start to regain a new confidence and control of your surroundings.  

The “Mental Isolation” Period

This stage may occur closer to Christmas break or other academic breaks. Should you choose to go back to Canada and spend time with friends/family, you may find a sense of discomfort in the things you previously loved about home. It’s normal to feel somewhere in between as you navigate your new relationship between your old home and your new home.  

It's completely normal to begin re-evaluating certain aspects of your previous life here, and even healthy to reconnect with your own values, as well as the parts of your culture or home country that are most important.  

The “Acceptance and Integration” Period  

As you continue your studies and start figuring out ways to help you succeed, you’ll regain a sense of confidence and control in your new life once again. You’ll develop better relationships with your peers and tutors and will likely get more involved within your campus environment. Perhaps taking up a new hobby or finding a support system of like-minded peers. Your new home becomes less intimidating, and more comforting as these bonds flourish and will be the cornerstone for maintaining a healthy balance between your old lives and new one.  

Need help?

All universities have Wellness Centres and help available to students at different levels. If you’re struggling with mental health, home sickness, or adjustments as an international student, it’s important to know that resources are available to help. Speak to a friend, professor/tutor, university staff (via the international office or wellness centre) and be open to receiving assistance if needed.  

You can also reach out to your Across the Pond advisor and we’ll be more than happy to help point you in the right direction for resources or contact information for your university. 

While intentions may be good, parents encouraging you to come back or move home after a short time in the UK may not be as beneficial as you think in the long run. Seeking professional guidance can help you migrate these feelings and help you adjust to your new surroundings in a way that promotes growth and flourishing.  

No two journeys are going to be the same, and that’s okay! Focus on your own journey and determine what you need to help you succeed in your studies.