The International Office
Online Handbook
First days
International Groups and Societies
UK culture
The UK is made up of three different countries and a province: England, Scotland, Wales and the province of Northern Ireland. These countries all have very different characters and identities.
The United Kingdom is a diverse and multi-ethnic society, where students of all backgrounds are welcome and their involvement in local communities is valued. The UK has a long tradition of welcoming migrants and refugees from around the world, many of whom have settled here permanently.
All major world religions are represented - mosques, Sikh temples, synagogues and Buddhist and Hindu places of worship can be seen alongside a whole range of Christian churches, from Anglican and Roman Catholic through to Nonconformist and Orthodox.
Many languages are represented as well. The most widely spoken South Asian language in the UK is Punjabi, followed by Urdu, Bengali and Gujarati. The main Chinese dialects spoken in the UK are Cantonese and Mandarin.
Settling In
When you first arrive in the UK you can expect to feel tired and disorientated by travel and time change. During your first few days get plenty of rest, take some moderate exercise, and try to eat a balanced diet.
Adapting to UK culture
The range of feelings and symptoms that can occur as a result of moving from a familiar to an unfamiliar culture are often referred to as Culture Shock. This is the shock of a new environment, meeting new people and learning the ways of a different country. It also includes the upset of being separated from the important people in your life: family, friends, colleagues, teachers: people who would usually give you support.
Culture shock is not quite as sudden as most people expect. The first few days in a new country can be a time of great excitement, when everything is new and intriguing. However, this excitement can fade and you may start to feel confused and isolated. Symptoms include a loss of appetite, sleep disturbances, lack of concentration and fatigue. This is the most difficult phase for any new student and it is important to remember that what you are feeling is a normal reaction for someone who has moved to new surroundings.
Next, you may become hostile to the new culture and conscious of all that you dislike about it. Despite what you may think, this is actually quite a healthy reaction as it means you are reconnecting with what you value about yourself and your own culture.
From here, you will begin to understand the two cultures and their differences. This will give you more confidence as you gain experience and are better able to cope with new things.
Finally, most students come to value the differences between the two cultures - they are aware of the differences and choose to enjoy the best bits!
How can I deal with culture shock?
- Understand that culture shock is normal - a step in the process of adapting to your new environment
- Keep in touch with home
- Have familiar things around you
- Cook some familiar food, eat healthily and take exercise
- Make friends with other international students who are also likely to experience culture shock. Talk to your personal tutor, the ISA, or anyone who will listen uncritically and with understanding
- You may like to link with a faith community
- Join some of the societies in the Students' Union. There may be an opportunity to learn a new sport or activity or continue an interest from home. It is an ideal opportunity to meet students from different courses and countries
- Remember that people in the UK may not know as much about cultural differences as you do. Tell people about your home and your way of living!
Social behaviour in the UK
British people can be very warm and friendly; if you start a conversation you will usually find that people are happy to speak to you. However, friendliness does not necessarily mean that someone is expecting a personal friendship to develop. Be aware that friendships may take longer to develop here than at home.
Visiting
A genuine invitation to someone's home will include mention of a specific date and time. British people tend to telephone or send a text message or email before visiting each other at home, in respect of people's privacy and personal space.
What do they really mean?
The British often have difficulty saying what they really mean, for example saying 'no' or making a critical comment, for fear of causing offence or upset. If you are usually open and direct in your opinions you may not understand what British people really mean. If you are in any doubt, ask. The British sense of humour can be ironic and confusing. As you get to know someone better and spend more time with British people, you will
Arrive on time
In the workplace and in academic life time-keeping is important. You should always be on time for lectures, classes and meetings with staff. If you are going to be late for an appointment with someone, let them know.
Men and women
Men and women in the UK are entitled to equal respect and status in all areas of life. Relationships between men and women may be more formal or less formal than you are used to, and there may be differences in social relationships between people of the same gender. This may make it tricky to understand and interpret behaviour, and to know how to behave with other people.
Making Friends
Making friends with other international students is very easy, especially at events organised by the International Office during the first weekend, Orientation and Freshers' Week.
It is also important to make friend with UK students, we suggest the following:
- Join the Amity Programme
- Join trips and events organised by the International Office
- Join societies and clubs run by the Students' Union or become a member of a club or society in Bath to meet local people
- Get involved in voluntary work through the Volunteering Centre in the Students' Union
- Have confidence and take the first step - invite a British student to join you for a meal or a social event.
International Groups and Societies
There are many established international groups and societies here at the University of Bath including:
Global Group, Free to join, this group organises lots of events aiming to promote the integration between international and British students. The highlight of their calendar is the Global Evening.
Saudade,the Brazilian and Portugeuse Society, welcomes new members of all nationalities to enjoy Brazilian and Portuguese culture.
BAMSA, the Bath Area Malaysian and Singaporean Association provides friendship, support and fun events for itas members. The highlight is the Food Fest!
For a full list of all societies check the Societies home page.