You're not alone in feeling lonely- see how Jaron found connection
Culture Shock
Adapting to the unfamiliar and uncomfortable- see how Sarah adjusted while abroad
Related Skills
Group Conflict
When your in-group is on the outs- see how Janelle navigated group differences
Related Skills
Personal Struggles
Unexpected obstacles arise- see how Meirav endured a challenging experience
Related Skills
Resiliency Model Click any link to read about the resiliency model.
Resiliency refers to the adaptability of individuals or groups of people after experiencing adverse events.
A resilient person is one who has the ability to be self-aware, to self-regulate, think flexibly and optimistically, and to connect with others to manage stress.
The Five Factors
The five factors shown help foster resiliency. These factors complement and reinforce each other, and can be developed by practicing the skills in the skills section.
Connection
Feeling alone is one of the primary concerns for those traveling abroad. Connectivity to others is closely linked to awareness, regulation, flexible thinking and optimism
Flexible thinking
Rigid ways of thinking give us less choice in our behaviors leading to more subjective distress. Flexible thinking allows for flexible coping and a balanced perspective.
Optimism
An optimistic attitude promotes psychological well-being. It helps you to challenge unhelpful thinking, improve mood, and identify what is within control.
Self-awareness
Self-awareness is a core factor in resilient people. It refers to the knowledge of one's individuality including thoughts, emotions and behaviors.
Self-regulation
The ability to acknowledge and express distress in a way that promotes well-being. It requires self-awareness, flexible thinking, connection and optimism.
Stories
Student experiences that reflect situations
encountered abroad.
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I had to accept that while I might never assimilate into this culture and that Peru may never quite feel like home, I can still engage in some pretty amazing and enriching relationships. I can connect with people around me.
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Everything was just so overwhelming, I didn't know anybody...but after a couple of months, I decided to accept things and not focus on the things I couldn't change.
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It was obvious that the common thread between our values and purpose was being overshadowed by all the infighting. We all shared similar values and common purpose. We were in Ghana to make a difference.
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I could sit here and wallow in my tears and lament over what had happened, or I could choose to accept where I am and continue to make a difference in the lives around me.
Skills
Specific skills related to the situations depicted in the student stories.
Skills Click any link to read about the skills involved.
The Skills Involved
The stories suggest a number of specific skills that can help someone prepare for and respond to stressful situations that can be encountered abroad.
Assertiveness
Assertiveness is a vital skill for negotiating conflict and maintaining relationships. It focuses on balancing personal needs and wants with those of others.
Cognitive Defusion
Cognitive Defusion, or thought distancing, is a skill to help manage personal distress. It focuses on recognizing the distance between a person and their thoughts/feelings.
Deep Breathing
Deep breathing helps facilitate self-soothing by focusing on each breath traveling in and out of the diaphragm for balanced air flow.
Mindfulness
To be mindful is to be fully engaged in the present moment. It involves intention, acceptance, non-judgment and gentle curiosity.
Reflection
Reflection is a way to look at the big picture: it requires awareness of self, others, past and present to promote future change.
Values-Based Action
Values are self-chosen guiding principles. Values-based action requires an awareness of one’s valued directions and intention for chosen values, despite difficulties.