Coming back
Coming back
Returning to campus after an off-campus experience can feel exciting, rewarding, and sometimes unexpectedly challenging. Many students experience reverse culture shock as they adjust to familiar surroundings with new perspectives. That's a normal part of the transition.
Whether you're settling back into life at Skidmore or looking for ways to stay connected to what you experienced abroad, we're here to help.
Prepare for your return
Before you return to campus, make sure you've completed the essentials:
- Register for your next semester at Skidmore.
- Review your housing arrangements for your return to campus.
Stay connected to your experience
Your off-campus experience doesn't end when you return. Continue exploring your interests and applying what you've learned by:
- Taking a language course or becoming a language tutor.
- Connecting with international students on campus.
- Volunteering with community organizations that support English language learners.
- Hosting a meal inspired by your host country.
- Attending lectures on international topics through the Skidmore Calendar and academic departments.
- Visiting local museums, galleries, and historic sites.
- Staying in touch with friends and host families abroad.
- Sharing your writing or reflections with Skidmore News.
- Reaching out to the Counseling Center if you're having difficulty adjusting.
- Planning your next domestic or international travel experience.
These activities won't recreate your time abroad, but they can help you carry what you learned into your life at Skidmore and beyond.
Share your experience
Your story can help future students prepare for their own off-campus experience.
Volunteer to:
- Speak with students at the Off-Campus Study Fair.
- Share your experience during pre-departure orientation.
- Serve as a student contact for prospective participants considering your program.
- Share your experience on our instagram.
Contact OCSE at ocse@skidmore.edu for more details how to get involved!