Teacher Experience: Expert Expat

Although the time it takes to adjust to life in a new country varies from person to person, most international school teachers and other expatriates (“expats”) seem to adjust (for the most part) within about six months or so. After you have been in your new environment for several months, ask yourself the questions below. Any negative answers indicate areas that may still need work. Difficulties in just one of these areas can undermine the adjustment process and prevent you from getting the most out of your time teaching overseas.

Are you continuing to make progress in the local language (if applicable)? Can you communicate with local people in everyday situations?
Are you starting to be able to read the cultural signals of the local people that differ from yours and to understand what they mean in context?
When you are with local people, are you learning to adapt your behavior to their cultural expectations?
Do you have more positive than negative feelings about the local people and culture?
Do you get regular exercise, and have you found other ways to reduce the stress of living overseas?
Does your home feel like a comfortable oasis amidst the foreign environment?
Do you maintain regular contact with people back home—but maintain local social contacts as well?
Do you have a network of people you can turn to in an emergency or if you need support in other ways?
Have you made friends outside the narrow circle of colleagues and fellow teachers from your home country?
Do you regularly get out and do things in your free time rather than isolating yourself at home or school?
Do you feel that you know your way around and can find what you need?
Do you feel as if you have a reason to get up in the morning? Is your teaching job meaningful and satisfying?
Have you found enjoyable things to do in your free time, especially activities that were not possible back home?
Do you view your overseas teaching assignment as an opportunity for personal growth?