As my time abroad comes to a close and preparations start to settle back into life at the University of Oregon, I've been reflecting on what it feels like to return. In some ways, it's surprising how quickly you can slide back into old routines, while in other ways, it's clear that you're coming back as a different version of yourself.
Compared to the excitement and nerves of arriving in Singapore, returning home has brought a quieter and calmer adjustment. Instead of figuring out how to navigate a brand-new city, I've been processing how much I've changed after months of living and working in a different culture. Coming back to the U.S. feels familiar, but I notice myself comparing small daily details like public transportation, food culture, and even the style of everyday conversations through a new lens.
One of the biggest challenges has been learning how to integrate the independence and adaptability I built abroad into my life back on campus. In Singapore, I was constantly stretched out of my comfort zone. Whether it was traveling solo, learning workplace dynamics in a foreign country, or adapting to being on my own in an entirely new environment, these experiences pushed my to grow more confident and resourceful, and I'd like to carry that with me instead of skipping back to my old comfort zones at UO.
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For anyone preparing to return from studying abroad, my biggest tip is to be patient with yourself. Reverse culture shock is real, and it's normal to feel restless, unchallenged, unproductive, or out of place even though you're "home." Give yourself time to process your experience, and don't be afraid to share stories with friends or classmates. At the same time, remember that not everyone will fully understand what you went through, and that's okay. Even my parents seem to grapple with the full extent of change that I feel like I have gone through these last few months.The value of you experience is something you'll continue unpacking over time.
As a student who has lived in different countries growing up — China, Japan, Singapore, and the U.S. — I've learned that identity feels flexible depending on where you are. Studying abroad in college was another layer to that realization. It reminded me that stepping into unfamiliar spaces can actually bring you closer to understanding who you are. If someone shares my background and is on the fence about going abroad, I would encourage them to take the leap. Yes, it's challenging, but those challenges will shape you in ways you can't anticipate and give you a stronger sense of self.
Looking back, the decision to study abroad was one of the most impactful choices I've made in college. It wasn't just about the professional skills or cultural experiences; it was about realizing I could thrive in an environment completely different from what I knew. Returning home, I feel both grateful for the comfort of familiar places and excited to carry forward the resilience and perspective I gained abroad.
Logan Adams, Diverse Duck Ambassador