[From Google]
So, what exactly is culture shock?
Investopedia defines this as the feelings of uncertainty, bewilderment, or anxiety that people may have when they relocate to a new nation or encounter a different culture or environment. Additionally, culture shock can happen when people travel for business or pleasure, vacation, or study abroad. For instance, unfamiliarity with the local climate, customs, language, cuisine, and values may cause international students studying abroad for a semester to struggle with cultural adjustment. A person experiences culture shock when they move to a new environment and leave behind the comforts of home and familiar surroundings. Moving to a new country or from a small rural area to a large metropolis can cause a significant amount of adjustment, especially if the two places are very different. When relocating within the same nation, people may also experience culture shock.
When I first arrived in Imo State, I was unaware that I would experience culture shock because I'd watched a lot of Igbo films on African Magic. In light of that, I didn't anticipate that it would impact me.
Among the many languages spoken in the state where I’m from, pidgin English is more prevalent. The typical Ijaw and its variations can be heard when you venture to an interior village.
Let me summarise my initial reactions to the place:
The soil was a vivid red—something I had never seen before. I had read plenty about the East, its hills, and the rich soil, but nothing could have prepared me for the thrill of seeing it firsthand. However, my excitement quickly faded as I realised that nearly everyone around me spoke Igbo, and I couldn’t understand half of what was being said.
Fortunately, at the camp, most people spoke English since we all came from different parts of the country. But once camp ended and I went to my Place of Primary Assignment (PPA), the challenge of communication became real. To be honest, I enjoy my PPA, and through it, I’ve met some great people.
Here’s a small story that sums up my experience: We had this programme, kind of like a scavenger hunt. Someone arrived late—or you could say, too early—and I asked him to go to the office, get a tag, and come back. Unfortunately, he missed his chance, but he didn’t give up. He came back to where he had seen me earlier, and we managed to get him a tag. I encouraged him to do his best, and guess what? He ended up winning. At the end of the event, he told everyone that I was the reason he won because I had encouraged him. That moment left me feeling a mix of gratitude and surprise, realising that even in this unfamiliar place, I had made a small but meaningful impact.
I don’t want to bore you with the details of every day, but I’ll say this: the people I’ve met here have made all the difference. I may never fully get used to the land, but it’s the warmth of the people that makes living here feel a little easier.
Thank you for reading.