When people talk about their first job abroad, the conversation usually focuses on the exciting parts. They tell you about the incredible places they visited, the friendships they made, the professional opportunities they gained, and how the experience boosted their CV and soft skills.
And they’re right. A work and travel Europe experience can be one of the most rewarding adventures of your life.
But there is something that people don’t talk about enough: the first week.
The truth is that your first days working abroad can feel strange, confusing, and even overwhelming. Not because you’ve made a mistake, but because you’re experiencing something completely new. This is called culture shock, and almost everyone goes through it.
What feels weird in your first week abroad and how to deal with it
Your first week working abroad is not always as glamorous as people make it sound. Sometimes, it feels strange because even the simplest things are different.
1. Ordering food feels like a mission
You know how to order food at home. Easy.
But abroad, suddenly you are reading a menu in another language, trying to understand accents, and wondering if you ordered the right thing.
How to deal with it:
Start simple. Learn a few useful phrases, ask politely when you do not understand, and do not be afraid to make small mistakes. Most people appreciate the effort.
2. Work culture is not what you expected
Maybe people are more direct than you are used to. Maybe they are quieter. Maybe lunch breaks, meetings, or feedback feel different.
At first, you may think: “Are they being rude?” or “Am I doing something wrong?”
How to deal with it:
Observe before judging. Different does not always mean bad. Ask questions, pay attention to how people communicate, and give yourself time to adapt.
3. Speaking another language all day is exhausting
Even if your English is good, using it from morning to night can make you tired. Your brain is translating, listening, thinking, and replying at the same time.
How to deal with it:
Be patient with yourself. You don’t need to sound perfect. Focus on being clear.
4. Homesickness appears in small moments
Homesickness looks different for everyone. You may not feel emotional or want to go home immediately. Sometimes it’s simply missing your favourite food, your daily routine, or the comfort of familiar surroundings
How to deal with it:
Create small routines. Call someone you trust, cook something familiar, or bring one habit from home into your new life abroad.
And remember: your family, friends, and home will still be there when you return. For now, try to embrace the experience and enjoy the moment. 😊
5. You start comparing everything
In the beginning, it is easy to think: “Back home, we do it better.”
But this mindset can make the experience harder.
How to deal with it:
Try changing the question from “Why is this different?” to “What can I learn from this?” That small shift can change your whole work and travel experience.
Culture shock is not a sign that your work and travel experience is going badly. It’s a natural part of the journey.
The truth is that many of the biggest benefits come after those uncomfortable first days:
- More confidence in yourself and your abilities
- Greater independence and resilience
- Stronger soft skills and adaptability
- Meaningful friendships with people from different cultures
- New career opportunities and valuable international experience
When things feel strange, remember: you’re not failing—you’re simply adapting to a new environment.
And that’s where the real growth begins.
Moving abroad is already a big step. At Roast Jobs, we make it easier by helping you find reliable job opportunities and supporting you throughout your journey.
So you can focus less on the stress and more on the experience.
You might want to read as well What Skills Do How to Make the Most of Your Time Abroad: The Do’s and Don’ts of Working and Traveling , How to Plan Your First Gap Year Abroad , How to Overcome Culture Shock and Grow While Living Abroad, Discover 4 Ways to Work and Travel Europe & Beyond – Safely and Securely., 10 Roast Jobs Career Advice Tips in 60 Seconds (From 18+ Years in Hospitality) and much more.
Este artigo foi escrito por Júlia Zapparolli. Obrigada por leres. 😊
