This study explores the culture shock phenomenon and the social adaptationprocess of migrant students within the context of intercultural communication. Thehigh cultural diversity in Indonesia often causes migrant students to experienceculture shock when relocating for higher education, which is characterized bylanguage barriers, differences in social norms, and psychological impacts such asanxiety and lack of confidence. The objective of this research is to deeplyunderstand these psychological dynamics and adaptation patterns to serve as apractical guide for students and regional organizations in minimizing the negativeimpacts of cultural transitions. This research employed a qualitative approach witha descriptive design. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. Datawere collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation, thenanalyzed via data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. Source andmethod triangulation were applied to ensure data validity. The results indicate thatmigrant students experience culture shock primarily due to differences in languageand communication styles, leading to intercultural misunderstandings and emotionalstress. To overcome these challenges, students engage in gradual social adaptationthrough proactive learning and adjusting their communication behavior.Furthermore, the development of intercultural communication competence and thepresence of strong social support from family, peers, and the campus communityplay a crucial role in helping students build self-confidence, manage psychologicalstress, and accelerate their adaptation process toward a harmonious and inclusivecultural integration.
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