Marco Polo probably suffered from it in Cathay. In some ways, whenever we enter a foreign environment we are 'unprepared visitors'. Culture shock is what occurs to tourists who come into contact with cultures that show differences with their own culture greater than they were prepared for. The effects can be dramatic. These experiences often leave a deep imprint on the lives of individuals, affecting the way they relate to themselves and their 'home' environments for a long period.
Culture shock is inherently neither good nor bad.
It simply makes a difference. The experience of culture shock is thus one, which could threaten us within the confines of our home towns or villages today. And although foreign students might be particularly vulnerable, they are also probably among the best prepared. Still, chances are you will not be able to escape it. It will either catch you on your way in or on your way out.