Source: Francis Hudson
(He is a fine arts student and freelance writer, Francis lives in Boston and shows his art in area galleries)
As an international student studying in America, there are a lot of things to consider. Not only will you be entering college, but you’ll be living in another country with a different culture and new language. As you prepare for the next four years, here are a few things you should expect:
You Will Experience Culture Shock
Whether you’re familiar with American culture or not, you’ll probably experience culture shock while living here. When you arrive on campus, give yourself a few weeks to adjust to your new surroundings. It’s normal to feel a little disoriented, frustrated, bored, irritable and even hostile. Have patience with yourself and others. To prepare, here are a few things you should expect:
- Americans tend to be independent. While they care about friends, family, community and others, it’s part of their culture to focus on the one. They’re work-oriented and can be viewed as materialistic.
- Equality is an essential part of American culture. Men aren’t considered superior to women, nor is it the other way around. Religious beliefs and customs are tolerated, as are differences in political preferences.
Life in America is Expensive
In college, most American students feel poor. Many work or apply for jobs before or during college to earn money to support themselves. Others rely on financial loans, scholarships or grants. Even with financial aid, international students should prepare for costs such as cellphone bills, laundry detergent, clothing, toiletries, room decorations, social outings, school supplies and so forth. If you plan to work on or off-campus during college, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website has information about student and employment visas.
Making Friends Requires Effort
Americans may seem uninterested or over confident, making it hard to approach them. As aforementioned, Americans tend to be despondent. That doesn’t mean they’re unfriendly or unwilling to be your friend. Try to get involved and befriend others. Smile at other students and participate in clubs, study groups and extracurriculars. When interacting with others, be confident and remember this:
- Though Americans often communicate with touch, such as putting a hand on someone’s shoulder or hugging when they meet, they also like to have personal space during conversations and social meetings. This is often referred to as a ‘personal bubble.’ When standing next to someone, keep about arms-length distance away from them.
- Americans appreciate gifts, but they aren’t expected. If you’re formally invited to someone’s home, it’s considerate to bring a gift for your host, such as flowers or a bottle of wine. If you’re meeting casually with friends, a gift isn’t expected.
You Might Struggle With the Language
Source:Francis Hudson
Francis is a fine arts student and freelance writer, Francis lives in Boston and shows his art in area galleries.
It’s possible you’ll struggle to understand and be understood, even after studying (and speaking) the language for years. Regional accents vary in the U.S., and you’ll need time to adjust to the local accent. Americans use a lot of slang, humor, sarcasm and abbreviations in speech. If you don’t understand something just ask.
Homesickness Is Real
Even if, you’re excited to be in America, even if you like your friends and university, even if you’re enjoying your study abroad — you’ll likely be homesick at one point or another. Remember it will pass; be patient with yourself. If you’re feeling sad, lonely or depressed, talk to your friends or guidance counselor. Try to get involved in activities or clubs around campus; don’t hide in your room.
