Adjusting to Life in America

1. Adjusting to Life in America

2. …The American Dream • Guiding Principles • Cultural Differences • Communicating Effectively • Societal Norms

3. American Culture • Your expectations • Keep an open mind • Become familiar with American life

4. Values • Freedom • Equality • Democracy • Independence • Family • Diversity/Multiculturalism • Individuality • Integrity

5. Individualism and Social Class • Individualistic society– “Origins” not important. • Occupation is prime determinant of social class. • Competitive society • “Doing” rather than “Being”

6. Communication • Greeting • Personal Space • Punctuality

7. Friendship • Defined differently in different cultures • Dealing with being stereotyped • Most Americans are surprisingly outgoing and patient if you need help or have questions.

8. Tipping • Tip = Gratuity • Usually 18-25% • Restaurant, • delivery services, hairdresser, car wash etc.

9. Smoking Prohibited in: • Public buildings, offices, most restaurants. • Public transportation, trains and buses. NO SMOKING on campus!

10. Alcohol Legal drinking age is 21 • Prohibited to operate any vehicle after consuming alcohol. • Against UM policy to consume alcohol on or off campus if you are under 21. • Purchasing or providing alcohol to any person under 21 is prohibited.

11. Culture Shock Describes process of adjustment to a completely new environment. • Symptoms • Extreme homesickness • Sadness, loneliness, melancholy • Depression • Idealizing the old country

12. Phases of Culture Shock • Honeymoon • Differences between the old and new culture are seen in a romantic light • Negotiation • Differences between the old and new culture become apparent and may create anxiety • Adjustment • Mastery

13. How to cope with transition • Get Involved • Focus on the positive • Turn to your friends, advisors • Academic • Residential • ISSS • Seek help at the Counseling Center @ 305-284-5511

14. Thank !