Cultural competency: A Crash Course

1. Cultural competency: A Crash Course • Versailles Orientation 2018 • NDB and WGA

2. Two particularities of our program • Familles d’acceuil = Is the French term for “host family” AND “fosterfamily” • You are not a guest, but a “foster” child. Theywant to know whereyou are whatyou’redoing, whenyou’llbe home. • Classes and absences. These are professeurs particuliers in everysince of the word (« private » and « particular »). Unlessyou are trulysick, youcannot miss class. The teachersthink of themselves as givingyouspeciallessons and essential knowledge. Theywilltakeitpersonally if you are not there.

3. Two rules to thrive • 1st rule : The French are all about respect. Respect for people, respect for tradition, respect for space, respect for food. • 2nd rule: Think of yourself as a cultural spy. You want to fit in and understand them in their natural habitat. You don’t want them to throw merde at you.

4. With a partner discuss what you know already about these different subjects. Compare the United States with France. If you’re not sure, that’s okay!

5. The French talk politics at dinner and will ask you about the US. They can be blunt and expect (and appreciate) some gentle sparring. Engaging in conversation is a sign of respect. The French do not do “lounge” wear. You should dress in the house as you would in the city. Bedrooms are private spaces. Only enter spaces you have been specifically invited into (including the kitchen). Doors remain shut. The French are frugal, and utilities are expensive. They tend to take “military” showers and always turn off lights when exiting rooms. Families use “tu” with each other. You should use ”vous” with the mother and father, unless invited to do otherwise. “tu” with the children and teenagers.

6. Always say “bonjour” when entering a store. A business is an extension of the personal space. You are entering their domain. Small shops and restaurants do not like bank cards, especially for small purchases. Restaurants do not split checks. Dress like the locals : neutral colors, usually dark blues and black. No leggings / leisure wear (unless you’re working out). No flipflops. Avoid baseball caps. These all scream, “I’m American!” Don’t The French think they are doing you a favor by correcting your accent or grammar. It’s meant to be helpful. Take it in stride. Je me renseigne/ oh…je ne sais pas encore. Je peux regarder un peu? Few and far between. No toilet paper. Often co-ed

7. Eye contact is a type of flirtation, as is smiling. You will be approached if the person is interested. Absolutely required at a party, meeting of friends, both entering and leaving. Probably with host family in the morning. Entering or inviting a wo/man into your personal space, especially one-on-one, will be understood as a sexual advance. Make sure your intentions are clear when interacting with potential love interests/ friends. Because of the social codes, French people sometimes come off as cold or distant. It takes a little work to make friends, but can be done usually over an activity. Et si on allaitchercher un café un de cesquatre?