Adjusting to Life in
America
…The American Dream
• Guiding Principles
• Cultural Differences
• Communicating Effectively
• Societal Norms
American Culture
• Your expectations
• Keep an open mind
• Become familiar with American life
Values
• Freedom
• Equality
• Democracy
• Independence
• Family
• Diversity/Multiculturalism
• Individuality
• Integrity
Individualism and Social
Class
• Individualistic society– “Origins” not important.
• Occupation is prime determinant of social class.
• Competitive society
• “Doing” rather than “Being”
Communication
• Greeting
• Personal Space
• Punctuality
Friendship
• Defined differently in different cultures
• Dealing with being stereotyped
• Most Americans are surprisingly outgoing and
patient if you need help or have questions.
Tipping
• Tip = Gratuity
• Usually 18-25%
• Restaurant,
• delivery services,
hairdresser,
car wash etc.
Smoking
Prohibited in:
• Public buildings, offices, most restaurants.
• Public transportation, trains and buses.
NO SMOKING on campus!
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.
Culture Shock
Describes process of adjustment to a completely
new environment.
• Symptoms
−
−
−
−
Extreme homesickness
Sadness, loneliness, melancholy
Depression
Idealizing the old country
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
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
Thank
!