Where to Meet New “Friends”
 Remember we use the term loosely!
 Go to activities (International Coffee Hour, Video
Game Tournaments, Intramural Sports, Clubs,
Volunteering, etc.)
 Form a study group
 Talk with students in the Dining Hall, Your suitemates,
roommates, and classmates.
 Find out about activities on campus through the
International Education Facebook and Twitter or the
“Monthly Event Calendar”
How to Introduce Yourself
 Be confident!
 Be polite (don’t interrupt, be rude, etc.)
 Tell them your name and make “small talk” (for
example, you may comment on the weather, classes, a
big event coming up, etc.)
 Stay in communication with them afterward. Become
“Facebook friends” so you can instant message them.
Develop Your “American
Phrasebook”
 Many American words and phrases have a unique (and
sometime hidden meaning).
 How are you?
 Hello [not a question]
 -"How are you?"
-"Hi! So good to see you!" (keep walking)
American Phrasebook
 Highly recommended
 Mandatory
 -"It is highly recommended that you turn in your
application in time to increase your odds at being
considered."
American Phrasebook
 That's a great idea, but...
 There is a major problem with your idea
 -"So I really think that's a great idea, but you might
want to consider the opposite approach"
American Phrasebook
 Sounds great
 Is fine
 -"Can we meet on Monday at 3?"
-"Yeah, Monday at 3 sounds great!"
American Phrasebook
 Let's just say
 [Serious understatement following]
 -"Let's just say, I'm a little unhappy with her work."
American Phrasebook
 Not great / not the best
 Very bad
 -"We had to fire him because he wasn't the best
programmer."
American Phrasebook
 No offense, but
 Prepare to get offended
 -"No offense, but let's just say that your new book is
not as great as your previous ones."
American Mannerisms
 When making a request, always be polite and explain
the reason for your request if applicable. This will
encourage people to help if you ask nicely.
 For example: “John, can you please turn the TV down for
a few minutes? I am trying to concentrate on studying
for my mid-term. Thank you!”
American Mannerisms
 Handshake (many variations!)
 It is very rude to refuse this gesture!
 Hug (used between close friends, especially before
saying good bye)
What is Culture Shock?
 Culture shock is a process that the vast majority of
people who live in a foreign country will experience.
 It is a completely normal reaction to an unfamiliar
environment.
 Everyone will experience culture shock differently,
some may never have problems adjusting while others
will find it very difficult.
Stages of Culture Shock
Stage 1
 The Honeymoon Stage
 The feeling of initial excitement
and anticipation that lasts for the
first few weeks.
 How do you feel?
 Everything is new and exciting!
You are having a good time!
Stage 2
 The Shock Stage
 In this stage individuals may become homesick and
frustrated with the new culture. Also, there may be
trouble adjusting to the new language, slang and
idioms.
 How do you feel?
 Overwhelmed, homesick, confused and anxious.
Stage 3
 The Negotiation Stage
 In this stage you adjust to the new culture and learn
how to handle difficulties.
 How do you feel?
 You feel more comfortable and more confident.
Stage 4
 The Acceptance Stage
 In this stage individuals feel more at “home” in
their new environment and are able to function
well.
 How do you feel?
 Confident, ready to face new challenges.
What You Can Do
 Be patient
 Remember your personal goals-why you came
 See the adventure in the experience
 Use humor
 Deal with stress when it arises-don’t internalize it
 Ask for help when you need it, talk to others that may
be going through the same thing.
Questions?