For this wonderful week, we are diving into the fascinating perspectives of our 2022/23 students, where we ask them what the biggest differences are between the US and their home country. From food to school pride, culture shock can be quite an adventure! Starting a new chapter in US is not only exciting and fun, but also teaches a valuable lesson to have an open mind and learn new customs. Hear from our 2022/23 students as they share their unique experiences.
Q: What do you think is the most significant cultural difference between the United States and your home country?
A lot of people seem very warm and welcoming. They will start talking to you even if you are a stranger.
– Maria from Norway
Kindness. I think that Americans are welcoming people really nicely and try to make up conversations to have a good time and enjoy themselves. No matter if you are at a hair salon or a grocery store – people are just kind. I am not saying it is not the case in Germany, but it definitely happens less often. Another thing is pride: School pride and pride for the American nation are two immense aspects. This is a whole different story compared to Germany.
– Tim from Germany
How to react to things were the most different thing. In my country, it is kind of embarrassing to cry in front of people because those are negative feelings and we don’t really do that, but here people are honest to their feelings even if those are negative. I thought it was really good.
– Ruruna from Japan
I think that the most significant cultural difference between France and the US is how people are very open minded in the US.
– Maeva from France
Social norms and expectations. Even though geography and food are different, there will be a massive difference in how people have conversations, see things that are right/wrong, greet you, or expect from you.
-Emma from Spain
I loved how friendly people were here. Like when you go around school and strangers compliment your outfit for example. Another cultural difference I noticed is about food and how different the times for eating are here.
– Giorgia from Italy
I think everything is different, but for me the most significant cultural difference is Thanksgiving because we don’t have it in Spain.
– Julia from Spain
Everyone are individualists. I thought it was a negative point at first, but now I understand it and I adopted that way of life in some points.
– Beatriz from Brazil
Are you interested in making a student a part of your family for the upcoming year? We are still looking for American host families to welcome a student in the fall! Check out the profiles of our wonderful students for the upcoming 23/24 year!
