Social Interactions With Americans

1. Social Interactions With Americans

2. 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”

3. 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.

4. 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)

5. American Phrasebook • Highly recommended • Mandatory • -"It is highly recommended that you turn in your application in time to increase your odds at being considered."

6. 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"

7. American Phrasebook • Sounds great • Is fine • -"Can we meet on Monday at 3?"-"Yeah, Monday at 3 sounds great!"

8. American Phrasebook • Let's just say • [Serious understatement following] • -"Let's just say, I'm a little unhappy with her work."

9. American Phrasebook • Not great / not the best • Very bad • -"We had to fire him because he wasn't the best programmer."

10. 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."

11. 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!”

12. American Mannerisms • Handshake (many variations!) • It is very rude to refuse this gesture! • Hug (used between close friends, especially before saying good bye)

13. 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.

14. Stages of Culture Shock

15. 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!

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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.

19. 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.

20. Questions?