Adopting to the culture is challenging but rewarding experience
These following tips are worth to apply for various scenarios as an international student, who is willing to have a more enjoyable and fulling experience.
Keep an open mind: It is important to keep an open mind and be willing to try new things. Embrace the differences in culture and do not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Meet new people: Get involved in social events and clubs at your school to meet new people and make friends. This can help you learn more about the culture of the US and make the transition easier.
Learn the language: If English is not your native language, take advantage of opportunities to practice and improve your language skills. This can help you communicate better with others and feel more comfortable in social situations.
Be respectful: Be respectful of the customs and traditions of the US, even if they are different from your own. This can help you build positive relationships with others and avoid misunderstandings.
Seek out cultural resources: Many schools have cultural resource centers or programs that can help international students adjust to the culture of the US. Take advantage of these resources to learn more about the culture and connect with other international students.
transportation
There are several transportation options when you need to commute from one place to another place. Public transportation options like buses and light rail transit-trains are also available in many cities and towns, but they may not be as convenient or widely used as driving a car. For each options, there are some advantages and disadvantages to consider that falls under affordability, convenience, entrainment and social al benefits, limited routes and schedules, and safety concerns.
Buses are the most convenient and affordable mode of transportation for international students in the US. Many cities and towns have public bus systems that students can use to get around, and some colleges and universities also offer shuttle bus services to transport students to and from campus.
The light rail transit (LRT) systems are not available every US cities, but it is in the metro areas. LRT systems typically operate on dedicated tracks and have stations located in or near major urban areas, making them a great option for traveling to and from campus, work, or other destinations.
If you have never driven a car in your country, you will need to learn how to drive in the US because cars are the most common modes of transportation in the state. You need to talk to your international student advisor to provide information upon the state you study. You should note that driving laws and regulations can vary by state in the US, so international students should familiarize themselves with the local driving laws and obtain the necessary licenses and insurance before driving.
Overall, the advantages and disadvantages of transportation types will vary depending on the individual circumstances and location. International students should consider their own needs and priorities when deciding whether or not to use public transportation.
"Embrace the diversity, learn from the differences, and weave the tapestry of your own unique cultural identity as an international student adopting the rich culture of the US." - IS USA Online
Activities
There are several things you can adopt in your daily activities to help you adjust to your new environment and make it worth to study abroad in the US.
Create a routine: Develop a daily routine that includes time for studying, socializing, exercising, and self-care. When you have a routine, it can help you stay organized and manage your time effectively, moreover, you can stay motivated and fill out the lack of energy.
Stay organized: Use a planner or online calendar to keep track of your classes, assignments, and social activities. This can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and ensure that you stay on top of your responsibilities.
Connect with others: Join student clubs, attend events, and connect with other international students or domestic students. Building a network of friends and contacts can help you feel more comfortable and connected to your new community.
For international students, it is imperative to be cognizant of potential scamming activities and adopt necessary measures to safeguard oneself. Common scamming activities include phishing emails, fraudulent phone calls, and fictitious job postings.
It is crucial to avoid sharing personal information or financial details over the phone or through email to evade these scams. Furthermore, students should exercise caution when presented with job offers that necessitate upfront payments or guarantee unrealistic salaries. Conducting research on the company and soliciting references before accepting any job offer is crucial. Regular monitoring of bank accounts and credit card statements for any suspicious activity is also paramount. By remaining vigilant and adopting these precautions, international students can shield themselves from potential scamming activities.
The following activities that students should be aware of to avoid scamming:
- Unsolicited emails or phone calls from unknown individuals or organizations offering scholarships, financial aid, or job opportunities that seem too good to be true.
- Requests for personal information such as social security numbers, bank account information, or passport details through email or phone calls.
- Pressure to act quickly or to pay money upfront in exchange for a scholarship or job opportunity.
- Websites or online advertisements that ask for payment or personal information before providing any services or information.
"Embrace, learn, and thrive as you weave the vibrant threads of different cultures into the fabric of your own identity." - IS USA Online
- Job postings that have grammatical errors or misspellings, offer high pay for minimal work, or do not require any experience or qualifications.
- Requests to purchase prepaid debit cards or to wire money as a form of payment.
- Unsolicited emails or phone calls that claim to be from government agencies or law enforcement, threatening legal action or deportation if money is not paid immediately.
Importantly, students are advised to seek guidance and support from their respective institution's international student office or other reliable resources.
As an international student, let the fusion of cultures be your strength, and may your journey in adopting the US culture illuminate the path to global understanding and unity." - IS USA Online
