USA is arguably the most developed country in the world and has a sophisticated culture incomparable to any other. As a country with mixed originality and population, The United States is significantly different in various ways. For people wo are new in this country, it is paramount to quickly learn a couple of things to enhance fast adaptation. USA leads in technological advancements and fast life which can make it very difficult for new people to fit into the system. There are a lot of things to learn before fully understanding what life in the US is all about. USA is simply different from culture to education, religions, language, law, food and overall lifestyle.
Here are some of the best ideas for a new person in the U.S to help you adapt and settle quickly:
The first thing to learn bout USA is your location and immediate neighborhood. Your neighbor is the first person you should know at first when you arrive in USA. Other things include house/home location, street, embassy, shops, medical institutions in the neighborhood, eateries and groceries.
It is important to know where the public utilities are located as well as schools and other learning institutions. Once you know the neighbors, streets and how to make your way around the blocks to buy personal supplies, the next phase is to learn the US culture. If you are having trouble finding your way around the area, there are various resources including maps and applications that can be used as guidance.
8. CULTURE OF THE USA PEOPLE
Culture is a broad term and includes a number of smaller categories including food/diets, interests/hobbies, events/activities, language and traditions among other things. The USA population consists of people from many regions of the world and therefore has a very diverse culture depending on the region. There are European, Asian and African cultures all blended together into an American tradition. The clubbing lifestyle, technology-facilitated entertainment facilities and fast food diets all characterize USA.
7. FOOD AND DIET
Ordering food and eating out is also a major part of the US culture, although people still cook in their homes. It is nothing out of the ordinary to see people holding coffee mugs at the bank queue, or pizza slices while walking around.
6. MONEY DENOMINATIONS
This is another important thing to quickly learn, although it is very simple and can be grasped in a day. USA mostly uses the US dollar as their national currency. You should know how the various denominations look like and what they can buy in order to avoid exploitation or embarrassments. The currency denominations include $1, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 (where $ represents the dollar). These are note currencies. The coin denominations are cent ($0.01), nickel ($0.05), dime ($0.10), quarter ($0.25) and half dollar ($0.50). The important thing is to know how they look and what you can buy with each.
As a developed country, new people (from other countries) will find this country blessed with abundant resources due to the higher living standards. The liberties enjoyed by its citizens, avenues for assistance and languages used are important aspects in the culture of the USA people. The people mostly use American English which is almost exactly the same as other English languages (UK and Australian) except for a few words. However, the accents may vary and some neighborhoods have sets of slang words for easier communication.
The clubbing lifestyle or nightlife can be witnessed in many regions of the world. However, it is at its peak in the United States. Other characteristics of the US culture include small talk and political correctness. Talking to strangers (small talk) is very common in U.S.A. Strangers may make comments on your condition or engage your conversation at a bus stop which is considered harmless and normal. USA is also known for its love for arts and entertainment. There are many platforms for exhibiting talent, arts and skills. The education system is different from other countries. For instance, undergraduate can learn many subjects in the first two years (before sophomore year) without having to declare their major which is unlike other systems.
The USA culture is also characterized by independence and the idea of being self-sufficient. Most kids go to college far away from home and do not live with their families once they hit 17-18 years. They perform their own responsibilities like shopping and renting houses.
3. LAWS AND REGULATIONS
There are some things allowed in other countries but can be eligible for prosecution in the USA court of law. You should avoid illegal things such as drunk driving or without a license, sexual harassment, stealing and hard drugs. Activities that can jeopardize your immigration status such as off-campus working or without full authorization and staying longer than stipulated dates should also be avoided. Jokes and statements sensitive to gender, religion, race and/or disability are also to be avoided. Lying/misinformation in documents, plagiarism, middle finger gestures, staring at a person for too long are all prohibited in the United States.
2. WEATHER, CLIMATE AND TIMEZONES
Learning the climate and weather patterns of the region where you stay in the U.S is another very vital factor. This will help you when shopping for clothing or other appliances made in preparation of anticipated changes. The seasonal changes, temperatures, snows, rainfall, and viruses are just a few things you need to find out about to avoid falling ill or incurring certain losses. You should also know the time difference between USA and your parent country. This will help you when you want to communicate with family and friends back home. There is a time-zone converter available and the US is divided into four major zones (Pacific, Mountain, Central and Eastern Standard Times).
1. HOLIDAYS AND CALENDAR
Other important aspects to learn are the USA calendar and holidays. Memorable holidays include Martin Luther King Day, President’s, Memorial, Independence, Thanksgiving, Veteran’s, Labor and Columbus Day. These are in addition to the universal New Year and Christmas holidays.
USA offers opportunities for better healthcare, education, job and other liberties. It can be a very nice place to settle in provided you fit in the culture and avoid any illegal activity. Understanding the traditions, weather patterns and legal laws is the most important thing for any new person in this country.