5 American Cultures That Make Indonesian Students Culture Shock

 

when deciding to study abroad, you must prepare yourself to face culture shock. This culture shock is usually experienced when you study in western countries, whereas you were raised in an eastern culture. For example, when studying in Uncle Sam's country, you will be amazed by the culture of the United States which is very different from Indonesian culture. Sometimes it's so shocking, it's often hit by homesickness. For those of you who have plans to study there, consider the following 5 American cultures that often shock Indonesian students!

1. There is rarely seniority

When we go to school in Indonesia, even since elementary school we are already acquainted with seniority. Seniority at school is usually by calling seniors who are older than "older brother/sister". However, in the United States, there is seldom seniority or even non-existence in schools and colleges. One of the characteristics of Americans is their casual attitude, they consider older people as friends. So you don't need to call "older brother/sister" to your seniors on campus. Likewise outside the campus environment, you can even call your friends' parents by their names!

2. Sports Achievement is Comparable to Academic Achievement

Maybe in Indonesia or in other Asian countries, academic achievement is superior. Most Asians prefer to study to get good grades in order to enter top universities. In the United States, sports achievements are comparable to academic achievements. You can even get scholarships at top universities by relying on sports achievements that you are good at. So when you land in the United States, don't be surprised to see their love for sports such as basketball, baseball or football.

3. Tip Culture 

The culture of the United States that is no less astonishing is the tip culture. This is done if you eat at a diner or even at a fancy restaurant. This tip is a form of appreciation for their services when serving you food. Don't forget, the waiters may think you are impolite if you forget to leave a tip, you know! All you have to do is leave change or a small change to give a tip to the waiter. For sure if you come back, they will be very friendly when serving you.

4. Dress More Casual 

The difference between eastern culture and American culture can also be seen from the way they dress. Compared to easterners, Americans prefer to dress more casually. Even to campus they would prefer to use jeans, t-shirts with sweaters from campus. Many of them also wear shorts during college, you know. Because the United States is a liberal country, casual clothing is a freedom in expressing oneself. Even though you are wearing casual clothes around you, it's okay if you still want to dress modestly, the important thing is that you are comfortable.

5. Learning Culture of the United States 

The last United States culture that you need to know is their learning culture. Students there are known to be active while studying. For them, learning is not only in the classroom, but also anywhere. Take Cinta Laura, an alumnus of Columbia University, who admits that she stays up all night until dawn to study at the library! Apart from the feeling of rivalry, the freedom that exists in college can also be toxic. So, if you are not active to learn by yourself, you might be left behind!

 The culture of the United States is indeed different from ours, but you can anticipate culture shock by searching for information or chatting with seniors who have studied in the United States first.