Tips for Foreign Nationals Adjusting to the US Culture - Essay Sample

Introduction

A foreign national who comes into our organization in the US has to understand the various aspects of the US culture. This will enable an easier transition to the working environment to produce maximum output. The general information provided revolve around aspects of housing, social etiquette, transportation, healthcare, communication, leisure-time activities, safety and security, childcare, children activities, education, and other practical issues that they may need to know.

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On social etiquette, smiles are basic signals that indicate politeness. They are a non-verbal manner of being friendly. Americans like their personal space and stand about 2 feet apart when talking. "small talk" is acceptable and is considered nice. The display of affection is acceptable in public. Time is value in the U.S. hence it is vital to show up to meetings, or any social gatherings on time ("PennState Harrisburg," 2020).

For housing, whether you are a local or foreigner, the how-to for a house or apartment renting in the US is similar. The contracts and processes are the same and you cannot be denied tenancy because of your country of origin. However, as a foreigner, you will have to present more documents before signing the lease. The rental prices depend on the type of property and its location. However, the median rent for a single bedroom apartment ranges between 900 and 1,000 USD. The median rental prices for most types of properties are generally 1,799 USD ("Internations.org," 2020).

In the case of transportation, various public transportation systems will help you in getting around your new country. These include bicycles, taxies, buses, trains and subways, car rentals, and carpools (Misachi, 2018). Whether you live in the city or suburb, you will need these systems to get around easily and more efficiently.

On matters of healthcare, the US does not have a uniform health system. Universal healthcare coverage does is not present. It is recommended that you have health insurance. However, you may select the health coverage or third-party insurance that you may prefer or in line with your employing institution.

Americans use direct communication to convey their entire message verbally. They use assertive, enthusiastic, and persuasive language style sin their speech. Non-verbal cues are also applied in communication, including eye contact, gestures, physical contact, smiling, and the respect of personal space.

Life in the US is supposed to be about baseball, apple pies, and living the American Dream without stressing about safety. However, there are alarming cases and concerns on devastating acts like mass shootings and physical assaults. However, the police administration is always ready and up to the task. Feel free to inform them.

There are various activities that Americans engage in for leisure. Some of them include watching Tv, reading, computer, and internet-related activities, spending time with friends and family, watching or going to movies, playing video/internet/computer games, running or jogging, gardening, and listening to music ("Expat.com," 2020). Others include roller skating and ice skating, sleighing, swimming, bicycling, hunting, and fishing.

The childcare programs include family child care homes, child care centers, preschool programs, and school-age programs. Their offerings depend on the age of the child and your preference for care. However, the most common are family care and daycare centers. According to various studies, the average cost of daycare per child per week is $195. Children engage in various activities such as water play, dress-up and role-play, drawing and painting, blocks, jigsaws and shape sorters, music, dancing, and singing among others.

To conclude, the US is a beautiful country that will provide you with various opportunities that would enhance your overall growth and development. The enlisted is just a gist of what entails social etiquette, health care, housing, transportation, communication, and leisure-time activities among others. I wish you a nice stay in the US.

References

"Expat.com" (2020). Leisure in the USA. Expat.com. https://www.expat.com/en/guide/north-america/usa/15_leisure.html

"Internations.org" (2020). Everything you need to know about finding a new home. Internations.org. https://www.internations.org/go/moving-to-the-us/housing

Misachi, J. (2018). America's most popular ways of commuting to work. Worldatlas.com. https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/america-s-most-popular-ways-of-commuting-to-work.html

"PennState Harrisburg" (2020). Guide to American culture and etiquette. Harrisburg.psu.edu. https://harrisburg.psu.edu/international-student-support-services/guide-american-culture-etiquette