Cultural Notes

FALL VS. SPRING CHARGES

On your billing statement, the insurance charges for the spring semester are greater than the insurance charges for the fall semester. This is due to the dates of coverage on the insurance. Fall Semester ---- August to January Spring Semester ---- January to August Students on OPT may request to continue their Compass Health Insurance coverage. Charges will be billed to your MBU student account. Note: For continuing students, coverage through summer term is required regardless if you leave the country, so that there is no break in coverage.

C U L T U R A L N O T E S

NAMES

First or given names are used more frequently in the U.S. than anywhere else. If two people are about the same age or status, first names may be used immediately after they meet. When you meet someone with a title such as “Professor,” “Doctor,” or “Dean,” it is correct to use that title and their last or family name. If you are uncertain as to how to address someone, you can ask them “How should I address you?” or “What name do you prefer to go by?” Be patient with people in terms of helping them pronounce your name. Just like some sounds are new to you, there will be sounds that are new to them. It is also helpful for instructors and other people who come in contact with you to know your full name and your nickname. Some international students may use nicknames because people have trouble pronouncing their birth names. Being called by a nickname can indicate you are viewed with respect and affection.

TIPPING

The U.S. has tipping practices that are very different than other countries. Tipping is expected in restaurants, taxis, and when ordering food (such as pizza). The amount one tips is up to the customer, but there are some general guidelines to follow. If you are pleased with your service, a tip of 15% of your total bill is standard. If you are dissatisfied with your service, you might consider leaving a 10% tip. To leave no tip at all is considered extremely rude.

IT’S OKAY TO SAY NO

The freedom of speech to which Americans have become accustomed has established a way of communicating that is sometimes seen as very direct. Directness while communicating with others is

15 very acceptable and sometimes expected. Do not feel bad about saying no – your opinion and boundaries are valued. You may feel the need to change your habits and agree with whatever an American might say. However, please respect your own values and culture while also respecting the values and culture of those interacting with you. Anticipate a lot of people asking you questions about your home country and culture. Over time, you will learn how to navigate these conversations and will value those who are curious about who you are and where you come from. ALCOHOL

The legal age to purchase and/or drink alcohol is 21. You must show your identification before buying any kind of alcohol. The laws against drunk driving are also very strict. If you are found driving under the influence of alcohol or in possession of alcohol as a minor (under 21), there are serious consequences. U.S. citizens could lose their license and go to jail. Please refer to the Spartan Virtues, MBU’s student handbook, and the Student Athlete handbook for MBU’s policy on alcohol.

International students will face serious consequences and risk falling out of immigration status if found breaking the law.

CULTURE SHOCK

Adjusting to a new country and new cultures is difficult and can feel overwhelming. This is entirely normal, usually unavoidable, and it does not mean anything bad about you or your new home. Culture shock is not quite as “shocking” or sudden as most people expect. It is part of the process of learning a new culture or cultural adaptation. The differences between U.S. culture and your culture’s values and behaviors may become irritating and small incidents and difficulties may make you anxious and concerned about navigating your experience. But culture shock does not happen all at once. It is a feeling that grows little by little, as you interact with other students, faculty and people in the community. For many, this gradual process leads to an emotional state known as culture shock. There are ways to deal with this period of culture shock, so it helps to recognize that culture shock may lie behind the signs and symptoms.

Some signs that you are experiencing culture shock include: Extreme homesickness Loneliness Lack of motivation or ability to concentrate Avoiding contact with other people, especially Americans Anger, frustration, confusion Depression and anxiety Tiredness or need for excessive amounts of sleep Loss of enjoyment in daily activities Irritation towards other cultures

Throughout this cultural adjustment, take good care of yourself! Here are some ideas:

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Exercise Get plenty of rest Eat good food and do things you enjoy with friends Take special notice of things you enjoy about living in the U.S. Remember that you are not alone in this experience Be open-minded and curious about your new environment Talk with us in The Office of International Experiences Make friends with Americans as well as other international students! If you are struggling academically, talk with your professor, advisor, or the Academic Success Center. Find new hobbies, friends, and other activities – explore St. Louis! Read a book or rent a video in your native language Catch up with what is going on at home via email and social media - Take a short trip if possible Be patient with yourself and this new culture you are experiencing. Culture shock gradually eases as you begin to understand the new culture. It is useful to realize that often the reactions and perceptions of others toward you – and you toward them – are not personal evaluations but are based on differences in cultural values and behaviors.