Time:  Americans often say, “Time is money.”  Being punctual is important.  It is impolite to be late.

Hygiene:  As in most countries, personal cleanliness is very important. Americans consider strong body odors and scents to be unpleasant and rude.

Equality:  Generally, Americans value equality among people.  Asking for special treatment can be offensive.  Expecting special treatment can be frustrating.

Friendship:  In general, Americans are a friendly, open people and you will make friends with them in time.  However, it takes time to make friends.  You need to know that Americans value casual friendliness.  They greet you with a smile and friendly words.  They may casually suggest getting together sometime.  These are friendly expressions, but they may not be meant literally, especially if timing is vague.

Physical Space:  Although Americans may shake hands when they meet, they generally do not touch one another. They do not embrace, kiss one another’s cheek, or stand very close together when talking.

Negotiation:  In general, Americans do not negotiate prices in most types of stores.  An exception is with automobile purchases.

Rules:  Americans believe that rules are made to help people.  Rules are not like guidelines; they are more like unwritten laws.  The best way to protect yourself and stay out of trouble is to know and follow the rules.  The same is true of laws.

Coming to a new country can be a lot of fun!  There are many new and interesting people to meet and things to see and do.  But you will have a better experience if you know what to expect.  Experts agree that there is a pattern involved in how new students get settled. This pattern has a name: Cultural Adjustment Cycle.

• Excitement — You are happy and excited to arrive in the U.S. and see so many new things.  This reaction lasts for a few weeks or months.

• Frustration — As you try to get comfortable, you have difficulties coping with the basics of everyday life.  You get frustrated.  Everything is too foreign, too complex.  You start seeing all of the differences between the U.S. and home.  The differences are usually negative.  You are not happy and you wonder if you made a mistake in coming.

• Uneasy adaptation — As you get more used to the U.S., you learn more of what you have to do to make yourself comfortable.  It is still difficult, but you can survive.  You do not feel so overwhelmed.

• Full Adaptation — At last, you can function comfortably and easily in this new culture.  You feel more at home, and things do not seem as foreign and strange as they once did.  Your language skills are better, too!  Your perseverance, patience and tolerance have given you time to adjust, and now your life is more complete.

• Going Home — You are looking forward to going home, but it may not be as you expect.  In fact, some international students say that going back home is the most difficult part of their journey.  Why?  You have changed.  People at home may not understand your experience or your changes.  You will have to adjust again.  It may be hard.

Here are some suggestions of ways to help yourself while you go through the Cultural Adjustment Cycle:

• Most importantly, realize that what you are feeling is normal.  All international students go through these feelings and reactions.  Do not let this stop you.

• Negativity will only make things worse.  Try not to label things as bad. Instead, notice that they are different.  Give yourself the time you need to get comfortable.

• Get involved with people and activities you like.  Americans will be interested to hear about your culture.  Find some friends among other students in your classes.  Remember, they are feeling the same things you are.  Student organizations at school will help you make friends and get involved in social activities.  Sports can be a good relief for tension.  Try to stay busy.  You do not want to sit around alone and feel depressed!  Know that your frustrations and discomfort will change with time.