Students that came from abroad to study in the University of Richmond have various culture shocks. These range from everyday speech to classes. One of the more common things I have heard from the international students is the concept of saying “how you are doing?” or “what’s up?” when one truly is never interested in someone else’s life. As an American, I know this has been embedded in many of us to say to one another without actually being concerned about what the respected person actually has to say. It is what we call here as common courtesy, although it is essential rude in the end because we at times have no true interest in someone else’s life.
Another common culture shock for many international students is the workload. In University of Richmond (not sure about other universities in America), we are given a lot of work to do outside of class so we can either be prepared for the following class for either discussion or as a base for more information to be taught. The workload is a lot to some universities abroad. From what I have heard from my international friends, many of them work endless hours preparing for the college exam and in high school, so they can be admitted into college. After they are admitted, many state it becomes easier. Not that universities abroad are easier, but they usually have less frequent exams and are given work that is a good percentage of their grade towards the end of the semester. But UR has facilities that try to help these students (and others) with things such as the writing center and academic skill center.
Another more important culture shock is trying to leave one’s identity and culture and adjusting to American standards. This can range from the everyday environment, to one’s meal. Many will be taken back by the fact that they are no longer surrounded by their common language, and feel homesick. This is very natural because they are literally surrounded by many foreign and new things (and people). It takes many international students to adjust at times. And at times some international students spend time mostly with people from their respected countries to keep themselves in the comfort zone. But if one is willing to share what their interests are, they might be able to find something similar here as well. For instance, a Japanese student once unconsciously stated she liked baseball. Fellow faculty members then took her to a baseball game in Richmond so that her stay and adjustment can be easier. And to a happy surprise, she was able to adjust quickly in comparison to other international students.
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