In the United States, individualism is a prominent cultural aspect. I have learned this by living there and also in some of my classes like intercultural communication. This value is were people tend to prioritize personal goals, autonomy, and self-expression over collective interests and group identity. This contrasts with many Latin cultures that lean towards collectivism, emphasizing group harmony, cooperation, and strong family ties. As an international student at Rollins College, I was able to have the opportunity to delve deeper into understanding these cultural differences and the nuances of U.S. culture.I also aware that many people are career driven..
From my perspective, the emphasis on individualism in U.S. culture has its merits and drawbacks. On one hand, it encourages personal growth and self-reliance which can be empowering. However, it can also lead to a sense of isolation at times and potentially hinder the development of strong community bonds. It’s important to recognize that cultural values vary across the world, and understanding and appreciating these differences is essential for effective intercultural communication and learning which I have gained being an international student in Rollins. I believe I will be able to gain more appreciation for different values and cultures across the world now that I am studying abroad in London.
From an outsider’s perspective, the strong emphasis on individualism in U.S. culture might appear both intriguing and challenging. They may view it as a culture that values personal freedom and self-expression, which can be appealing. However, they might also perceive it as a culture where people are more self-reliant. One thing is that it is really different from my culture (Latin).
This exercise was helpful in preparing me for my time abroad by enhancing my cross-cultural awareness and communication skills. It also allowed me to critically analyze and understand cultural differences.