Being an international student from the Dominican Republic, my exposure to US culture came into clear focus when I started my first study abroad journey at Rollins College. Consequently, my outlook has been significantly influenced by my time in the United States as a student. As an observer from abroad, an initial observation I made pertains to the individualistic nature of the people, who exhibit a strong sense of self-reliance and independence in their interactions. It’s evident that this individualism fosters remarkable diversity not only in terms of ethnic backgrounds but also in thought and opinion. Similarly, I couldn’t help but take note of the strong work ethic prevailing in the United States, where individuals diligently strive for excellence, and the principles of entrepreneurship are deeply ingrained in the people.
Coming from a background outside the United States has given me a valuable perspective that allows me to empathize with how other foreigners might perceive different aspects of American culture. This outsider’s viewpoint has enabled me to cultivate unique insights on these matters. Specifically, originating from the Dominican Republic, a country deeply rooted in collectivist values, I experienced a pronounced culture shock when I encountered the strong individualistic nature of the United States. The contrast between these two cultural locations was not only surprising but also challenging. It prompted me to reconsider the way I interacted with people and compelled me to adapt to a mindset that, at times, felt quite divergent from my own.
One of the most noticeable adjustments I had to make was in my approach to greeting people. In the Dominican Republic, personal connections and warm, close interactions are highly cherished. It’s customary to greet friends and acquaintances with a hug or a kiss on the cheek, and there’s an expectation of engaging in conversations that delve into personal matters. However, in the United States, I found that initial greetings tend to be more reserved and focused on maintaining personal space, often limited to a simple handshake or a nod. This contrast in greeting customs highlighted the differences in social norms and the value placed on individual space and boundaries.
Moreover, the shift from a collectivist culture, where community and group harmony are paramount, to an individualistic one, where personal goals and achievements take precedence, required me to adjust my own mindset. I had to navigate a society where self-reliance and independence were highly emphasized, which was quite distinct from the collaborative and interdependent nature of my Dominican background.
Reflecting on this fact is preparing me for my second study abroad experience, this time in London. This is because I delved deep into my own culture and the one I’ve been living in for three years, reminding myself that all cultures are different, and there is always an adaptation period. With this in mind, I am more excited than ever to get to know a third culture, understand its intricacies, and eventually immerse myself in many aspects of it.