Sophia
Schindel
Pre -Study
Aboard
This blog series will comprise three segments, each dedicated to chronicling my enriching journey as a student abroad in Rome, Italy, facilitated by the American University of Rome. These entries will encapsulate the emotional spectrum I traversed, beginning with the elation of securing a place at the university, followed by a comprehensive account of my semester-long adventure, and culminating in a reflective retrospective on this transformative period.
American culture is characterized by the prominence of individualism and self-reliance, a tenet intricately woven into the nation’s history and core values. In contrast to many cultures around the world that place a high value on communal welfare and social harmony, the United States places a high value on the individual’s right to self-determination and autonomy. Throughout American society, this defining cultural characteristic can be observed in many forms and has profound effects on the dynamics and functioning of society.
From a young age, individuals in the United States are encouraged to forge their own paths and chart their own life journeys. It is encouraged through the education system in the United States, which prizes creativity and independent thinking. This approach is what fosters an environment of self-reliance. Even the concept of the American Dream encapsulates the United States’ cultural emphasis on self-reliance. This belief is that anyone, through hard work and determination, could be able to reach the American Dream. This strong emphasis on self-reliance has led to an overall society characterized by one’s own responsibility. It shapes how Americans approach interactions with other cultures and how they are perceived by others.
In contrast, Europe is renowned for its deep commitment to promoting collective well-being and establishing extensive social safety nets that are deeply woven into its culture. As individuals travel across the continent, they are exposed to diverse cultures, highlighting the nuanced differences that set the United States apart from its European counterparts.
The importance of communal responsibility and equitable resource sharing is a prevailing difference between Europe and the United States. Throughout Europe, you can see this concept embodied in robust welfare systems, comprehensive universal health care, and protective labor laws that ensure the rights of workers. It can be said that these social structures create a deep commitment to the welfare of the collective, fostering an environment in which the well-being of all citizens is prioritized over the achievement of any one individual.
The main difference between the United States and Europe is reflected in their respective emphasis on individualism and collectivism. Regardless of the differences between cultures, these variations offer valuable opportunities for cross-cultural learning and understanding, allowing individuals to navigate the complexities of our increasingly interconnected world.
Engaging in personal reflection on one’s own culture and identity is a necessary preliminary step for those preparing to undertake a trip abroad. This introspection plays a fundamental role in the development of essential attributes such as cultural awareness, adaptability, and intercultural competence. By embarking on this process of self-discovery, one is better equipped to identify and reduce inherent biases and cultural stereotypes, thereby fostering positive and meaningful connections. meaningful to individuals from different backgrounds.
In our contemporary world, characterized by the complexity of cross-cultural communication, it is of utmost importance to understand one’s unique communication style and cultural norms. This understanding is essential for effectively navigating new cultural contexts, enabling skillful interpretation of verbal cues and nonverbal expressions during interpersonal interactions. Ultimately, this self-examination serves as a facilitator in the effort to adapt to unfamiliar cultures. By carefully emphasizing both the common and distinctive attributes of cultures, this reflection exercise highlights the paramount importance of raising awareness when trying to accommodate a wide range of cultures. different behavioral norms and expectations.