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photo by Soony
* I copied one of the orientation papers of SIU *

Understanding American Ways

Americans are direct, assertive and loudly talkative. They openly express emotions and enjoy engaging in “small talk” during brief conversations.

The American population includes many different ethnic groups, religious beliefs, political and ethical values, occupations, etc.

Americans do work cooperatively in groups, but independence and personal freedom are highly valued, giving the individual the right and responsibility for his or her own success or failure.

Service to others through volunteerism with community groups or religious organizations is common and respected in the USA.

Americans are usually friendly and hospitable to all, but this does not imply a lasting relationship. Close friendships develop slowly over time through social interaction. Dating should be approached with caution until there is a clear understanding of the expectations of both people.

Although some may argue aggressively at times, the subjects of personal finance, religion, and politics are usually avoided. People who are aggressive about religion may be trying to convert you to their beliefs.

Although cultural norms may vary with the region in the United States, Americans will usually greet others with a smile and a handshake. International students should be assertive with Americans in order to have conversations or establish friendly relationships.

Required basic social behaviors in America include: being on time; keeping appointments; treating females with the same respect as males; being courteous to clerks, taxi drivers, secretaries, and other workers; keeping an arm’s length when speaking to someone else unless standing side by side; and avoiding graphic displays of respect such as bowing.

Natural body odor is offensive and embarrassing to Americans. Social acceptance and effective communication with Americans demand personal cleanliness—especially the use of deodorant.

Individual freedom is highly valued. Americans believe strongly in “ the rule of law” and following standard policies and procedures.

Traditionally, Americans line up (queue)—regardless of gender, age or status—on a “first come first served” basis for individual service in offices, amusement parks, stores, etc

Generally, Americans do not block or someone’s view. It is considerate to move to one side if slowing down or stopping when driving.


Smoking is often considered offensive for health reasons and is usually prohibited in public buildings or vehicles. People who wish to smoke can do so outside or in specially designated “smoking rooms” when they are available.

Although the definition is changing, the word “family” typically refers to the father, mother, and children. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. are considered “relatives”.

Hard work, achievement, and acquiring material goods are basic values reinforced by the family.

All Americans have access to an education through the college level, and attendance is compulsory until age 16. Parental involvement in the schools is common, and schools are decentralized and locally controlled.

Professors may have different teaching styles. Some may ask to be addressed by their first names while others will be more formal in their approach. Americans generally distrust anyone who does not look them in the eye when talking. This is especially true of professors.

Learning involves exploration, experimentation, analysis, and synthesis; not just memorization of known facts. Americans tend to compete rather than cooperate in academic pursuits as a result of the cultural emphasis on self-reliance and some professor’s practice of grading on a curve ( the best exam results—even if less than 100%--are assigned an “A”).

Vague, emotional, and subjective language does not effectively convey ideas in American speech or writing. Successful communication involves “getting to the point” and supporting it with proof (i.e. quantifiable facts, testimony, and cause and effect—not “fate”)

Students are expected to apply what they know through “abstract” thinking and participate actively in class discussions asking questions during class or immediately afterwards. Unless there is a possible mistake, professors do not negotiate with students for higher grades.

Plagiarism (copying information word for word directly from a book, magazine the Internet, etc.) is not tolerated by American professors. Penalties for plagiarism can include dismissal from the school. All references to someone else’s writings must be identified by footnotes and should be re-written in the student’s own words.

Roommates should respect one another’s personal privacy and private property, sharing only by prior agreement. Mutual consideration regarding noise level, smoking, sharing facilities, etc. is important, and housekeeping duties should be shared equally. If difficulties arise, it is best to be direct and assertive in expressing one’s thought.

Business is based on “hard figures” and facts. It is best to keep copies of all business agreements and transactions for future reference when needed. Oral agreements are inadequate.

Telephone marketing (telemarketing) is common and should be avoided for maximum security. Do not give out personal information (Social Security numbers, credit card numbers, addresses, etc.) over the phone unless you initiate the call. All bills should be carefully checked for errors.

A lease is a legal and binding contract with a property owner. Only one lease should be signed at a time, so all housing options should be carefully considered and a choice should be made BEFORE signing a lease.

Buying a used car is very risky! An automobile’s ownership and accident history can be checked for a fee on the Internet at www.Carfax.com. Before a final agreement is reached, the used car should be inspected by an independent and reliable auto mechanic for a fee of $20-25 per car.

Adapted from American Ways: A Guide for Foreigners in the United States by Gary Althen, Intercultural Press, Inc., 1988