Culture is…
“Culture is a neutral term, neither good nor bad, and refers to the broadest conception about the learned knowledge that humans use to fulfill their needs and wants. It refers to the collective historical patterns, values, societal arrangements, manners, ideas, and ways of living that people have used to order their society. It is comprised of all those things we learn as part of growing up including language, religion, beliefs about economic and social relations, political organization and legitimacy, and the thousands of “Do’s and Don’ts” society deems important that we know to become a functioning member of that group.” (retrieved from https://www2.pacific.edu/sis/culture/index.htm)
Cultural “Clues”
- Become familiar with the basic customs in your host country, especially those dealing with day-to-day interpersonal interactions (basic greetings, concepts of time, personal space, physical contact, appropriate dress, etc.)
- Be alert for information provided by your orientation leaders, instructor(s), host university partners, and others who may inform you about important local customs and guidelines; if you have any questions, ask! Don’t be afraid to ask questions while you are abroad— most people will appreciate your curiosity and desire to learn.
- If you are in a homestay, be respectful and make an effort to understand what is expected and appropriate, e.g., when you should return home at night, whether you can use the telephone for incoming and/or outgoing telephone calls, when meals will be served, and the best times to shower.
- If you are in a homestay, bring your hosts a gift! It doesn’t have to be expensive; something typical of your home will be appreciated. Share photos of your family and/or friends, too.
Be Curious and Investigate the Country Where You’ll Be Living
In addition to learning basic customs in your host country, invest some time and energy getting informed about the history, culture, political and economic system, education system, food, and holidays and celebrations important in the country you’ll be living in. The more you know, the more welcome you will be, and the easier it is to make sense of what you experience in your host country and enjoy it!
Helpful Resources
- Peace Corps’ Culture Matters Workbook: http://files.peacecorps.gov/wws/interactive/culturematters/introduction.html
- What’s Up With Culture “On-line Cultural Training Resource for Study Abroad”: https://www2.pacific.edu/sis/culture/
- The State Department’s website for student travelers is a GREAT source of information
- The OIE Resources for Travelers web page lists links useful for all kinds of travelers and their people at home, including a Parent’s Guide to Study Abroad.
- McGraw-Page Library also has a fantastic compilation of resources to help you prepare for international travel and learn more about your host country.
