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Studying Abroad - Differences in Cultural Norms

Living and studying overseas in your study abroad program will certainly mean an adjustment to a totally different lifestyle, time zone, climate, and food. Learning how to communicate with the locals in their language can also be a big adjustment . The process is seldom easy and may include many mood swings that are between mild depression and exhilaration for the first time student abroad. Although you are a study abroad student locals still might see you as a tourist while others will realize that you are respectful to their culture and history as well as interested in learning about it. There are lots of things to experience and learn. Below are a few of the cultural differences that you may experience.

Remember the old adage, "When In Rome," is sound advice to the study abroad student. There are many ways of acting in the host country that might be completely different than what you are used to experiencing. Try to remember that you are a guest in their country, try to be respectful. In several countries, women normally cover certain parts of their body, such as their legs, arms, and head. In other countries, it is looked down upon for couples to openly hold hands in public, or other forms of public affection. Several countries have religious customs associated with certain places. In some Islamic societies, those of not of the Muslim faith are not allowed to enter their sacred sites. Buddhist monks in Thailand must carry extensive tools for a purification ritual if a female touches them—even by accident by sitting next to them on a bus. Learn about cultural difference before and during your trip.

When meeting someone new in foreign countries, the handshake is still the universally recognized way to greet someone; however, in countries like Japan, a bow from your waist down is the preferred way to greet someone. In many foreign countries, it is not customary to address someone by their first name, unless they have instructed you otherwise.

You may even see a lot of kissing and hugging going on between the locals in many Slavic and Latin Countries, and even in Italy and Greece. An affectionate hug or even a quick peck on the cheek is fine for a new acquaintance, but only if you are responding to it rather than initiating it. After all, you are a guest in their country.

Many French hotels and public baths will not supply any soap to their customers without a request and also a fee. While many European bathrooms won’t let you use the public restrooms without paying a small fee.

If you study abroad in Italy, saying nothing while you are out and about may be construed as critical criticism of the king, dictator, or the government.

In many countries, the men are seldom seen out in public without their waistcoat and suit jacket, regardless of the weather. In Brazil, it is actually illegal to be outside in the city without a coat. In Rio and a few other Brazilian cities, street cars come in three classes and have three different fares—but no male who is not fully dressed without their shoes, cravat, collared shirt, and coat are not allowed to ride in first class. If you are carrying suitcases or other large items, you will also have to wait for a third class car for a pick up.
Before you traverse off to study abroad in your host country, knowing the basic cultural norms will save you from many headaches and uncomfortable situations. By using your favorite Internet search engine, you can easily look up the cultural norms in the country where you will be living and studying. For example, if you are to study abroad in Germany, simply type in “cultural etiquette in Germany” into your preferred search engine. By clicking on the top result, you will know that it is in good etiquette to, "Cut as much of your food with your fork as possible, since this compliments the cook by indicating the food is tender" (http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/germany-country-profile.html ). There are a vast amount of resources available online that will help you become a native in no time.