What Do You Know?
There is only so much information that can be covered in an pre-departure orientation program. So here is a list of questions to help you prepare on your own. The more you know about the culture of your host country, the more comfortable you'll feel living abroad.
Culture
- Who are the prominent people in your host country (in politics, religion, the arts, etc.)?
- What are the cultural traditions of your host country (dance, music, etc.)?
Politics
- What is the political structure of the country? How long has the structure been in place?
- What is the history of the relationship between this country and the US?
Religion
- What is the predominant religion of the country? Is it a state religion?
- Are their any minority religions?
- What are the most important religious observances and ceremonies?
Values/Attitudes
- What is the attitude in this country towards alcohol?
- What actions and beliefs are considered taboo (or frowned upon)?
Language
- Are there other languages spoken besides the dominant language?
- What are some common greetings and phrases?
Family
- What is the attitude toward divorce? Extra-marital relations? Pre-marital relations?
- Is it common for women to work outside the home.
- Do university students usually live at home?
Dress
- What is the usual dress for women? For men?
- What is appropriate dress for you, as a foreigner?
Social Etiquette
- If you are invited to dinner, should you arrive early? On time? Late? How late?
- On what occasions would you present (or accept) gifts?
- What kinds of gifts are appropriate?
- How do people greet one another? Take leave of one another?
- What are the social norms surrounding dating? Mixed gender friendships?
Daily Life
- Is the price for merchandise fixed? If not, how is bargaining conducted?
- What is the normal daily schedule for a student? A family? Meal schedule?
- Is there a daytime rest period?
- What is the customary time for visiting friends? Are such visits scheduled?
Adapted from NAFSA'S Handbook for Study Abroad 101 Organizers
