Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Adapting to American Culture
If You Want a Better Experience in America as an Immigrant, Consider Steering Clear of These.
I gave up on moving to America after high school. I was 17.
Ten years later, many fortunate events led me to the US. However, my plan to stay in the country didn’t pan out.
My marriage failed. I didn’t have permanent residence. I lost hope and considered moving back to Cameroon.
But as God does His things, today, I’m neither deported, homeless, single, depressed, nor lonely.
Not too long ago, I was very close to all these outcomes.
When I look back to when I first arrived, I don’t think I was prepared for American culture. I use the term loosely because it becomes evident to the patient observer that there isn’t a singular culture across the United States of America.
However, there are some common themes that people who come from African countries can notice. A few mistakes are worth avoiding if you want to have a better experience of this nation.
Mistake 1: Being Overly Formal
The average African is hyperaware of authority and hierarchy. It’s etched in our marrow. Think…
