Notes on American Culture
Host family dinner!
The FIUTS Homestay Program is committed to promoting culture exchange and cross-cultural understanding between our Puget Sound host community and our international students. Recently, we surveyed our students and asked them what they have learned about American culture during their time with an American family. Here are some of their responses.
What did you learn or find interesting about American culture during your homestay?
"During my homestay, I realized that the Americans tend to lead an individualistic lifestyle that promotes the values of independence and self-reliance. In addition, I found that Seattlites are super friendly and always helpful."
"People walk around with outdoor shoes inside the house."
Students gearing up for the Seahawks!
"Most of the time in Iran we have dinner at 10 or 11 pm, but I found out that in American culture, they have dinner sooner at like 6 or 7 pm. In addition, some American families have pets in their house, but in Iran we do not have such a condition in most of families."
"Recycle and classification of trash in Seattle."
"I found that Americans are passionate, friendly. They have a really great family responsibility (you can tell by all kinds of family pictures on the wall) and very humorous and helpful. Besides, American culture is more independent from an individual aspect. People like to manage things themselves. And they know how to enjoy every day."
"The US culture is more open to having people reside within their families without fear/being less reserve to Asian culture."
"My hosts were laid back and understanding, exactly as I had hoped for. They also brought me to experience many firsts: first American football gathering, first Mexican food, first geocaching, etc and soon-to-be first real Halloween experience!"
"TV is a big deal in their life."
"Americans love parties!"
The staff at FIUTS would like to thank our students and our hosts for participating in the program! Check out more community events and programs on our website to get involved! To become a FIUTS host to give the students a memorable experience, click here.
Interested in learning about different cultures and meeting people from all over the world? Join us at our Culture Conversation Group every Wednesday, 4:30-6pm. Locations vary. Check our calendar each week.