This Post is about 5 things international students in America can relate to.
As an international student in the U.S. myself, it was hard for me initially. However, it only took me a few days to adapt to my new surroundings and before I knew it, it felt like the U.S. was my second home. Here are 5 things I faced which you could relate to.
1: Tipping.
Although tipping isn't mandatory in most countries, it certainly is in the U.S. Unlike most countries, tipping isn't based on how much you would like to give based on the service you get, but rather how many percent you are going to give starting from 17% of the total check. I found it rather strange that I had to do some math after I got my card back as I had to fill up the tip amount based on the percentage, followed by the total amount after that. It got to the point where I would just write the percentage amount and leave.
2: People are nicer than you'd expect.
Americans, in general, have been painted with a rather negative image of being rude and obnoxious from media platforms to casual conversations with your friends. However, I find them to be very accommodating and they're willing to help you out if you need just about anything. The formula is simple, it's a give and take.
3. A whole lot of subscriptions.
I'm pretty sure that almost everyone here either has a Netflix account or is leeching off your friend's. But the content they have on their platform can be limited and therefore, you'd have to go to other streaming services like Hulu, HBO, Disney+, Showtime, DAZN, ESPN+, Xfinity Stream, and the list goes on. Unlike Canada where the only alternatives you have are Crave and Disney+, you're going to want to keep track of your subscriptions especially when you've forgotten that Amazon Prime Student is only free for a year.
4. Amazon makes life a whole lot easier.
No matter where you're from, you should have had some online shopping experience. However, my experience with Amazon has been a total game changer! From party supplies like red Solo Cups to a Ninebot Electric Go-Cart, Amazon has just about anything you need. There's no need for multiple different websites for simple day-to-day needs. Let's not forget the 2 day Prime shipping with a Prime membership I forgot I was paying for the past 4 years.
5. Mainstream Fashion.
For those who are a sophomore to someone who's been in the U.S. for awhile, you can start to differentiate international students from domestics just by the way they dress. International students tend to dress up a little more (and some way too much) compared to local students who follow a very similar dress code. A simple vineyard vines shirt for the guys and some all-season leggings for the ladies. But I heard they're really comfortable!
Not everyone may relate to these 5 things international students in the U.S. can relate to, but I sure found them puzzling at first. But it's been 4 years and so far and I hope you're loving it as much as I am! Also, please don't do anything illegal!
This Post is about 5 things international students in America can relate to.
Last Updated: January 8,2022.