Unit 7: Culture Diversity - Writing

While you may not think it at first, there are numerous cultural differences between the US and the UK that you will likely encounter. In general, Americans are much more open than Britons. Friends and even acquaintances discuss personal thoughts and opinions that might seem private in the UK. Do not feel embarrassed if an American asks you a seemingly private question. He or she is most likely sincerely curious about your thoughts and feelings and is assuming you would like to share them.  You may learn more about your American friends than you wanted to know, or you may hear more childhood stories than you care to listen to. Americans will be interested in your experiences and background as well since your upbringing may differ greatly from theirs. In addition to more frequent discussion about their personal lives, there is often a greater display of photographs, and posters in dorm rooms or office spaces. The sense of humour differs from one side of the Atlantic to the other. Americans tend to be less dry or sarcastic. Some Americans may feel offended if they do not understand your humour, but after a brief explanation they will be laughing along with you.  Americans tend to believe that individuals control their circumstances by how much they work. This work ethic is reflected in American attitudes towards academics. Don’t be surprised if you meet students who spend a vast majority of their free time studying in the library. Americans also tend to care much more for punctuality than their UK counterparts. Everything from classes to a lunch date is expected to start right on time. Along with punctuality, most Americans move at a faster pace than that in the UK. For example, dinners at a restaurant, even a sit-down restaurant, can be finished in under a half-hour. Additionally, you will not have to ask for the bill. It will be brought to you as soon as it is clear to your waiter or waitress that you are finished ordering more items.