(This section is an adaptation of Appendix 5 of NAFSA's International Student Handbook: A Guide to University Study in the U.S.A. Published by AT&TTM; thanks also to the Yale University OISS Handbook for International Students and Scholars)
In adjusting to any new culture, it is certainly helpful to have some knowledge of that culture. Even though the U.S. population is made up of many different ethnic groups, and that fact is one of the defining characteristics of the USA, it is still possible to talk about some shared "main-stream" values. Perhaps following explanation of these values will help you to know who we Americans are. It may help you to tell whether puzzling American behavior is due to cultural conflict or individual differences. Please be assured that we do not intend for you to "turn into" an American; we just want to help you to understand those around you. A discussion of cultural values is not about right or wrong, it is about different ways of doing things. Remember that these are generalizations; sometimes they will be relevant, sometimes they won't.
Individualism And Privacy
Perhaps the most important thing to understand about Americans is their devotion to individualism. From an early age children are trained to be independent and responsible for their own futures. Such training may sometimes lead to a seeming lack of respect for parents in particular and older people in general. Along with valuing individualism is a need for privacy, for time alone. Privacy often begins at an early age, with children sleeping in separate rooms from their parents and even giving each child a separate bedroom (if parents can afford it). Although Americans are a welcoming people, many expect even friends to phone first before dropping in at their homes. Casual unannounced visits are less common than in some other cultures.
Equality
This American ideal is stated in our Declaration of Independence, "all men are created equal." Often Americans do not seem to behave in a way that carries out this value, since the concept of equality is still evolving in this multicultural society. But the U. S. is known as the "land of opportunity." No matter what your position, with hard work and luck, you may rise to any height. However, Americans do make distinctions based on social status, wealth, etc. Such differences will be made by tone of voice, order of speaking, and seating arrangements at meetings or on formal occasions.
Informality
The idea of equality leads Americans to be fairly informal in their behavior and in their relationships with others. You will see such informality in dress, language (particularly in use of first names and slang), posture, classroom activities like eating in class, asking many questions and making comments, etc. Invitations may be very casual and often are not written.
The Future, Change, And Progress
While history and traditions are respected in the abstract, they are not universally accepted as a limiting guide. Americans believe that people can control their future, even their world, and make them both better through initiative and enterprise.
Time
You may hear the expression "Time is money." Strange as it sounds, that is how Americans view time, as a limited resource to be saved or spent for useful purpose. Americans may get impatient with lines that move slowly in supermarkets, banks, etc. particularly if the checkout person or bank teller is taking time to chat with a customer. In practical terms, this means that Americans will usually be on time for meetings and engagements and will keep a schedule of their activities and expect others to do the same. You should arrive exactly on time for meals and appointments with professors, doctors, and other professionals. You can arrive anytime between the hours specified for informal parties, and receptions. If you are unable to keep an appointment, you should call the person to say that you will be late or unable to get there. In meetings and professional encounters being organized is highly valued, whereas "wasting time" in "idle" conversation is not.
Achievement, Action, Work And Materialism
Achievers, by definition those whose lives are mainly concerned with accomplishing something that can be measured, are admired by Americans. Doing something is very important; even in leisure pursuits, Americans are very active in contrast to others who enjoy sitting and talking. Although the Protestant work ethic may have faded over time, the ideals of action and accomplishment are still with us. Because of this, Americans tend to be identified by their work. When meeting new acquaintances, the first question you may be asked might be: "What do you do?" instead of any questions about your family or your background.
Directness And Assertiveness
Americans generally consider themselves to be very frank and direct in their dealings with others. When talking to someone about something they don't like about that person's behavior, they may call it "constructive" criticism. Americans do not think it is necessary to disguise their feelings; even if their words are not open, facial expressions may be revealing. Being honest is often seen to be more important than preserving harmony in interpersonal relationships. Being assertive in expressing opinions or making requests is considered acceptable, and even necessary (remember the importance of individualism), but being too "pushy" or aggressive is not. Distinguishing the fine line here is difficult even for Americans