If you’re planning on studying abroad in America
Here’s what you need to know.
1.) GUNS. ARE. REAL. I cannot emphasize how fucking important this is. It doesn’t matter if you live in a big city or a small town anymore. It can happen just about anywhere now. There was a shooting at my own campus and it’s not even a big, well known campus. Seriously I cannot stresshow important it is to acknowledge the fact that yes, guns exist and yes, it can fucking happen. That being said, if you see a gun, RUN. Zigzag patterns. It decreases your chances of being shot.
2.) Weed isn’t legal in every state (yet?). Just be safe and smart. Don’t smoke around people you don’t know and don’t be stupid about it.
4.) Don’t leave your shit unattended. Not all Americans are greedy but trust me, they exist. And I promise you your shit will get stolen. And no one will help you. Because they will see it as your fault for leaving it unattended. Welcome to America.
5.) Dont be stupid. Seriously, don’t go down any dark alleyways or go anywhere with strangers. Don’t do drugs. Don’t accept any open drinks from anyone. And unfortunately, if you’re female, don’t go out alone at night by yourself. Sexist men and rapists have a tendency to get away with that shit. Look up “Brock Turner” for the best classification of what I’m talking about.
5.) Expect diversity. America is full of a loooooot of different people. White, black, brown, Gay, straight, trans, handicapped, ect. It’s a melting pot of many cultures. Use this experience to gain knowledge about others and educate people about your own culture.
6.) No, you don’t need a license or a special permit to ride a bike.
7.) KNOW. YOUR. RIGHTS. I’m not saying all cops are corrupt but...¯\_(ツ)_/¯
8.) Portion sizes are different.
9.) Freedom comes with a price. You have the chance to express yourself in however the fuck you want. You can dress how you want to, dye your hair and get tattoos, smoke and drink, ect. But at the same time, guns are real, the government is corrupt, and money lets a lot of crimes slide. On one hand, you have the freedom to do things. On the other, others have freedoms that could potentially harm you.
10.) Do NOT buy the gas station sushi.
11.) Walmart is a gift from the corporate gods.
12.) People are not afraid of voicing their opinions and making people uncomfortable. You’ve been warned.
13.) Do NOT get a fake ID. If you’re under 21, just get someone to buy the alcohol for you. You get caught with that shit and your school will not hesitate to deport you back to your home country.
14.) PDA is everywhere. Hand holding, cuddling, light kisses, heavy making out, and yes even sex. For some this is quite a shock. Just don’t pay any attention to it and keep going about your day.
15.) Dont call an ambulance. Call Uber or Lyft. Just trust me. Unless you can afford to pay the $500.00 bill for using the fucking ambulance don’t use it. And going to any kind of medical place is expensive as hell so use it wisely.
16.) Not everyone is selfish.
17.) Not everyone is nice.
18.) If you get pulled over by a policeman, DO NOT GET OUT OF THE CAR. Wait until the officer comes to your window and make sure to hand them all the correct information they asks for (usually drivers license, insurance papers, registration, and passport if you’re a foreigner). I know in some countries you get off of the car and hand the officer your lisence. DO NOT DO THIS. YOU WILL GET SHOT.
19.) If you go to any sort of house/frat party, expect drugs. Do not take them. I’m serious.
20.) Most colleges and university have some sort of mental health help. Please use it if you need it. If there is a stigma for getting help with mental issues and you’re worried or hesitant to go, remember that this is America and it’s very common for people (especially students) to get some form of help. There is nothing wrong with asking for help when you’re feeling low, especially when experiencing culture shock.
22. Get a cellphone with an American number. You’ll thank me later.