Cultural Adjustment
Whether this is your first visit to the U.S. or not, you should be prepared for a period of cultural adjustment. Every exchange visitor has to deal with this. You will notice a lot of differences to life at home. Some of these differences are positive, some are negative. The best way to cope is to engage fully in your new life. If you find that you are having difficulties managing or adjusting, please call the U.S. Program Manager who is ready to assist you.
Laws
For the duration of your program, you will be subject to all U.S. laws, regardless of the legality of certain behaviors in your home country. It is not uncommon for participants to experience some degree of uncertainty regarding certain U.S. laws, and some may strike you as peculiar or even “unjust.” It is important for you to familiarize yourself with the laws that will directly affect you during your stay in the U.S. These include all major federal laws, as well as the laws of the state in which you are training, and the town where you will be living. Some U.S. laws change from city to city, and state to state. This lack of uniformity may be frustrating, but you should be able to avoid nearly all legal missteps by exercising a bit of common sense, and consulting with your peers, friends, or co-workers.
If you do not adhere to all U.S. laws, you risk the withdrawal of CIEE visa sponsorship and BAFF. You do not want to endanger your experience by committing an illegal act.
Safety
It is unlikely that you will experience any problems during your stay in the U.S. However, a little caution, common sense, and some basic street smarts will go a long way in preventing any problems.
Here are some tips for staying safe:
- You may be approached by people asking for money. You are, of course, entitled to refuse, but please be polite.
- Avoid deserted streets, subway stops, and bus stops. Always travel where other people are close by.
- Make sure you know something about the areas and neighborhoods you visit at night.
- Do not expose large amounts of cash in public.
- Be especially careful in railway and bus stations. These places tend to attract thieves.
- Car thieves are common–do not leave any luggage or valuables in a car.
- Trust your instincts, and always remain cautious.
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