Cross culture observation by Richard

   The first time I entered Thompson Library, I was amazed by its intensive collection and pleasant quiet atmosphere. Thousands of students read and wrote papers at group study rooms and quiet study space. Everyone tried to keep their key as low as possible instead of disturbing others. Compare it with Chinese university libraries which are so noisily overload for various commercial purposes like renting rooms for different training courses, it is the true library for everyone, for people who want to study.

 This Saturday was our crazy game day, so most university students went to the Ohio Stadium or stayed at dorms for watching football game, and Thompson Library was so empty during game time. Most of the students there have Asian faces. Surprisingly, after the football game, library was still empty because American students went to different parties to celebrate our victory. No homework at game day! The working hour of Americans is so different from that of Chinese. Many American public areas like our campus dining halls shorten their opening hours at the weekends even some shops and museums are closed at Sunday. Dan, my host family, told me that he has habit of playing golf with few of his friends in the Sunday morning for nearly 20 years. Enjoying free time is the most important part of Americans who separately divide work hours and leisure times while many Chinese have to work overtime whenever at weekdays, weekends or holidays. For instance, my father has to keep his phone open 24/7, he always answered business phone calls while we were travelling outside. It heavily impacted quality of life.

       I am trying to adapt this American mode. Hope all of you enjoy your life.