My Cultural Experiences

Speaking of my experiences I felt cultural differences so far, I would come up with two stories happened in classroom and out of classroom.

First, it was kind of refreshing to see the American students’ attitude in the class. After starting the first semester, ‘Intro to Theater’ was my first class in OSU and this class totally gave me a bit shock as to active atmosphere in class. Since the topic of class was expressing the word by using and linking body with classmates, I had to stand up and discussed where each person need to locate. The interesting thing was that all students did not hesitate to move and participate like lying on the floor or spreading arms, even girls.                                                                                         

Otherwise, compared to class in South Korea, students usually listen what teacher says and mind talking or showing own opinion in front of classmates. In addition, they are ashamed of presenting their view and feel awkward when everyone focus on their speech. I was with this feeling as well in Korea. I felt some strange to American lecture though, but I would like to be used to follow their style which is consist of discussion, response and presentation since it would help me to enjoy and think wider and creative.

The second experience was happened in restaurant. After having a first dinner in America, I was just confused with the bill. Because, unlike South Korea, the price in menu does not include the tax and what is more, there was a tipping culture in U.S.A. Generally, Koreans give a tip when they are treated in luxury and expensive restaurant, but Americans naturally give a tip to the waiter, even it is not much money.  

Here are cultural experiences I have experienced for 3 weeks in U.S.A. and I eagerly look forward to what is coming to me in cultural aspect and teach what the culture of U.S.A. is.