To prepare for culture shock, it is advisable that you start by reading about living and studying in the US. You will find useful tips and information in platforms like Afrikagora Magazine and blogs dedicated to helping new immigrants navigate their new life in the diaspora. You should also get in touch with someone who lives or studies in the US to get advice about life in the US. You should also do research on how to interact with people in different social groups and the acceptable behavior in various situations. Gestures and body language differs from country to country and withholding judgment will aid you to be an objective observer subsequently facilitating your process of cross-cultural understanding. Moreover, get to know and interact with people in your new environment and respectfully ask questions about what you do not understand. Read various publications, attend a variety of festivals/events or meetup groups in your locality and avoid withdrawing to the comfort of what you are familiar with as this will only lead to homesickness.
Mikhail Adeoye
Mikhail is a content creator, a digital marketer, and an entrepreneur. He studied Political Science at the University of Ilorin Nigeria.
