LOS Angeles is famously known as the “City of Angels”, although the idea of becoming a full-fledged resident of its home-state California can cause a hellish fear. This state is possibly most famous for sun, celebrities and its legendary Hollywood sign, which might start you wondering how you’d fit in during your stay there.
Easily, you probably think. American life is the most highly documented and identifiable in the world. You might even know more about Californians than you do your own neighbours. But the films and TV shows might just be a façade on the face of a far more complex society.
Culture shock is a cunning monster to wrestle with, so here are a few unique Californian features to prepare for when visiting the state.
1. Seeing beyond the media mask
California hides under the illusion of familiarity. The malls, roads, accent, houses and clothes all appear uniquely American, but also comfortingly recognisable. The presence of California in our media leads you into false confidence that you truly know the state’s culture and civilians, but it’s only once you’ve been zapped through the TV screen that culture shock packs its hardest punch.
2. Whimsical weather
Its easterly brother Florida might have claimed the nickname “Sunshine State”, but California still conjures up images of year-round sun and you’ve probably spent a sizeable chunk of travel savings on summery gear. However, once the autumnal winds blow in, you’ll be startled to realise the inconsistency of Californian climate. Winters in particularly are quite chilly, but at least it’ll make the Brits feels like home.
3. Culture shock soup
You might already know that the USA attracts countless internationals, but did you know that California has the highest immigration rate in the country? You might worry that you’ll struggle to find your identity in such a mix of ethnicities, particularly if you’re from a more homogenous town. But embracing you’re newly found individualism can really help cure those reservations and help you settle in.
4. Sun-soaked tanning shops
Opening a sun bed shop in California sounds tantamount to holding the Winter Olympics in the Maldives: unnecessary and inefficient. You’d be surprised by the plethora of tanning salons here and discovering that the growing love of artificial sun is not restricted to Northern Europe is startling. There’s no need to join in on this crazy hobby of course, but it’s a good reminder that California has some unexpected interests.
5. School, college or university?
It’s worth knowing that American universities have a distinctive structure, if you’re heading to California for studying. Their curriculum promotes general education classes rather than only those directly associated with your chosen course. This gives a broader scope of knowledge and you can even learn more about the politics and history of the country from an American perspective. Also, multiple choice tests and assignments usually require shorter word counts but are assigned more frequently. Interestingly, you could share a class with someone who’s studied for several years, as Americans have great control over the duration of their course. Reassuringly, universities here often have a great community spirit to make you feel at home and plenty of clubs for making friends.
6. Friendliness or friendship?
Californians are always chatting, laughing and flashing those dazzlingly white teeth when they smile. However, a week or so into your new home might leave you slightly puzzled. Often Californians greet you with: “Hey, how are you?” except they never wait for your response. This makes them seem insincere, but it’s just a salutation used daily among even close friends. So stop yourself from unleashing an emotional response and consider it a more welcoming greeting than a simple “Hello”.
7. Californians: Kings of Chat
It’s no secret that Americans are generally believed to be a confident and garrulous bunch. Outside America, silent seminars reign supreme and many students will be too shy or tired to actively participate in dreary debates. But those Californians love to raise their hand and say their piece. But don’t be nervous; this should push you to be more proactive in the class.
Hopefully you’re slightly more enlightened to the unique cultural quirks of California and just remember: culture shock is assurance that you’re widening your wisdom of the world.
