Coming to the United States for an Internship

If you have the opportunity to work or intern at a company in the United States, you are in for quite a treat and some big cultural differences. Having grown up in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and migrating to the United States as a teenager, the transition took a little time. Pay attention to the information shared in this article to help position you to do well socially and professionally as a legal intern in the U.S.{{more}}

Each state that makes up the United States is similar in many ways, yet very different. Regardless of where you spend your time, take the opportunity to get to know the people and customs.

You need to be outspoken. Although in some countries being outspoken is viewed as inappropriate, this is not so in the United States. People expect you to speak up for yourself, and in some states, they do so in a manner that you may perceive as rude. Watch and observe before you pass judgment.

Be careful with stereotypes. Much of what you may know about the United States and its people was probably framed by the media. Do not buy into the racial stereotypes that may be depicted in the media about different groups.

Listen for slang. If you meet friends who speak slang, know that this is not the norm in the work world. Slang is the casual use of words, and some words can actually mean the opposite of their real meaning; e.g., “ bad” in some circles can actually mean “good”, depending on how it is used.

Understanding accents. Different regions of the United States may pronounce the same word differently, so ask questions if you are not sure.

Get involved. The fastest and best way to immerse yourself in a culture is to volunteer. Whether at work or in the community where you live, offer your time to help others.

Limit time with your homeland friends. Like any person, international students and workers find comfort in the familiar. Resist the urge to spend most of your time with people from your country. This slows your understanding of the American culture, people and language.

Pace yourself. New York is known as the city that never sleeps; there is always something to do and places to go. Pace yourself and don’t try to do everything all at once. Manage your time and health so you can last throughout your internship and leave with a positive experience regardless of where you may reside while in the United States.

Be street smart. America, like any other country, has elements of life that are not so attractive. Although there are lots of people who mean well, there are just as many who are looking for the easy way out. Ask your host/organization about safety precautions for your area.

Focus on your American dream. This truly is the place where dreams are made, but you have to pay your dues. If anyone promises you a quick easy way to make your dreams come true, it’s probably a scam. Work hard, stay focused, ask for what you want, build quality relationships, and chances are you will succeed, but not overnight.

Watch out for the love bug. Foreign accents can be a love magnet for many people who may find you attractive. Protect yourself as it’s easy to get carried away and find yourself in life-threatening situations.

Find a mentor. This is an invaluable tool for adjusting to a different culture and lifestyle.

Karen Hinds is “The Workplace Success Expert.” For a FREE SPECIAL REPORT on Avoiding Career Killers in the Workplace, send an email to info@workplacesuccess.com

Visit online at www.workplacesuccess.com