So what’s the point?
The point is that America isn’t exactly selfish, but “team games” in life aren’t really a thing here. Everyone is focused on their own goals, and if they have to sacrifice a friendship for that—well, nobody’s going to think twice.
Back home? One hangout together and boom—you’re holding hands, your Instagram is full of hashtags like #bestiesforever. But here? The next day, people might not even remember your name, and don’t expect a super-friendly “hi” either.
The main rule: DON’T GET TOO ATTACHED. Be nice, smile, sure—but keep it light. The idea of personal space is something kids here learn from the cradle, and it’s a lot bigger than just one square meter.
At home, phrases like “Petya got an A, he’s smart. Katya got a D, she’s dumb.” are totally normal. But in America, you can’t really tell how well someone is doing in school unless you notice small hints.
Tests? Handed out personally, one by one.
And forget about names—every student has a number, and nobody knows anyone else’s.
For context:
❤️ – you know the subject.
💛 – you know the subject and the textbook color.
💚 – you know the teacher’s name.
💙 – you know the topic of the lesson (that’s basically legendary).
❤️ – you know the subject.
💛 – you know the subject and the textbook color.
💚 – you know the teacher’s name.
💙 – you know the topic of the lesson (that’s basically legendary).
The other day I filmed a little video in English class and thought about posting it. Nope. The teacher politely asked me not to—because other people are in it, and they might not like that.
So yeah… maybe Americans are “too sensitive”? Or maybe that’s exactly why psychologists are one of the most in-demand professions here.
Try it yourself: imagine living in a world where personal space and privacy come first. Could you handle it as an exchange student?