America is a land of opportunities. People from all over the world travel to the country to study, work, or vacation. Apart from being one of the largest superpowers in the world, America is also a land rich in culture and heritage. The melting pot of different cultures and people from various origins, the culture in the US is complex and heartwarming to understand at the same time. Learning the languages, traditions, people, and etiquette is an experience international students will thoroughly love and enjoy. If you are an aspirant this article covers nearly everything you should know about the culture in the US before your big move.
Top Universities to Study in The US
There are many Indian students studying in the United States of America (USA), where they can find top-notch instruction, an original curriculum, a multicultural setting, and lots of chances to enhance their life and career.
With a vast array of academic programmes and research opportunities, the United States is home to some of the top institutions and colleges in the world.
| Top Universities | Annual fee in USD | Annual fee in INR |
| Princeton University | 44,000 USD | 36,24,979 INR |
| Harvard University | 5,500 – 33,000 USD | 4,58,008 INR – 27,48,058 INR |
| University of Chicago | 13,500 – 39,500 USD | 11,24,205 INR – 32,89,342 INR |
| Yale University | 22,000 – 46,000 USD | 18,31,863 INR – 38,30,374 INR |
| Columbia University | 23,000 – 59,000 USD | 19,15,187 INR – 49,12,871 INR |
Origin of the culture in the US
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The cultural pluralism of American culture has roots that stem back to its very foundation and before. The English and Spanish people settled in America during the colonial rule of their respective countries. These settlers gave America its roots from Europe. Historical immigration from countries like Germany, Italy, Ireland, and Japan have added to its cultural diversity. One cannot speak of the culture in the US without mentioning the Native Americans, also known as American Indians. The original inhabitants of America have significant and subtle influences on what the American culture is today.
About American People
People are the foundation of any civilization. The diversity of individuals in America contributes to the enrichment of its culture. For ages, people from all over the world have been coming to this nation. What American culture actually is has been evolving continuously as a result of the contributions made by each immigrant group and their eventual assimilation.
Ethnicity & Religion in The US
The United States Census Bureau published an article in 2021 mentioning that the United States population in 2020 was more racially diverse than in 2010. The country is home to people with diverse ethnic backgrounds- White, African American, American Indian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic/Latino. The states with the highest ethnic diversity as of the 2020 census are Hawaii, California, Nevada, Maryland, DC, Texas, New Jersey, New York, Georgia, and Florida.
While the governments in America practice separation of church and state, it is one of the most religious developed countries in the world. Daily life in the US sees the reflections of this even with the organised religion being on its diminishing end. American society does offer religious freedom and openness to individuals. The 2020 census of American Religion by PRRI showed that 70% of adult Americans identify as Christians, 23% are religiously agnostic, and 5% identify with non-Christian religions.
Government & Politics
For effective separation of power, the American governance is split into three branches- Legislative (law-makers), Executive (law installers), and Judicial (law evaluators). The legislative branch comprises two bodies- the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate consists of 2 senators per state, while the state’s population decides its number of representatives in the House. The President and the Vice President of the United States and a cabinet of ministers make up the Executive branch. The judicial branch includes the Supreme Court, the US Court of Appeals, District Courts, State Courts, and County Courts. The Democratic Party and Republican Party have dominated the political system in America since 1852.
American Language
English is considered America’s de facto national language, but the country does not have an official language. The dialect of English in the US is also known as American English. This dialect can be further dissected into numerous regional dialects. The North, Midland, South, and West are the broader regional dialects, but other dialects exist too. Besides English, the primary language, more than 300 languages are spoken in America. These include the languages of the indigenous people (Native Americans) and the languages of immigrants.
American Holidays
Thanksgiving is perhaps the most well-known American holiday. Traditionally, the holiday is celebrated with a family reunion and a large lunch. It is a custom of gratefulness for all that one has. The American Declaration of Independence is celebrated as Independence Day (Fourth of July) with fireworks and festivities. Christmas, St. Patrick’s Day, and Halloween are other common holidays one should know of.
| Date | Holiday |
|---|---|
| January 01 | New Year’s Day |
| Third Monday of January | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
| Third Monday of February | Washington’s Birthday/President’s Day |
| Last Monday of May | Memorial Day |
| June 19 | Juneteenth |
| July 04 | Independence Day |
| First Monday of September | Labor Day |
| Second Monday of October | Columbus Day |
| November 11 | Veterans Day |
| Fourth Thursday of November | Thanksgiving Day |
| December 25 | Christmas |
Famous Cuisines in The US
American food is just as diverse as the people. The country is also vast geographically, which greatly impacts the food habits and preferences of the people residing in different regions of their home country. While the country is well-known for its fast food, a variety of foods and cuisines are available across the US.
| Types | Food & Cuisines Available |
|---|---|
| Primary Cereal Grains | Wheat, Corn |
| Commonly Used Ingredients | Turkey, Chicken, Potato, Sweet Potato, Corn, Squash, Maple Syrup, and indigenous foods |
| Iconic Dishes | Apple Pies, Donuts, Fried Chicken, Pizzas, Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, French Fries, Burritos, Tacos |
| Popular non-American Cuisines | American, Chinese, Italian-American, Mexican, Vietnamese, Korean, Thai, German, Indian |
Day-to-Day Etiquettes in The US
Now that you have gone over the origins, History and taken a broad look at the culture in the US, it is time to get to know some etiquette tips. Knowing the basic etiquette can help you immensely during your transition phase in America and help avoid embarrassing situations. If you offend someone, do not be afraid to apologise, correct your behaviour, and ensure those around you know that you are learning and will do better. Generally, it is good to remember that etiquette is just a set of rules that people in a region follow. As long as your actions do not offend, hurt, or disrespect those around you, you can take your time to get the hang of them.
1. Dressing & Modesty
- Wear clean and neat clothes
- Dress in casual clothes during school
- Follow your educational institute’s dress code to avoid getting called out
- Casual wear is acceptable in most places
- Respect the dressing choices others make
- Do not ridicule or make advances toward someone whose dressing sense you do not understand
2. Social Courtesies
- A handshake is exchanged when meeting someone formally for the first time
- Hugs are exchanged between relatives and friends when meeting
- Some people may also choose to kiss (on the cheeks) hello or goodbye
- Always ask the person if they are comfortable with being hugged or kissed by you before you decide to do so
- You can smile at strangers; it is considered polite
- Use words like ‘sorry,’ ‘excuse me,’ ‘thank you,’ whenever needed
- Make eye contact when someone is speaking to you
- Maintain physical distance and respect the personal space of the person you are in conversation with
3. House Party Etiquette
- Arrive on time, or inform the host if you are running late.
- It is a good idea to bring a small gift for the host.
- You can keep your shoes on, but ask the host what they want you to do.
- Food is passed around the table. Serve yourself, and pass the bowl ahead. If you do not want to eat something, pass the bowl on without taking anything.
4. Dating Etiquette
- It is alright for women to ask someone out.
- How someone dresses is not an invitation for misbehaviour or harassment.
- Respect a “no” or an implied no when said to you.
- If you think the person is unsure about the “yes” they said, ask them again.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, we would like to say that the culture in the US is a truly enriching experience for international students from different countries. You will come across new values, and ways to live life, new cuisines, food, and art and have several never-before experiences. It is important to have an open mind and a non-judgemental outlook when trying to assimilate with Americans. In a country as large, you will always find some people and places that feel like home. But be willing to experience newness and make memories.
For guidance related to shifting to US, book your session with Leap Scholar!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What are the major differences between Indian and American culture?
Ans. If there’s one thing Indian and American cultures have in common, it is that they are both formed of many different traditions and customs. Apart from this, the two cultures are massively different from each other.
In the American culture, individuals are prioritised over family values, and one’s goals may gain precedence over family. Americans plan and are more mobile in their outlook on life. On the contrary, stability is one of the key goals in the life of any Indian. On the lighter end of things, Americans do appreciate punctuality.
Q. What are the most important values in American culture?
Ans. The culture in the US forms itself based on values of liberty, equality, democracy, individualism, unity, and diversity. Other American values include achievement, action, work, informality, progress, and directness.
Q. How to address someone senior in American culture?
Ans. There is no one right way to address someone elder than you in America. Depending on what the person prefers, you can choose to call them by one of these names/titles:
Aunt (First Name/Last Name), Uncle (First Name/Last Name)
Ma’am, Sir
Mrs., Ms., or Mr. (Last Name)
First Name
Q. What is the culture and tradition of the US?
Ans. An eclectic blend of traditions and customs from almost every corner of the globe make up American culture. It includes speech, writing, music, visual arts, performing arts, food, religion, law, technology, and other local practises, beliefs, and knowledge systems that are specific to the United States.
Q. How do Americans celebrate the Super Bowl?
Ans. Americans love to get together on Super Bowl Sunday to watch football on television at home or at local eateries and pubs with their loved ones. People wear their favourite team’s colours or jerseys to Super Bowl celebrations across the nation. Even though it’s not a recognised holiday, Super Bowl Sunday is a time when plenty of friends and family, even those who aren’t typically football fans, join together to watch the game. Although in the past Super Sunday meant a packed house at sports pubs, more and more individuals are choosing to watch the game at home.
Q. What are traditions culture customs?
Ans. A custom might be transient and observed only at the family or individual level, while a tradition is a practise that has been passed down through centuries and is observed by the majority of individuals in a society or culture. Moreover, not all conventions are traditions, even though all traditions may be considered customs.
Q. What is the culture of etiquette?
Ans. The cultural standards for what is proper or improper, courteous or unpleasant, are referred to as etiquette. It bestows upon a culture an elegance, grace, structure, and dexterity that are all specially tailored to each individual culture. Thankfully, common sense is the foundation of many easy professional and social etiquette practises.
Q. Which culture is famous in USA?
Ans. The cultures of African Americans, Asians, Latin Americans, and Indigenous Americans have also influenced American culture. Golden Beacon USA states that various cultures have given their unique “flavours” to American culture, resulting in the description of the United States as a “melting pot” at times.
Q. What is language etiquette?
Ans. In every communicative event, linguistic etiquette refers to the set of standards and guidelines for courteous speech conduct that upholds an observance that guarantees the existence of polite communication and the appropriateness of the linguistic action.
Q. Is the US known for freedom?
Ans. Democracy and freedom are values that the US is well-known for upholding. The United States, according to Freedom House, is a federal republic whose citizens have a rich history of civil rights, a dynamic political system, and great freedoms of speech and religion. Abolition of slavery, the adoption of the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence are just a few examples of the nation’s long history of protecting its citizens’ freedom.
Q. What are some of the civil liberties enjoyed by Americans?
Ans. Based on the interpretation and clarification provided by the US Supreme Court and lower federal courts, civil liberties are certain inalienable rights that residents of the US are entitled to under the US Constitution. Individuals who possess greater authority than themselves, such as corporations, other people, or government agencies, are protected by the constitution and the law, among other liberties. The freedom of expression, the ability to keep and bear arms, and the right to privacy are among the clearly stated liberties that comprise the Bill of Rights.
Q. What do Americans value?
Ans. Freedom, equality, independence, and self-reliance are just a few of the values held by Americans. Americans’ daily lives are shaped by the United States’ well-known dedication to democracy and freedom. The principles of the American people—individualism, competitiveness, informality, and human decency—are reflected in the wide diversity of American culture.
