What basic etiquette should I follow as an Indian student settling in to study in the US?
19 Oct 2026 · Answered by Saru Sharma · 2 min read
Quick Answer
verified
Greet people with a simple hello, be punctual, dress appropriately, say please and thank you, respect personal space and be direct in conversation. At the table, wait for everyone to be served, avoid noise and avoid talking with food in your mouth.
Following a few basic habits helps you settle in quickly in the US. Etiquette helps you understand how a culture works, and the points below cover greetings, dining and everyday behavior.
Greetings and Dining
| Area | What to do |
|---|---|
| Greetings | Use Hi, Hello, Good morning, Good afternoon or Good evening, or a casual How's it going |
| Napkin | Unfold your table napkin as soon as you sit down |
| Meals | Wait for everyone to be served before you start eating |
| Drinks | Politely refuse a drink instead of turning your glass upside down |
| Noise | Avoid noise while eating, do not talk with a full mouth, and do not bang cutlery |
| Servers | Be kind and polite to them |
Everyday Etiquette
- Dress appropriately as per the dress code.
- Be punctual, because ignoring a schedule is considered rude.
- Tell people beforehand if you are uncomfortable with pets, as Americans often keep them.
- Use words like please, thank you and sorry.
- Respect personal space and do not nudge people unnecessarily.
- Remember that no means no, and be direct in conversation.
My Advice
Do not worry about being perfect from day one. Observe how people around you behave, and ask politely when unsure. Following these basics usually helps you avoid serious issues while settling in.
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