The Challenges and Joys of Adapting to American Culture

Chloe Steyn, a student from Johannesburg, South Africa, recently graduated from Lane Community College with a degree in psychology. As she steps into the next phase of her career through Optional Practical Training (OPT), Chloe shares her experiences, challenges, and triumphs as an international student navigating life in the U.S. Join us as we delve into her inspiring story and gain insights into her future aspirations.

Why I Chose the USA for My Studies

I decided to study in the USA because I wanted to earn a qualification that is both better and more recognizable. An American degree carries a lot more weight globally compared to a South African degree, and I knew it would open up more opportunities for me in the future.

Fun Adjustments

Adjusting to life in the U.S. has been quite an adventure! The cultural differences, especially in language, were intriguing. I had to get used to the nuances between British English, South African slang, and American English. The American accent, particularly when people speak quickly, took some getting used to.

Driving on the other side of the road was another challenge. It felt strange at first, but I got the hang of it. The food was a big adjustment too. There are some foods and snacks from South Africa that I definitely miss, as they aren't available here. Despite these adjustments, I've enjoyed embracing new experiences and learning to adapt to my new environment.

Why I Chose Lane Community College

I chose Lane Community College for several reasons. Coming from a high school with small class sizes, I was naturally attracted to Lane because it offers a similar environment. The affordability was also a major factor. The cost of attending Lane was very appealing and made it possible for me to pursue my studies without a huge financial burden.

I've really enjoyed my time here in Eugene, Oregon. The people and teachers at Lane are incredibly nice, and there's a strong sense of community. Everyone gets along well, and the teachers are very supportive and helpful. My psychology teacher this term, Lezlee Ware, has been particularly attentive. She always made sure to answer all our questions, and if someone was sick, she would record the lectures on Zoom and send us the link. She was also flexible with quizzes, allowing students to take them later if they missed one. Her accommodating nature made a big difference in my learning experience.

I also love the location of Lane in Eugene. The polite drivers and good public transportation make getting around easy. The natural beauty of Eugene, with its parks and friendly people, has made my time here even more enjoyable. The community here is welcoming, and I've felt at home despite being far from South Africa.

Tips for Future Students

One tip I have is to be prepared for anything to happen and take it all in stride. Embrace the unexpected and have fun along the way! It's also important to learn American English words. For example, when we went shopping, we wanted to buy a dust bin and bag liners, but no one knew what we were talking about because they call it a trash can here. And in South Africa, we call French fries 'chips,' whereas here, 'chips' refer to what we call potato chips. These little differences can be funny and a part of the learning experience.