American Culture
NMJC is extremely lucky to have forty-two (42) countries represented here and making up our diverse college community. Our goal is to create a cultural awareness that speaks to the entire campus by engaging in cultural experiences that celebrate and cultivate a climate awareness, understanding and learning environment. Students and employees can learn by sharing their unique cultural experiences. Below is a bit about the U.S.
Because of its history, the U.S. is a society with many different classes, groups, races, and lifestyles. Within each of these segments, individual members are also quite different from one another. No one behaves exactly like anyone else. There are, however, several general characteristics which most Americans have in common. Remember, these are general characteristics; many people you meet will not fit these patterns.
All people are equal and deserve an equal opportunity in life. They should all be treated fairly and with the same level of respect. This is one of the most basic principles of American philosophy. This can be seen in such common practices as “waiting in line.” When you go to the doctor’s office, to a store, or to another type of office, you will be asked to wait in line. This same equality can also be seen in the classroom where all students are the same in the eyes of the professors.
American’s Love
- Their country. Americans are very patriotic. They are very proud of their country and their way of life. They also have great respect for those who serve or have served in the armed forces.
- Their free time. Americans may not have more or less free time compared to people in some countries, but they value what they have. They will spend that time doing something for themselves, their family, or their community. Weekends and vacations are always full of activities.
- The outdoors. The U.S. government protects large sections of land from development and preserves them for the enjoyment of all. Americans enjoy outdoor activities all year round. Depending on the region, popular activities include sailing, hiking, cycling, camping, and fishing.
- Sports. The U.S. probably has more professional athletes participating in a greater number of professional sports than any other country. Americans love to watch sports, either live or on television. They also love to participate in sports, and there are countless leagues for players of all ages and skill levels.
Religion and Politics
Religion plays the same role in America as it plays in many countries. There is no government supported religion, and many religions coexist. The U.S. government is based on the “separation of church and state,” and the vast majority of people in the U.S. adhere to this doctrine. Also, in general, people in the U.S. are private about their religious and political views. Typically, in conversation between strangers, religion and politics are issues that are avoided in order not to offend others who may not agree.
Sexuality
Like every college in the U.S., NMJC has some students who identify as members of the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) community. In recent years, American young people have become more willing to openly acknowledge their sexual orientation and public opinion has shifted towards acceptance. LGBTQ students are accepted and respected on campus.
Punctuality
People in the U.S. tend to organize their activities around schedules, and many people place a great deal of emphasis on punctuality. In the U.S., it is important to be on time; being late is considered rude. If you cannot be on time to an appointment, let the person(s) involved know in advance. Classes at NMJC begin at exactly the time they are listed on the schedule.
