Section 1: Cultural Adjustments in USA

When students from Nepal move to the USA for higher education, they mostly face many cultural differences and will have to do proper cultural adjustments there to stay comfortably. There are cultural differences like how people talk, how they eat, how they study, and even how they greet each other might feel strange and unusual at first. And this is completely normal and everyone experiences this, and adjusting to this different culture there is known as cultural adjustments.

Here’s what you can expect in everyday life:

• People are independent – Everyone does their own work themselves like cooking, laundry, and cleaning, so you should accept not getting help from others most of the time and having to do your own work.
• Time matters a lot – Being on time is seen as being respectful and more liked. If you are late, it might seem rude and they might even dislike you.
• Communication is direct – Americans usually speak quite openly and directly, even with their teachers and relatives.
• Diversity is everywhere – You’ll find students from different parts of the world, and most people are quite open to learning about new cultures.
• Personal space is important – People there value their privacy and might not like it if someone stands too close or asks very personal questions too soon so do keep in mind about these things.

If you are planning to study abroad in the USA, then you can consider getting help from us Global Education counselling centre. We are known as one of the best consultancy in Nepal for the USA and so we will help you understand and prepare for all these cultural adjustments properly.

Section 2: Academic Cultural Adjustments in the U.S. Universities

The way students study in the USA is very different from how we study in Nepal and you will also need to properly do cultural adjustments in that too. Instead of only listening to lectures and writing exams, American universities focus more on other things like critical thinking, group work, and active class participation.

Here are some main differences you need to know:

• Classes are interactive – You’re expected to ask questions and give your opinion when attending the classes.
• Grades are based on many things – It won’t just be based on exams marks you get. You’ll be graded on:
  • Class participation
  • Homework
  • Quizzes
  • Projects
  • Attendance
• Cheating is not allowed – Even copying a sentence from a website without credit is considered serious. It can get you in big trouble so do be cautious especially as an international student there.
• You have to manage your own schedule – Classes, assignments, part-time jobs, and rest all need to be balanced by you which will be really tough so do be prepared, it’s better if you think of a feasible schedule or plan from right now if possible.

If you're applying for a student visa USA from Nepal, or preparing for masters in the USA, this section helps you prepare your mindset for success and be ready for cultural adjustments in USA. Also, if you want help in looking for affordable universities in the USA for international students, you can reach out to us at the Global Education Counselling Centre.

Section 3: Cultural Adjustments by Building Relationships & Social Life

Being away from family and living in a new country can definitely feel quite lonely. But don’t worry, American universities give you lots of ways to meet new people and make friends and do proper cultural adjustments there.

Here’s how you can do cultural adjustments there and build your social circle:

• Join student clubs or activities – You can join clubs like music, tech, dance, or cultural groups and do sport activities.
• Say hello and start small conversations – Just asking, “How are you doing?” can start a good friendship.
• Attend events on campus – Attend different events like welcome weeks, sports events, and cultural nights which are great for meeting people and forming networks and connections which are quite important no matter where you are.
• Be open-minded – You’ll meet people who have different habits, languages, and religions. So be open-minded by respecting their views and share yours too

Section 4: Cultural Adjustments for Money, Living Costs, and Daily Life

Life in the USA is way more expensive than in Nepal and you will have to cultural adjustments there properly and efficiently. You have to pay for rent, food, clothes, transportation, and other things.

Here are some financial tips for properly doing cultural adjustments there:

• Housing – Living with roommates is definitely cheaper than staying alone. Most students there rent apartments.

• Food – Cooking at home is cheaper and healthier than eating outside every day, it will save your money as well as be good for your body.

• Transport – Many cities have good public buses or trains. You can also buy a bicycle or even a car after saving up some money.

• Part-time jobs – You can work up to 20 hours per week on campus so try your best to find and do part-time jobs there. This will help you to pay for your daily expenses and also help you save some money for emergencies.

➡ Make sure to apply to the cheapest but still decent universities in the USA for international students or if possible try to look for a full scholarship for Nepali students in the USA.

➡ If you want help finding these, then you can contact us at the Global Counselling Centre, we are one of the best consultancy in Nepal for the USA. So we can properly guide you to universities that match your budget and help with scholarship applications.

Section 5: Overcoming Cultural Adjustments

When you first arrive in the USA as an international student, everything may feel strange with seeing new people, new food, a new way of talking and learning. This confusing feeling is called culture shock and adapting to this cultral shock is cultural adjustments. This culture shock completely normal, and everyone goes through it. The good news is, you can overcome it step by step by doing proper cultural adjustments slowly but surely.

What is Culture Shock?
Culture shock is when your mind feels a bit uncomfortable because you're living in a place that's very different from your home. You might feel lonely, confused, or even tired more often. 

Here’s how you can adjust and feel more at home:

1. Accept that it's okay to feel this way

• It’s not a bad thing. Almost every student who moves from Nepal to the USA feels this at first so it’s completely normal and you shouldn’t worry too much about it at all.

• Just remind yourself that this is part of growing and learning.

2. Learn about American culture in small ways

• Watch local shows or YouTube videos to learn about their habits and humor to try to blend in.

• Try to understand how people speak, greet, or even how they wait in lines.

3. Talk to other international students

• Many students from different countries, including Nepal, go through the same thing.

• You’ll feel better when you talk to someone who understands what you’re going through and maybe even make close friends too.

4. Stay connected to your roots

• Join Nepali student groups at your university or online.

• Celebrate Nepali festivals with other students — it feels like home away from home.

5. Take care of your body and mind

• Eat healthy, sleep well, and exercise.

• Many universities in the USA also provide free counselling services for students who feel overwhelmed, so if you want you can try that too.

Choose affordable but still decent enough universities in the USA for studying to reduce financial stress, and ask about cultural orientation programs during your visa process.

Culture shock is temporary, but your growth is permanent. You’ll slowly start to do cultural adjustments there and then enjoy the new environment, learn new things, and build your own community. By taking it one day at a time, you’ll soon feel confident and settled.

Section 6: Homesickness & Mental Health

You might miss your home, family, or food many times. This feeling is called homesickness, and it is very common for international students.

The time difference between Nepal and the USA is also quite big which is usually 9 to 12 hours depending on the state. This makes calling home a little tricky, but you can manage it.

Here’s how to deal with this:

• Keep in touch with home – Set fixed times each week to video call or message family.
• Talk to other Nepali students – They understand your feelings and can support you.
• Stay active – Walk around your campus, try sports, or go sightseeing.
• Use university support – Most campuses have free mental health counselling and student advisors.

➡ You can also ask the consultancy in Kathmandu where you applied about support services in the universities they suggest.

➡ Studying in the USA is a big change, but with the right preparation, you can enjoy every moment of it.

Section 7: Final Tips for Cultural Adjustments

Moving from Nepal to the USA for studies is quite a big step to take, and proper cultural adjustments to a new culture will for sure take time. But with a few smart steps, you can make the cultural adjustments easier and even fun. Whether you're going for completing masters in the USA or a bachelor’s degree, these tips can help you settle in comfortably and relaxedly by properly doing quick cultural ajustments there.

Here’s what you can do for proper cultural adjsutments:

1. Prepare Before You Go

Before you fly to the USA, learn as much as you can about the culture, language, and lifestyle.

• Watch American TV shows or even YouTube vlogs about campus life.
• Read about daily routines, classroom behavior, and how students live there.
• Get help from the best consultancy in Nepal for the USA like our Global Education Counselling Centre to understand what to expect when you land. 

• Visit student counseling services if you're feeling overwhelmed.

• You can also get ongoing guidance from us Global Education counselling centre if you need help anytime.

2. Get Involved in Campus Life

Once you’re in the USA, don't stay alone in your room all the time. Join clubs and attend events to meet new people.

• Many universities in the USA for international students have special programs to help you adjust.
• Look for international student orientation events — they’re made to help you connect with others.

3. Talk Openly and Ask Questions

American culture is quite open and friendly. People are usually happy to help.

• So don’t be shy to ask if you don’t understand something.
• If you're feeling lost or confused, talk to your professors or the student advisor.

4. Manage Your Time and Budget

In the USA, life moves pretty fast. So learning time management and budgeting is quite important as it will help you avoid stress.

• Use a calendar app to keep track of your classes, homework, and free time.
• Know the living cost in the USA for international students in your area. This will help you plan your spending better.

5. Stay Connected with Home

Just because you’re in a new country doesn’t mean you should forget home, rather it’s quite important for you to be sure to talk with your loved ones.

• Talk to your family and friends back in Nepal regularly.
• Also don’t forget to celebrate Nepali festivals with other Nepali students, doing so will make you feel less homesick.

6. Use Support Services

Almost all universities provide help to students who are adjusting to a new country.