13 US High School Things That Surprise Non-Americans
13 US High School Things That Surprise Non-Americans
High school in America is often depicted in movies and TV shows, but the reality can still be quite surprising to foreigners. From the everyday routines to the unique traditions, there are many aspects of American high school life that might seem unusual, or even shocking, to those from other countries. Here are 13 American high school things that shock foreigners exploring the unique features that set American high schools apart.
1. Students Come in Their PJs
The sight of students walking around in pajamas might seem odd to foreigners. In many countries, school attire is formal or, at the very least, casual but neat. The idea that students can come to school dressed as if they’ve just rolled out of bed is very surprising to foreigners and especially Europeans.
2. Daycare in High School
Finding daycare centers within high schools is surprising to many from abroad. It’s a practical solution for teenage parents to continue their education, but the concept of needing to accommodate teenage mothers and fathers is surprising to most foreigners.
3. Pledge of Allegiance
The daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance is a distinctly American tradition. Foreigners are often taken aback by the practice of pledging loyalty to the country in a school setting, as such a ritual does not exist in most other countries’ daily school routines.
4. Singing the Anthem at Every Event
The national anthem being played at a wide array of school events, from sports games to assemblies, is another uniquely American practice. In other countries, the national anthem is usually reserved for significant national holidays or events, not regular school gatherings.
5. Number of Attacks
Unfortunately, the frequency of school attacks, particularly shootings, in the United States is alarming to foreigners. Many come from countries where such incidents are extremely rare, making the safety measures and drills in American schools a shocking aspect of the education system.
6. Finishing School at 2pm
The typical American high school day ending around 2pm or 3pm is surprisingly early for students from countries where school often ends later in the afternoon or even early evening. For example, high school in France often ends after 5pm. This difference in school hours can significantly impact the daily life and routine of a student.
7. Clubs and More Leisure Classes
The vast array of extracurricular clubs and leisure classes, such as pottery, offered in American high schools surprises many international students. The emphasis on well-rounded education including arts and hobbies is less common in the more academically focused school systems of other countries.
8. Parenting Class in School
Parenting classes offered as part of the curriculum are a novel concept for foreigners. These classes are designed to teach students about child care, development, and family planning, highlighting the American education system’s approach to preparing students for all aspects of life.
9. School Bus That Stops at Every House
The iconic yellow school bus picking up students at their homes is a hallmark of American culture not often seen elsewhere. In many countries, students rely on public transportation or walk to school, making the personalized school bus routes of the U.S. a unique sight.
10. School Lunch Being More Like Fast Food
The quality and style of school lunches in the U.S., often resembling fast food, can be shocking to foreigners used to more traditional or home-cooked meals at school. The convenience and fast-paced nature of American life are reflected in the school cafeteria.
11. Being Allowed to Eat in Class
Eating in class is generally frowned upon or outright forbidden in many countries’ schools. The more lenient approach in some American high schools, where snacking during lessons can be permitted, highlights cultural differences in classroom etiquette.
12. Assemblies Shorten Classes
The concept of school-wide assemblies that can shorten class times or alter the regular schedule is uncommon in many countries. These gatherings for announcements, performances, or guest speakers show the value placed on community and collective experiences in American schools.
13. Most Students Drive to School
The prevalence of high school students driving to school is a striking contrast to countries where teenagers typically use public transportation. This difference not only reflects the car culture in the United States but also the independence afforded to American teens.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.