17 College Things Only Americans Think Are Normal
17 College Things Only Americans Think Are Normal
Ah college life and all its quirks! The American college experience is renowned across the world and gets people talking. There are for sure major differences between the American college experience and attending college in a different country.
Having lived in the USA, Ireland, England, France and Canada, I’ve had many conversations on that topic with people who have experienced both. During these conversations, the same points came up again and again, and here they are. Would you have thought that foreigners would be surprised by those?
1. Greek Life
In American colleges, fraternities and sororities are a big deal and ca be the norm to get integrated into the school.
These organizations are more than just social clubs; they involve rituals, special housing, and community service projects. Being part of “Greek life” can significantly impact a student’s social experiences, offering a sense of belonging and opportunities for leadership.
2. March Madness
Every spring, the NCAA college basketball tournament, known as March Madness, captivates the nation. Students, faculty, and alumni fill out brackets, predicting which team will win in each round, often with friendly wagers or betting pools. It’s a time of spirited competition that goes beyond just the fans of sports.
3. Dorm Room Living
For many freshmen, college marks the first time living away from home, often in shared dormitory rooms. This rite of passage includes navigating the dynamics of communal living spaces, shared bathrooms, and making new friends in close quarters. It’s a foundational part of the American college experience. It’s not always the case in other countries, especially in Europe where students are often left to fend for themselves in finding housing.
4. Massive College Sports Arenas
The size and scale of college sports facilities in the U.S. are often astonishing. Universities invest heavily in stadiums and arenas, highlighting the significance of athletics within college culture. These facilities can host thousands of fans and are a point of pride for schools.
5. Spring Break
Spring break is a week-long break during the spring semester when students often travel to beach destinations or engage in various forms of partying. In France, there is no such thing mostly because because all of our allotted breaks are dedicated to homework and studying. It’s seen as a time to unwind and take a break from the rigors of academic life, with many viewing it as a quintessential college experience.
6. Syllabus Week
The first week of the semester, often referred to as syllabus week, is typically seen as an easy week. Classes are just getting started, and professors go over the syllabus and expectations without diving into heavy coursework. It’s a time many students use to adjust to their new schedules.
7. All-Nighters Before Finals
The tradition of pulling an all-nighter to cram for finals or finish major projects is a hallmark of the college experience. It’s a testament to the stressful end-of-semester crunch that many students face, often fueled by coffee and the solidarity of friends doing the same.
8. Homecoming Week
Homecoming is a week filled with events that culminate in a football game and a dance, aimed at welcoming alumni back to campus. It’s a celebration of school spirit that includes parades, pep rallies, and sometimes even bonfires, creating a sense of community and continuity.
9. Campus Shuttle Services
For students at large universities, campus shuttle services are essential. These free buses help students get from one class to another across sprawling campuses. It’s a convenience that underscores the size of American colleges compared to those in many other countries.
10. Textbook Rentals
Due to the high cost of college textbooks in the U.S., renting textbooks each semester is a common practice. This approach helps students save money, reflecting the financial realities of pursuing higher education in America.
11. Study Abroad Programs
Many American students spend a semester or year studying in another country, an opportunity promoted as part of a well-rounded education. These programs are seen as a way to gain global perspectives and experience different cultures firsthand.
12. Dining Halls with Unlimited Access
College dining halls in the U.S. often operate on a buffet system, where students with meal plans can eat as much as they want. These dining commons are a central part of campus life, offering a variety of foods to accommodate different tastes and dietary needs.
13. Quad Activities
The central grassy area known as the quad is the heart of many campuses, serving as a place for socializing, studying, and university-sponsored events. It’s a communal space where students can relax and engage with their peers in a casual setting.
14. Office Hours
Professors in the U.S. set aside office hours for students to drop by and discuss course materials, grades, or other concerns. It’s an opportunity for personalized attention and academic support that students are encouraged to take advantage of.
15. Campus Career Fairs
Career fairs on campus bring together companies and organizations looking to recruit students for internships and jobs. It’s a chance for students to network, explore career options, and secure positions for after graduation, highlighting the career-focused aspect of college life.
16. Online Course Registration Battles
Securing a spot in popular classes can be a stressful ordeal, with students often competing online to register for limited spaces. This ritual, accepted as part of the academic process, reflects the demand for certain courses and professors.
17. Alumni Networking Events
American colleges often host events designed to connect current students with alumni for mentorship, internships, and job opportunities. These events emphasize the value of networking and the lifelong connections fostered within the college community, extending beyond graduation.
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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.