Gender Issues

1.       In New Zealand, the clothing is more casual wear than in the US. Going out to fancy places will have more formal wear. Dressing comfortably such as a t-shirt, jeans, and shoes depending on the weather. No wear school colors or other things that could represent America. Look like you are one of the New Zealander’s even though you are not one.

2.       Most of the males take leadership roles during business deals, but has changed over the years. It’s important for both men and women to greet each other and smile.

3.       Not to be overly friendly or too forward; be honest, direct and have a sense of humor

4.       Do not walk alone at night, keep your belongings in sight, walk with a group with guys and don’t show off (be yourself) around New Zealand.

5 ways to prevent negative reactions to cultural shock

1.       Understand that I am in a different culture and will feel some discomfort

2.       Try to look at a different point a view about the culture I am in

3.       Take some time to myself and write about how I feel

4.       Get familiar with the people and culture of the host country to help realize the differences in culture

5.       Have fun and relax if stressed out

3 Identities

I chose woman, Christian and Music fan of musicals because they represent who I am as a person and what I do since I was born. I chose woman because it is my sexual identity, which differ from a man to a certain aspect. As a woman I can do things that a man cannot and vice verse. I chose Christian because that is my religion and I chose music fan of musicals because I love music and I am in choir at school but also I chose musical because I love watching them and they are very upbeat music.

For studying abroad being a woman is important because a lot of men get more opportunities than women do and this is a chance to prove to the male society that women have an ability to do great things as well. Being Christian while studying abroad gives me the chance to spread my wings to new ideas on religion and share my religion with others. Also being a music fan of musicals will keep my days while studying abroad upbeat with listening and singing musicals and sharing my interest with my host country.

The reaction from my host country will probably react differently from what I am use to and from what they are use to. They will see me as different from their own culture and ways as well as how I will react. Being in a different country for the first time will be hard on both the host and I, but as we come familiar with each other the react might change. I feel this way because it is with anything new that someone does, they feel unfamiliar with it, but become familiar as time passes and then the reaction changes.