The introduction exercises during the first class emphasized that one’s behavior changes based on the context (culture) in which they find themself. For example, during my time in Denmark I would often introduce myself using only my name, and by that point they could hear I am American and would ask where I’m from, why I’m in Copenhagen, etc. Contrarily, at Smith, I often include pronouns, year, major, and house.

Our first class also emphasized that understanding a culture is a process of internal dialogue between your origin/sending culture and the new culture you are experiencing. You better understand things about the new culture when you know how to compare it to your own, but there are also times when learning about the new culture will make you realize new things about your own.

As for ‘can do’ statements, I can do them all for Denmark!

Regarding the class objectives, I appreciate the focus on challenging our own assumptions of what is ‘normal’ and ‘right.’ I was previously unaware of how part of American culture is feeling that all other elements of our culture are superior to others countries’ cultures. I’m excited that through this course I will further develop the skills to view cultural differences with curiosity and appreciation, a skill which I was fortunate to begin cultivating while in Denmark.