What Immigrants Encounter in the United States
Khrystyna, a Kharkiv-born blogger who has lived in the U.S. for seven years, describes the cultural and everyday challenges that newcomers often face. Her observations span several key areas, including:
- the imperial measurement system
- time and date formats
- taxes
- household quirks
- transportation and healthcare infrastructure
- the credit scoring system
For many immigrants, adjusting to a new country involves navigating unfamiliar systems. Khrystyna’s insights offer a practical look at what to expect.
Cultural and Domestic Differences
The Imperial System: A World of Pounds and Fahrenheit. Khrystyna points out that the U.S. is one of only three countries worldwide that hasn’t adopted the metric system. Under these standards, one inch equals roughly 2.5 cm, and one pound equals 454 grams. For newcomers accustomed to metric units, this can create daily inconveniences.
Numbers and Nuances: Time, Dates, and Taxes. In America, time is displayed using the AM/PM format, where midnight is labeled 12 a.m. Meanwhile, the date 05.04 in the U.S. means May 4th—a potential source of confusion for those used to the European date system. It’s also essential to understand sales tax, which is added to the sticker price and varies by state, though most grocery items are exempt.
Household Surprises: Washing Machines as a Luxury. Khrystyna notes that many rental apartments in the U.S. lack their own washing machines, and lease agreements often prohibit installing one. This can catch off guard those expecting full in-home amenities. American pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens stock a wide range of goods, from medications to chips, cosmetics, and alcohol.
Roads and Healthcare. She observes that U.S. cities are heavily car-dependent, with public transportation often limited. This can be a challenge for people used to more robust transit networks. Regarding medical services, health insurance in the U.S. can cost between $600 and $1,000 per month—a significant expense that can strain an immigrant’s budget.
Credit History: Your Second Passport. Khrystyna emphasizes the critical role of credit scores in the U.S., which range from 300 to 850. Without a credit history, landlords may require a $6,000 deposit to rent an apartment—a steep sum for newcomers. These financial system details can greatly affect how immigrants settle into their new environment.
In short, Khrystyna’s experience highlights many aspects of life in the U.S. that can be surprising for those emigrating from other countries. Understanding these differences can help newcomers adapt more smoothly. Stories like hers serve as a valuable resource for anyone planning a move to the United States. — Khrystyna
While adjusting to life in the U.S. can be challenging, the experiences of other immigrants also shed light on the complexities of the American Dream. For instance, a Ukrainian woman who spent nine months in New York has described her disillusionment with the idealized vision of life in America. To explore her perspective and the reasons behind her sentiments, read more about her journey here.