USA

A common expression to represent the United States is that it is like a “salad bowl” because it contains a mix of different cultures, with a variety of ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.

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Une publication partagée par AFS-USA (@afs_usa)

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Une publication partagée par AFS-USA (@afs_usa)

The USA is the third biggest country in the world, divided into 50 States: 48 contiguous states, plus Alaska (northwest of Canada), and the Hawaiian islands (in the Pacific Ocean). Hawaii is the only American state where AFS does not place students.

Due to its large area, the climate and geography varies throughout the country. For example, the coldest place in the USA is Barrow, Alaska, with an average temperature of -25°C in the middle of winter, while the hottest place is Phoenix, Arizona, with an average of 40°C in the middle of summer. You will find a great variety of landscapes, climates, and lifestyles.

Perhaps best known for its fast foods such as burgers and pizza, you will also be able to try what might be called traditional American food, such as barbecue, hotdogs, clam chowder, and apple pie. But American cuisine has many influences, depending on what part of the country you’re in, such as Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Thai, Japanese and Greek – even in the smallest town. You are sure to find something to your taste!

 

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Une publication partagée par AFS-USA (@afs_usa)

The USA doesn’t have an official language, but English is the one used by the government and a large proportion of the population. As many different cultures can be found in America, many people speak another language at home. Spanish is the most common language after English. Even if your host family does speak another language in the home, English will be the language required for school and everyday life.

In general, the American school year starts in August or September and runs until May or June. A typical school day starts between 7.30 or 8.30 am through to 2.00 to 3.00 pm, often with an extra activity after school such as sport, theatre, robotics, photography and more. Sport is the most popular after-school activity, such as American football, soccer, basketball, baseball, volleyball, and cheerleading. The sporting competition is very important and brings together school and family.

 

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Une publication partagée par AFS-USA (@afs_usa)

Due to the ‘salad bowl’ of cultures in the USA, your host family could be African American, Hispanic American, Asian American or descendants of a variety of European nationalities and ethnicities. In general, the children in the family are expected to follow the rules, help prepare meals and do other household chores as requested. Something to keep in mind is that most AFS students will be placed in a small town, in a rural or suburban area where public transport may be limited, so communication with the family to plan any necessary transportation will be important.