Advice for British Immigrants Living in the U.S.A

Moving from Britain to the United States of America can be overwhelming for many people. They will find that their accents can make communication difficult, as can the fact that the words they use are different to American English. For example, in Britain the word "chips" means something totally different to it's U.S. meaning. When a Brit says "chips" they are referring to what Americans think of as french fries, but when an American hears "chips", they think of what the British call "crisps". The language barrier can be difficult to get past, especially because the two languages are nearly identical. This is my personal experience. The experiences of others may be different.

It can be very difficult to adapt to using different words than the ones you have used your whole life, but it is essential. You have moved to a new country, a whole new world, and done so of your own free will. You must adapt to this new environment, not expect the local inhabitants to adapt to your vocabulary and other habits. That may be seen as wrong, and insulting to the country that has taken you in. Things are very different in America, and the customs and traditions of the United States deserve respect, just as much as those of Britain. If you can respect the traditions of your birth country, you should also respect those of the country to which you have moved.

You should ask for help when you need it, either from your spouse, family member, In-Laws, friends, employer or co-workers. The social, political, and cultural differences will show in nearly every aspect of life, including but not limited to the Education system, and as such, this will make job seeking a tougher task. British Qualifications and companies you have worked for in the past may not be known by your potential employer, so it is best to be ready to explain them if asked. If possible, the best thing to do is get a U.S. Education. For example, a good starting point is to get a G.E.D. An American Education will make your job search infinitely easier.

You will find that many of the foods, music, television shows and other things you enjoyed will be unheard of, unavailable, hard to find or more expensive in your new home country. On the other hand, you will find new things to enjoy. In place of Cadbury's and Blackadder you will find Hershey's and Seinfeld. You can either enjoy the new things you discover, or be miserable wishing for old favorites.

It would be foolish to assume that things will be exactly the same as the place you just left. However many British foods can be ordered online via specialized websites, although it will still be expensive, and you may have to buy in bulk. As for entertainment, many British shows can be bought in stores (Some stores even have their own British sections.) or borrowed from your local Library.

Although it can be difficult to adapt to living in the U.S, it is possible, and just requires effort. Just try as hard as you can, and eventually the necessary changes will happen naturally. When it all comes down to it, the two countries are very alike, and if you can get by in one, then with the necessary effort you can survive in the other.