10 Things You Should Know Before Moving To America

I have been living in the U.S for close to 7 years and I have come to learn a lot about this great nation. So, I thought I’d share a few things you should know about living in America. I moved here, like many, unprepared for what is to come. Truth is, I don’t think one can ever be fully prepared for what to expect when moving to a new country.

There are some things a simple google search won’t do justice to. You learn by full immersion in the culture, people, and environment. Some new things you learn along the way are easier to adapt to. While some still shock your system no matter how long you’ve been around. As a Nigerian, some of the realizations about America are wild and frightening, like the gun and racist culture. While some things like their love for pets and freedom of religion are refreshing to see.

Here are a few things you should know before moving to America, based on my experience as a Nigerian expat.

1. Race and ethnicity matter

In America Race and Ethnicity matter. Racism is very prevalent here. It is like tribalism in Nigeria but on steroids. In my post about Expat Depression and loneliness, I touched on how this was one of the biggest cultural shocks for me. I never knew I was black till I moved to America. I finally understood the struggles of Ifemelu in Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Americanah. Before moving to the U.S, I knew about black and white Americans. But I didn’t understand just how vast the divide was. And how this divide affected every possible aspect of the country.

2. The American Dream is rather dead

As a Nigerian, the dream was to migrate, work hard, and experience the American dream. The working hard part is the easy part. The attainment of the dream is the problem. There are barriers that make the rewards of hard work unattainable for certain demographics. The keyword in the American Dream that we seem to miss is “AMERICAN”. That is, you have to be American to be able to enjoy this dream. The sad realization is not even all Americans get to enjoy the American dream. Factors such as wealth inequality, and unequal access to resources make the American dream farfetched for the majority.

3. Different strokes for different states

In the U.S of A, no two states are alike. Different laws, different cultures, different demographics, different weathers. Even different time zones as well. Each state is unique in its own way. Don’t expect a New Jersey experience from Indiana. It’s bizarre how entirely different states can be. But quite fascinating as well.

4. Documentation is a big deal

In America, proper documentation is paramount. As an immigrant, without proper documentation, be prepared to experience a life of hardship. You need documentation for everything. To live a decent life in America you need an ID and the right paperwork. To bank, to travel, to work, to exist, you need documentation. Unless, you will be in hiding, working “under the table” and earning meager incomes. That said, “under the table” jobs are also difficult to find. And they are a battle of their own. Some employers take advantage of your situation and exploit you. They know they have the power as you are one phone call away from deportation. In order to avoid unnecessary hardship try to maintain legal status.

5. Credits

You can purchase a myriad of things on credit: house, cars, plane tickets, clothes, etc. Unlike Nigeria where you always pay before service. But you need to have good credit first. That is, you need to borrow money in other to borrow more money. The system has to trust your borrowing habits to be able to lend you more money. And the quicker you start building your credit, the better for you.

6. Americans love their GUNS

Living in the U.S is like living in perpetual fear. You can literally be shot doing the most mundane things. School, supermarkets, churches, flea markets, subway, you name it, and you can be shot there. There are so many school shootings to the point where active shooter drills have become a part of the curriculum. Imagine finally migrating and escaping hardship only to be shot whilst grocery shopping. But it is all well and good because after you get shot they send you thoughts and prayers. What else does one need in this life of sin?

7. Freedom of religion

Though Christianity is the dominant religion, you are free to practice whatever religion you want. And serve whatever god(s) you choose. On the other hand, you are free to opt out of religion altogether. This is far different from Nigeria where atheism is heavily frowned upon. In Nigeria, one is either a Christian or Muslim. And even both religions are in a constant conflict. But in America, your religion, or lack thereof, is up to you. Religious freedom is the norm. No shame, no stigma.

8. They love their pets

Pets ownership in America is a huge deal. Pets are practically children to Americans. They provide all the basic necessities for them. Do not shoo or be mean to their pets as they are likely to take offense. Take permission before petting them or offering them treats. This is one culture I have come to love. My phobia for dogs has been transformed into pure, unadulterated love.

9. Healthcare is expensive

For some ridiculous reason, I always thought healthcare was free. But it is the exact opposite. Health care in America is expensive! You need good health insurance to be able to afford healthcare. Otherwise, paying out of pocket will burn a hole in your wallet.

10. Leave people’s kids alone

Do not talk, lay hands, or offer kids anything without consent from their parents or guardians. The Nigerian in you might feel inclined to do it. Please don’t. Leave them alone.

I say all this not to deter you from migrating. It’s only to make you aware of the nation and some of the dominant norms. To give you a heads up in order not to be blindsided. Just like every nation, there are both positive and negative sides. Learning about the culture just might help your navigation upon arrival.