As with every stereotype or assumption, the validity often depends on each individual's perception and the individual being perceived. Additionally, after meeting other international students in the United Kingdom, Cosma assumed that Americans were more relaxed than hardworking. Now, she thinks Americans are hardworking, but also know how to enjoy life. In regards to Chinese students, they are as studious as I predicted. Still, some Chinese students recognize the importance of taking time to hang out with friends and relax.
Along with Cosma and me exchanging views, I am taking a China in Western Perspectives course. At the beginning of the course, we looked at a chart that listed how China and the West are perceived differently. It portrayed China as a collectivist, more introverted, and accepting culture. In contrast, it portrayed the West as an individualistic, more extroverted, and questioning culture. It is a fact that China has a collectivist culture, which means more emphasis is placed on the family over the individual. On the other hand, the West maintains an individualistic culture. I have noticed that the collectivist culture shapes China, as they eat meals family-style and consider how the decisions they make will impact others. In the West, individual meals are ordered and what is best for every individual is promoted throughout society. Yet, this does not mean that a Chinese person cannot make an individual choice or that an American always disregards other people when making choices. Similar to my earlier discussion of whether Chinese people or Americans are louder, not all Chinese people are introverted and not all Americans are extroverted. I have met Chinese students that are shy, but I have met others that are outgoing.
