That being said, the study abroad department at my school warned us of what is known as "culture shock." This is defined as the "feeling of disorientation experienced by someone when they are suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture, way of life or set of attitudes." This just means that when faced with a new culture, sometimes people have a little bit of trouble adjusting, and may feel overwhelmed. While my first week in Singapore definitely took some adjustment, I found myself fairly settled and content by the start of my second week.
Before arriving in Singapore, I was worried that I would be an outsider. Here in Singapore, the population is 76.2% Chinese, 15% Malay, 7.4% Indian and then the rest is other ethnicities (where I fit in!). Unlike other countries where it may be less obvious, in Singapore, it is pretty clear that I am a foreigner. People always ask where I am from and I tell them the United States. People often guess Europe or Canada! Despite all this, I feel very at home here.
Singapore is a modern city that feels very American in many ways. While the food is certainly different, there are many restaurants and food stalls that serve Western food. Walking down the street, I do not receive any strange looks that may make me feel like I don't belong. I have gone shopping in a few malls and even gone to the movie theater here a couple times! Ever since coming here I have felt as though I can do many of the same things I love to do when I'm home. Despite being on the other side of the planet, I often forget that I'm even in another country because it feels so homey and familiar here. In many ways, I already feel like a Singaporean!
