The biggest export of the United States is their entertainment industry. Part of the soft power imposed by the U.S. upon the rest of the world comes from its solid and restless media machines.
Regardless of the African country you come from, it is probable you’re familiar with some of the general aspects of American culture through their entertainment exports—be it music, TV shows, films, theatre plays, books, online content, or many others.
As such, it’s essential to acknowledge the role of American entertainment as a tool—not only to pass the time and have fun but to integrate yourself into the culture of your new homeland.
Although average American life isn’t as it might be depicted in The Avengers or Keeping up with the Kardashians, consuming USA-made media carries three implicit benefits for expats: language learning tool, cultural exposure, and ice-breaker help.
If you’re a recently-arrived immigrant who still struggles with English, consuming American media can help you get familiar with the phonemes of certain words, as well as slang and vernacular forms of speech that you may not learn through regular lessons.
Likewise, consuming series and TV shows—as fantastic or unreal as they can be—can expose you to cultural customs that you may not be familiar with. Two such examples can be tipping etiquette, as seen through multiple films, or the importance of the American flag.
Finally, consuming American media gives you something in common with everyone around you. Whether it is by discussing the Oscar nominees or by talking about Beyoncé’s latest projects, you are making small talk—a most prevalent American vehicle for social interaction and, subsequently, establishing bonds with your peers.
It may seem silly and even pointless, but immersing yourself in American media might just be the extra push you need.
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