#USA

"Land of the free and the home of the brave."

Earlier this semester in my comparative literature class the question of America's culture came up. To my surprise, I found out that a lot of students in my class weren't very fond of America's culture. They went on to describe it as overwhelming and too dominant. Later, I found out that these students weren't originally from America and they felt that their native culture was getting covered up. So, is America really a mixing pot? I would say so. America’s culture is influenced by almost every region in the world. Everyone adds their own flavor. Because of things like this, things such as America not having an official language emerge. 

Soon a whole class discussion started. The class immediately split into two sections: America's culture being too overpower v. America is the best. "I think you guys forget why you or your family came to America in the first place. It was to find new opportunities and to excel in life," said my classmate. And of course this brought up the "American Dream".

When I think of the American Dream, the vision I get is: a nice house with a large yard surrounded by a white fence and beautiful flower beds. Careless happy kids running around the yard with two dogs following close behind. And this whole time their parents watch from the porch drinking lemonade.

The biggest shift that has come about in American culture is dominance. America at one point in time was influenced by every other country and now, America influences almost every country.

Freedom is an important part of American culture. Freedom has allowed American culture to work in ways that other culture cannot. For example, almost every religion is practiced here because of religious freedom. Visitors are often amazed that they can visit major cities such as New York and see so many people of different religions living together so peacefully because religion causes so many problems throughout the rest of the world.

Also, the freedom of expression. The way American’s dress may be the second biggest way of how we choose to express ourselves, behind our voices. Clothing varies depending on occupation, climate, social status, and region. Additionally, it is widely influenced by the media.

The ability have Americans have to come together can be easily seen in the sports world. Sports is a big thing in American culture, because this is a diverse country, sports give us the opportunity to come together. Although, we may have different favorite teams, many Americans bond over football, baseball, basketball, hockey, and many other sports.

The most important part of American culture is our ability to show love. Although 9/11 was an awful time for the country, the support and love that was passed along by Americans quickly filled the country with an honest connection. It showed how that no matter our big our differences, we can come together to be one. American spirit and love is definitely hard to shake.

                                                                 #USA

Thanks for reading. 

PS (I love) U

"WE ARE..."

It was getting close to May 1st, #nationaldecisionday, and I knew I needed to pick a college. A major influence on my decision was the location of the school and what surrounded it. So, my options were: a college town or city life. I visited both colleges but the first step onto Penn State, I fell in love. So, now I'm here and I still love it.

Everything in this community revolves around Penn State. (When I was driving here for NSO, every gas station I stopped at had PSU gear.) Even around Halloween, Professor Kramer explained that she took her kids treat-or-treating on the Thursday before Halloween because there was a football game that Saturday, so everyone would be there! With everything revolving around the school, Penn State has to have its own culture, right? What is Penn State culture? I would describe it as prideful and strong.

One of greatest things about this school is the academics. The abundance amount of research performed by students is wonderful. Also, with having the largest alumni network in the world, not only do we receive a great education, we have ample opportunities to enter a wonderful career once we graduate.

Last year, the Ethics Resource Center here at Penn State conducted a survey to see the values of the community that make up PSU. “By conducting this survey, we believe that Penn State has set a new standard for higher education,” said Pat Harned, president of ERC. The survey showed that we value: Integrity, respect, responsibility, discovery, excellence, and community. We strive to better ourselves and our relationships, while being respectful and responsible. 

Me and my friend, Brandon. 

One of my favorite things about Penn State is that although we are a good academic school, we also excel in sports. The feel of community is strongest at sporting events.

Staying up all night (accidentally) to make sure I got student section tickets was easily one of my best decisions this year. Looking around and seeing that you are surrounded by 21,000 of your classmates, the largest student section in the world, is a wonderful feeling. But on big games, seeing 107k is even better. I always look forward to singing "Sweet Caroline" and all the cheers. The only thing that could make the football games better would be being in the S-Zone. I have had the opportunity to be in the S-Zone twice, once against Rutgers and during Homecoming. I lost my voice both times but it was worth it.  

Before the Indiana game.

Another major event that plays apart in the community is THON. This 46 hour dance marathon that raises money throughout the year for pediatric cancer. Although THON has been bumpy process this year, the bottom line and meaning serves a great purpose. Through raising money for pediatric cancer and providing support for the families, the students become closer by supporting a wonderful cause.

Game against Illinois which was the "THON" game.  

AND I can't forget the ice cream!!! Actually, I think I'll go get some later today. It has been a PSU tradition since 1865. According the the website, "The mission of the Berkey Creamery is to support the teaching, research and outreach programs of the Department of Food Science, to provide quality dairy products to students on-campus housing, and to maintain an economically viable retail outlet for diary products to the University community." Recently, with the 150th birthday being passed, my favorite flavor has become "Birthday Bash," what's yours?

Overall, being a Penn State student and living in this upbeat community is a wonderful experience and something that I will be grateful for forever.

"PENN STATE"

Thanks for reading. :)