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Many people find themselves in a situation where they come across cultural ideas and beliefs that are different from their own. Across the United States, cultures can vary from one locale to another. Some of us are lucky enough to experience the culture differences of other countries. I have been very fortunate to experience living in England for three years. While the culture differences between the United States and England are not as drastic as with many other countries, there are still some significant differences. Today, I would like to relate to you my experience from a sociological perspective. First, I will give some information on my own cultural background. Then I will discuss my experience in England as it relates to the stages of adjustment. Finally, I will link my experience with the four levels of cultural awareness.

In order to get an idea of the similarities and differences between my culture and the culture I experienced in England, you need to know a little about where I come from. I grew up in a small town in North Texas. With fewer than 10,000 people, it was the county seat as well as the largest town for forty miles. The town is 90% white (Community Profile and Demographics) and very much the typical small, conservative Texas town. Wal-Mart came to town in the 1980s, and drove many local retail stores out of business. We have one high school, and just like everywhere in Texas, Football is the only sport that really matters. The only radio station we had played country music and the main source of entertainment as teenagers was cruising the drag (Main Street).

In 1995, I joined the Air Force and have experienced many different cultures since then. My first out of country experience was in England, which was my first assignment. Looking back, I can see how I went through the cycle of adjustment outlined in chapter 6 of "Culture Matters" on the Peace Corps website (Peace Corps, p. 191).

First, there was the Initial Enthusiasm (Peace Corps, p. 191). My wife and I were both very excited about our new assignment, and we could not wait to dive in and experience everything we could. We stayed at a hotel in the village near the Air Force base, and everything seemed quaint. We loved talking to people and hearing their exotic accent. All the little oddities were new and interesting to us, and everyone was patient with our ignorance.

It didn't take long for the Initial Country and Culture Shock to set in though (Peace Corps, p. 191). The language was

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