Misperceptions and Stereotypes: Keep an Open Mind!

Last year I studied abroad in France. It was an eyeopening experience, especially for an American who has only heard bad things about the French. Rude, mean, lazy, judgmental, stinky, dirty, unpleasant--all words that have been associated with the French. Upon arriving in Paris, I tried to keep an open mind. I didn't want anything that I had been told to influence me. Because I tried not to prejudge anyone, I could see people for who they really were and not what stereotypes they were or weren't fulfilling. I learned that the French were actually very nice people who would help anyone, tourist or not, with something. I found myself lost on the Metro a few times and the locals always were willing to help me out. They were never rude to me or unpleasant. Compared to other countries I have visited, I found the French to be much more friendlier and helpful. It was refreshing to see that many stereotypes were not true.

Something else that I learned to do to gain respect from the locals was to act as they do. This includes not being overly friendly, sticking to basic colors and outfits, using a soft tone when speaking, and not doing anything that could be labeled overtly American.