I recently moved to the USA, from the middle east. My English is pretty good, and I don’t have a lot of trouble communicating with people at work or in stores. I also don’t know anyone here at all, outside of work. All my family is still back in Gaza, and I’ve been here over a year now, and still feel cut off from American people and culture.
How do you make friends and socialize here? How do I learn more about America and Americans culture? I know a bit about history, but not much about anything else.
I don’t drink or go to bars, for religious reasons. I have joined a couple of clubs based on hobbies, but still feel disconnected. I’m not sure how you socialize or meet new people here, in my family everyone came around your house all the times of the day, and here it seems like neighbors just stick to themselves. I don’t want to bug people or anoy them if that is not the customs here.
Also, what are your favorite parts of American culture and history? So far I have enjoyed Nascar and monster trucks very much, and studying mathematics.
Depending on your state and whether you live in a city, suburbs, or somewhere more rural the answer will vary.
Some places casual conversations with strangers is normal others people tend to ignore each other.
Regarding neighbors if you live somewhere with a yard or garden it’s not uncommon to borrow or lend tools like a pressure washer or snowblower. You could also offer to help them do yard work. If you want to make a good impression I’d offer help before asking for it from them. (If you do borrow one make sure to return it in a timely manner)
You should also look to see if there are any local community events like your town celebrating the anniversary of it’s founding.
If you go to a church, temple, or mosque you could probably ask there, they might have cook outs or other events.