Looking for Pop Culture & Conversation Tips!
Hey everyone,
I’m an international student about to transfer to the U.S. for my junior year, and I’m really excited but also a little anxious about fitting in. I’m an art major with over 8 years of drawing experience (I just completed AP 2D Design) and I have a huge love for anime (like JoJo, Demon Slayer, Attack on Titan, Moriarty the Patriot, and Jujutsu Kaisen) and gaming (including Genshin Impact, Nintendo titles, Persona 5, and Ace Attorney). I also enjoy playing tennis and badminton. Oh, and my faithful companion is Pikachu, my sweet 6-year-old border collie!
I would appreciate any recommendations for classic or popular TV shows, music, and any key pop culture references I should know about. Also, what are some common topics that come up in school conversations? Thanks in advance!
Hey there! Welcome to the States! It sounds like you’ve got a great mix of interests that will help you connect with others. Here are some tips and recommendations to get you started:
TV Shows:
1. Stranger Things – A mix of nostalgia and supernatural thriller; it’s very popular among students.
2. The Office or Parks and Recreation – Both are hilarious and great for understanding American workplace humor.
3. Breaking Bad – A gripping drama that’s widely discussed and praised.
4. Euphoria – A recent hit that deals with high school life and mental health; it’s quite popular among teens and young adults.
5. Brooklyn Nine-Nine – A fun, lighthearted cop comedy that’s great for laughs.
Music:
1. Taylor Swift – She’s incredibly popular and her music often becomes a conversation starter.
2. Billie Eilish – Her unique style and sound have a huge following among younger crowds.
3. Olivia Rodrigo – Her debut album has been super impactful in recent pop culture.
4. Explore different genres on platforms like Spotify to see what suits your taste—you can find lots of curated playlists that may include indie, pop, rap, and more!
Pop Culture Topics:
1. Current Events – Stay updated on news, especially in entertainment and politics; it often comes up in casual conversations.
2. Memes and Internet Culture – Understanding popular memes can help you fit in; platforms like TikTok and Instagram are great for staying on top of trends.
3. Sports – American football, basketball, and baseball are huge in school culture; knowing a bit about teams or recent games can be helpful.
4. Anime & Gaming – Share your favorites, and you’re sure to find others who share your interests. Events like anime conventions or gaming tournaments are frequently talked about.
Common School Topics:
1. Classes and homework – Students often compare notes or discuss upcoming quizzes and projects.
2. Events – School-related events like sports games, dances, or club activities can be great conversation starters.
3. Pop culture – New movies, shows, music releases, or viral challenges are often hot topics.
Don’t hesitate to share your own interests, especially your art! It can be a great icebreaker and you might make friends with similar passions. Good luck, and enjoy your time in the States!