This is John Kennedy with another Postcard from Abroad from the University of Kansas.
Small talk between strangers may be the norm for Americans, but our desire to exchange pleasantries in this way is not shared worldwide. While we might appreciate the grocery clerk asking about our weekend plans or the hairstylist enquiring about our kids, this type of banter can come off as puzzling to many of our international visitors. For those raised outside of the U.S., the seemingly feigned interest that Americans exhibit toward one another may seem superficial and overly personal. When unprompted conversations with strangers touch on questions about family and work, innocent small talk might even seem suspicious. So, whether you spend your day in Kansas or Kuala Lampur, remember that idle chatter can reflect the culture in which you find yourself.
With thanks to Alison Watkins of the KU Office of International Programs for this text, this is John Kennedy. Wish you were here!
