Landing in New York in June 2016, I couldn't imagine, unlike some other students, shedding tears of admiration or marveling at every millimeter of my journey. My mind was on completely different things. I was flying alone at 19, with not-so-fluent English. Where to now?
Before the flight, I met someone online who was supposed to meet me at the airport, show me the city, and explain everything. But I didn't see him. I stood there for about 40 minutes, and I couldn't connect to the Wi-Fi. Relying on this person, I hadn't even bothered to look up the exact route to my town for the next 3 months - Ocean City, NJ. It was evening, around 8 o'clock. And there I was, miserable, suitcase in hand, looking around the huge airport.
Naturally, the next morning, happy (or not quite), I was already exploring the city by the ocean, because, as they say, a tongue will get you to Kyiv. To be honest, I didn't understand much the first week. I kept asking people to repeat themselves, but I didn't try to avoid conversations. I'm an open person, and it's hard for me without communication. Plus, I met very patient Americans who found it endearing rather than annoying.
Two weeks after my arrival, while walking along the boardwalk, I accidentally met an elderly American. By that time, the language barrier had completely evaporated. We went to a nearby cafe and discussed politics, the relationship between Russia and America, and the problem of international terrorism. Fortunately, my university major allows me to do that. And, oh miracle, the conversation flowed so calmly, without pauses or searching for the right words. That day, I realized I was starting to immerse myself in this atmosphere. The atmosphere of an English-speaking country.
Giving advice to J-1 visa newcomers, I just want to repeat an old truth - don't be afraid to open your mouth :) Just speak, with mistakes, slowly. But speak. A native speaker will always encourage your desire to speak their native language. Over time, I assure you, your level of conversational English will improve significantly.
And what should you do at first, when, in your opinion, Americans have mush in their mouths, and for some reason, they don't understand your "perfect" English? Nobody has canceled sign language :) No, seriously. I've seen many cases where Russians tried to convey something to an American, gesturing so wildly that they swept everything in their path. But I'm sure that's not your case. You have basic knowledge; it's just important to understand how to expand it correctly and how to properly use the time given to you in America.
