This time I’m going to share with you another two values that are very important to Americans. The one value that nearly every American would agree on is individual freedom. U.S. Americans are encouraged at an early age to be independent and to develop their own goals in life; as a result, they are rewarded when they try hard to reach these goals. However, they are encouraged to not depend too much on others including their friends, teachers and parents. Most people in the U.S believe that the ideal person is an independent and self-reliant person. Because of cultural differences I, as well as some other international students, initially saw this attitude as "selfishness".

Privacy is also important to Americans. The idea of individual privacy sometimes makes it difficult for us (international students) to make new friends. Because Americans respect one's privacy, they may not go much beyond a friendly "hello." For example, a very common American greeting is “How are you?” and the only answer that most people really want to hear is “Fine.” When Americans talk, they like to have a lot of space between themselves and their conversation partners. Also, almost everywhere you will hear people say "Excuse me", although they have not actually touched anyone. This is also is kind of privacy. U.S. Americans like their privacy and enjoy spending time alone. Children in most American families often go to their own rooms and close their doors to be alone. However, this is perfectly normal, and demonstrates the American attitude toward privacy.