Resources: Notes on Life and Language in the United States

What does it take to build a successful career? What would you give up to have a career that really fulfills you? In the United States, we say, "Follow your passion, do what makes you happy and forget what other people say." But does this advice make sense in non-western cultures where one's commitment to the family or the group means more than his individual place in society? This week I watched a TEDx presentation by Larry Smith, a well-known Canadian professor and thought leader in the fields of Economics and Entrepreneurship. Larry talked about the many excuses that people give for not seeking out their passion and or for finding their passion but continuing to work at an unfulfilling job because it is safe or it provides stability for their family. At one point in the talk, Larry asked, "Why would you seek refuge in human relationships as an excuse not to find and pursue your passion?"  In Western countries, many people tend to agree with this message.  I wonder how his point would come across in other cultures around the world?

Are you an expat looking to build your career in the US? Perhaps you have relocated to a major US city like New York or Boston with your spouse and kids. Your spouse is working full time, progressing in his or her career and establishing great professional connections. What about you? Maybe you left a great job back in your home country to come to the US and provide support for your family with the cultural transition. But now you are feeling ambitious and you are ready to take this oppportunity to build your resume while you are living in the United States. Where can you start? A great way to start is by gathering information through an informational interview. In this article, I will tell you about why and how we conduct informational interviews in the US and how you can use this practice to learn more about your field, build your network and maybe find a job opportunity.

Are you an expat in NYC or Boston, wondering about that strange and confusing American custom called tipping? When it comes to tipping at restaurants, in taxis and at the hair stylist, it's pretty straightforward, right? However, what about that friendly man who opens the door for you everyday at your apartment building? Maybe he even knows your name. Sometimes he offers to carry your groceries and he usually hails you a cab on a rainy day. If you are like some of our students, you may be wondering how much and when you should tip your doorman. There are no rules written in your lease and it might be an awkward question to ask your neighbor, so you are stuck! In this post, you will learn how much and when you should tip your doorman in New York or Boston.

Are you interested in learning conversational English in Boston? Do you work during the week but rarely have an opportunity to practice your English outside of work? A lot of international professionals are too busy during the week to find a language exchange or attend a language school. If that is your situation, we have some great ideas for you in today's post. There is another way to practice your English while helping people in need and making connections in the community. You can become a volunteer in your free time! Do you have two extra hours a few times per month? If so, keep reading to find out why volunteering can help not only your English skills but also your state of mind!

Will you be interviewing for a job in English sometime soon?

Do you need to practice your English for an upcoming graduate school interview? Not sure what kind of questions the interviewer will ask? We are located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, home to Harvard and MIT and about 50 other academic institutions. Sometimes we help students prepare for their interview to get into their "dream" school or academic program. If you want to get accepted at your institution of choice, preparation is the key. In today's article, you will learn some common graduate school interview questions and how you should respond to them.

If you have done a little traveling or if you have encountered a lot of people from different cultures in your everyday life here in Boston, you have probably created your own theories about cultural differences and time.