Interview Questions Answered

1.     What could SCSU do to make your stay on campus better?

There are a few things that SCSU could do to improve things on campus. First, the notification system for classes being cancelled for whatever reason is atrocious. Additionally, parking is a nightmare and has a lot of room for improvement. The amount for a parking ticket is too high. They should make permits more affordable as well. With a few of those things taken care of, I can’t say I would have much left to complain about. They facilitate learning well overall.

2.     Could you tell me a secret about yourself that very few people here know about and that shows us well, who you are and what you stand for?

I could tell you many secrets. That does not mean that it would benefit you to know them. It doesn’t even mean you would know more about who I am or what I stand for. Those are not secrets to me. I divulge information willingly for the most part. I enjoy getting to know someone and understanding how he or she ticks. Therefore, I feel obligated to allow them the same opportunity. This usually gets me into trouble; not a good trait.

3.     Which country`s food do you like the most? What are the similarities and differences between it and your own culture`s food?

When I think about what kind of food I like the most, it takes me awhile to put a finger on it. I am not prejudicial based upon the foods origins. The only thing that really matters is how it tastes to you. I enjoy a great steak, but I also love shrimp. The best food caters to the occasion and the mood at the time that you are eating it. In some cases my favorite foods would make me want to puke, but that doesn’t stop me from eating the right food for the right occasion.

4.     What are the typical greetings in your culture and what do they mean?

Typically, I just say “Hey!” “Hello” or “ello”. “Hey” can mean: what do you think you are doing? It can also mean: you over there, come here and talk to me. Lastly, it is most commonly meant to just greet kindly and innocently. “Hello” would mean I am simply trying to greet you neutrally: with no mood attached to my greeting. This is a pretty common greeting here in America. “Ello” is a friendly and almost silly greeting that is playfully mocking the way that British people have an accent.

5.     What kind of government is in charge of your home country, how did it affect your life and how has democracy in America been a change?

The type of government that was in charge in my home country was a presidential representative democratic republic. I left the country when I was 3 years old. That form of government may have had a little affect on my life. The way I was treated as a baby may have been different from here in some ways. For instance, I was born on a queen bed, at home, with a mosquito net over it in order to keep me from contracting malaria. In many ways Democracy has not been a change for me due to growing up in America.

6.     What different modes of transportation are used in your country?

Most people tend to drive around when they need to go places. Some smaller towns you may see people walking from place to place. Occasionally, there are bicycles used as transportation when you need to arrive faster than walking. My personal favorite method of transportation is on a motorcycle. This is the fastest and, I think, safest method of transport. It is also much more efficient than driving a car! Planes are also used when needing to travel great distances. If I need to go to California I am more likely to fly, because it is cheaper than driving.

7.      At what age do you start school? Are you under a lot of stress in school?

When I was three, I attended pre-school. Not everyone goes to pre-school though. It is also possible to start kindergarten when you are five. School can get more stressful over time. It is all about how you let it affect you as well as what you dwell on. The level of homework was higher in High School than in college. The significance of your homework is higher in college. I think it can be stressful at times to think how you do on some test could affect your future. Having a job while in school also has compounded that stress level.

8.     What religious holidays or other cultural events do you or others celebrate; can you explain your traditions for each? 

I am not very religious to begin with. That does not stop me from celebrating holidays though. I celebrate Christmas. We exchange presents and have a family dinner. I also celebrate Thanksgiving and have a large meal with many courses. New Year’s is a great holiday. We have parties and confetti! Then, we usually have a resolution for the new year.

9.     Do you have any daily rituals in regards to your religious beliefs?

I don’t have any rituals per say. I am not religious. My family is somewhat religious. They pray before meals sometimes. They also go to church on Sundays. I, personally, do not participate. I find it a bit naïve.

10.    How would you describe famous sports in your country?

Football is the most watched sport in America. The superbowl is a fantastic game to watch in America. Soccer is also pretty popular. Soccer tends to be more popular internationally. Baseball is supposedly a very American sport. I am not really a fan of it. It can be really boring to watch. I prefer cricket which is more common in South Africa.

11.    Can you describe a typical day for a child in your country?

I am not sure about a typical day for other children, but I can describe a typical day for me. Start of the day with a shower. Next, I usually check my phone and see who replied or didn’t. Then if I have class I will go to it. After class, I will either make breakfast or if I am really tired, sleep more. Then maybe I will watch a movie on my computer and relax. After that, make some lunch. Most days, I work a 5-8 hour shift. Lastly, I will come home, finish homework if necessary, and then get some well-needed rest.