University Graduates

How are American university students recieved by their peers in the UK?

I'm planning to attend the University of Winchester for my master's beginning in the fall of '08, and then most likely taking permanent residence in the UK. I must admit though that I'm a bit nervous about how I'll be received by my peers. I'm fully aware that Americans are not loved by the rest of the world because of our politicians bad decisions and the behaviours of many of "us" while on European tours, but I'd like to think I have a good grasp on British culture as I've visited the UK numerous times and also posess a degree in British History and Literature....however, I would like to know how other British students feel about someone in my situation. Would you be willing to give me a chance, or do you tend to steer clear of Yanks altogether? Also, what about accents? I don't really have much of a regional dialect as my parents were from opposite sides of the country, so no twang or anything, but do the British still find that annoying or unpleasant?

Public Comments

1. I like American people you alway sprovide very amusing TV and chat shows however in Brittain we don't really get so wound up about things. Not everything is a huge deal infact I would say most brits could give a S**t about things that happen. It depends I suppose on where you are going to stay in Brittain some people are quite ignorant and a lot of areas are full of really nice people!
2. You'll get along just fine! People in the UK are very welcoming to Americans! Don't take any notice of anyone who claims not to like Americans.He/she is just annoyed because President Reagan, supported by Thatcher, put a stop to Communism. Get the views of people on the Q&A service. Probably someone from Winchester will tell you something about the University and its student life. WAKEN UP! You guys in Winchester! Tell this young lady something to make her feel welcome! You obviously know more than the average English Student: because most of them are semi-literate, and need to be taught joined-up writing in their first years at University. LOL :-) Let's hear it from you Boys and Girls! Welcome this young lady!
3. they'll fawn over your accent (alot), tell you how cool it it (alot) and ask you want England's like (alot). You may hear some remarks about you (that are not directed at you) cause you'll be a a bit of a phenomenon (Omigod! Did you, like, here her? I think she's like, British, etc). Then you might here others mimick you, or comment/make fun of your customes (or just use stereotypes), but aside form that i think you'll be okay.
4. As long as you treat people with respect, I suppose. No matter where you go, SOMEONE is going to treat you with disrespect. Most of them will not care whether you are there or not. There are disrespectful people everywhere you go. And ignorant ones as well. Most people are decent.
5. You'll be just fine. There have been a number of American postgraduate students at the universities I have attended, and everyone has got along perfectly well. As for accent, most universities in the UK have large numbers of postgraduate students from all over the world, so your accent will be just one among many. Don't think for a moment that you will be the only 'outsider', or that you will be treated as such. I hope you enjoy your time in the UK, and that your studies go well. Good luck.
6. Don't worry about it...Just come and get on with your life.
7. Birtain is a multicultural society and we are not really fazed by accents or the looks of foreigners. If you are a nice person you'll get by as you would in most parts of the world and at least you won't have to overcome a language barrier. So relax and enjoy this fantastic country with its reserved but welcoming people and if you enjoy a nice cup of tea then so much the better. ta ta for now