COM100

COM100
Final Paper
Part 1 will be done in class

Part 2: (45 points)
A. Interview with someone new to U.S. Culture

Identify and schedule an approximately 30-minute interview with an individual who grew up in a culture different from what is typically considered “American.” Individuals who have moved to the U.S. from foreign countries could be a good choice. Prior to the interview, develop at least five questions to ask this person. Some examples include:
• What shocked you or what did you find most odd or strange about American culture when you first arrived here?
• What is the biggest difference between U.S. culture and your native culture?
• What would an American business traveler or tourist need to know when visiting your country?
• How could people have helped to make you feel more at home when you first arrived in the U.S.?

B: INTERVIEW “AN OTHER”

Watch TED Talk with Elizabeth Lesser to learn of her initiative, then conduct and interview with someone who as Ms. Lesser describes, “has a lifestyle that may frighten you, or whose point of view makes smoke come out of your ears.” Ms. Lesser will explain her initiative and give you ideas on how to conduct your interview. This option could be a wonderful “stretch” and a chance to expand your comfort zone as well as learn different worldview than your own.

The goal of this option is to get to know one person from a group that you may have negatively stereotyped. Ms. Lesser offers the following guidelines for the conversations:
• Don’t persuade, defend, or interrupt.
• Be curious
• Be conversational
• Be real
• LISTEN

Part 3: (10 points) Immediately after your interview, write a brief thank you letter to person you interviewed. Make a copy to turn in (on canvas) and send the original to the person you interviewed.

Part 4: (30 points) Write a 2-3-page reflection describing your interview experience and be prepared to share your reactions to this experience in class on Finals day. Reevaluate your stereotype and prejudices. Be sure to identify the person or group, the site of your conversation, and the questions you asked.
• What did you learn about “the other”?
• What surprised you about your perspective?
• What did you learn about your own stereotypes and/or prejudices?

Upload your reflection to canvas and bring a copy to discuss during the Final.