# data[].attributes.body
I'm curious about how other cultures view religion. I know that some cultures revolve around a certain religion, but that others have people with a mix of religious backgrounds. Which cultures have a single strong religion at their centers?

Shelby Mitchell

# data[].attributes.body
First of all, I think traditions really define a culture. A lot of cultures have practices that are very unique to them, and that can play an important role in their societies. Secondly, I think beliefs also play a big part in defining a culture. Many different cultures have their own beliefs and values that they stress and admire.

Shelby Mitchell

# data[].attributes.body
My favorite tradition among my family is our Christmas eve dinners. We always have corned beef and boiled cabbage, which is really good. I asked my mom where we got that tradition, and she claims it's an old New England thing but I'm pretty sure it originated in Ireland. I'm not exactly sure when we started the tradition, but I love the corned beef all the same!

Shelby Mitchell

# data[].attributes.body
Something I would like people to know about my culture is the unique place my great great grandma and grandpa came from. Not many people have heard of the Isle of Man, but it's a small island in between Ireland and England that functions as a "self governing British Crown dependency". It is a really cool place with a lot of unique landmarks and celtic/viking heritage. My great great grandfather was a very important vicar when he lived there.

Shelby Mitchell

# data[].attributes.body
I don't know how this tradition started, but the Nordic part of my family began cooking tater tot casserole dishes. I honestly don't like it at all, but nonetheless it is still an interesting creation. Now you all know that tater tots are a cultural cornerstone for Nords (Minnesotans) : )
Wyatt Braden

# data[].attributes.body
Ghosts are definitely one of the largest superstitions in my culture, since so much of the culture is based in religious aspects, and the afterlife is a very prominent idea.

The next superstition is about the number 13 being extremely unlucky. I have no idea why, but whoever i have asked why they avoid the number they are told it is unlucky.
Wyatt Braden

# data[].attributes.body
I believe culture is something intangible. Though cultural traditions exist in which many physical attributes are present, culture focuses on personal conduct and beliefs. Both of these aspects are difficult to define over a whole culture because of how each individual may interpret the ideas. Rather, culture is a collective practice that develops and expands with each successive generation of individuals as they make changes, revive or revise old practices, and how they pass on the practices to their successors.

# data[].attributes.body
I have always been interested in how different cultures conduct themselves. My family is a mix of lots of different northern European immigrants, so much of the culture was lost due to many of them 'americanizing.' The same has likely happened to many other families, but I truly respect the families that maintained their traditions, and I will always have more to learn about conducting myself to show respect for their culture. Learning about other cultures leaves me with expectations of how other individuals may act, but I find that many families have gone through the same process as mine, and lost a lot of their cultural values.

Wyatt Braden

# data[].attributes.body
One thing I am curious on is how other cultures view animals. I know some view them as sacred and are worships while in Viet culture we use them for various things from superstitions to assigning zodiac animals. One example that comes to mind is that in Viet culture if one eats duck eggs, they can reverse bad luck.
What are some ways your culture views animals?
Annie Quach

# data[].attributes.body
One of my favorite Vietnamese traditions is the wearing of the Áo Dài, a traditional Vietnamese garment representing new beginnings and often worn at celebrations. Not only can this garment be worn by both genders,  they are also made with vibrant and colorful silks that can appeal to anyone's taste. It is often worn as a symbol of pride for one's culture and can be worn at weddings, festivals, or family get togethers. An interesting fact about the Áo Dài is that colors and lengths of the piece can stand for difference things.
Annie Quach

# data[].attributes.body
One thing I would like people to know about Vietnamese culture is our annual Lunar New Year Festival AKA Tết. It is the most common celebration in Vietnamese culture and is celebrated by many other Asian cultures as well. The purpose of Tết is so acknowledge the coming of the new lunar year and reflect back onto our accomplishments of the past year. It is common to celebrate it through  family gatherings, parades, and gift giving.
Annie Quach

# data[].attributes.body
One of the stark differences I have experienced while growing up in America is how we treat our elders. It is very common in Asian cultures and subsets to treat their elders formally and to a higher degree. For example, growing up in a traditional Vietnamese household, we were required to greet our elders with specific honorifics to indicate their age and show respect. The way I see it differs is how casual some people interact with their elders/ grandparents such as greeting them by their first name, which would not happen in my culture.
Annie Quach

# data[].attributes.body
Curious to know how people feel when they hear music from different cultures, and whether their first instinct is liking or disliking it.

Reem

# data[].attributes.body
Photo of me and my HS best friend by the Giza Pyramids when I took her on a tour to my home country, Egypt, Summer 2019.

Reem

# data[].attributes.body
Evil Eye

Like the Greek, Arabs believe in Evil Eyes. Blue rocks are often used as a protection from it.

Spilling coffee

Spilling coffee is often translated to good luck, or prosperity... I am not sure why.. but it is.

Cats
Though black cats are widely looked upon as bad omens or the devil in disguise, ancient Egyptians considered them as sacred and anyone who killed them was executed.

Reem

# data[].attributes.body
1- Generosity: I would like to practice that forever, and ever. I would love to pass it on too.
2- Acceptance: I accept everyone for who they are, and how they choose to present themselves, I have no desire changing anyone. That freedom is something I aspire to carry forward.
3- Broadness: Arabs are very knowledgeable. Many Arabs grow up traveling, therefore they have a broad exposure. Therefore, that is something I would love to carry on, and pass on further.

Reem

# data[].attributes.body
I do admire the Greek Culture. The greek culture is very similar to the Middle Eastern culture. Greeks are known for being generous, and giving. Greeks also focus on their cuisine, like Arabs. I enjoy the Greeks spirit, their individuality, and their high tide energy.
Reem

# data[].attributes.body
Culture to me is what a person believes in, how they portray themselves, and how they introduce themselves. In other words, your culture can be presented through what you eat, what you say, how you dress, or even just how you approach someone or speak. Culture really embraces individuality and it helps people better learn more and know each other on a more personal level.
Reem

# data[].attributes.body
Ramadan is a holy month, currently taking place. In Ramadan, Arabs fast for a month, from sunrise to sunset. Ramadan is my favorite, because it focuses on family gatherings (pre-covid), quality time and great meals. Ramadan brings people together, and it is a month that requires people to be on their best behavior. For example, controlled temper, more patience, further giving. It really brings out the best of everyone, which is why I appreciate that month.

Reem

# data[].attributes.body
In the Arabic culture, gift giving is very common. Arabs are extremely hospitable, and generous regardless of their socioeconomic level. People often get surprised when they randomly show up and are invited in for dinner, no preparations. But in the Arabic culture, it is actually offensive doing otherwise.

Reem

# data[].attributes.body
Some cultures find tipping to be offensive, where as others; it is actually offensive NOT tipping. I find it interesting how something as small as tipping towards the end of dining out can carry such a meaningful difference. Also, mid day siesta hours in Spain... I know it sounds crazy but they do have mid day taping hours where shops close, and people go home for a nap so stores can stay open much later. Where as, in the U.S, stores usually close by 8-10 PM max.

Reem

# data[].attributes.body
What kind of food is really normal is other cultures but would be considered really weird to eat here?
Tina Heuerman

# data[].attributes.body
Heres me wearing a few different leis at my graduation. The leis all have different meaning depending on the type of flowers and colors you use. Purple, green, and white leis typically symbolize appreciation, admiration, and respect so that why those are the colors you typically see at graduations
Tina Heuerman

# data[].attributes.body
1) Don't take things from the island like lava rocks, sand, or rocks from the beach or you will be cursed by the gods
2)Wearing shoes in the house Is padlock
3)Don't whistle at night or you'll summon the night marchers (ancient Hawaiian warriors)

Tina Heuerman

# data[].attributes.body
Culture is to me is defined by having an array of shared beliefs within a group of people. These beliefs can date back to years ago, and are often passed down over time. Culture is also defined as something sacred and must be taught a certain way to ensure a proper and respectful understanding of ones beliefs. These unique beliefs are what make up a lot of the core values of a group of people, and culture can be extremely important to some.

-Tina Heuerman

# data[].attributes.body
What is one thing that is considered normal in our country that is also considered disrespectful in your culture?

Ashley Nguyen

# data[].attributes.body
I took Japanese in high school for 4 years and I learned much about that culture. My sensei was from Japan and she taught the class so much about Japanese life and culture. I admire the respect and hard-work that is evident within Japanese culture. Speaking with the foreign exchange students also furthered my admiration for the culture.

Reilene Estrada

# data[].attributes.body
Growing up Mexican-American, there was a strong emphasis on family. I was raised with many of my cousins, and I consider many of my aunts and uncles to be other parent figures to me. Many cultures share this emphasis of family. Family is very important to me and I was always told that family is your built in friends and support system.

Reilene Estrada

# data[].attributes.headline
There are many different ways to define culture, but the easiest way to understand the meaning behind the word is to recognize that culture represents common values, knowledge, beliefs, or traditions within a group of people. Culture can go so far as language, music, food, habits, arts, expression, and more. Culture can also be seen as a certain way of life, and how people differentiate themselves from others or find themselves to be unique. The beauty behind cultures is the amount of cultural diversity within our world, which really makes every single culture even more special.

# data[].attributes.subject
There are many different ways to define culture, but the easiest way to understand the meaning behind the word is to recognize that culture represents common values, knowledge, beliefs, or traditions within a group of people. Culture can go so far as language, music, food, habits, arts, expression, and more. Culture can also be seen as a certain way of life, and how people differentiate themselves from others or find themselves to be unique. The beauty behind cultures is the amount of cultural diversity within our world, which really makes every single culture even more special.

# data[].attributes.body
-Karman Tuli

# data[].attributes.headline
The most common culture difference that I always experience is the way of eating out in America. In my culture, when I go out to eat at a restaurant with family or friends, we tend to order the dishes as a group and each eat smaller portions to try each dish out. There has never been a time when I haven't shared the food at a restaurant and paid with one bill (split later) with my family or family friends. On the other hand, when I go out to eat with  friends from school or just any  friend in America, we always get separate checks and order our own dishes to eat. 

# data[].attributes.subject
The most common culture difference that I always experience is the way of eating out in America. In my culture, when I go out to eat at a restaurant with family or friends, we tend to order the dishes as a group and each eat smaller portions to try each dish out. There has never been a time when I haven't shared the food at a restaurant and paid with one bill (split later) with my family or family friends. On the other hand, when I go out to eat with  friends from school or just any  friend in America, we always get separate checks and order our own dishes to eat. 

# data[].attributes.body
- Karman Tuli

# data[].attributes.headline
As a Punjabi American, I would like someone to know that our culture is full of kindness and generosity, and the people in my culture that I have been surrounded with are always willing to help others around  no matter what. In fact, anybody is allowed in a Gurudwara (Sikh place of worship) to eat or sleep, and nobody would refuse service to help you out. Another thing I would love for people to know is a belief in Sikh culture that states hair is not supposed to be cut out of respect of God's creation. Majority of Sikh men, and some women, wear turbans to keep their hair in place after it is long enough to braid.

# data[].attributes.subject
As a Punjabi American, I would like someone to know that our culture is full of kindness and generosity, and the people in my culture that I have been surrounded with are always willing to help others around  no matter what. In fact, anybody is allowed in a Gurudwara (Sikh place of worship) to eat or sleep, and nobody would refuse service to help you out. Another thing I would love for people to know is a belief in Sikh culture that states hair is not supposed to be cut out of respect of God's creation. Majority of Sikh men, and some women, wear turbans to keep their hair in place after it is long enough to braid.

# data[].attributes.body
- Karman Tuli

# data[].attributes.headline
My favorite tradition from my  culture is most definitely Diwali, or also known as the festival of lights. Whenever I think of Diwali, I'm brought back to feeling the moments of happiness and celebration with all of my family and friends, receiving and giving gifts and sweets as everyone has a good time. There is always a lot going on during Diwali, as I usually celebrate it at the Gurudwara, or a Sikh place of worship, with hundreds of others. When I was younger at the Gurudwara, I used to volunteer every year and pass out food to everybody in the Gurudwara to hopefully later receive a reward (toy) at the end. Due to covid, my family and I have not been able to fully celebrate Diwali since 2019, so I cannot wait until this pandemic is over for us to celebrate this tradition again!

# data[].attributes.subject
My favorite tradition from my  culture is most definitely Diwali, or also known as the festival of lights. Whenever I think of Diwali, I'm brought back to feeling the moments of happiness and celebration with all of my family and friends, receiving and giving gifts and sweets as everyone has a good time. There is always a lot going on during Diwali, as I usually celebrate it at the Gurudwara, or a Sikh place of worship, with hundreds of others. When I was younger at the Gurudwara, I used to volunteer every year and pass out food to everybody in the Gurudwara to hopefully later receive a reward (toy) at the end. Due to covid, my family and I have not been able to fully celebrate Diwali since 2019, so I cannot wait until this pandemic is over for us to celebrate this tradition again!

# data[].attributes.body
-Karman Tuli

# data[].attributes.body
Chinese Superstitions
1. Purse on the floor is money out the door - basically putting your purse on the floor is bad luck
2. The number 4 sounds like death in Chinese and is considered extremely unlucky

-Vicki Shi

# data[].attributes.body
I really enjoy a lot of the Chinese holidays. Some of my favorite include the Mid-Autumn Festival, Lunar New Year, and their Dragon Boat Festival. In many of these holidays, family and friends gather together to eat and celebrate. Chinese culture is very family orientated and it is something I've always appreciated.

-Vicki Shi

# data[].attributes.body
My favorite tradition is celebrating Christmas on Christmas Eve with my mom's Chamorro side. We celebrate on Christmas Eve so that we can call/facetime my family in Guam on Christmas Day since Guam is ahead of our time. We eat traditional food such as lumpia, pancit, red rice, guamanian cake, chicken kelaguen, ham, and roast beef. Food preparation usually begins the day before and early Christmas Eve morning, and during this time the woman in my family get to bond and make all the food.

Reilene Estrada

# data[].attributes.body
As a Chinese American woman, I feel like there are a lot of stereotypes regarding women being submissive and cute. Although from an outside perspective Chinese women may seem less aggressive, they commonly manage and have authority over the household. My mom is a real estate agent and I am sure anyone that meets her would know she is far from a submissive and quiet businesswoman. Personally, I feel that stereotypes regarding Asian American women are frustrating because they can potentially limit my career options and upwards movement.

-Vicki Shi

# data[].attributes.body
Growing up in a multicultural family, I have experienced many cultural differences. My mom's side is Chamorro (native Guamanian) and my dad's side is Mexican. My Chamorro side is very big on respect and its customary that you must "amen" everyone in the room. This means kissing and hugging everyone to acknowledge and show your respect towards them. On the other hand, my Mexican side isn't as formal since I was raised with almost all my cousins. On my Chamorro side, recipes for food are only allowed to be shared within the family, and usually only older woman showing their daughters. On my dad's side many of our family recipes are blends of various recipes throughout the years.

Reilene Estrada

# data[].attributes.body
Elementary school allowed me to expand my friend group beyond my mom's friends' kids. This meant meeting other children with different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I remember walking into another family's home with shoes on for the first time and it was super uncomfortable because I didn't want to step on rugs. I felt that I would've gotten the rugs dirty with my shoes.

Another time I had a culture shock was in elementary school when I went to China for the first time. Though times have changed, China used to be a really dirty place and citizens didn't take care of their environment. I watched people shamelessly spit on the floor which I never saw in the U.S.. Nowadays China is a lot cleaner!

- Vicki Shi

# data[].attributes.body
I personally really admire Japanese culture because respect is highly valued

# data[].attributes.body
What's a food that is not known very well but slaps

# data[].attributes.body
My favorite tradition of my culture is Doljanchi (돌잔치). Its a baby's first birthday party! The party has a bunch of little games the baby plays to determine its future. One of the games has a bunch of items like a stethoscope, a pencil, etc. layed out in front of the baby to determine its future job. There is always a ton of people and a ton of food and its always a good time. The baby is always confused and its fun watching them try and figure out whats going on
-Matthew Lee

# data[].attributes.body
My three aspects would be:
1) Classic K-pop groups/songs (Wonder Girls, f(x), SHINee, Ailee, Troublemaker, etc.)
2) A Korean cookbook full of the best recipes
3) A fat jar of kimchi cause itll taste fire when it comes out.
-Matthew Lee

# data[].attributes.body
As a Korean-American, I want people to know that its actively encouraged to wear a hanbok. If you're visiting a Korean monument or historical site, wear a hanbok! The old lades will go bananas over you like try and feed you and introduce you to their similarly aged grandchild. A lot of people have told me they felt nervous to wear a hanbok while visiting Korea but its super fun and many Koreans will be ecstatic that you like our culture!
-Matthew Lee

# data[].attributes.body
Over the summer I became very interested in the Indonesian culture and have started learning the language. I was very drawn to their  belief systems and values. They are very big on family and I am very interested in learning more about their traditional dances, food, and religious ceremonies. I am looking forward to traveling to Indonesia next summer!

-Jasmine Garcia

# data[].attributes.body
One of my favorite Mexican traditions is celebrating El Dia De Los Tres Reyes Magos (The Day Of The Three Wise Men). On this day it is typical for families to share a rosca, which is a round traditional  bread. Inside the rosca, bakers place small plastic babies or animals. Each person takes a trun cutting the bread and if you get a piece with one of the figurines, you are in charge cooking tamales for the next family gathering.

-Jasmine Garcia

# data[].attributes.body
As a whole, I have admiration for any culture that has a emphasizes community, freedom of expression, and celebration of family/ancestors. I absolutely admire the Spanish culture, particularly due to how inclusive Spain is. Although I may be biased since I just studied abroad and had the chance to visit Spain, I love how they value rest and rejuvenation through siesta, where most shops and stores shut down so people can nap. I also love tapas and how popular smaller portion sizes are. Also, I admire that most of the population walks or takes the metro, which reduces emissions drastically and promotes regular exercise.

Bridget Echavez

# data[].attributes.body
I’ve experienced a multitude of cultural differences since my mom’s side of the family is from England and my dad’s side is from the Philippines. I’ve noticed that my aunts and uncles on my mom’s side tend to be more informal in terms of the comments they make about current events. They also don't mind wearing shoes in the house. On the contrary, my dad’s side of the family prefers shoes being left by the door and some of my aunts are rather traditional in that they’d prefer all the women to “marry rich” and pursue the medical field. Whereas my mom’s side is much more lenient and nonchalant in terms of asking about my career and goals, my dad’s side would always push me to pursue a career as a nurse and marry a doctor or wealthy man.

Bridget Echavez

# data[].attributes.body
One of my favorite traditions is bonding with my family on Christmas Eve and eating traditional Filipino dishes with a plant-based twist. My aunt makes vegan pancit and it is one of my favorite meals! We always say a prayer before eating, and I love how we all unite by holding hands and giving thanks for our food and the time we are able to spend together. Also, we tend to partake in White Elephant as well as other engaging activities to interact as a family and get everyone involved.

Bridget Echavez

# data[].attributes.body
Culture is a shared belief system that involves the social behavior and norms associated with individuals in relation to their groups. Culture is pervasive and generational, but can also evolve as new methods of socialization and exchanging information arise. Culture is very diverse and creates patterns among group members and is socially transmitted. Due to certain cultures having a lot of variance in terms of values and customs, cultural disparities arise when individuals aren’t cognizant of certain practices that should be embodied and respected, especially while traveling or communicating with someone from another culture.

Bridget Echavez

# data[].attributes.headline
As a Palestinian-American woman, something I would like someone to know about my culture is specifically where I am from. When I let people know of my cultural background, most people are unaware of Palestine. I wish more people would inquire about the SWANA region and be more active in the political environment within the area. Additionally, I would love if more individuals could separate the Islamic religion towards the Middle Eastern region. Culture is very different than religion. 

# data[].attributes.subject
As a Palestinian-American woman, something I would like someone to know about my culture is specifically where I am from. When I let people know of my cultural background, most people are unaware of Palestine. I wish more people would inquire about the SWANA region and be more active in the political environment within the area. Additionally, I would love if more individuals could separate the Islamic religion towards the Middle Eastern region. Culture is very different than religion. 

# data[].attributes.body
Personally, I admire any culture that allows for people to have the freedom of choice. I think this is why my family immigrated to America. They were sold on the idea of freedom and opportunity. While America and its culture is by no means perfect, I do admire that about our country and culture. For better or worse, Americans tend to be very vocal about their beliefs and ways. Of course, this is a double edge sword, as we have seen in history and today what this belief can also manifest into. America is not perfect and we have a large set of problems that we are continuing to struggle with to this very day. Some of those struggles are even to provide people freedom and equality that we are known for. I think at its core, America is about that fight. Fighting for what we believe in. The world and people as a whole are not perfect, but I hope that we can start changing things for the better.

Ashley Nguyen

# data[].attributes.body
It's hard to define one set thing about a culture. Even within a group of people, there are subcultures (so to speak) and nuances. Culture, I feel, is created when a group of people have a set of values, customs, and beliefs. It's interesting to be how there is a large variety of cultures in the world. Even when a culture can be defined on a nationalistic level, like I said, there are nuances to it within even smaller factions.

Ashley Nguyen

# data[].attributes.body
While this is by no means is limited to just Vietnamese culture, I noticed that with my family and the people around us it is pretty common to fight over the check. Of course, when I say fight, I don't mean squabbling. My family, and I noticed that a few other of my friend's family as well, can get into physical altercations. Nothing major, but it can go from verbally fighting over the check to arm wrestling to actual mild wrestling to prevent the other from paying. It's nothing formal about our culture, but this is a tradition in my family and others that I always find amusing and entertaining.

Ashley Nguyen

# data[].attributes.body
Some italian superstitions:

1). #13 is incredibly lucky.
2). However, #17 is incredibly unlucky because its associated with death.
3). If you knock on iron you can avoid tempting fate. Similar to how others would knock on wood.

# data[].attributes.body
Is there a traditional style of dress you would wear on a special occasion? If so can you describe it?

# data[].attributes.headline
I think one culture difference that I always notice is in Vietnamese culture, or in particular, Asian culture, their is a hierarchy on how to refer to someone. For example, in Vietnamese, you refer to your older siblings as "chi" or "anh." There are many other examples when it comes to referring people older than you and sometimes it even depends on their relation to you. This can also apply to people in your peer group but are older than you. In America, we don't really have that significance on these labels. We have Mr, Mrs, or Miss. We even have Dr. However, for the most part, we don't have anything as rigid. 

# data[].attributes.subject
I think one culture difference that I always notice is in Vietnamese culture, or in particular, Asian culture, their is a hierarchy on how to refer to someone. For example, in Vietnamese, you refer to your older siblings as "chi" or "anh." There are many other examples when it comes to referring people older than you and sometimes it even depends on their relation to you. This can also apply to people in your peer group but are older than you. In America, we don't really have that significance on these labels. We have Mr, Mrs, or Miss. We even have Dr. However, for the most part, we don't have anything as rigid. 

# data[].attributes.body
My favorite tradition from my own culture would have to be my grandma's Filipino cooking. Cooking is the way that my grandma shows she cares for us and whenever we are not feeling well or come back after a long trip she always cooks our favorite meals. Especially coming back home during the pandemic, being able to eat home cooked Filipino meals makes me feel much more connected to my identity than whatever that was in the gastronome. Honestly, even when we move back to in person classes I definitely see myself visiting home pretty often just for the food.

# data[].attributes.body
The three aspects I would choose are:
1) My grandmas recipes (palabok, pork sisig, kaldereta)
2) playing pokeno on New Year's Eve
3) Living close to family

# data[].attributes.body
From what I have experienced culture is defined as common sense of values, beliefs, customs, and way of life that a group shares creating unity. While all humans are inherently unique and different, culture brings us together and connects us with those we have similarities with so we do not feel isolated. Culture is an essential aspect of life since it gives us a community that provides us with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It also provides a network for us to rely on for help through any of the obstacles we may face.

# data[].attributes.headline
What is considered rude behavior in your culture?

# data[].attributes.subject
What is considered rude behavior in your culture?

# data[].attributes.body
What are some incorrect stereotypes about your culture?

# data[].attributes.body
This is a short video with me (right) wearing a traditional Vietnamese ao dai. I'm standing next to my older brother who lion dances. Lion dancing is a traditional Vietnamese performance that includes two people (a head and a tail) that perform acrobatic tricks to bring good luck.

# data[].attributes.body
Some Vietnamese superstitions:

1. Women on their period can not serve pickled veggies or it'll turn bad.
2. Never let the first customer win a bargain or you'll make no money for the rest of the day
3. If you buy your partner a pair of shoes they will leave you

Trina Vu

# data[].attributes.body
I love weddings. Out of all the weddings I've been to, Vietnamese weddings slap harder. In Vietnamese weddings you are expected to serve the guest 8-10 courses including appetizers, seafood, fried rice, and desserts. Guests are also expected to bring money instead of gifts and traditionally the amount of money you receive covers the majority of the cost for the wedding. This allows newly weds to not have to worry about finances when having their wedding.

Trina Vu

# data[].attributes.body
In Asian cultures, it is very common to share your meal or order plates for the intention of sharing. When I go out to eat with friends who are also Asian I usually do the whole "you order A and I'll order B and that way we can try both" or "I ordered the wings for the table". I had some experience where some people felt offended or uncomfortable when I ask to try their food or mention sharing buying share plates rather than individual. I try to be more consciousness of others eating habits now to respect how other people were raised.

Trina Vu

# data[].attributes.body
What is an underrated dish from your culture?

# data[].attributes.body
The most surprising cultural difference I experienced is with how different cultures eat beans. In Asian cultures its common to have beans used in desserts in the form of a paste or in soup. When I first had Mexican food I was surprised to taste beans seasoned with salt. I've come to appreciate the variety of dishes that use beans. Another ingredient found in some Asian desserts is taro and I've been told by my friend from that it taste like sweet fried beans.

# data[].attributes.body
One of my favorite traditions from my culture is during Chinese New Year Eve my family and friends will gather to wrap dumplings. The dumplings signify prosperity as the shape of the dumplings look like ancient Chinese money. My favorite dessert to eat during this holiday are tang yuan or sweet rice ball. Its like mochi but its usually served in a sweet soup and has a red bean or sesame paste filling.

# data[].attributes.body
I believe culture is a way of life shared by a group of people that is passed down for generations. It is expressed in numerous ways such as our morals, religion, music, cooking, etc. Culture is fascinating because they are found in numerous areas in our lives such as within our family and friends or even office culture. It is amazing to see how culture is adapting today and in the future.

# data[].attributes.body
I've learned that every culture has a different way of greeting people so what is the traditional way to greet people in your culture?

# data[].attributes.body
These are some superstitions in the Japanese Culture:

1. Don't stick your hashi (chopsticks) upright in rice since considered disrespectful and is also bad luck since it mimics incense (making offering to the dead)

2. Writing someone's name in red is bad since it implies that the person is deceased

# data[].attributes.body
Picture of my wearing a Yukata! (this is when I was in HS so I look like a baby). A Yukata is usually worn to summer festivals such as Obon. Yukatas can be a variety of different colors and patterns so people can wear whatever they like! Although wearing Yukatas to festivals isn't as popular in the U.S it is something that is very popular in Japan.

# data[].attributes.body
One of my favorite traditions from my Japanese side is making mochi at New Year's. This is something I've done since I was little and it's an event that bring the entire family together. Usually I go up to my cousin's house in central California to make mochi, but this year my family had to do it by ourselves for the first time in years. Although my family just makes mochi at home there is a tradition called mochitsuki which is where people will gather to pound mochi. Tanaka Farms usually host a mochitsuki and they even host a competition to see which team can make the best mochi!

# data[].attributes.body
Since I am mixed race (half Japanese and half white) I've had my fair share of cultural differences even when it comes to my immediate family. Since my dad is Japanese, his view of things definitely has an Asian cultural influences such as not wearing shoes in the house, having us bring gifts when going to friends houses, paying for people's food without expecting payment back, etc. As for my mom, she is Caucasian and her major influences has been food since she is the main cook in the house. One thing I do enjoy about having parents of different races is they do bring different perspectives on every situation since their opinions are influences by their own culture. This work in my favor since I'm able to have a more holistic view on a situation, but it also causes some arguments at times. Overall, through my family situation I've come to embrace cultural differences since it lets me learn new things about both of my parents and about the cultures they come from.

# data[].attributes.body
I think something that is probably very common in all cultures but highly emphasized in my personal experience is the idea of family. I feel like my family, cousins and all, are super supportive of one another, whether anyone is in a tight spot or during important milestones of our journey. Nevertheless, I've been repeatedly taught from my grandparents and parents on how family brings this inexplicable but somewhat comforting feeling in your heart and I am only grateful that this experience is something I can cherish growing up!

# data[].attributes.body
People who know me can probably guess I have a slight interest in Korean culture as it stands, whether it be about the food, arts, or traditions explained by my many friends. I guess it all started from learning in my history class on South Korea emerging as one of the 4 Asian tigers (economic powerhouse) in the 1960s) and BTS (kek). Nevertheless, being so immersed in a culture not familiarized by my family nor beliefs has given me insight on how different cultures have their own quirks and may sometimes give you different perceptions on interpreting life! Hence, I have immense respect for Korean culture and would love to explore it more in depth when traveling to the country someday!

# data[].attributes.body
I would say that three aspects of my culture I would preserve include; 1: Recipes of some good, hearty pho in a box because I can literally eat it every day of the year.
2: A Vietnamese game called Bầu cua tôm cá (search it up if you dont know!) because I like gambling my entire life savings away.
3: Adults giving red envelopes to children not only as a sign of good luck and prosperity but also as a nontaxable gift transfer to kids to spend with.

# data[].attributes.body
Every Chinese New Year's Eve, my entire family would assemble a party at our grandpa's house and celebrate with lots of different little games and events while wearing red! When I was little, my cousins and I would praise our aunts, uncles, grandparents, and drink/eat this bitter concoction of soup and super long noodles in drinks for good fortune and longevity. I also enjoy hot pot almost every year and its hard to miss the social atmosphere when interacting with my cousins!

# data[].attributes.body
Not necessarily a tradition, but one of my favorite elements of my culture, Chinese, is the food. If you have never head of dim sum before, you are missing out! Ranging from dumpling wrapped pork and shrimp to pork buns, I want to have these every week of my life. I would love to take any of you to try some because I know a couple of places!

# data[].attributes.body
Why is India known for its spices?

# data[].attributes.body
1) Don't shake your leg because you are shaking off good fortune.
2) Finish every grain of rice in your bowl.
3) Give children in your family red envelopes!

# data[].attributes.body
Culture is the idea of following a set of beliefs and a way of life that resonates with a group of people. These ideas evolve over time as they are passed on to future generations, which may create a cultural fusion or melting pot. I think the beauty of culture is the fact that location no longer determines the culture you identify with. With the ability to travel great distances, it is easy to immerse ourselves with new cultures and adapt new lifestyles.

# data[].attributes.body
In Chinese, the number 4 is considered bad luck because it has a close pronunciation to death in Mandarin and Cantonese. Also, never give a clock to someone as a gift because that also signifies death.