Welcome to Oregon!
We will give you everything you need to know.
Here's some tips on How to Fit in:
How to Get Cathy Gates Not to Hate You
If you're a girl, just don't talk to Jonathan McKinnon.
Don’t talk badly about her, ever (it will get back to her)!
Compliment her often.
Fitting In: School Edition
It just makes you look weird.
2. Come to as many football games as possible.
If you aren't in the crowd, people tend to figure out.
3. Get good grades- But not too high.
You don't want to seem like a geek!
4. Don't talk to Cathy Gates voluntarily.
Let her come to you. Like I said before, she could be avoiding you for a reason...
American Customs
How do Americans act/behave during various circumstances? What do we do? Here are a few:
1. Every morning, kids recite the Pledge of Allegiance at school.
They put their hands on their hearts, they look at the American flag, and recite. It's normal to hear a bunch of kids goofing off during the pledge. This is because they take for granted their free country. Don't be that person. Stay respectful and grateful for the country you live in today.
2. Before big games, they sing our country's national anthem.
We call it The Star-Spangled Banner. Everyone removes their hats and puts their hands on their heats before big soccer, football, basketball, etc. games. We sing the song, then get down to sport business
3. Americans believe than personal hygiene and cleanliness is very important.
Now I'm not sure about you, but smelling and looking nice is a pretty big priority for me. When I go to school, I do not want people avoiding me because I smell like I woke up in the dumpster! Especially after gym. Even if you do shower all together, it's worth it. Trust me.
4. Americans like to joke, smile, laugh, and have fun.
We value our lives. We know that each day only comes once. So, why not have a little bit of fun? We like to say silly things that don't make sense, and we smile and laugh with one another. Having fun is very important to many Americans.
5. We love our food.
Food is everywhere. Every mile you drive, every corner you turn. Food places like McDonald's, KFC, and even ice cream parlors are everywhere! You couldn't possibly be hungry after you go to one of these places.
6. Sports are everything!
You'll always see the big, buff guys in their sports jerseys. Girls play sports too, you just don't see that as often.
7. American Holidays
We've got a whole lot of holidays. Some Christians celebrate Christmas, Easter, and more. We have St. Patrick's day, and Independence Day (which celebrates America's freedom), and many more holidays.
Things to Know About Football
1. It's a very physical sport.
If you're not into big guys knocking each other out and being pulled out in stretchers, this probably isn't the sport for you.
2. There's always a group of girls on the side dancing and cheering for the players.
They're not necessarily cheerleaders, but they do lead cheers... And Cathy Gates will always be in that group!
3. Be ready for people to fool around during the national anthem.
It's disrespectful. Don't do it. Even though you're probably much more grateful for your life her after escaping!
Stay True to Your Roots, but Do What You Love
1. Every decision you make in your new life will be difficult.
You're not the only one. Be ready to make these decisions. Do you want to practice your old cultures? Or do you want to try something new?
2. If your heart is telling you something different than your family, do what you think is best.
Always respect your family, but you can make your own decisions, too. You only live once, so make the most of the short life you have.
3. Don't let outsiders rule over your opinions.
You are different then them. You have more experience than them. Don't ever let them tell you how to live your new life (unless they're helping you out like I am, that's different).
How to Keep Secrets from Your Family
1. Act normal at home.
You'll eventually forget about it, but you will feel guilty in the beginning. The important thing is, don't act funny, otherwise, your family will figure that something is off.
2. Let your friends know that you're not supposed to be seeing them.
If you tell them, they'll know not to mention a thing if they see your family. But make sure NOT to let their families know! Guardians especially-they get strict about these things. It's an adult-adult thing. Us kids don't understand.
3. Stay away from people who would blab.
Have you heard of Pok Sary's wife? Well stay away from her. She will blab on you, trust me.
High School Varsity Football Game
Thursday, May 19, 2016, 09:00 PM
The Back Fields at the High School
How to Deal With the Death of Someone you Loved in your Hometown
1. Surround yourself with people who care.
Even if you're banned from seeing him, you know Jonathan McKinnon is always there for you. Talk to him. He will listen.
2. Think positive.
You were doing fine without him, and you will do fine after his death. You don't want to waste perfect days moping around and feeling sorry for yourself.
3. Give yourself plenty of rest and time to think about what you will do with yourself.
Not too much time, though (read #2). Spend a short amount of time thinking about him, and rest. It's the medicine for everything.