How Immigrants Can Better Adapt to American Culture: Expert in Interpersonal Relations Shares Insights

Just like relationships among people within social groups, the culture of a particular context is built over time. Some guidelines are established quickly, usually through legally imposed rules. However, a large part of these norms is solidified over longer periods through habits, customs, and social conventions that evolve over many years.

This brief overview can be an important first step in understanding how an immigrant can adapt more smoothly to the culture of a new country they’re about to explore. So why not use the United States as an example — one of the most sought-after destinations for people willing and planning to seek new opportunities and change their lives?

In many cases, the motivation behind such a move involves delicate human circumstances, such as persecution, war, or other severe internal crises in the person’s country of origin. Recent data on immigration flows to the U.S. helps us better understand this large yet sensitive global phenomenon.

According to 2023 and 2024 figures, the United States is approaching the mark of 50 million immigrants. Experts estimate that about a quarter of this population may be undocumented. This, they say, is one of the factors that can make the adaptation process even more difficult.

Among these experts is Mizanur Rahman, a professional with extensive expertise in interpersonal relationships. Rahman is a real estate broker and financial specialist with over 12 years of experience in real estate transactions, financial management, and payroll systems. As a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) and licensed realtor, he has handled complex negotiations and provided strategic financial advice to a wide range of clients. This makes him highly qualified to discuss the needs of individuals, especially regarding basic necessities like housing.

"We could highlight several tips as potentially the most important, but in my view, the key is understanding the need to step out of one’s comfort zone. A person who is too comfortable is rarely open to new learning experiences and tends to procrastinate on their personal growth. This is human nature, not just something faced by immigrants encountering a new culture in a foreign country."

Practical Steps

According to experts like Mizanur Rahman, there are a few essential steps that help immigrants leave their comfort zones. These key steps target the main challenges immigrants face, both due to the demands of the learning process and their importance in daily life.

It’s almost unanimous: one of the most critical elements is language. Many immigrants arrive in the U.S. with a solid foundation in English, but it’s also common to find people who move to the country without even basic command of the primary language.

"When it comes to language, one useful tip — still focused on stepping out of the comfort zone — is about social interaction. It’s obviously important to engage with fellow immigrants from the same country, but an immigrant’s daily life cannot revolve only around that. As we’ve said, inertia and comfort can hinder any learning process. Ideally, newcomers should have regular contact with native English speakers."

More Data and Key Aspects

Returning to U.S. immigration statistics, Mexico has the highest number of immigrants in the country, partly due to geographic proximity. It's estimated that about 20% of all immigrants in 2023 and 2024 are of Mexican origin. Following that, Asian countries like China and India represent the next largest groups.

But the list of crucial points for successful cultural adaptation doesn’t end with language skills. Mizanur Rahman highlights other key issues that are just as important for the successful integration of immigrants, based on his years of experience working with individuals from around the world.

One of these aspects is financial. Many immigrants come from countries where the economic reality makes it difficult to earn an income comparable to what’s possible in their new home. Still, the so-called “American Dream” — a fulfilling life in many areas, especially financially — requires time, effort, critical thinking, and strategic planning.

"We’ve discussed language, community involvement, and economic factors, but there are even more valuable points. Understanding the culture means understanding the legal principles the country is built on. In the U.S., some of these legal principles can vary from state to state. Along the same lines, we must also emphasize not just legal aspects, but ethical and moral values, which may differ depending on the region — this is, after all, a country of continental proportions."

More About His Journey

Today, Mizanur Rahman works as a Real Estate Broker and Financial Specialist at Royal LePage in Toronto, Canada, where he leads property sales, client relations, and financial reporting. He has a solid track record in regulatory compliance, strategic financial planning, and accurate record-keeping.

His professional journey began in finance-related roles such as Payroll and Benefits Specialist at Johnvince Foods Ltd. and Accounting and Payroll Manager at Universal Energy Alternatives. Over the years, he gained recognized experience in auditing, payroll management, and cost optimization.

Originally from Bangladesh, Rahman holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from the University of Dhaka (1991) and has earned certifications such as PCP (Payroll Compliance Practitioner) and Licensed Real Estate Broker. He is also an active member of several professional organizations, including OREA, RECO, and NAR. Another achievement was becoming a specialist in E-Commerce Networks at the Institute for Computer Studies in Toronto in 2001.

In his payroll roles, he helped implement administrative improvements for hundreds of employees, boosting organizational efficiency and employee satisfaction. His financial expertise also supported companies in reducing costs, maintaining tax compliance, and making strategic decisions based on accurate reporting.

Rahman has also been recognized for his performance and proactive attitude. He has received multiple sales excellence awards from Royal LePage, as well as the Best Employee Gold Award from Direct Energy. His dedication to client satisfaction and financial proficiency has earned him a reputation as a trusted professional in his field.