American students are used to other students who are like them, so they often ask international students a lot of questions. I'm sure the same thing happens to American students in other countries. Whether or not these are rude is debatable. On the one hand, students are just trying to learn another culture, but the methodologies can be awkward. On the other hand, being singled out for questioning could be an alienating experience for many.
What is that accent?
Accent is one of the most evident things people notice, and a lot of them are dying to know where it's from. Many feel singled out when this is asked. At the same time, people are often just looking to understand. But the cost is being possibly insensitive.
How come you speak English so well?
Just like any other person who speaks a secondary language well, it takes practice to become good at a language.
What are you?
This reminds me of the video we saw in class, "What kind of Asian are you?" even if it was more about Asian Americans born in the US. Still, the insistent "No, where are you FROM?" is very othering. The answer to this question is, of course, "human."
More specific to Asians:
Have you ever eaten dog?
This is a real cultural practice, but it happens in such small amounts that it's not worth asking. Dogs are a culturally valued animal in America so it's not used in our cuisine. Asking an Asian this is basically accusing them of some moral injustice and is socially shaming.
Do you get in trouble if you don't get straight A's?
Maybe, maybe not, but why is this a quiz on how many stereotypes they fit into?
How do you say ___ in your native language?
Asians in the US don't exist to be everyone's translator.
There are many more examples of this, but one thing is for sure. A lot of people are tired of being the spokesperson for their race or nationality. It's good to be curious about other cultures, but there needs to be some more cultural sensitivity.
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