Former US labor secretary lists cultural differences between China and US

Chinese Graduates of Columbia University attend the commencement ceremony in New York City, United States, on May 20, 2015.[Photo/Xinhua]

Egalitarian society

"If Americans want to say something, generally speaking, they will say it without much consideration as to hierarchy, tradition, or precedence--who's senior, more superior, older, or in higher position," Chao said, adding that this facilitates exchange of ideas, brainstorming, and overall communications in American culture.

Emphasis on individualism

"They celebrate being weird," Chao said, which made all the students chuckle.

Chao said that people shouldn't feel offended or have their feelings hurt when someone does or says something they don't like. Vice versa," don't hesitate or be afraid to express your opinion".