I am an international student on a student visa in a relationship with an American citizen.

I am an international student on a student visa in a relationship with an American citizen. Even though I know we have a good friendship and compatible interests, sometimes I just can't stand the priviledged way he sees the world. I feel like a parasite when his family takes me in as a guest, I feel the unbalanced power dynamic compromises our relationship. :(
I am an international student on a student visa in a relationship with an American citizen. Even though I know we have a good friendship and compatible interests, sometimes I just can’t stand the priviledged way he sees the world. I feel like a parasite when his family takes me in as a guest, I feel the unbalanced power dynamic compromises our relationship. 🙁

It seems likely that you have have a much broader experience with the world than he does, and I suspect that plays a large role in the disconnect between you two on this one facet of your relationship. I don’t know how serious you are, or your life situation, but it might do you both some good to explore your native culture together. That could be as simple as scheduling video chats with your friends and family back home for the two of you, or as extravagant as having him come visit you in your home country. Seeing the human side of the “other” is a powerful way to break down privileged views of your own culture. It’s doubtful that he or his family mean any ill will when they take you in as a guest. It’s worth noting that simply by the fact that this is their home country, they will have more institutionalized power and comfort than you. I don’t think that’s right, but the opposite would be true if he were an international student in your country. No matter what, I think it’s important that you’re honest with him about your feelings. If the relationship is important, he will take them to heart. If not, then perhaps you’ve done yourself a favor long term.