[hocus pocus]

It must have been really difficult to be bullied like you were. That is unfortunate but it is good that you have made it out on the other side of what you experienced.

It's awesome that you're interested in starting a relationship. Know that someone who truly matters won't mind where you're from. Those who matter don't mind and those who mind don't matter.

I don't really think there are any particular tips specific to befriending an American. Just be yourself. Don't hide who you are to impress someone. Being yourself is so much easier.

By the haters, do you mean the people who don't want to go out with you because of where you're from? It might help to just bow out gracefully, you know? At the end of the day, people like that don't really matter and being upset is completely valid but it can be draining.