My mother is a traditional Chinese woman whose highest education is high school. The action of coming to the United States is an invitation to a better life as indicated in the American Dream. The American Dream is a popular social ideal in the United States that advocates for the ideas of freedom, democracy, and social mobility. It is also the belief that anyone can achieve his/herdream based on his/her potentials.
To better understand the means of coming to the United States from a parental perspective, I had conducted an interview with my mother.
1. Question: Why did you leave your home country and decided to continue your life in the United States?
Answer: Coming to the United States was a dream. From speaking to family members who live in the U.S, my impression of this country was that of a paradise where there are endless opportunities waiting for you. So, in my mind, I kept telling myself that I must come to this country for my children’s future since America is famous for its freedom and democracy.
2. Question: After coming to the United States, did your impression of the country change in anyway?
Answer: A little bit. When I saw all the homeless people living inside the subway station and on the streets, the perfect image of the United States I had in my mind shattered a bit. The endless opportunities that people can have seemed like a fairytale to me at that point. I wasn’t sure about the quality of the living environment anymore.
3. Question: What advice would you give to people who want to live or study in this country?
Answer: You need to have money. The standard of living is relatively high compared to other country’s standard of living. Prices of goods are definitely much higher than prices elsewhere. In addition, it is to your advantage to make friends. Connection and social network are important tools when you want to accomplish something, whether it is getting a job or conducting a school project.
4. Question: What is the greatest part about the American culture?
Answer: The greatest part about the American culture is diversity; people from all over the world come to America (probably for the American Dream for most people). It is a cultural pot where different cultured people intermix with one another. You can always find something new to experience, whether it is trying out a new cultural food, attending a conference, or meeting new people. You are not confined to one idea; you can practice religion of any sort, sing any national anthem, and etc.
