Pursuit Across the Pacific: An Immigrant's Educational Aspirations and Life Exploration

My surname is Yang. To provide better educational opportunities for my children, I chose to relocate to the United States with them. When we first immigrated, the main challenges stemmed from differences in daily habits. For instance, adapting from Chinese culinary traditions to American salads and cold dishes proved unexpectedly difficult. However, I firmly believe in respecting both cultures, ensuring our children never perceive their heritage as burdensome. We consciously preserve Chinese traditions at home: hanging spring couplets during Lunar New Year, making dumplings, and purchasing festive candies at 99 Ranch Market. Simultaneously, we actively participate in local community events like Thanksgiving dinners with neighbors and encourage our children to play American football.

The biggest challenge I faced, though, was the language barrier. The overwhelming English environment initially left me feeling helpless. I recall multiple frustrating experiences. For example, once I couldn't find an item at the supermarket and asked the staff, but they couldn't understand my accent, and I had to give up. Another time when I went to the DMV to apply for a driver's license, I was asked to queue up again because I didn't understand the other person's instructions, which was embarrassing and frustrating. I worked part-time in a Chinese restaurant, and because my English was not good, I didn't dare to talk to the customers for fear of making a mistake. Going to the bank to open an account or communicating with a school teacher also made me very nervous.

This language deficiency was also manifested in workplace discrimination. Despite possessing relevant experience, my limited English fluency barred entry to office positions. One hiring manager bluntly stated during an interview, "Your language capabilities seem inadequate for this role." Such experiences confined me to Chinese-speaking work environments, though I remained determined to persist.

Regarding overall living experiences, Cupertino’s education system truly impressed us. The Bay Area’s renowned schools, abundant tech resources, and safe communities aligned perfectly with our aspirations to establish a solid foundation for our children’s future. However, healthcare services here are challenging. Once, when my child had a fever, I took him to the hospital and waited for hours to see a doctor. Because of the language barrier, I didn't understand the doctor's explanation, and in the end, I had to ask my child to help me translate, which made me feel helpless. Social services for immigrants also fall short, with many newcomers giving up on potentially helpful resources due to language barriers. If I had the opportunity to improve one aspect for first-generation immigrants, I would advocate for community-level language support programs: for example, free English conversation classes or professional guidance through healthcare and legal systems.

Initial social integration presented significant hurdles. While neighbors extended warm greetings, my fear of mispronunciation or improper phrasing inhibited communication. Gradually, participation in Chinese cultural associations, tai chi groups, and church activities helped build social circles and foster belonging.

For our children, I harbor aspirations beyond academic success. Their problems may be more about cultural identity and fitting in. My kids have told me before, “I’m perceived as an Asian in school, but treated as a ‘foreigner’ when I go back to China.” They need to find a balance in their identity, and I hope that through our efforts, they will have more choices and the confidence to carve their unique paths.

Reflecting on my immigration journey, my greatest pride is my children's development. Their fluent English communication skills and admission to prestigious schools validate all sacrifices. Though our path demanded immense personal cost, witnessing their bright futures makes every struggle worthwhile.

- Yang

USA

Lucy Yang｜Content curator

Iris & Jasmine｜Editor

孙逸铭｜Translator