People come to the US for different reasons. Adjusting to the American lifestyle may be difficult for some while others change quickly to their new found life.
Typically, immigrants see life in the US with a different eye — much different from how Native Americans view their country.
Here are three key views maintained by Immigrants in the US
- Language Bridge:
Communication is important. And if you genuinely want to be fully understood, you must learn the English language.
Most immigrants insist that the English language plays a vital role in your success in the US.
If you want to achieve success and move fast in this country, you’ve got to communicate effectively. And to do that, you’ve got to learn the English language.
The US is populated with native English speakers. And in certain situations, some of these people only understand the English language.
African immigrants adjust differently when they come into the US
Immigrants from Uganda, South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and other English speaking African countries may find it easy to communicate with foreigners on arrival to the US.
However, those from French-speaking African countries like Algeria, Benin, and Cameroon may find it hard to communicate with others in the US.
Regardless of your language limitations, you’d have to take some classes to improve your English proficiency because a massive chunk of your oral and written communication will be done in the English Language.
- Work Ethic:
America is a land of opportunities. But without hard work and a strong work ethic, you won’t have a seat at the table. In the US, you’ve got to work hard to make it.
Although government aid can help you during economic downtime, it’s important to be self-reliant and work your way off government welfare support.
Another asset of African immigrants is their determination to make it in the US. Most African immigrants work full-time, part-time, or are self-employed. Some African immigrants work on multiple jobs.
Studies have shown that immigrants are the most successful group of people in the US, and their success is primarily tied to their work ethic.
- Making The United States Home:
Despite the strong connection that immigrants have with their country of origin, most of them desire to make the US their new home.
A good number of African immigrants communicate regularly with their family and send financial aids to their relatives back home. Also, they follow up with political, economic, and social events at home.
Although they have a strong connection with their folks back home, a vast majority of immigrants are willing to settle down in the US and make it their new home.
Whether you see the United States as a unique country or not, you’d agree that the country provides a fair level playing ground for the ambitious fellows and you have the opportunity to create the life you want.
Compared with most of the African governments, the US government is indeed doing a good job.
Furthermore, it’s unlikely that second generation immigrants would want to go back to their ancestral home.
The US is seen as a home for all. It’s a land of abundance for those who are willing to roll up their sleeves and get to work.
There is no limit to how much you can achieve if you have a strong work ethic and excellent communication skills.
How has your life been as an African immigrant in the US?