Cultural Challenges and Adaptation
Returning to China stirs a bewildering array of emotions. Imagine having to filter every word and gesture, navigating a labyrinth of cultural subtleties. Direct translations often fall short, leaving you to reconstruct sentences and ideas in your mind to ensure they're understood. This mental gymnastics can be draining, yet it also unveils deeper layers of language and cultural intricacies. But why does this cultural dance feel both alien and familiar at the same time?
Advocacy and Identity in College
During college, I spent a lot of time advocating for Chinese Americans. I even helped lead Georgetown's Chinese Student Alliance as Co-President, where we organized cultural events, educational workshops, and community service projects. But who are Chinese Americans? From those I've met in college and beyond, we tend to lean more American than Chinese. Generally speaking (and this isn't a full representation of the group), Gen Z Chinese Americans have usually lived in America for most of their childhood and prefer using English over Mandarin (just in my experience). From what I have seen, there is a clear distinction between Chinese Americans and Chinese international students, both in terms of language proficiency and understanding of Chinese society. This distinction often manifests in social circles, academic preferences, and even dining choices on campus.
Rediscovering Chinese Roots
I've generally considered myself more American than Chinese due to my upbringing and cultural experiences in the United States. However, during my latest trip to China, I was surprised at how quickly I could adapt to the local norms and customs. For instance, I embraced the practice of supporting and respecting the elderly, which is deeply ingrained in Chinese society. I found myself offering my seat on public transport and engaging in polite small talk with elders, actions that felt second nature in that environment. Additionally, I became comfortable initiating conversations and engaging with people in Mandarin, which helped me integrate into communities. I managed to navigate local markets and order food, which made me realize that I could blend into Chinese culture more easily than I thought.
Language Learning Struggles
So where does that leave me? To be honest, I tried using Duolingo to brush up on my Cantonese skills, but I quickly lost momentum. I found it difficult to keep up with the daily practice at this point. The app's repetitive exercises felt monotonous, and I struggled to stay motivated without a conversational partner. Right now, it's still undetermined if I will pick it back up and give it another shot. I might need to find new strategies or tools, such as language exchange programs or immersive courses, to help me stay consistent and make the learning process more engaging. Below is a night shot of Foshan.
Balancing Dual Cultures
I want to make a better effort to balance American and Chinese cultures at this stage of my life. It's important for me to embrace both identities and integrate them into my daily experiences. This might include celebrating both American and Chinese holidays, engaging with Chinese media, and participating in community events. Although I don't know when I'll have the chance to go back, I aspire to return with a better understanding of the language and culture. By doing so, I hope to enrich my life and foster a deeper connection to my roots. This balanced approach could help me navigate the complexities of my dual identity and create a more harmonious sense of self.
💡 If you would like to watch the full China trip, I filmed a recap!⬇️
How do you view your ethnic/cultural identity?
