Undergraduate / Moving to America and getting more freedom [5]

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I grew up in small village in India until I was twelve years old. I was a different person in India than I am today. In India, I did not get as much freedom as my brother. I was a quiet person who never stepped up for myself. I did not talk a lot because of my shy personality. I was really close to my dad's side of family. However, I spent my childhood there. My childhood included of playing outside with my friends. I was able to celebrate all festivals in India. I never imagined how my life was going to change just in a couple of days.

On January 27, 2011, my family and I first stepped into America. It was the biggest change of my life. It was the first time I had seen snow. I felt like I was in a different world. In the beginning, I lived with my mom's side of family. Living with my cousins felt like I gained two more siblings. My extended family was always there help my family out with everything. My parents had an easy access to job with my family's help. I did not speak English at all when I first started sixth grade in Springfield, New Jersey. I was surround by a different culture. After getting used to America, I made diverse friends. I lived in Springfield until my junior year of high school. I was really used to living in Springfield by than.

The thought of moving to a new place never crossed my mind until my parents decided we were moving to South Carolina before my senior year of high school. That was a shock to me. I did not know anyone there. As the elder child, I had to help my parents with this move. My parents did not speak English. I helped them with things such as renting an apartment, and helping them with job interview. My extended family was not here to help us out. I felt proud of myself because I was able to help my parents.

Would have I been the same if I still lived in India? Definitely, not. If I lived in India, I would have never had the freedom I have today. I never would have had the responsibility of helping out my parents. Despite the fact that I still miss my family and friends, I feel mature after having to take many responsibilities. I feel happy to break the stereotype between a girl and a guy that I lived with in India.