Abstract: I was born in Toulouse, France and raised in India. I lived in France for the first year of my life and then my parents had to go to the United Kingdom because my father received a prospective job opportunity. Although I was born in France I do not hold a French passport because in order to gain citizenship one must serve in their army for a period of two years after they turn eighteen.
After I turned two my father decided to go back to India and start his own business because he did not like to work a blue collar job. Although my grandparents wished for him to join the family business he thought of starting his own business.
Both my parents went to school and hold degrees in their respective fields but it was not easy for them to start life on their own. Life was very hard for us in the beginning but gradually my father’s hard work reaped rewards for us; by God’s grace I am lucky enough to be studying here in America. I did all my schooling in India until the twelfth grade after which I came here for higher studies.
Technically I am called a first generation college student according to St. Mary’s College of California simply because my parents did not get their degrees here in America. The biggest challenge for my family and me was not financial but that of a different kind. I was challenged mentally and physically to leave home and start a new life here. I faced culture shock and it took me a while to adapt to the food and weather St Mary’s had to offer me.
My transition to America was very hard because I did not get help from any advisors or counselors who usually assist students with various application forms. The first few months here was harder than I had expected and to add to that, my parents thought it was wise for me to stay over Christmas break unlike all the other students who go home. Eventually I got used to it and went home in the summer after my freshman year. The difference I felt when I met my friends was unbelievable. I felt like I was superior compared to them and knew more simply because I was independent now. I always thought to myself that I am very fortunate to be studying here in America.
Keywords: Blue Collar, Independent, First Generation, France, United Kingdom, Citizenship.
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