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- There are several factors that make up the U.S culture such as vast opportunity, the idea of the “American dream,” as well as a strong sense of independence. Equality for the people of America is a defining value the country strongly advocates for. The democracy in America allows for options and choices to be made by the people, as well as the leaders. There are many job opportunities for people of all ages, in different areas of expertise where people may explore their interests and passions. Another distinctive characteristic of Americans is that they are every prideful and make an effort to honor those who have served in war. There are several American holidays dedicated to celebrate the country and those who have served such as Independence Day, Labor Day, Memorial Day, Martin Luther King Jr Day etc.
- I believe the United States is a country filled with opportunity. My family immigrated from Latin America, and have been able to their build lives here and succeed in a way they wouldn’t have been able to in their native countries. Through the years, the United States has worked towards creating an equal work environment and society that has allowed people from all over the world to live out their dreams and succeed. My mother was able to escape the corruption and oppression of the Venezuelan government, and receive an exceptional education which led her to gain opportunities in the work field. All my life I have never had to question whether I would be able to attend school, or whether I would have a job in the future. The people surrounding me have always encouraged me to have big aspirations and assured me that there is so much opportunity in this country, and that with a strong work ethic I will succeed.
- In the United States, a person’s experience is what they make of it. If they work hard to fulfill their dreams, they can achieve them. People get to decide their future and their lifestyles. However, this may not be the case in other countries. In many cases, people have a predestined fate as a result of their family or history. In other cases, for example in Europe, the school system analyzes a student’s strengths and weaknesses at a young age and determines which field of study they will go into. The school systems have more specific paths, and many times it is not the student’s choice. Additionally, in other countries women or minorities face discrimination and there are less job opportunities for these people. Whereas, in the United States the many companies and universities seek people from different cultural backgrounds and minorities in order to create diversity in the workforce.
- This exercise has allowed me to reflect on my experience in the United States. It has also helped me identify distinctive qualities of the United States and how it has shaped me experience growing up. Living in Europe, specifically Germany, will be an adjustment considering I have lived in the US all of my life. Although it will be an adjustment, it will be interesting to observe the differences among the countries and how they may affect my every day life
