New Challenges
In China, I wanted to stay alone because I enjoyed listening to music and playing video games. I also did not want to talk to people that much because it was probably my personality. Everything has changed since I moved to Chicago. I did not speak English in China even though I had English class. The new language seemed strange and new to me when I first came to Chicago. In 2019, I realized that I have to study English and new culture for me. It has been a huge challenge for me. I cannot stay alone and do what I want to do in Chicago anymore. When I moved here, I did not know the people or the language. I was not familiar with the new environment either. Since then, I have learned that I have to get out of my comfort zone and adapt to the new environment.
In 2019, winter was coming. I was surprised when I saw snow falling. This was the first time I saw snow. It was a new beginning to my life. I found the job a month later. My coworkers all speak English and Spanish in this factory. I was nervous when I saw something different people. The reason was I was afraid they would ask me a lot of questions. I could not talk to these people, but everyone was nice and friendly. Some of them came up and greeted me. They patiently talked and listened to me even though I only said a few words such as hello, how are you. These people also have taught me how to speak English in a few ways. I thought learning English was going to be hard to adapt to a new culture, but the answer for me that it was an easy thing to do. There is an old saying in China: The harder you work, the more luck you have. Since that day, I learned many new things and talked to different people. I quit staying alone and enjoying my new life in Chicago.
In addition, I have gained speaking skills and as a result, courage. I am not afraid of talking to people. I never believed the fact would really happen to me since I moved to Chicago. Since then, I have met different people every single day. It is not strange to me because I am already getting used to living in Chicago. In addition, it was hard when I thought how I got better at learning in the past few years. I finally learned how to communicate and socialize with others. Right now, I am glad that I am adapting to a new life. I am thankful for these people who taught me this new language and something new. I also want to thank people who took me to another level.
In conclusion, it is never too late for people to change themselves. It is an effective way to make everyone’s life wonderful. I do not stay home alone anymore. I have already jumped out of my comfort zone. I have tried learning new things and talking to people. I believe my life is getting more brilliant even though some unknown challenges are on the way. There is no regret or hesitation in my life and future. Regardless of what comes, I will overcome these challenges and improve myself.
It is pleasure to read that your co-workers always helped you even though you had problems with the English language. I was able to notice that native speakers are mostly patient and respectful during a conversation despite my English level. When I read the part you described your speaking skill during English classes in China, it reminded me the same issue that I had while I was studying English in Russia. At that time, I always asked myself when I will be able to speak English in the more relaxed way.
ReplyDeleteHi, Jiemin. It is very hard to adapt a new environment, and it specially needs to learn a new language. It is embarrass, if people work with a group which speak the language, but they can not understand well. When I came to America, I was afraid if someone speak English with me because I can not understand what they said well. Because of one of this reason, I decided to attend the college. Is it the reason that you go to college?
ReplyDeleteHi, Jiemin. I feel that your article is full of positive energy and gives me a feeling that you are rising to the challenge in a new social environment.
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ReplyDeleteIt's good to read about your experience, Jiemin! You were welcomed by some people that helped you to adapt, and this is really good. It's also good that the process of moving to Chicago had a good impact in your life.
ReplyDeleteHi, Jiemin. Learning a new language is difficult. English was my challenge, and I had to get serious about learning it. It's really cool that you were able to adapt to a new environment and language.
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