I am moving to America... Few questions??? ?

Question

I'm from South Korea and I am a 9th grader at present. My family are planning to go to America and I have some questions needed to be answered.

1. I have problems adjusting to a new environment. What would I do if I have problems making new friends and "mingling" ? I had this experience in the past which I felt being discriminated merely because of my skin color. WIll I confront these problems often in America? And do you think I will have a hard time adjusting?

2. I am very determined and I will certainly do my best in order to develop my English. However, I am concerned if I will be able to understand and do well in my English class. Is it hard to get A's in English? I know this sounds kinda nerdy but I am serious

3. Do you find your Science classes hard to understand? Do you need personal assistance outside school? More importantly, will I be able to understand the material covered in class? I've heard that Science in America is challenging.

4. I have learned to play the flute for 5 years. I also hope to join the school orchestra or band if possible. However, I've heard that people will consider me g*y or extremely nerdy if a male does so. Is this true?

(I want straightforward answers)

5.Lastly, what is your general opinions on Asians? Or more specifically on Koreans? Please be absolutely honest!!

and what should I do to not get myself become left out as a loner?

(I don't wear glasses and I don't look NERDY)

Answer 1

1.  You will be able to make friends eventually.  It depends on where in America you are moving.

2.  Your English is very good now.

3.  Science is not that difficult if you pay attention and read your books.

4.  No.  We have plenty of males in our bands.

5.  I have no problem with Asians at all.

Welcome to America.

Answer 2

1. Honestly, where you're moving to has a lot to do with whether or not you will be discriminated against.  For example, if you move to a random town in Iowa, you may find some difficulty with this issue as opposed to living somewhere near New York City or Los Angeles.  These are very diverse areas and nobody will look at you as being different.

2.  From what I gather by this question, your English is very good.  Obviously I can't judge how well you speak it, but if it's anything like your typing, you'll be just fine.  To be totally honest, you seem to speak much better than a lot of Americans that post questions on here haha.  Sad, but true.  Getting a good mark in English class is just a matter of being able to absorb material, as opposed to speaking the language. For example, you'll be asked to find the subject and predicate of a sentence, or you'll have to read a literary work and just answer questions about it. You won't exactly be asked to stand up and have a full length conversation in English.

3.  I don't know what science is like in your country.  I figured science is science, so I can't really make a comparison in regards to difficulty.  Much like English Class, it's just a matter of absorbing the information.  There's a lot of stuff to remember but you seem like a bright kid, I think you'll manage.

4.  No matter what you do in life, there will be morons who consider what you do "g*y" or "dorky", but who cares?  Do what you enjoy. There will be other people that enjoy it as well and there's a good chance you'll wind up finding a few people in that crowd that you will get to know and enjoy being around.

5.  My general opinion is Asians are people too.  America is a melting pot and I don't look at Asians any differently than I do white people.  That being said, I'm white and from the NYC area, so needless to say I'm used to diversity because of where I live.  You'll find most people don't judge races or ethnicities as a whole much these days, rather you're judged as a person based solely on your actions.

Answer 3

1. i go to a most;y black school and i deal fine; not as many people are racist pricks as you think. just be yourself and hang with people who share your interests.

2. if it is not your native language it will be harder, but you sound annoyingly ambitous so dont worry.

3. idk if its more challenging my ap chemistry was but again just study.

4. only the stupid ones. go for it!

5. i dont have an opinon; i judge people as the individuals they are. howver i may be stereotypical when i think you guys work to be perfect which is silly, and your questioin isnt helping :-) just talk to people!!!! its not hard unless you dont try!!! good luck

Answer 4

Believe it or not, you sound like the typical American teen.  English is a very difficult language, many Americans have problems with it and they speak it every day!!!  

  The best thing you can do is remember two things about America, most kids feel like nerds in High School and the best way to make friends is to have a sense of humor.  

Ethnically we are very diversified, you may find it wierd but you will see that the biggest problem you may have is from your parents fearing you are losing your Korean identity and becoming "Americanized"  

  I won't lie, you will run into some idiots who will insult you based on your looks and culture, but for the most part, people will be friendly and welcoming.

  

Answer 5

Well i loved two things about America

Best country in the world

People are very nice.

You don't have to worry about anything.By the way in here race is not important so it does not matter if you are Asian, or black, white.

Answer 6

I would say different parts of America tend to be more prejudice/racist than others - just like people. I would also say it is safe to assume most Americans will not be prejudiced toward you and your family simply because you are Korean. Nearly every American is a mix of races and no one has the right to discriminate. I am Scottish, Irish, English, German, Dutch and French. My children are part Chippewa Native American. My friends are Asian, Black, Indian, etc.... I don't look at skin color. We're all just people. I have friends who are handicapped, family members who are extremely wealthy, family members who are extremely poor - I love all of them for themselves. I think you'll find most Americans are very compassionate and will be very nice to you and your family.

When you enroll in school, the school will help you decide which classes are best suited for you and will tell your teachers (if you want them to) that you're still learning English and they will help you. Make sure to address any problems Immediately - if you didn't understand something during class - go talk to the teacher one on one after class to make sure you know what you're doing. It's nothing to be embarrassed about, if you don't understand everything spoken in English right away. Americans discuss all the time how confusing our language is - there are so many slang terms, strange rules or no rules at times in this language. I can't imagine how difficult it must be to learn. If you don't understand - ASK. I am sure you will make friends and everyone will want to help you.

It is AWESOME that you have played flute this long! Although most boys do not choose flute here, it is nothing if you are talented and love your instrument. No one will tease you! My daughter is 15 and she thinks guy flute players are cool! She plays trumpet (which is usually considered a guy's instrument - so there you go!) and is one of the youngest in her High School's top ranked Jazz Band. If you are good on your instrument, everyone will admire you! If you're not good, but you put your heart into it and TRY - everyone will admire you!

There are different levels of science classes - some are college prep and some are basic. Your High School will help you determine which ones to take. I loved science and most American science teachers are a lot of fun. You'll be fine.

One of my best friends is Vietnamese. My son is best friends with a boy from Taiwan (and his family barely speaks English - it is very confusing for all of us to make arrangements for the boys to play. "What time are we picking Ryan up? Did you want to pick him up? No? What time will you be home? Oh! You want to pick Joel up!" It takes us 20-30 minutes to make plans). My opinion of Asians is the same as anyone else. If you are a kind and giving person, like me, we're going to get along. If you're rude or mean, we're not going to get along. My friend said she is stereotyped a lot - like everyone expects her to be the smartest just because she is Asian. Ridiculous. She is smart, but she was an average student.  My only experience with a Korean family was a guy who worked with my husband. He was one of the nicest people ever. Invited us to his parents house for his son's 3 month party. It was awesome - his parents were so kind and the food was really good. My opinion of Koreans is that they have really neat customs and very good food. I think the Huhs were really nice people. He was a Dr in Chicago and he definitely had OCD. He was obsessed with things being on the floor - like if anything dropped on the floor, he was whipping out the vacuum. He was funny!

To make friends - talk to people! Get involved in school. Being in band or orchestra will help too - you'll have a lot of people to meet just in that class. Ask questions like, "Can I sit with you for lunch?" and "What is fun to do here? Do you want to go to the movies? We should invite a whole group!" You'll be fine! Good Luck!!!

Answer 7

i speak English and I still do horrible in it. I am  sure you will be just in english class. .

i do not mind people who are of different race than I am. I do not mind if you are korean. The only thing I have a hard time with any type of race is if they speak a different language and they talk in that lanuage in the middle of regular speaking English speaking people. It kind of feels as though they want you to not hear or they are talking about you.

Answer 8

We have big noses and don't eat dogs here, hope you can adjust to that

You seem just fine with english.

Science education...really don't know what to compare for that.

Play whatever instrument you want. Saxophone might be a better wind instrument , but flutists fit into a band or orchestra.

What is my opinion about Koreans? I think Koreans are ok, Woody Allen likes to marry one when she's his step daughter,

Answer 9

1. people in my school are usually crazy about the new kids, i think you'll do fine. (:

2. maybe you might want to take english courses outside of school if youre struggling

3. with science, it really depends on the teacher. if you have a good teacher, you'll find its really easy and you'll glide through it. i had this one teacher who was awful, i didnt get it at all, but it really depends.

4.one of my friends plays the flute, and yes, people do think hes g*y for it, but hes not and all that matters is that he likes to play the flute and is really really talented, right? please dont change yourself because of what others say.

5. ASIANS ROCK. im not even kidding, i love them, theyre so cool. have fun in america =D

Answer 10

Have u all ever noticed being whi-tey scum goes hand in hand with being an SOB?

Or visa versa. I do not think I have ever seen a whi-tey scum that was not an SOB. The lowest or worst ones are the SOBs who pretend not to be an SOB,

Answer 11

ok, i live in america, so when ppl move from a different counrty, ppl think its interesting and want to meet u! u just have to go up to ppl and say wats up? as for grades, u just have to pay attention and study! and the grades come easy! if u need help with any subjects, just go to the teachers after skool and say u have troubles with the subject! they will be more than happy to help u! for band, just follow ur heart! u won't be g*y. popular ppl do band! who cares wat ppl think of u? thats wat they want u think! ppl want u to care wat they think of u. so, don't and u'll be successfull! i don't judge on races or wat ur from! i just care if the person is nice! and so do many ppl! america has many ppl from asia, europe, mexico etc! we don't jude on where ur from! u cud b from pluto and i wudn't care! have fun in america!  

Answer 12

Dude, you play flute?  That's friggen g*y.

Answer 13

1) The United States has become so diverse that i doubt that you will feel left out. I'm in 11th grade and i can look out into one of my classes and see caucasions, blacks, hispanics, hawaiians, and asians, most kids today will look at your personality more than you race.

2)First off, this depends on if you already speak english. You obviously wrote this very well, especially if you didnt use a tranlator, but every school will provide you with language help. If you really did write this one your own you are WELL on your way.

3)I honestly found science one of the easiest classes. I think scince ciriculum lacking. I've never had personal assistance and I make straight A's i think you will catch up fine.

4)Not at all, we have a male flutest in our school band and no one looks at him any different. Our band in made up of more guys than girls, (probably 70% male) and no one calls them nerdy. I cannot speak for every school of course but thats is how my school is.

5)Every asian that i have ever met has been extremely intelligent, but not in a nerdy way. The asian kids in our school always get the best grades simply because they are the hardest workers. I also think korean girls are gorgoeus by the way, i want to adopt one when i'm older. there is a tv show here called jon and kate plus eight where and korean man and his american wife are raising their twins and sextuplets. they have a very strong family.

ps: good luck in the US i hope you love it:)

Answer 14

1. I don't think you will have problems making new friends. I don't know anyone that wouldn't be friends with someone because they are asian. In my school, I have asian friends and i'm white. There are cliques or groups of friends in my school though, and a lot of the asian kids hang out with each other. That's just how they ended up, maybe it's because they have more in common or something but there's nothing wrong with that. There is most likely a lot of people in your new school that will have come from Korea and speak Korean. A lot of people speak Korean in my school and they are always speaking it to each other. So you will definitely fit in somehwere, don't worry about that. There's so many diverse people, you'll find friends that are fit for you.

2. I do not find it hard to get A's in English but I'm sure for you it would be like I am in Spanish class. Spanish is my second language but I still get As in the class. You may also have an advantage because when you learn english grammar, you won't be confused from speaking the wrong way before. For example, I was in 9th grade this past year and in english we had to learn grammar, and I sometimes got answers wrong because I had always been speaking a certain way and didn't know it was wrong. Since you don't speak as much english, it will be all fresh and new to you, and you will not have gotten used to speaking english with mistakes like some Americans.. Look at it this way, you will learn a lot in English class and it will help you speak better. But if you are worried about it, talk to your guidance counsler or english teacher about ESL (English Second language). They have that in my school specifically for students who have a first language that is not english, and who want to develop their english more. Also, I'm sure your teacher will be understanding. Just let her know that you just came to the country and you are still learning english, she may not grade you as hard on tests and essays.

3. Science is difficult for some. In 9th grade you will probably be doing Earth Science or Biology. I found Earth Science difficult. If you find that it is hard, you can go to "extra help" which is after school and anyone can go, most students do go. Your teacher explains the material more clearly to you and you'll understand it better. Worst comes to worst, you can get a tutor which is a person that you pay to teach you privately outside of school. I'm sure you'll be fine though, you seem smart and if you study you can do it.

4. If you have played the flute and enjoy it, keep playing! There are a lot of males in band at my school and they aren't nerds. That is great that you have a passion for an instrument and playing the flute can help you get into a good college.

5. In my opinion, Asians are just like everyone else. It shouldn't matter what skin color you are or what ethnicity you are. We are all equal and the world would be boring if we all looked the same. If anyone is racist towards you, tell them they are ignorant and should get a life. And trust me, you won't be left out as a loner. Nice people in your new school will welcome you and want to get to know you. Don't worry about it. Just try talking to people in your classes and getting to know people that you feel are kind. You can also speak to some people in your school that are Korean and speak both Korean and English. They could help you with your english skills. Don't worry, you will be fine!

Good luck in America!

xD

Answer 15

I am an immigrant to born in Spain, live in Miami last 22 years. I feel more American than Spaniard having grown up here though. I do plan to move back to Spain in the future. Don't worry this land was started by immigrants and it is a melting pot of cultures and it is a very kind country where opportunity is determined by your effort.

1 - I guess like in all countries secondary schools (high school here in US) have people who pick on you and the class clowns. Try to join some activity club or sport. It is easier to make friends if you and them have something in common. I wish I would have been in some activity in high school.

2 - Unless you had some translate and type the questions in English for you, you seem to handle yourself more than enough in English.

3 - I went to a public school and to be honest I don't think it is hard. Actually if you study 1 hour everyday, you should be able to get A's and B's in all your classes. If you go to a private school then you will find the it more challenging.

4 - There is your answer to question 1. Join a music band or activity in your school and you will easily make friends. Well if you don't like the flute then learn the saxophone.

5 - Here in Florida there are not as many as in California or New York. They do have a bad reputation for being bad drivers. I don't know why because here in Miami the Cubans and Haitians are the worst.

Answer 16

1. I see no problem, making friends,  Make sure you speak English that will also be a good help.

2.You care about your education, That's smart not nerdy, I am just sad you have to have it here in the states, because you already learned anything our educational system can teach you  when you where in third grade in your country. Our education sucks over here.

3.Science here is a breeze, dont worry.....if the teacher likes you they ll pass you, its that easy here in the US.

4.Who cares what people think, you play the flute, do you enjoy it. Then who cares.

5 I like asians as a whole, there culture food etc. I also find asians very interesting to talk to. I like there insight and morality. Which here in the US we really dont have anymore.

Answer 17

Ok you want straight answers? Here goes... 1st off it's definately going to matter where you end up going to school. The part of the country, the city, the neighborhood.... all those things are going to weigh on how you do socially. Let's hope you end up at a decent school in an average neighborhood. Im gonna jump to #4.... Yes playing the flute can be easily perceived as nerdy and well... g*y HOWEVER! the majority of flute players in your school will probably be female! USE THIS AS AN ADVANTAGE( especially if you've been playing for a while)...if you know what i mean. Band is a good opportunity to make friends but... you have to know what kind of friends you want to make. Band geeks are cool in their own right.... As far as your classes... high school is a piece of cake. You will not need outside help. If you struggle, you can speak to your teachers who will either help you themselves, referr you to tutoring, or assign you a peer tutor. Trust me, that won't be your biggest problem.  Remember this one. The first friends you make are probably going to be your best friends during high school. Don't get caught with the wrong crowd and labled something you're not. And don't worry about race being an issue. Your not going to be the only Korean around. And if you are, that just makes you cooler!

Answer 18

well, it sounds you are really into your studies! haha! don't worry too much! you'll adjust! just give yourself the time to cope up with things.

you know what? just give your studying at your best rate... and you'll pass it with flying colors!!!

give it your best shot!!!

aja!

Answer 19

1. You may get a few ignorant people, but my schools were always integrated with every race and discrimination was usually never a problem.

2.They will put you in ESOL (English as a second language) it's required for any immagrant even from an English speaking country. This will help with your dialect.

3. I don't think it's that challenging honestly...it more depends on you willingness to learn...and you seem like you're an eager type person.

4.People sometimes do fall into that "band geek" stereotype, but you control your own image. It looks good on college apps to play an instrument..highschool social acceptance is not THAT important in the long run.

5. I have no opinion positive or negative on asians...some are cool and some aren't just like any race.

Good Luck when you come to America!

Answer 20

First, I say "welcome!"  

1. Racism is more of a problem in small towns in the south.  Best bet is in a city in the north.

2. All school here is EASY.  Asains do especially well because thier drive is superior.

3. Can't say, it varies greatly from region to region.  Also depends on your level where you are.

4.  Some people do think band is nerdy in HS.  But, in all honesty, who cares?  The only way to be cool in HS is to do what you want and don't apologize to anyone.  Pride is what it is all about.

5.  Asians are recieved generally well as far as I have ever seen in several places I have lived.  They are often more quiet than they need to be, it seems to me.  Personality is so individual though.

"Those who matter like me and those who don't like me don't matter."  

Walk with your chin up in the hallways, smile a lot and don't put up with any c**p from anyone.

Answer 21

1. Skin color shouldn't be too much of an issue (although we don't really know where in America you are moving to, which may make a difference).  Just have confidence in yourself and try to stay cheerful and you should be OK.  New kids are viewed the same way in a school regardless of where they come from, even if it's just from another local school.

2.  Your English is better than most people's on this website.  I think you'll do fine, you have a command of the language.

3.  It all depends on you really.  That's a rather subjective question...are you good at Science?

4.  This depends on your school as well, although I've never heard someone in a band called "g*y" unless there are other contributing factors.  However, "band geek" is a term often used.  If you learn to embrace it instead of feel badly when called it, you will feel better.  Being in a band and being a geek aren't bad things.

5.  Asians, Europeans, Americans...whatever.  As long as you don't let the jerks get you down, as long as you are confident in yourself and your abilities, then you don't have anything to worry about.  There will probably be times that you suffer from ignorance, but just be true to who you are and don't let those purveyors of hate make you change who you are.

Answer 22

on your first day you have to find the biggest guy in school and kick his a$s.  Then everyone will respect you.

Answer 23

1 - Everyone has concerns when moving somewhere new. Don't think you're alone. You will be able to make friends if you just be yourself. Don't change to try to impress people. Be happy with who you are, and people who enjoy your company will come around.

To help meet people, join after-school activities. Join the band, choir, drama club, sports team, etc. Pick something you like, and you'll meet friends.

2 - Let me commend you on your spelling and grammar. They are significantly better than most of our US 9th graders. They can't be bothered to write and speak our language correctly.

3 - Science can be challenging, but you get to pick which classes you take. They range from easy to difficult. Start with easy and see how you do. If you can handle more, try something harder the next year.

4 - If you are good at the flute, feel free to stick with it. You'll find more girls playing the flute, but sometimes it's cool to be the one guy among the girls. If you want to try something more "manly," try the saxophone. The fingering is about the same, and it's definitely not girly.

5 - Most people aren't going to judge you based on your race. It's just the media that gives the impression that it's a big problem in this country. Honestly, most people will accept you for who you are without worrying about your ethnicity.

That being said, there will always be a few people who don't like others because of the way they look. All you can do is realize that it's a problem with THEM, not you. If they are that big of jerks, you don't want to know them anyway. Just ignore them. If they bully you, tell a teacher.

.

Answer 24

1. You'll make friends very quickly! You won't be discriminated, don't worry. Smaller schools are a lot less segregated than bigger public schools though. But don't worry!

2. English is basically reading, and writing, which you seem to be good at! All you have to do is your homework!

3. I've never thought science as a hard class. It's pretty easy and basic, probably the easiest class I have! If you do have trouble - usually teachers are more than willing to help out! Or you can get outside assistence if it seems like too much!

4. You might get a tough time for playing flute, but if you're really good I doubt the teasing will last long! And there are other organizations where you can play flute besides school!

5. Looovvvee them, so pretty. I have korean cousins too!

Just talk to lots of people, you'll make lots of friends!

Answer 25

Of course the kids owe you good treatment.

Your dad is taking an American's job, isnt he?

But America owes it to him for protecting South Korea militarily all these year