Essay#1: Double-edged Sword

Yunting Mao

ESL100 - CE

In-class Essay- Draft

March 3, 2024 

                                                         Double-edged Sword

        Living between two different countries is an unusual experience for most Chinese people, but for me, it is a real thing, and it is my life. I have had incredible experiences between China and the United States. My parents were from Yunfu, a small city in Guangdong China. They were born, raised, studied, worked, married, had children, and spent most of their lives in this city. There is no doubt that I would have a similar life to them because people don't like to move away from their comfort zone in Yunfu. However, my life had a huge change since I moved to Chicago. Thus, my bicultural living experience is like a double-edged sword that has an impact on my values and critical thinking.

         Since I came to Chicago, I have been fascinated by the free and new values of the United States. Unlike the strict atmosphere in China, the United States offers a relaxed and creative academic atmosphere for students. When I have classes in Chicago, I can sit in any seat I like, and I can sit in my seat to discuss questions with my teacher just like talking to my friend. Apart from this, when I have different views and opinions in class, I can question what the teachers say bravely, and this behavior is not considered impolite. At first, I felt confused and surprised because of this intense personal freedom I never felt in China, but now I feel delighted to embrace and enjoy this cheerful and free academic atmosphere. Moreover, the United States is a place that emphasizes independence and equal career opportunities for immigrants. In Chicago, whether men or women, everyone enjoys equal career opportunities. As a Chinese woman, I can choose to study any major I like, and I can choose wherever I work in the United States. In contrast, there are not too many careers for women to choose because there is still a certain amount of sexism in my city. I am glad to embrace and live in this equal employment environment in the United States.

        However, despite the free and equal atmosphere that makes me feel comfortable, the United States is also like a snowstorm that shocks my habits and thoughts. Most people drink warm or hot water all the time in China because they think it is good for their health. I have been drinking hot water for many years. It is the opposite in the United States. The first time I went to a restaurant in Chicago, it was winter and snowy outside. The waiter gave me cold water full of ice. I said, “Hot water, please”, and she asked, “You mean hot tea?” I said, “No no no, just water, please.” I was surprised to find that most Americans liked drinking ice water even though the weather was cold. There is also no warm or hot water in the school, and it makes me feel confused and uncomfortable. Nevertheless, I have already adjusted to this situation. I often bring my own bottle full of hot water to school, and I try ice drinks sometimes when I hang out with my friends.

        In conclusion, I am so lucky that I have bicultural experiences in my life because they bring me new values. I still speak Chinese to my parents, celebrate Chinese Festivals, and keep my habits at home now. On the outside, I will keep a critical attitude to accept and learn from other cultures. Finally, I think whether I live in China or the United States, the most essential thing for me is to adjust and blend into the environment where I live. Having a bicultural life is perfect but full of challenges. I hope I can be a good communicator of Chinese culture in the United States, and I can be a good communicator of American culture in China.