Stereotypes, Opportunities, and Asian-American Identity

A senior in high school, Josh Chen is very busy. With stage crew, drama club, and other activities, he has a lot of things keeping him occupied. One important aspect of his identity is that he is a second-generation immigrant.

His mother’s grandparents immigrated to the United States from a small island off the coast of China. His father’s grandparents came from a small rural Chinese village. Both families decided to start a life in America to give their children more opportunities. Back in their respective villages, there weren’t many possible career paths besides becoming a farmer or a laborer. Now with a multitude of opportunities that were once foreign to his parents, Josh hopes to find a career that involves video games. Chen is also very passionate about many activities, but especially theater. 

Although his parents may not relate to all of his interests, they are very supportive of Josh and his creative endeavors. Growing up in America has given him many privileges, but he feels as if he’s missed out on some aspects of his culture. 

As an Asian-American, he sometimes feels like an outsider in both American and Asian communities. Chen wishes he could speak Mandarin, but unfortunately, that’s a major cultural inheritance he has missed out on. His extended family doesn’t speak English, and this language barrier has separated him from them. Additionally, growing up in America has influenced his religious and spiritual beliefs. The Chinese are very attached to their spiritual, religious beliefs, and mythological tales. Growing up in America where atheism is more prevalent than in China, Chen doesn’t necessarily believe in a religion or a higher being. 

As for American culture, like most immigrants, Chen sometimes faced insensitivity from his peers. His classmates would ask if he ate dogs, which is a harmful stereotype against Asians. Despite these troubles, Josh likes to focus on the positives in his life. He recognizes the ignorance of other people stems from a lack of education and experience. Josh is very grateful for everything his great-grandparents sacrificed to give him a better life. 

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Josh Chen is a high school senior, aspiring game developer, and 2nd generation Chinese immigrant who reassesses his cultural identity.