Embracing Duality: A Japanese Immigrants Cultural Journey in America

Abstract

Interview: Cultural Insights from a Japanese Immigrant Introduction It took me some time to decide on which one of my friends to interview having numerous friends that have immigrated into America in the last ten year. However, after some consideration, I decided to settle on Hiroshi Tanana; a Japanese Immigrants who moved to the United States of America in 2010. I considered time spends as an immigrant and Tanana had a lengthy one compared to all others. Since he is well known to me having shared the same job environment some years ago, it was not a challenge for him to share his experiences with immigration. He also shared his experiences with assimilation and the challenges he experienced in adapting to the American culture. Immigration Experience Circumstance of Immigration: Tanana confirmed that he moved to the United States of America to pursue higher education as well as in search of greener pasture thereafter. After pursuing his higher education and gaining impressive grades, he decided to stay in this great nation for career opportunity. As he narrates with a smile on his face, he confirmed that he was initially drawn by the prospect of studying at the prestigious university as well as the potential for growth in the technology sector. His ambitions were not in vain as he shined with a Bachelor’s in Computer Science leading him to remain reluctant in going back to Japan as America proved potentially able to sustain his career urges. Experiencing Americans: Initially, Tanana found Americans as very open and friendly. Such attributes he compared to his more reserved Japanese society which gave him a relief in the new land. However, after some time, he also felt a sense of superficiality in some social interactions. He further confirmed that over time, his view on racisms evolved as he recognized that while Americans are generally welcoming, they also lack a deep understanding of other cultures. Degree of Assimilation Adopting American Norms and Values: Tanana confirmed that he has so far acquired so many American values and norms. He confirmed that this is especially in terms of communication style and professional behavior. He sounded proud confirming he appreciates individualism and directness in America culture. He now feels more of an American than Japanese...